he first thing to remember is that all of the Hawaiian Islands are quite different from each other. Our islands have different "local" weather, topography, traffic patterns, and an infrastructure particular to that island. However, the following general information applies to all islands. To get specific tips, go down this page and find the
Island(s) you plan to visit.
For more information regarding taxi service for short hops on each island, click here to see the specific islands.
Rental Cars are available on all islands but it is a VERY good idea to make your reservations well in advance of your arrival. Rental cars are frequently sold out, even in low season, because of popular local events. This is important, because on some islands, it is the only "practical" way to get around!
However, there are other options that can minimize your driving. For instance, many (if not most) of the activities, tours, and hotels offer pick up & delivery services. This can save you from having to follow directions and keep tract of a lot of Hawaiian street names that may sound confusing to visitors; (sometimes they seem to all start with the letter "K" - followed by a strange collection of vowels (Kamehameha, Kapiolani, Kaulakaula, Kealakekua, Kaleopapa, Kuikini, Keihi... just to name a few).
Courtesy pick-ups will also save you the frustration of finding a place to park when you reach your destination. If you're out at night, for instance on a dinner cruise, courtesy transportation can help you avoid driving after you've had perhaps too much "celebration"...
| Hot Tip |
| Frequently, when you reserve a car in the "economy" class, the rental car company will "upgrade" your selection to a mid size or luxury car. They do
this because economy cars sell out first and therefore may be in short supply on the day of your arrival. This means you might be able to reserve the least expensive car but still drive away in a more expensive model for the price of economy. However, if you want a special car, like a convertible or jeep, then it's best to request that specific model. Both are frequently "sold-out".
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Limosine Service is an excellent way to get around - provided it's within your financial means. Prices vary of course, but in general you can rent them by the hour, day, or even week. We highly recommend a limosine arrival experience for honeymooners or larger parties that may "party" on their Trans-Pacific flight. Most are equipped with the standard features; bar, phone, TV, and music system. Another advantage is that you will frequently arrive closer to "the door" of your destination, since many establishments give preferential parking and drop-off treatment to
limosines.
Motorcycles are another option, however keep in mind that the weather can change frequently and dramatically (yes, it does rain in paradise but our rain is usually warmer that what you're used to). To travel short distances on sunny days, motorcycles can be "great" fun.
Mopeds - Please remember that mopeds are not motorcycles, nor are they bicycles and they require the rider to exercise immense caution! Normally their top speed on level ground is about 35mph and they are underpowered going up hills. Therefore, if you plan to rent a moped, use it only for short excursions and plan to avoid trips that will take you long distances or "upcountry" (higher altitudes).
Bus Service is available on many of the Islands, however it's most practical for visitors on Oahu. The outer Islands that have bus service do not offer the flexibility of schedules to satisfy most visitors. Therefore, we do not recommend relying on bus service anywhere other than in the Honolulu / Waikiki area. Also note that resently many buses on Oahu were equipped with bike racks. Visit The Bus for more information.
Taxi Service is available at all airports and at most of the Waikiki hotels. It can be expensive, however, due to the distance from the airports to the hotels. For instance, here's the current Taxi rates from the airport to specific areas of each of the main Islands; Oahu - to Waikiki, $20-30; Maui - to
Kihei, $27 & up... to Wailea, $30 & up... to Kapulua, $48 & up... to Lahaina, $38 & up... to
Hana, bad idea; Kauai - to Poipu, $31... to Hanalei, $65; Big Island - to Kona, $15-$25... to Kohala $32 & up... to Hilo, forget it!
Courtesy Pick up & Delivery - Many hotels as well as most of the activity services offer to pick you up and take you back to your hotel or condo provided you are on their route. Be sure to ask about this option when booking a hotel, condo, or activity. Courtesy transportation can be a very good way to avoid the frustration of traffic, parking, or just finding your way around. It is also a good way to save on gas as well as providing a "designated driver" should you be in need of one.
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