Hawaii Car Rental

Guide to Hawaii

Climate

Hawaii experiences a mostly sunny and balmy tropical climate but the temperature and humidity can sporadically drop low due to the trade winds. The summer (kau) spans from May to October and invites temperatures as high as 85° F (29.4° C), while the winter (hoolio), which runs from November to April, brings mild temperatures which average at 78° F (25.6° C). The pleasant weather all year round makes Hawaii a popular tourist destination.

Culture

Hawaii is one of the most ethnically diverse states of the United States and has an estimated population of 1.46 million.

Things to do in Hawaii

Go scuba diving or snorkeling

While you are on the Big Island, sign up for an exclusive snorkeling or scuba diving experience with one of the many dive operators on the island. The Kohala Coast is particularly famous for fantastic night dives to see manta rays. On the Kona Coast, the best snorkeling spots are at Two Step, Kealakekua Bay, and Kahalu’u Beach Park, where you can see reef fish, resplendent corals, and even octopi and eels if you’re lucky!

Hike the Kalalau Trail

Take a guided tour or drive in your rental car to reach the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, also called Waimea Canyon, on Kauai Island to enjoy unparalleled panoramic views. Hike one of the most beautiful trails in the world, the Kalalau Trail. The path is rugged and challenging but the extraordinary views would soothe even the tiredest of bodies. Another epic hike waits for you at Diamond Head, a volcanic cone on the island of O’ahu. It’s a steep hike that takes 2-3 hours, but every bead of sweat will be worth it. Once you’ve climbed back down, you have the opportunity to learn more about the unique culture of Hawaii at the Polynesian Culture Center.

Take a helicopter tour

Take a helicopter tour at Maui and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the island’s lush green valleys, stunning waterfalls, and turquoise pools. The Molokini Crater, also in Maui, is an exceptionally beautiful islet where you can swim with sharks. Next is the Atau channel located south of Lahaina in Maui if spotting humpback whales is on your bucket list. Visit in between November to April to get a close-up view of these amazing sea mammals.

Eating Out in Hawaii

When you are in Hawaii, you should try the Plate Lunch served at many local restaurants. Scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and toppings such as hamburger patties and fried eggs will make your taste buds happy. Alternatively, the Hawaiian Luau is a popular feast prepared during festivals or special occasions, and it includes pork cooked in an underground oven, shellfish, Lomi salmon, haupia, and beer. The feast is usually accompanied by lively music and dance. Fruit cocktails are also popular in Hawaii.

Transport in Hawaii

Airports and public transport

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Hilo International Airport (ITO), and Kona International Airport (KOA) are the main airports serving Hawaii. You are able to use bus tours to get around the Islands or get shuttle and taxis.

Driving in Hawaii

You can also rent a car in advance from the airport. The most popular car rental agencies on the island include Enterprise, Hertz, and Alamo, as well as some local ones like Cruisin’ Maui. Roads can be narrow and winding here, so pay attention to speed limits.