Car rental Hilo, HI
Discover the Turo car rental marketplace
- Car rental
- United States
- Hilo, HI
Extraordinary selection
From standard cars to supercars, find the perfect car for any occasion or budget
Liability insurance included
Third-party liability insurance comes standard, and choose from a range of vehicle protection plans
Easy airport pickup
You can skip the rental counter at 100+ airports across the US and Canada
Rental cars in Hilo, HI
Average daily prices for a 3-day trip
Subaru Impreza
2025
•5.0
(38)
Toyota Corolla
2026
•New listing
Toyota Corolla
2019
•5.0
(1)
Subaru Impreza
2022
•4.86
(10)
Hyundai Elantra
2021
•4.97
(194)
Chevrolet Spark
2022
•4.85
(144)
Kia Forte
2021
•5.0
(15)
Kia K4
2025
•4.57
(7)
Kia K5
2022
•4.9
(51)
Rent a car in Hilo on Turo
Discover car rental on Turo and sail through the summery paradise of Hilo, Hawaii in a comfortable, reliable vehicle – the best way to explore the Big Island and beyond. Black sand beaches, majestic waterfalls, tranquil mountains, and lush gardens are just some of the sights to see in this dreamy corner of the world.
As many activities on the Big Island are only accessible by car, securing a rental vehicle is the best way to maximize your time in Hawaii. You'll have your pick of palm-lined streets and secluded ocean roads to explore when you rent a car in Hilo on Turo. Simply choose the vehicle that suits your travel style, then pick it up from a convenient nearby location like Hilo International Airport or the city center.
Hilo, HI car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car in Hilo is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across Hilo, Hawaii and beyond, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.
1. Find the perfect car
Enter a date and location in Hilo, HI (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.
2. Select a pickup location
Rent a car nearby or get one delivered to various destinations, including many airports, train stations, hotels, or maybe even your home.
3. Hit the road
Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of Hilo, HI! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.
Recent Hilo, HI car rental reviews
Absolutely! Here’s a review you could post: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect Cruise Port Car Rental for Exploring Hilo We rented a car during our cruise stop in Hilo, and the entire experience was incredibly easy. The rental location was just a short walk from the cruise port, conveniently located across from the general store, making pickup and drop-off simple and stress-free. The car was clean, reliable, and perfect for exploring the island. We spent the day driving through the lush scenery of the Big Island and visiting the breathtaking Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Having our own vehicle gave us the freedom to stop whenever we wanted for photos, scenic overlooks, and local attractions. If you’re arriving by cruise ship and want to make the most of your time in Hilo, I highly recommend renting a car here. It was one of the highlights of our trip and allowed us to experience so much more of the island than we could have otherwise. We would definitely rent from them again on our next visit! 🌋🚗 A fantastic way to see the Big Island in just one day!
The quality of the car was superb, smooth to drive, did well on fuel, clean exterior and interior, strategic window tinting - it truly reduced the interior heat and made it comfortable to drive. Brian was timely and efficient with communication and delivery of the car. Rental price was competitive with commercial companies and other Turo rentals. I would rent again from Brian.
Great car, worked well for us and fun for exploring the big island. Had a 4 day rental and did not experience any issues mechanical or otherwise. The car is small as noted in the images/description, but we were only traveling with two carryons and one of those was a large backpack so it was fine. If you had two hard shells or a checked bag you might want to be careful, but the airport is only 10 minutes from town if you just squeeze anything else on the passenger seat.
Every thing with the car and rental process went great! I recommend this host and car!
This is definitely the host that all cruise passengers should choose! While the rest of the people are fighting for taxis to take them to the airport to rent a car, we simply walked off the boat and went to the street. The Hyundai was exactly where it was supposed to be. It was clean and drove very well. The host communicated quickly each time. We drove here and there all over the place and, at the end, when I went to gas it up, the handle kept clicking off. I thought there was an issue with the pump but it turned out that it only needed a gallon and a half and was already full with barely any filling! Great car and an even better location and the best host! I would definitely rent from them again. Thank you!
Good communication and directions for the car. Everything went smooth. No complaints
Awesome car! Clean, runs great and excellent on mileage. Great Host!!! Recommend!
Great car! Host made pick up and drop off extremely convenient. No complaints!
Host was great to work with and made pickup/drop off easy. The car is zippy and gets great gas mileage, my wife and I spent a week cruising around the island and seeing some amazing spots. Car has automatic braking when it senses you’re coming up on another vehicle, which is a great feature but it’s very sensitive so I had to get used to it tapping the brakes a lot but otherwise it’s a fun car to drive.
Thank you so much you guys are the best. Thank you for always working with me showing me how to work the website. Also helping me include another extra day. I’m really grateful for you guys my family and I are very grateful. Super happy and we enjoy your vehicles.❤️👌
Worked out great. We got off of cruise ship & car was waiting ready to go. Easy drop off & straight back on board. Thanks Natalie.
The quality of the car was great, runs smoothly and the host was on it with communication!
