A vacation or trip to Kailua-Kona wouldn’t be complete without stopping by some of its famous attractions, such as the Kanaloa Octopus Farm, Manini’owali Beach, or the Mauna Kea Summit. While public transport is easily accessible and affordable, it just wouldn’t be the same compared to renting a car. Car rentals in Kailua-Kona give you more in terms of convenience, and you can easily move around to wherever you want at your pace without having to wait on anyone. On the issue of parking, you don’t have to worry about that because there’s plenty of parking space around Kailua-Kona, and even though most have to be paid for, the rates are relatively pocket-friendly. In addition, there are plenty of Kailua-Kona car rentals so finding one shouldn’t be difficult.
Is it worthwhile to rent a car while visiting Kailua-Kona?
When vacationing, it is advisable that you get a cheap car rental in Kailua-Kona to help you move around. While there might be a comprehensive bus system, Hawaii is the only Island with such a system, they don’t allow you to carry luggage, and you don’t have the flexibility as they follow a strict timetable. Therefore, car rentals in Kailua-Kona are realistically the only option you have that provide comfort, convenience, and flexibility. Also, driving around enables you to see the attractions in the area, especially since most of them are spread apart.
What different driving laws should I keep in mind while driving in Kailua-Kona?
Since Hawaii is still technically part of the United States, their driving laws aren’t that much different from other states on the mainland. However, there are some minor differences between driving in Hawaii and the continental US that you should be aware of. For starters, sunset can be earlier, so if you don’t like driving in the dark, be sure to observe that. Secondly, gas prices are relatively higher because of the shipping costs, and some parts have very limited access to gas stations. Don’t wait till you’re empty to fill up if you don’t want any inconveniences. Another thing to keep in mind is that most roads in Kailua-Kona have only two lanes for either direction, so you should be cautious of oncoming traffic. Lastly, Hawaii has an ‘excessive speeding’ statute that carries a hefty fine so, even when admiring the natural beauty of Kailua-Kona as you drive through the roads, maintain the stipulated speed limit. Our advice would be before getting your rental cars in Kailua-Kona, look up the traffic laws.
Can I drive between islands with a rental car from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii?
The booking process for car rentals in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, is straightforward and follows the same procedure as you would renting a car from most U.S. states. While U.S. citizens and Canadians can lease a vehicle and drive between the two countries, things are quite different in Hawaii. As there are no ferries between the islands of Hawaii, you will need to rent separate cars to move between the islands. Given that HI is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and miles away from the nearest California coast, there is no land, bridge, or ferry connection from Hawaii to the mainland U.S. It is, therefore, not possible to rent a car and leave Hawaii.
Can you rent a rental car in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii without a credit card?
While some car rental locations in Kailua-Kona may accept cash, but because cash-only transactions are risky, most facilities will likely ask you to use your credit card and pay cash when returning the rental. You can also pay a cash deposit upfront, but cheap car rentals in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, including the small, independent facilities, need to make sure that you can be trusted. So, before you drive off the lot with their prized possession, you will need to provide vital information such as proof of insurance, the cash deposit, or money order, including the latest utility bills that show your current address. You may also be required to pay the full cost of the electric car rental, including a minimum cash deposit of at least 25%. Car rental companies such as Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty are known to ask renters for a deposit ID card as that is how they can run a credit check for them to approve an upfront cash deposit transaction. Another alternative to a credit card is to use a debit card. Most car rentals in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, accept them since the cash is debited instantly from your bank account. If you book your car through the momondo search engine, you will be able to see which companies accept Master cards or Visa debit cards. Note that once approved for a debit card payment, the Kailua-Kona car rental company will still require you to present valid forms of photo ID.
What documents does an international traveler need to rent a car in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii?
In addition to your regular license, you will be required to bring an International Driver’s License if your original license is not in the Latin alphabet, and make sure to have a valid photo ID and passport with you. If you are a non-U.S. citizen and have found a car rental location in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, you will need a major credit card or a Master card or Visa debit card for a security deposit upon picking up your electric car rental. Always review the payment policy of the economy car rental company you choose to use.