Hilo Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Hilo

Renting a car in Hilo offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area's attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key sites such as Carlsmith Beach Park, perfect for beach experiences, and Rainbow Falls, a stunning waterfall that invites outdoor adventures and romantic moments. For family-friendly activities, Coconut Island Park provides a great space to enjoy together. Additionally, you can venture just 11 km to Keaau, where you can discover Ha'ena Beach and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory. If you're interested in tropical beauty, a short drive of 10 km will take you to Papaikou, home to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and Liliuokalani Park and Gardens. Having a rental car also simplifies luggage management, allowing you to store your belongings conveniently while exploring. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, or family fun, a rental car in Hilo enhances your travel experience and allows for flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for any traveller.

Most popular car rentals in Hilo

• Compact: This car type is perfect for those travelling solo, couples, or small families. With the ability to accommodate up to 5 travellers and 3 medium suitcases, a compact car is an excellent choice for navigating Hilo's streets. Its size makes it easier to park, providing you with the freedom to explore the area with convenience and ease.
• Midsize: Ideal for couples and families, the midsize car accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This option offers a balance of space and comfort, making it suitable for those who need a bit more room for passengers and luggage. Renting a midsize car in Hilo allows you to travel comfortably without sacrificing the ability to manage your belongings efficiently.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is a great option for couples, families, or groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle type provides a higher driving position and more cargo capacity, making it ideal for those who want extra comfort and versatility while exploring Hilo's attractions. With an SUV, you can enjoy a smooth ride and ample space for your gear as you embark on your Hawaiian adventure.

Top rated car suppliers in Hilo

• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is a popular choice among travellers in Hilo, offering a convenient rental location in the area. Known for its reliable service, Thrifty provides a selection of well-maintained vehicles, particularly excelling with its Midsize and Standard SUVs. Many customers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and the flexibility of exploring Hilo's attractions at their own pace. With a solid reputation and a focus on customer satisfaction, Thrifty is a great option for those looking to explore the beautiful surroundings of Hilo.
• Budget: Budget is another excellent car rental supplier in Hilo, featuring a single rental location that ensures convenience for travellers. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Midsize SUVs and Standard vehicles, catering to various needs and preferences. Customers often highlight Budget's competitive rates and efficient service, making it a reliable choice for those looking to navigate the scenic routes of Hilo. With the freedom to adjust your itinerary, renting from Budget allows for a more personalised travel experience.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car stands out in Hilo for its commitment to customer satisfaction, operating a well-placed rental location in the area. Travellers often gravitate towards Alamo for their Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, which are well-suited for both comfort and exploration. Customers appreciate the easy booking process and the quality of vehicles provided. Alamo's focus on ensuring a smooth rental experience makes it a top choice for those eager to discover everything Hilo has to offer.

Where to stay in and around Hilo

• Keaau: Located 11 km from Hilo, Keaau is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Popular activities include visiting golf courses and campgrounds. Key attractions like Ha'ena Beach offer a delightful beach holiday experience, while the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory and Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden provide unique local insights and family-friendly activities. Enjoy nearby food and drink options, including wineries and sweet treats, making Keaau a well-rounded destination.
• Keaukaha: This charming neighbourhood around Hilo is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy recreational activities at local campgrounds and adventure venues. Explore picturesque spots such as Carlsmith Beach Park, perfect for a beach holiday, or visit Coconut Island Park for family-friendly outdoor fun. Bayfront Park also offers a great urban park experience. With nearby wineries and alcohol options, Keaukaha is a wonderful choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and relaxation.
• Mountain View: Situated 17 km from Hilo, Mountain View attracts those who love the outdoors and scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the local golf courses and resorts, along with notable sites like Rainbow Falls, which is great for an adventurous outing. The area also features 2400 Fahrenheit Art Glass, showcasing local culture, and Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden, offering family-friendly options. With nearby wineries and sweet treats, Mountain View is a fantastic location for those seeking both adventure and a peaceful retreat.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to find the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower prices and greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most cost-effective option. Other rentals may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be convenient; just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may 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 primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking longer road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Hilo

The best value period to rent a car in and around Hilo is May, when prices are at their lowest and demand remains steady. June through August can also be appealing, with slightly lower demand and average prices. However, the demand picks up again in January and February, which are typically the busiest months with higher rental rates. December stands out as the most expensive time, often accompanied by moderately high demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
March	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High
August	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High