Car rental in Hakalau, HI

Hakalau sits along Hawaii's scenic Hamakua Coast, offering access to stunning waterfalls, botanical gardens, and the dramatic Big Island coastline. A car provides the freedom to explore nearby attractions like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the charming town of Hilo at your own pace. The winding coastal roads reveal breathtaking ocean views and hidden gems that make Hawaii's Big Island truly special.

Gas stations are located in nearby Hilo, which serves as the main hub for fuel stops along the Hamakua Coast. Several stations operate along Highway 19, the primary route connecting Hakalau to other Big Island destinations. Planning fuel stops in advance is recommended when exploring Hawaii's more remote coastal areas.

An SUV or standard car handles Hakalau's coastal highways and local roads effectively, providing comfort for longer drives around the Big Island. The area's paved roads accommodate most vehicle types, from compact cars to larger SUVs depending on your group size and luggage needs. Consider a Toyota or Nissan for reliable performance on Hawaii's diverse terrain and varying elevations.

The Hamakua Coast scenic drive extends north and south from Hakalau, showcasing dramatic cliffs, tropical valleys, and panoramic ocean vistas. Highway 19 leads south toward Hilo and eventually to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of the Big Island's most spectacular destinations. The coastal route north reveals charming plantation towns and some of Hawaii's most photographed landscapes.

Fill your gas tank before departing, as fuel stations become sparse in rural areas of the Big Island. Pack water, snacks, and a camera to capture Hawaii's stunning scenery along the Hamakua Coast and beyond. Check weather conditions, especially if heading to higher elevations near Mauna Kea or planning extended drives to Kauai via inter-island connections.

Street parking is available throughout Hakalau's small town center, with most areas offering free parking for visitors exploring the area. Popular scenic viewpoints along the Hamakua Coast provide designated parking areas for safely enjoying Hawaii's coastal beauty. Always park in designated areas when visiting waterfalls, beaches, or other natural attractions around the Big Island.

No, you don't need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo. In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host's vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you'll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that's right for you. On each trip, you're covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.* In New York state, you'll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you're covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.

You can get discounts and low cost car rental on Turo. On your Account page, make sure you've checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we'll send you occasional promo codes, discounts, and deals. Additionally, frequent travelers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totaling 10 days in a 90-day period.

Yes there is — whether you want to rent a car for three days, three months, or even longer, you can on Turo. You'll find discounted prices on bookings lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days, so you can get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips.