Hanalei Car Rentals
HANALEI - THE CRESCENT BAY OF KAUAI
There really is heaven on earth and it’s Hanalei, Kauai. Located on the North shore, Hanalei may be the most picturesque little town, with a ‘hidden away’ feeling, a real life paradise. The town of Hanalei lies between a spectacular mountain range and the Pacific ocean, where the ribbons of cliffs and abundance of waterfalls make every view spectacular.
Hanalei wetlands made farming poi the product of choice, but this changed to rice crops in the late 1800’s. Many of these farmers’ descendants still live in the area. With only one resort, past town, Hanalei has kept its charm as old Hawaii. Luxury beach villas or more moderate condos in neighboring Princeville, are the choices for accommodation.
The bay of Hanalei is the largest bay on Kauai and with 2 miles of shoreline, you will always find a great spot on the sand. The outdoor lifestyle is what everyone lives here and there are plenty of options to choose from. The summer months bring calmer waters and the winter months bring the ever wanted breaks that surfers search for.
In town, the restaurants live by the farm to table rule and fresh fare is always available. The food truck scene here is great as well, from poke to shave ice, they are a must try. There are no brand label stores here, all local family shops. The historic Wai’oli Hui’ia church, with its gothic architecture and stained glass windows is a perfect spot for a selfie!
CHOOSING A CAR RENTAL FOR HANALEI
Getting a car rental for Hanalei is recommended. There are taxis, shuttles and public bus transportation available on Kauai, but those are limited and won’t give you the freedom to explore once you arrive. We can help you find a vehicle which meets your needs perfectly. If you’re landing at Lihue airport, it will be ready for pick up upon arrival.
Kauai is a round island, however the main highway only goes from the South (Waimea) to the North (Hanalei), the West side of Kauai is inaccessible due to the Na Pali coastline. Always give yourself plenty of time to cross the island, as traffic can get busy early morning and late afternoon.
Once you pass Princeville, try to stop at the Hanalei lookout, the views are spectacular and definitely worthy of a photo-op. At this point the highway becomes narrow and curvy, it’s the start of the one-way bridges. There are 7 one-way bridges from Hanalei to the end of the road at Ha’’ena. This is the time to slow down, respect the locals and wave with a smile when you pass.
Having a car rental in Hanalei will allow you to visit nearby locations and activities. Princeville boasts two of the most renowned golf courses in the world. If hiking is your thing check out the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, great for a leisurely walk. Let us help you book the perfect car rental for your Hanalei retreat.
Hanalei, HI
HANALEI INFORMATION
32 miles from Lihue airport to Hanalei, takes just under an hour to drive
Hanalei can receive 85 inches of rain each year, with December the wettest
Hanalei pier was built in 1892 and featured in the movie South Pacific
Referenced in Puff the Magic Dragon – released in 1963 by Peter, Paul & Mary
THINGS TO DO IN HANALEI
Ching Young Shopping Center
is Hanalei’s main business area. It has art galleries full of native wood carvings, paintings, sculptures and jewellery. The variety of stores range from surf shops to tattoo parlours. With clothing and gift shops, as well as groceries and restaurants, you will always find customers and staff here to talk story with.
Farmers market
every Saturday morning is from 9:30AM to 11:30AM. Get there early for the best local products before the sell out. Pick up some raw honey, tropical fruit, while you drink freshly opened coconut water. A jar of pineapple chutney will be a great souvenir, if it even makes it home.
Limahuli National Tropical Botanical Gardens
is one of the best natural gardens in the USA. The lush surrounding of the Hanalei valley is surrounded by Makana Mountain and the Pacific Ocean. Take a tour of the 17 acres to see a vast variety of tropical plants and taro fields grown between lava rock.
Car Rentals in Hanalei FAQs
What is the cheapest way to rent a car in Hanalei?
The best rates are often found farther out from your arrival date. Book your car rental for Hanalei as soon as your flights have been confirmed. Canceling and rebooking is always free. If rates go lower, you can easily rebook on our website, and cancel the existing reservation. If rates go up, you already have the best rate locked in, but if they do come down, you can take advantage of the new lower rate with no penalties.
Should I book my Hanalei rental car before arriving?
Some travel sites say, book the car rental after you book your flight. You are then guaranteed a vehicle upon arrival. If you book early you secure a rate, then monitor rates until your travel date and re-book if the rental rates go lower, no penalty to cancel.
Why should I book my Hanalei car rental through Discount Hawaii Car Rental?
We have very competitive rental rates with a major car rental company located at the Lihue Airport. We offer benefits that can include a free extra driver. Our great staff are available to answer your questions, and help you pick out the right Hanalei car for your needs.