Vicky was a wonderful person to rent from. She was prompt to answer any of my questions. She also made the pickup and drop off process super easy. I would rent from her again!
The rental process was smooth, there were some concerns and the host kept in great communication and assisted with helping us find another available listing. Great host.
Rent a car and explore Hilo, HI
Things to do and places to see in Hilo, HI
Made significantly easier to traverse with a car rental, Hilo is packed full of activities for all kinds of travelers and locals alike. Nature lovers will enjoy adventuring and hiking in blissful Hawaiian landscapes like Akaka Falls State Park, whereas culture seekers can visit the abundance of restaurants, shops, and museums in the area.
Rent the perfect car
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
Home to not one but two active volcanoes, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is an unmissable 45-minute trip from Hilo. Rising an impressive 13,000 feet above sea level, you'll notice a range of ecological landscapes once you enter the park, including lava fields, rainforests, and alpine tundra. Go for a hike, see Halema‘uma‘u Crater up close, and if you've got time, spend a few days here to take in the park's breathtaking beauty.
Hilo Farmer's Market
A day out in downtown Hilo isn't complete without a trip to the local farmer's market, which boasts a rainbow of fresh tropical fruits and veggies. Try new Hawaiian delicacies or simply pick up some snacks to take with you as you explore the Big Island. There are also crafts, fresh flowers, and more to browse, and, of course, friendly locals to chat with!
Rainbow Falls
Conveniently located within Hilo city limits, Rainbow Falls is a sight to behold for nature lovers. Head there early in the morning to give yourself the best chance of seeing why they call it 'Rainbow Falls' – when the light hits just right, it refracts against the water, creating shimmering colors across the falls. You can also hike to the top of the falls and marvel at the towering ancient banyan trees.
Why Rent a car on Turo?
Cheap Hilo, HI car rental
Find deals on all kinds of drives in Hilo, HI and throughout the US - from the everyday to the extraordinary. Rent the perfect vehicle for your budget.
Convenient Hilo, HI car rental pick up options
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest in Hilo, HI, like airports, train stations, and hotels.
Relax with support & damage protection
24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.
Hilo car rentals for any occasion
Vacation car rental
Hawaii is a dream vacation spot, and with its vast open landscapes and rich culture, why wouldn't it be? Make sure you can rely on your wheels as you traverse the Big Island by renting a car on Turo. From pickup trucks to electric luxury SUVs or even the classic Jeep Wrangler – a common sight in Hawaii – local hosts have lots of vehicles to choose from.
Event car rental
Are you celebrating something special during your visit to Hilo? Find a car to match the occasion when you book with Turo. As you browse our car rental marketplace, you'll discover electric luxury sedans like the Tesla Model 3, stylish premium luxury sedans like the BMW M3, and swish extended luxury SUVs like the Ford Flex.
Long-term car rental
If you're planning on calling Hilo home long-term, you'll need a vehicle to zip around in – and what better way to have your pick of the bunch than with Turo? When you rent a car on Turo, you're guaranteed to receive the vehicle you selected at checkout, meaning you can test drive a model you've got your eye on, or drive your dream car for up to a few months. Choose from diverse options, including the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Spark, and Subaru Outback.
Turo vs. traditional car rental
Turo
App-based experience
No waiting in line
1,600+ unique makes & models
Get the exact car you choose
Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations
Cars rented out by local small businesses
Vehicles and hosts rated by guests
Traditional car rental
Standard rental counter experience
Waiting in line
Limited car selection
Get one type of car “or similar”
Pickup at retail locations
Cars owned by large corporations
No vehicle ratings
Rental car pickup locations throughout Hilo
Get your vehicle delivered right to you or wherever you’re going in Hilo, HI, including Hilo, HI airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular Hilo, HI pickup locations include:
Hilo International Airport (ITO)
Just a 10-minute drive from downtown, Hilo International Airport (ITO) is a regional hub and one of two airport locations servicing Hawaii island. Despite its size, Hilo Airport can still be busy at times, so instead of navigating the busy airport car rental counter, why not rent a car on Turo? Choose from a selection of reliable vehicles from local hosts, then coordinate your pick up and drop off at the public parking lot at Hilo Intl Airport – it's that easy!
Waimea-Kohala Airport
If you're visiting Hilo from Kahului or Kailua-Kona, you may be closer to Waimea-Kohala Airport, a very small regional transit center about an hour away from downtown Hilo. Transiting through this airport should be super speedy, but there's still no harm in saving yourself from the rental car line by booking a vehicle on Turo. You'll have full control over the car you receive – no substitutions or surprises here – and you'll be able to pick it up and drop it off at a pre-arranged location near the airport.
Downtown Hilo, HI
Headed to Hilo through another means of transport or need a rental car to get from A to B as a Hilo local? You'll find a wide range of vehicles ready for collection from the Hilo city center on Turo. Depending on what's available, you'll either pick up your rental car from a landmark or popular accommodation option, or enjoy delivery straight to your door. Then, you'll be ready to hit the roads of Hilo and maximize your time in Hawaii.
