Kauai Car Rental
Car Rentals in Kauai
The Island of Kauai is small, and to get the most out of a visit, we suggest booking a car rental with Discount Hawaii Car Rental. Having a vehicle makes visiting all the distinct areas possible since the public transit system does not cater to tourists.
We offer the top Kauai car rentals, including competitive rates, lower young driver fees, and multiple extra drivers that are not found with all car rental companies in the United States. Discount Hawaii Car Rental offers bookings for economy cars, full-size cars, SUVs, Jeeps, and more. These newer, low-mileage vehicles combined with discount rates guarantee a great deal for our customers.
Booking an auto rental in Kauai, Hawaii is a much better option than a tour company. With a rental car, you have complete control of your movements and are not confined to a specific route with 20 or so other visitors and their itineraries.
Taxis give you some control, but if you are visiting multiple locations, fares add up quickly. Our daily rental rate is comparable if not lower than a single taxi fare in many cases. Kauai has areas that are very spread out around the island, and you will want to visit many of these destinations with a rental car.
Keep your own needs in mind when selecting a rental car. Spending your time alone relaxing on the beach is a very different experience from traveling with a large group exploring every aspect of the island. Choose a rental car at Lihue Airport carefully. Since your Kauai car rental is a big part of planning your trip, make sure it suits your needs.
Medium to large families often rent a minivan to ensure enough space for passengers, supplies, and luggage. Most standard van rentals fit up to 7 passengers, but we also offer 12- and 15-passenger vans.
The smallest vehicles from auto rental companies in Kauai, Hawaii will likely only hold 2 passengers and their luggage comfortably. Consider the size of your travel group and luggage when deciding on your Kauai car rental. If you find your car is too small when you arrive, it may cost a lot at the counter to upgrade.
Decide whether you will need a GPS, and keep in mind it will cost more to rent at the airport. You might want to consider bringing your own or downloading the Shaka Guide App for Kauai. U.S. travelers can also use their smartphone’s GPS without additional costs since most U.S. cellphone companies operate in Hawaii.
Car Rental Locations on Kauai
Airport Locations
The Island of Kauai
Kauai, Hawaii, USA
ABOUT KAUAI, HAWAII
Although Kauai is the oldest of the visitable Hawaiian Islands, it is only the fourth largest at approximately 560 square miles. It is well known for its relaxed atmosphere and Aloha spirit. The island’s peaceful ambiance is celebrated by local residents and all those who are fortunate to visit.
Kauai is a popular destination for visitors who prefer a more leisurely vacation but still want to pursue outdoor adventures. Kauai is best known for its breathtaking landscapes, which are only viewable while hiking the abundant rainforest trails. However, more leisurely and family-oriented activities can range from swimming and surfing to ziplining, horseback riding, and even open-air helicopter flights.
Whether you prefer luxurious resorts or camping under the stars, there is a reason for everyone to visit Kauai, Hawaii. We suggest booking an auto rental to visit the numerous parks and landmarks, not to mention the island’s more than 50 miles of beautiful white sand beaches.
If you’d like to stock up on groceries and other necessities after picking up your rental car, the nearest Costco is only 4 miles away from the airport.
Waimea Falls offers a breathtaking drive through majestic canyons and is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. This drive will inspire you, whether you prefer a convertible or a standard car rental in Kauai. Be sure to choose a clear day to enjoy the views, and allow at least 3 hours to make this trip.
When driving through the town of Hanapepe you may want to stop and view the talented local artist shops. Visit on a Friday night for the open-air artist studios and food trucks. Or let the kids experience the thrill of crossing the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge. You can also shop for gifts and souvenirs at an old sugar plantation in the charming town of Koloa.
At the southern tip of the island, Poipu greets visitors with premium resorts, fine dining, and sleek shopping facilities. You will have your choice of a handful of child-friendly beaches where turtle watching, hiking, or just lounging on the beach are encouraged.
If you’re looking for another great spot to take your rental car, the Wailua Falls is another must-see on Kauai. These 175-foot waterfalls were filmed as the backdrop to the intro of the popular TV series “Fantasy Island.” The Wailua Falls carve the shores of the Wailua River back to the Pacific Ocean. On the east coast of the island, restaurants in Kapaa offer farm-to-table cuisine with amazing views. Local shops sell red dirt t-shirts dyed with the unique dirt of the island, imprinting the spirit of the island for visitors to wear proudly.
