Car rental at Hilo International Airport (ITO)
Discover the Turo car rental marketplace
- Car rental
- United States
- Hilo International Airport
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 at Hilo International Airport ITO
Average daily prices for a 3-day trip
Chevrolet Spark
2022
•4.85
(144)
Hyundai Elantra
2021
•4.97
(194)
Chevrolet Spark
2021
•4.88
(270)
Subaru Impreza
2025
•5.0
(38)
Toyota Corolla
2026
•New listing
Kia Forte
2023
•5.0
(21)
Subaru Impreza
2022
•4.86
(10)
Honda Accord
2018
•4.99
(76)
Kia K4
2025
•4.57
(7)
Discover Hilo International Airport car rental on Turo
Hilo might move slower than other Hawaiian towns, but picking up your rental car doesn't have to. When you book a car rental at Hilo Airport on Turo, you can choose the exact car you want that suits your trip, whether it's a rugged 4x4 for Mauna Kea side roads, a sleek luxury SUV for quiet rainforest drives, or a sedan for cruising Banyan Drive. No rental counter lines, no guessing games — just land, locate your car, and head out. With Hilo International Airport as your starting point, it's all within reach. Chase waterfalls at Rainbow Falls, feel the heat at Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park, or watch the sun dip behind black-lava beaches in Punaluu. Whether you're in town for exploration, relaxation, or a little bit of both, renting a car on Turo gives you the flexibility to explore the Big Island on your terms.
Hilo International Airport car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car at ITO is easy. Browse cars online, confirm your pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations at airports across the US, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.
1. Find the perfect car
Enter a date and airport 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 for pickup at the airport, or opt for delivery to various destinations, including airports, train stations, and hotels.
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 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.
Picking up at ITO
Pickup & return areas at ITO
No shuttle rides or car rental company chaos here. Once you land at Hilo Intl Airport, breeze past the baggage claim area and stroll over to Row 11 in the main airport lot — just a few steps from the terminal and home to Turo's 12 reserved parking spots. Your host will let you know exactly where to go to find your rental vehicle, so all that's left to do is hop in, grab the exit ticket from the console, and start your island adventure. It's really that easy.
Communicate with your host
As soon as your booking's locked in, the Turo app becomes your trip dashboard. You'll get the stall number, lockbox code (if needed), and any other key details straight in your inbox. Real-time location sharing kicks in two hours before your trip starts — perfect if your flight's delayed or you're juggling a lei in one hand and luggage in the other.
Parking & airport fees
Hilo International Airport charges a delivery fee for all rentals exchanged on airport property. Turo handles it automatically, with zero markups or hidden charges. If you need to pay for parking, that exact cost will be noted upfront in your booking details, so there are no surprises when it comes time to hit the road.
Why rent a car at the airport on Turo?
Contactless check-in and checkout
Many hosts offer contactless check-in and checkout, if their car has remote access technology, allowing you to find the car, unlock it, and be on your way without meeting them in person. Message your host for specific instructions.
Convenient airport car rental pickup and return
Rather than hustling at the busy terminal curbside, take your time picking up the rental car at approved parking lots or garages. Check in, load up your luggage, and get comfortable with the car without a big rush.
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
Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or something off the beaten path, having your own rented vehicle makes all the difference. Here are a few popular reasons travellers book a car near Hilo International Airport — and the vehicle classes that fit each occasion best.
Volcano-viewing road trip car rental
Planning to cruise Saddle Road or explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park? A sturdy SUV or pickup truck handles elevation changes and rough shoulders with ease, and has space for hiking boots, jackets, and coolers packed for a day of lava-field exploring.
Beach-hopping car rental
Snorkeling at Richardson, lounging at Punaluu, or chasing sunsets at Hapuna? An SUV or sedan keeps the ride breezy, even when you're loaded up with towels, toys, and sunscreen.
Island wedding car rental
Getting dressed up for a beachfront ceremony or meeting the entire ohana at Liliuokalani Gardens? An electric car adds a quiet, sophisticated arrival, perfect for photo ops and a polished look that goes beyond a standard car rental from an off-airport location.
Turo vs. Traditional car rental
Turo
App-based experience
No waiting in line
Get the exact car you choose
Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations
Contactless pickup and dropoff available
Traditional car rental
Standard rental counter experience
Waiting in line
Get one type of car “or similar”
Pickup at retail locations
Requires in-person handoff
Skip the car rental counter at Hilo International Airport
Things to do and places to see in Hilo, HI
Hilo is Hawaii's rainy-side sweetheart — lush, laid-back, and full of surprises. One minute you're face-to-face with a waterfall, and the next you could be biting into a lilikoi malasada or watching molten lava stream into the sea. Visit downtown's Liliuokalani Gardens, explore lava tubes at Kaumana Caves, or cool off at Richardson Ocean Park. With your own set of wheels, the Big Island's east side is your oyster.
Rent the perfect car
Akaka Falls State Park
Want to feel small in the best way possible? Just 25 minutes north of Hilo, this jungle-wrapped gem is home to a 442-foot waterfall that thunders through a rainforest so green that it almost glows. A short, paved loop trail winds past groves of bamboo, wild orchids, banyan roots, and other smaller waterfalls that make it feel like you've wandered onto a movie set. You'll feel the mist on your face before you've even seen the falls, and the sight of it is sure to make you forget to grab your phone. After your hike, stop for a warm coconut-peanut butter mochi to end the day on a sweet note.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
It's not every day you get to walk on a volcano. About 40 minutes south of Hilo, this otherworldly national park delivers blackened lava flows, steaming craters, and hikes that feel like you're stepping into a sci-fi novel. Trek through the Kilauea Iki Trail, explore ancient lava tubes, or just pull over to gawk at the Martian-like views. Don't skip the drive along Chain of Craters Road — it ends where lava meets the sea, and if you time it right, you'll have golden hour all to yourself. The visitor center also runs ranger talks and eruption updates if you're curious about the island's fiery past (and present).
Hilo Farmers Market
Colorful, chaotic, and completely charming, this is where Hilo's heart beats loudest. Open daily (and extra busy on "big market" Wednesdays and Saturdays when the most vendors show up), the market spills out onto the sidewalks with fresh produce, sizzling snacks, handmade crafts, and that unmistakable Big Island vibe. Grab a cup of lilikoi lemonade, sample a rich Laulau, and chat with local artists who'll insist you smell their plumeria soap or try a slice of Ulu cake. If you're lucky, you can catch live music or a last-minute hula performance under the tents — just follow the rhythm of the drums.
Nearby locations
Browse ITO rental cars by make
Browse ITO rental cars by category
Top tips for renting a car in Hilo
Hilo might be known for its easygoing pace, but navigating the island takes a little planning. From narrow one-lane bridges to pop-up rainstorms and winding coastlines, having your own car makes it easier to manage. Before you fire up the engine and head for the waterfalls, here are a few things to keep in mind for a smoother drive.
How does airport pickup work at Hilo International Airport?
Want to know how to collect your car rental? Hilo Airport has 12 reserved parking spaces in Row 11. So once you land, open the Turo app to find your host's message with the exact stall. From baggage claim, it's just a short walking distance across the access road without any shuttle or long queues. Your host will have left a parking ticket in the car, so you can hop in, drive out, and be cruising down Kuhio Street in minutes.
How does drop-off work at Hilo International Airport?
Ready to drop off your car? Hilo Intl Airport's Row 11 is where you'll have to go at the end of your trip. Just pull a fresh parking ticket, return the vehicle to any of the 12 designated stalls, and park within four hours of your trip ending. Then, follow your host's instructions — either to secure the key in a drop box located nearby, or coordinate a remote lock — and send a quick message via the app with your stall number. That's it! No rental desk, no fuss.
How far is Hilo International Airport from Downtown Hilo?
Hilo International Airport is one of those rare airports where the town feels like an extension of the terminal. Just about three miles away via Kekuanaoa Street (about an eight-minute drive). It's a straight shot into the heart of the downtown, where garden paths, breezy cafés, and ocean views are waiting before your playlist can even hit the next song.
What are the road rules and driving conditions in Hilo?
Driving around Hilo is laid-back, but there are still a few essentials to know. Speed limits are typically 25–45 miles per hour (mph) in residential and urban zones and go up to about 60 mph on highways. Hawaii is a hands-free state, so phones need to be mounted if you're using GPS. You'll also need to keep your headlights on whenever your wipers are on — it's not just smart, it's the law.
