Kailua-Kona Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Kailua-Kona

Renting a car in Kailua-Kona provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Kailua Pier, ideal for enjoying the ocean views, and Magic Sands Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Additionally, a trip to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park allows you to immerse yourself in the area's rich culture.

The convenience of a rental car makes it easy to navigate popular destinations like Holualoa Village, which features the Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden and other scenic spots. You can also explore Keauhou, home to Keauhou Bay Beach and Kona Country Club, or Historic Kailua Village, where you can experience more local charm. For families or those with luggage, having a vehicle means comfortable travel without the hassle of public transportation. With so much to see and do, a rental car in Kailua-Kona ensures you can create your own adventure while enjoying the stunning scenery and outdoor activities this area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Kailua-Kona

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a comfortable ride while providing ample space for luggage, allowing you to explore Kailua-Kona and its surroundings at your own pace. With its versatility, you can easily manage any beach gear or travel necessities during your adventure.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is another well-booked option, also accommodating 5 travellers but with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is suitable for couples, families, or groups looking for flexibility and comfort. The Standard SUV's size makes it easy to navigate through Kailua-Kona while still providing enough room for your belongings, ensuring a hassle-free exploration of the area.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families and groups, the Fullsize option can fit up to 5 travellers and carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those needing extra space for luggage and gear. The Fullsize vehicle ensures a comfortable drive around Kailua-Kona, allowing you to make the most of your trip with enough room for everyone and their belongings.

Top rated car suppliers in Kailua-Kona

• Alamo Rent A Car: With one rental location in Kailua-Kona, Alamo Rent A Car has earned a solid reputation among travellers, boasting an impressive overall rating of 8.4 out of 10. Customers appreciate the friendly service, minimal wait times, and the reliable experience that comes with renting from Alamo. The most popular choices from this supplier are Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, making it a great option for those looking for comfort and space during their Hawaiian adventures.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another excellent choice for visitors in Kailua-Kona, with a convenient rental location available. Known for its competitive selection of vehicles, Thrifty primarily sees demand for Midsize and Fullsize options. This supplier is favoured by many travellers due to its straightforward booking process and ease of access, allowing you to hit the road and explore the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget offers car rentals with a focus on value, featuring a rental location in Kailua-Kona for added convenience. This supplier is particularly popular for its Standard and Midsize SUVs, which are perfect for families or groups looking to navigate the stunning terrain of the island. With Budget, you can expect competitive rates and a reliable selection of vehicles to enhance your travel experience.

Where to stay in Kailua-Kona

• Holualoa Village: Nestled near Kailua-Kona, Holualoa Village is a charming neighbourhood ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational activities, including golf at local courses. Key points of interest include the Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden, perfect for families and romantic outings, and the nearby Kailua Pier and Magic Sands Beach, both suited for a relaxing beach holiday. After a day of exploration, indulge in the local food and drink options, including restaurants and breweries.
• Keauhou: Located close to Kailua-Kona, Keauhou offers a vibrant atmosphere for those seeking outdoor adventure and picturesque scenery. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Keauhou Bay Beach and Magic Sands Beach, both ideal for beach holidays. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the Kona Country Club nearby, while the local parks provide additional recreational opportunities. Keauhou also features a selection of restaurants, making it a convenient spot for dining after a day of exploration.
• Historic Kailua Village: Historic Kailua Village is a lively neighbourhood offering a mix of outdoor activities and scenic views. The area is home to notable attractions, including the Kailua Pier and Kamakahonu Beach, both popular for beach outings, as well as Magic Sands Beach. The local golf courses and recreational areas provide ample opportunities for adventure. Visitors can also enjoy diverse dining options, including restaurants and breweries, enhancing their stay in this culturally rich part of Kailua-Kona.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Kailua-Kona

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, using filters on Expedia will help you discover the ideal vehicle for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most convenient option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Kailua-Kona

The best value period to rent a car in and around Kailua-Kona is November, when prices are low and demand remains average. Following closely are the months of May and September, which also offer slightly lower prices with moderate demand. In contrast, January and February tend to be the most expensive months, with high demand and slightly elevated prices, making them the busiest times for rentals. March also experiences high demand, contributing to elevated rental rates during that period.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
March	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
July	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
August	76.3°F (24.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
October	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average