Car rental Kona, HI
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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 Kona, HI
Rent a car in Kona on Turo
Planning to explore Kona? Car rental in Kona on Turo ensures you can experience dramatic coastlines, charming villages, and the unique volcanic terrain of Hawaii Island at your own pace. With iconic destinations like Mauna Kea and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau spread across the island, having a rental car lets you uncover the Big Island’s beauty and history without limitations.
A rental car in Kona isn’t just practical — it’s your gateway to adventure. Drive along the picturesque Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway, visit hidden beaches with crystal-clear waters, or journey to Hilo for lush waterfalls and verdant gardens. Whether you need a rugged 4x4 for exploring off-road trails or a convertible to embrace the tropical breeze, renting a car in Kona gives you the flexibility to craft your ideal Hawaiian Islands experience.
Kona car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car in Kona is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across Kona, 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 Kona, 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 Kona, HI! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.
Recent reviews
Car was a 2013 Toyota so I was not expecting a new vehicle and it met my needs.
Smooth riding car, runs well, showing it's age, but for the price you can't beat it!
Rental car was perfect for our two week vacation and thien was extremely helpful and kind.
The car was in impeccable condition, both inside and out, making the drive smooth and enjoyable.
Rent a car and explore Kona, HI
Things to do and places to see in Kona, HI
Looking for the best things to see and do in Kona? Cruise the coast, dive into local Hawaiian culture, and embrace nature in Kona.
Rent the perfect carPuʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Drive along the picturesque coastline to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, a historic sanctuary steeped in Hawaiian tradition. This sacred site once offered refuge to those seeking forgiveness under ancient Hawaiian law. Today, it features restored temples, lava rock walls, and tranquil fishponds that tell the story of Hawaii’s past.
Kailua Pier
Kailua Pier is the gateway to Kona’s lively downtown and the sparkling waters of the Pacific. It's the perfect spot to embark on a snorkeling adventure, join a manta ray night dive, or simply just watch colorful boats as they come and go. Stroll along the pier to soak in the island's rich history or grab a bit from nearby local eateries.
Mauna Kea Summit
Take your rental car up to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station and prepare for a journey to one of Hawaii’s most awe-inspiring destinations. The summit offers jaw-dropping views during the day and unparalleled stargazing at night. With its high elevation and crystal-clear skies, the summit is a magical place to connect with the universe. Be sure your vehicle is equipped for the altitude and cooler temperatures as you ascend to this unforgettable destination.
Why rent a car on Turo?
Cheap Kona, HI car rental
Find deals on all kinds of drives in Kona, HI and throughout the US - from the everyday to the extraordinary. Rent the perfect vehicle for your budget.
Convenient Kona, 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 Kona, 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.
Top hosts in Kona, HI
Thien B.
Nabil M.
Kona car rentals for any occasion
Holiday car rental
Visiting sunny Kona from abroad or another island? Explore the Big Island’s stunning coastlines, coffee farms, and natural wonders at your own pace.
Long-term car rental
Enjoy great car rental deals for extended stays in Kona. Many local hosts can offer discounts for bookings of one month or more on Turo, giving you access to a selection of cheap car rentals.
Wedding car rental
Make your special day unforgettable with a stunning ride. Choose from a selection of classic, vintage, or luxury cars on Turo to complement your island wedding.
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
Rental car pickup locations throughout Kona
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going in Kona, HI, including Kona, HI airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular Kona, HI pickup locations include:
Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA)
Arriving in Kona and need to organise a Kona airport car rental? You can secure a Turo vehicle for pickup near Kona Intl Airport. Skip the lines at the airport car rental counter — your Turo host can deliver your rental car to a convenient location nearby and have it ready for you to collect as soon as you land.
Downtown Kona
Arrange delivery of your car rental in the busy heart of Downtown Kona. It's a great starting point for your journey to the rest of the island. Choose from locations close to the charming shops at Sunset Shopping Plaza, local art galleries like the Geoperks Gallery, restaurants such as Da Poke Shack and more.
Kailua-Kona Town Center
Prefer to pick up your rental car in the heart of Kona? Kailua-Kona offers convenient options for travelers staying in or near the town center. Whether you’re visiting shops at the Kona Inn Shopping Village, enjoying a coffee at a local café like Kona Heaven Coffee, or checking in at your accommodation, you can arrange to collect your rental car from nearby.
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 Kona, HI
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Top tips for renting a car in Kona
Ready to hit the roads of Kona like a local? With these top car rental tips in mind, you'll be in for a smooth, stress-free driving experience.
What are the road rules and driving conditions in Kona?
Driving in Kona is straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Speed limits are generally lower than on the US mainland, with most roads capped at a speed limit of 25-45 mph in towns and 55 mph on highways. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in busier areas like downtown Kailua-Kona.
Many of Hawaii’s rural roads can be narrow and winding, especially when exploring areas like Waipio Valley or Mauna Kea. If you’re planning to visit remote locations or venture off the beaten path, consider renting a 4x4 vehicle, as some spots require one by law.
Always keep an eye out for wildlife crossing the road, especially at dusk and dawn. An international driver's permit is not mandatory but can be beneficial, especially if your license is not in English, as it provides a standardized translation.
Where can I park in Kona?
Parking in Kona is generally easy to find, though it can be limited in high-traffic areas like downtown Kailua-Kona and popular beaches. Many hotels and resorts offer complimentary or low-cost parking for guests. If you’re downtown, public parking lots are available along roads like Kuakini Highway, and metered street parking is common.
When heading to beaches or parks, parking lots can fill up quickly, especially during weekends or peak tourist seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot, or explore lesser-known beaches like Mau’umae Beach for more availability.
Are there toll roads in Kona?
There are no toll roads in Kona or anywhere on the Big Island, so you won’t need to worry about additional fees while driving. However, be sure to double-check for potential parking or entrance fees at any airport locations or specific attractions or parks, as these can vary.
Where are there gas stations and EV chargers in Kona?
Gas stations are plentiful in and around the Kona area, particularly along major highways like Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway, and Kuakini Highway in town. If you’re planning long drives across the Big Island, make sure to fuel up before venturing into more remote areas, as stations can be sparse.
For electric vehicles, EV chargers are increasingly available, with several located in Kailua-Kona and at major tourist spots like Keauhou Shopping Center and hotel resorts. Check charging apps or maps to plan your stops and ensure your EV is ready for your adventures.
Do I need to rent a car in Kona?
Renting a car in Kona is essential for exploring the Big Island’s diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks, many of which are inaccessible by public transport. While there are shuttle buses offering routes across the island, their limited schedules and lack of access to remote areas make a personal vehicle the best option.
Destinations like Mauna Kea and Waipio Valley are challenging to reach without a car, and Kona’s well-maintained roads and scenic drives make the journey as enjoyable as the destinations. Whether you need a rugged 4x4 for off-road adventures or a comfortable SUV for family trips, having a Kailua Kona car rental ensures the freedom, flexibility, and convenience to fully explore everything the island has to offer.
Frequently asked questions about Kona car rentals
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
Is 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?
Is 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?
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 Kona?
How much does it cost to rent a car in Kona?
The cost of car rentals in Kailua Kona can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rental in Kailua Kona locations, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
What types of cars can I rent on Turo in Kona?
What types of cars can I rent on Turo in Kona?
Browse a wide range of rental cars in Kona for every occasion and budget on Turo and find the perfect car to explore the Big Island.
- Luxury SUVs and sedans: Travel in style and comfort with premium vehicles like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, or Audi Q7, perfect for cruising the island's scenic roads.
- Convertibles: With Kailua-Kona's famously dry, sunny climate, models like the Ford Mustang Convertible or a sporty Mini Cooper Convertible can provide the ultimate open-air experience.
- Sports cars: Feel the excitement of the open road with a high-performance sports car on Turo. Models like the Chevrolet Corvette or Porsche 718 Cayman offer thrilling drives with Kona’s breathtaking scenery as your backdrop.
- 4x4s and trucks: For outdoor enthusiasts, Turo's hosts have a selection of rugged 4x4s and trucks like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota Tacoma, perfect for tackling Kona’s more remote and rugged spots, such as Waipio Valley.
- Electric vehicles: Explore Kona sustainably with an electric vehicle rental from Turo, such as the Tesla Model 3.
- Family-friendly SUVs and vans: Planning a family trip or group outing? Turo’s hosts offer spacious SUVs like the Toyota Highlander or Kia Carnival, perfect for keeping everyone comfortable.
* 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.