Weather on this side of the island changes fast. Expect sudden downpours, especially in the afternoons, and slick roads in forested or shaded areas. Debris like leaves, branches, or even the occasional lava rock can show up after a storm, especially near Puna or the Olaa Forest. Take it slow around blind corners and use a low gear on steep descents if you're driving Saddle Road or heading into Volcanoes National Park.
As for wildlife, keep an eye out for nene geese near Saddle Road and wild pigs that sometimes roam into rural roadways around dawn or dusk. Chickens, mongoose, and the odd stray dog can also make an appearance near beach parks or residential areas. Always stay alert, especially on less-traveled roads — you’re sharing the road with more than just other drivers.
What is parking like in Hilo?
Downtown Hilo is easy when it comes to parking. You'll find plenty of spots along Kamehameha Avenue and free public lots near the farmers market near Punahoa Street. Beaches like Richardson and Carlsmith have small lots that fill up quickly, especially on weekends (early mornings or late afternoons are your best bet). At Hawaii National Park, there's ample roadside parking and scenic pull-offs, though a day-use fee applies at the entrance.
Are there toll roads in Hilo?
None at all. Hawaii Island doesn't do tolls — just winding scenic highways, one-lane bridges, and photo-worthy pit stops along the way.
Where can I find gas stations and EV chargers in Hilo?
Kanoelehua Avenue is your best bet for fuel, with stations located along the Hawaii Belt Road, Puainako Street, and Kinoole Street — all within easy reach. If you're driving an electric vehicle, you can find charging stations at Target, the Grand Naniloa Hotel, and at ITO Airport. Most are close to restaurants or shops, so you can recharge while you explore the area.
Do I need to rent a car in Hilo?
Without a doubt. Hele-On buses are limited, and the sights you came for, like volcanic craters, rainforest trails, and black-sand beaches, are scattered across miles of island terrain. Renting a car on Turo lets you build your own itinerary, whether you're chasing lava glow after dark, sunrise on Mauna Kea, or just the best malasadas in town. No tour bus, no fixed route, just the open road done your way.
What rental car types can I find on Turo in Hilo?
With Turo, you can browse and book from a wide range of vehicle classes, all offered by local hosts near Hilo Intl Airport (ITO). Whether you're navigating narrow rainforest roads or hauling boogie boards down the coast, there's something for every kind of trip:
- Economy and compact cars – Budget-friendly and nimble, models like the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Versa, or Nissan Rogue are perfect for quick trips through town or coffee runs before the market opens.
- Luxury sedans – For scenic coast drives with extra comfort, book a Lexus IS or BMW 3 Series. These premium sedans strike the right balance between performance and polish.
- SUVs – From waterfall hikes to family beach days, options like the Cadillac XT6 or Mercedes-Benz GLE give you space and comfort with island-ready flair.
- Electric vehicles – Silent, efficient, and easy to charge at public stations near Hilo and Volcano, EVs like the Tesla Model Y or Kia EV6 are ideal for smooth, low-emission cruising. Try an electric luxury sedan if you're after that extra touch of quiet refinement.
- Pickup trucks – For surf missions, supply runs, or scenic overlooks with rough terrain, pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 are built for flexibility. A great option when you need more than a standard SUV.
- Minivans and passenger vans – Traveling with a big group? Vehicles like the Chrysler Pacifica or Ford Transit offer limo van–level room, perfect for multigenerational trips or group adventures.
- Sports cars and convertibles – Whether it’s a top-down cruise along the coast or just treating yourself to something bold, a Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro SS delivers the best deals on tropical fun — and tradewinds in your hair.
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 rentals in Hilo, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
Frequently asked questions
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?
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.
At which airports can I pick up my car on Turo?
Turo has agreements and pilot programs in place with a number of airports across the United States, and we’re always working hard to secure arrangements at even more airports to make your transition between air travel and car travel as smooth as possible, no matter what city.
Currently, Turo has agreements with some regional and international airports in at least 24 US states. The group of airports where Turo has airport pickup permits for guests may change, so refer to the link below for an up-to-date list.
List of airport locations* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. Liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.
For questions or information about the third party liability insurance that is included in protection plans, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site.
When a trip is booked in the state of Washington, physical damage to the host’s vehicle is covered by insurance purchased by Turo, but Turo’s insurance does not change the contractual responsibilities of hosts or guests with respect to physical damage to a host’s vehicle.