Visit the botanical gardens in Princeville for various sculpted landscapes and bird tours. With over 500 varieties of plants, 100 native only to Kauai, and 80 species of birds, this is a naturalist’s paradise.
Princeville has direct access to numerous beaches, sprawling golf courses, and secluded trails and may just be the best-kept secret for relaxing in all of Hawaii.
Things to Do on Kauai
Kalalau Trail
The Kalalau Trail is possibly the most challenging adventure hike available on Kauai. The trail provides exclusive access to the Napali Coast and a private 100-foot waterfall. Walk the same 10-mile stretch through the Kalalau Valley as the Hawaiian ancestors did.
Kauai Helicopter
Take a one-hour helicopter flight exploring the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon. Enjoy viewing the rare species of plants and birds at one of the wettest spots on Earth and awe in the rippled razor-sharp sculptured cliffs of The Na Pali Coast.
Guided Activities
Where else can you ride a horse under a waterfall? Whale-watching tours or a sunset dinner sail are a great way to spend time on the water. How about taking in a theatrical luau performance while eating traditional Hawaiian cuisine? These are just a few luxury guided experiences to deepen your intimate relationship with Kauai.
CAR RENTALS IN KAUAI FAQs
Yes, rental cars are available in Kauai. Discount Hawaii Car Rental offers rental cars from the airport in Lihue at the best prices available from most major rental brands.
Yes, longer term car rentals are popular with those that are staying for extended periods of time, whether at a hotel or other vacation rental. Longer rentals often offer the lowest cost per day average. Some companies will break up rentals of over 60 days at the counter and may require you to drop off a vehicle to the pick-up location for servicing. The benefit, you get a fresh vehicle that day.
In most cases, yes, as the island is spread out and a car is needed to travel between areas. There is a bus service, but it does not cater to tourists. Taxis get expensive for longer day trips or multiple excursions.
No, a 4WD vehicle isn’t necessary in Kauai. Any type of rental car will get you where you need to go on the island, as long as you stay on the paved roads. There are some road restrictions on Kauai where rental cars are not allowed, and you will need to check at the counter when you pick up your vehicle. Often, suppliers will provide a map detailing restrictions. Kauai, Hawaii is easy to navigate with any of our auto rentals.
Yes, although you can not actually drive completely around the Island due to the mountain range. But at just under 30 miles tip to tip and side to side car renters could navigate the entire Island in just one day.
Yes, we suggest booking your car rental as soon as your Kauai trip is finalized. Discount Hawaii Car Rental doesn't charge booking or cancellation fees, so you can check back periodically for lower rates. If you find a lower rate, you can cancel your current reservation and book a new one without any penalties.
Rental customers between the ages of 20 and 24 are considered underage drivers. Most car rental companies charge a young driver’s fee of $25 to $35 per day. Discount Hawaii Car Rentals offers a discounted young driver’s fee of $8 per day, but the driver will have restricted Kauai car rental options
Yes, you can add drivers to your car rental agreement. Discount Hawaii Car Rental offers two free extra drivers, unlike many other companies. Most car rental companies will usually charge $13 per day plus tax for additional drivers.
Yes, you can book a car rental in Kauai, no matter where you’re from! If your license is in a language other than English, you must show an International Driving Permit, your regular driver’s license, and your passport to book and pick up your auto rental in Kauai, Hawaii.
Typically, the busiest times are from the middle of June to early September, when many people book car rentals in Kauai to see Hawaii’s beauty. All car rental companies will have low inventory during this time! Book your trip at least three months in advance for better deals and to ensure you can reserve your rental car.
Quick Facts About Kauai Island
- Oldest of the visitable Hawaiian Islands
- 4th largest island of Hawaii
- Home of Waimea Canyon, “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”
- Known as the Garden Isle, with more than 500 plant and 80 bird species
- Kekaha Beach is the longest stretch of continuous beach (15 miles) in Hawaii
If you wae looking to explore the island consider renting a Jeep in Kauai.
Cities in Kauai
Hanalei
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