Okinawa Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Okinawa

Renting a car in and around Okinawa offers the freedom and flexibility to explore various attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key sites such as Koza Sports Park, a stadium ideal for sports experiences located in the area of Okinawa. Additionally, the American Village, just 5 km away, is perfect for family outdoor experiences. For those seeking a romantic outing or a family-friendly atmosphere, the Southeast Botanical Gardens in Okinawa provide a beautiful setting to enjoy nature.

Having a car also allows you to venture to nearby destinations like Chatan, which is 4 km away and features attractions such as Camp Foster and Ginowan Tropical Beach. You can explore the neighbourhoods of Goya and Uechi, both in close proximity to Okinawa, where you will find additional family-friendly experiences at American Village and Araha Beach. Renting a car is an excellent choice for families, business travellers, and those looking to immerse themselves in the city-themed experiences Okinawa has to offer.

Where to stay in and around Okinawa

• Chatan: Located 4 km from Okinawa, Chatan is an excellent choice for family, business, or city-themed experiences. This vibrant city features popular attractions such as the American Village, perfect for outdoor holidays, and the beautiful Ginowan Tropical Beach, ideal for beach enthusiasts. Chatan also boasts a variety of shopping areas and dining options, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby landmarks like Camp Foster and the local theme park.
• Ginowan: Ginowan is situated 8 km away from Okinawa and offers a similar blend of family, business, and city-themed experiences. This city is known for its shopping mall centers and proximity to attractions like the Ginowan Tropical Beach and American Village. With ample dining options nearby, Ginowan provides a delightful atmosphere for both relaxation and exploration, with easy access to civic sites like Camp Foster.
• Hiyagon: Hiyagon, a charming neighborhood near Okinawa, caters to families and business travellers alike. This area offers recreational venues alongside shopping centers and is close to key attractions such as the American Village and Araha Beach. Hiyagon combines local culture with accessibility to theme parks and stadiums, making it a great spot for visitors looking to experience both leisure and local charm.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Okinawa

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 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 the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to prevent additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.