Airport pickup made easy
Next time you fly, don’t wait in line and fill out forms — pick your car up at hundreds of popular airports.
Convenient pickup & return
Rather than hustling at the busy terminal curbside, take your time picking up the car at approved parking lots or garages. Check in, load up your luggage, and get comfortable with the car without a big rush.
No lines, no paperwork
Skip the rental car counter at hundreds of popular airports without waiting in line or filling out paperwork. Find and pick up the car with the app and hit the road in no time.
Free cancellation
Cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your trip starts, unless you opt to receive a non-refundable trip discount when you book. Because life happens and it helps to be flexible when it does.
Pickup near or at Airports
Car rental locations near Hilo, HI
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Top tips for renting a car in Hilo
Hawai'i is known for its wide-open skies and winding tropical roads. Make exploring them fun, safe, and easy by learning what it's like to drive in the Āloha State, from parking to toll roads and everything in between.
What are the road rules and driving conditions in Hilo?
Before you head to any new city, it's good to be aware of the local road rules and driving conditions – and Hilo is no exception! As you drive through the town, be sure to observe road signage, adhere to local speed limits, always wear a seatbelt, avoid using your phone while driving, and yield to pedestrians.
There are also a few road rules that are unique to the state of Hawaii. For example, it's not permitted to use the left-hand lane unless you're overtaking another vehicle. Phones may not be used while driving in Hawai'i.
While the idea of speeding down Hawai'i's many open roads may sound like fun, it's always safest to stick to speed limits. Residential and school zone speed limits in Hilo are usually 25 miles per hour (mph), whereas urban areas and highways carry higher limits (45 mph and 50 mph respectively). Interstate H-1 also has a minimum speed limit of 10 mph below the signposted speed.
As you explore the Big Island by car, you may encounter some remote roads with no access to gas stations or supermarkets. We advise keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle in the event of a breakdown.
What is parking like in Hilo?
Street parking is readily available in Hilo, which means you'll never be far from a spot to drop your rental car. Most street parking is free for at least two hours. If you're looking for something slightly more secure, consider a mall parking lot like the one at Prince Kuhio Plaza.
Unless you're visiting Hilo International Airport or the University of Hawaii at Hilo, it's unlikely you'll have to pay much – if at all – to park your vehicle in scenic Hilo.
Are there toll roads in Hilo?
Save your pennies – Hilo (and the rest of the state of Hawaii) is completely free from toll roads! Explore all corners of Hawaii without limits.
Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Hilo?
Nothing says 'freedom' like a full tank! Luckily, gas stations are pretty abundant in Hilo, relative to the town's size and population. Fill up along Kamehameha Ave, Kinoole St, or Kilauea Ave in the Hilo city center, or at one of many outlets (including Texaco and Ohana Fuels) along Mamalahoa Hwy by Hilo Intl Airport.
Electric vehicle charging stations, on the other hand, can be hard to pin down in Hilo. Don't stress – there are still a few in the area, so you won't have to compromise your eco-friendly car rental! Hilo EV charging stations by ChargePoint are located close to Hilo Airport, along Mamalahoa Hwy, Makaala St, and E Kawili St. You'll also find an EV charger within airport grounds on Kekuanaoa St.
Do I need to rent a car in Hilo?
Renting a car is imperative in Hilo, if only because of how much there is to see and do! Unlike more populated areas of the US, Hawai'i is still spread out and public transit can be limited depending on where you want to go. Find the perfect vehicle on Turo – a premium luxury SUV or an electric luxury sedan, perhaps – so you can adventure to your heart's content and enjoy a reliable rental experience.
Frequently asked questions about Hilo car rentals
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver’s license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada.
In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver’s license for at least two years. In France you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles.
When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s license and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver’s licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn’t accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner’s permit/instruction permits are not accepted.
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
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.
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
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.
Learn how the loyalty bonus worksIs there long term car rental on Turo?
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.
See more about promotions & discountsIs there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit — you’ll need to check on each rental car individually to see if this service is provided. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Yes, multiple guests can drive the car you rent on Turo, as long as they are all approved to drive. The primary driver (whoever rented the car) can add additional drivers with no fees or additional charges. Only the primary driver can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.
To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Hilo?
The cost of car rental in Hilo can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rental in Hilo, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
What rental car types are there in Hilo?
From full-size luxury sedans to electric luxury SUVs, pickup trucks, compact cars, standard SUVs, and even sleek sports cars, there's lots to discover on the Turo car rental marketplace in Hilo, Hawaii. Popular models include the capable Chevrolet Colorado, the head-turning Jeep Gladiator, the compact Toyota Corolla, and the sophisticated Chrysler Pacifica.
Whether you need a people mover to fit the whole family, something simple to explore the island in, or an impressive sports car for a couple's getaway, you're bound to find it on Turo.