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Car rental in Keaau, HI

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Rental cars in Keaau, HI

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Keaau, EN

Car rental options in Keaau for Hawaii adventures

Nestled on the eastern side of Hawaii's Big Island, Keaau offers a gateway to tropical paradise. This charming town serves as an ideal base for exploring lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and the nearby Volcanoes National Park. Booking a rental car in Keaau provides the freedom to discover hidden gems, from cascading waterfalls to secluded coves, allowing you to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty at your own pace. With a vehicle at your disposal, you'll have the flexibility to venture beyond the typical tourist spots and truly experience the aloha spirit of Hawaii.

Recent reviews

Kia K5 2021

The host, the car, and the whole Turo experience was 10/10. The price was fantastic and the whole experience was seamless. We had weird hours we wanted to leave and return the car that would not have worked with a car rental agency, but Angel and Turo made the whole process easy and seamless. I’m a bigger guy so I was worried about how comfortable the car would be and it was perfect. The great ride made our whole vacation possible and comfortable. I really appreciated the vehicles safety features too!

Daniel Alexander
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Nissan Altima 2025

The Nissan Altima was great. Good mpg, clean, lots of power, great response time. The car needed to be picked up at an off site location called, economy car rental at 2367 India street. A proximity 2 1/2 miles from the airport. You will need to find a ride to their location. The price of taxi will be $30, however we took the free shuttle to the car rental center then walked 20 minutes the rest of the way. The team at this location did a great job, fast, friendly, polite, and after returning they able to offer a ride back to the airport. We would rent this Altima again, and I would recommend this vehicle.

Cori
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Megan
Nissan LEAF 2016

Easy pick up and drop off. Car was very clean inside. A/C blows super cold even when it's 100 degrees out!! The windows are not tinted so I suggest bringing your own sun shades if you are going to be parked anywhere but the shade in the summer. Luckily I had those and that made my trip much better. The flip down visors do have the extenders to help block sun while driving thankfully. Charging prices are comparable to current gas prices - about $45 to get 250 miles of charge over a few sessions which is the same as I get from a full tank in my Toyota Yaris. This car DOES have the CHAdeMO fast charge input so it's 30-50 seconds per mile to charge depending on the fast charger & whether you're running the car (AC/radio) or it's fully off. Radio speakers were a little blown out so I had to adjust some settings to listen to my audiobooks but it was easy to do. I had no problem driving from the pickup spot to Kyle, then to the airport, and back into town without needing a charge which was about 90 miles, mostly highway. Just like any Turo rental make sure to take your own photos at pickup and drop off since scratches and such aren't usually documented after every drive by the car owners which seems standard in my experience. Overall a great deal, best price in town especially for a last minute rental. I requested the rental at 9pm on a Tuesday after my personal car died and was able to get this the next morning with no issue. Will definitely keep them in mind when I need a rental near by. Thanks again!

Megan
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Cary F.
Honda Civic 2012

First, I contemplated leaving a 4 star review for a few reasons. However, the prompt response to the issue with the original vehicle reserved, partly due to luck that someone happened to be onsite with the car, and the flexibility with returning the vehicle without requiring washing and vacuuming is deserving of some grace. The price for 5 day/4 night rental was fantastic, around $150 total. I certainly didn't expect a car in pristine shape for the cost. This car is a part of a Turo "rental company" fleet. It seems like a company that buys cheap, used cars to rent out. There are 12-15 cars parked behind a strip mall 8-10ish minutes from the airport in an area I was glad we were picking up and dropping off midday rather than the evening. The hybrid we originally reserved had stained seats and a lot of cosmetic wear. One tire looked like it was on a spare wheel and didn't have a lot of life left, honestly. A lot of the roads in San Diego aren't exactly in great shape, I was concerned about getting a flat. When we turned the car on to leave we immediately got check engine lights and a "pull over immediately" message. Fortunately, someone with the "rental company" was on site and qas able to quickly switched cars for us. It wasn't a hybrid, though. We didn't plan on a lot of driving, but originally opted for a hybrid to save money since we had two days of freeway driving. We definitely spent more on gas then originally planned. If there wasn't someone available onsite to help, it could have been a much longer ordeal which is a terrible way to start a vacation. Communication day of pick up felt slow with the owner. I didn't think to look back to the 2 month old message about how to find the car. I received a message from Turo saying we'd be sent details the day before the trip. I never got that confirmation text or measage the day before or day of pick up from the actual rental owner. When I first reached out to the rental company through the turo app to find the car at pick up time, I didn't get a response. I finally found a way to text someone about 20 minutes later. We did get a pretty quick response that way, but it's frustrating to be in a random parking lot messaging through an app and not get a response. The Honda interior is definitely cleaner than the hybrid we reserved, but the exterior, not so much. Its been side swiped and has a lot of sun damage. The TPMS light was on the whole time, but the actual tire pressure was fine. There was also a rattle and grinding noise when accelerating from a stop or on a hill, but it didn't cause an issue. The car drives fine for a 14-15 year old car, it's just a little noisy and you feel all the bumps on the road. I understand with the cheaper cost of renting through Turo amd choosing a 12-15 year old car, I'm not getting a newer car like I would with a standard rental company or paying more for a newer car. That said, with my last few Turo rentals, it feels a lot of these Turo "rental companies" aren't checking their cars or doing much more than standard maintenance as frequently as they should when they have over 150,000 miles on them. The confirmation message also suggested the cars are kept in great shape. These cars were not in great shape by any stretch of the imagination. No one wants to be on vacation and have their car break down or even be worried that the car they're driving is gonna get a flat or break down.

Cary F.
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Mireille
Mitsubishi Mirage G4 2023

I love the rental cars from Mohammed. He and his staff is friendly and helpful. The cars are small and good at gas. I would suggest anyone to rent a car with Mohammed.

Mireille
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Eliasmanuel
Subaru Impreza 2014

I had an excellent experience renting from this host and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable and smooth car rental experience. The vehicle was extremely clean, well-maintained, and exactly as described in the listing. Communication was outstanding from start to finish. The host was friendly, professional, responsive, and made both pickup and drop-off incredibly easy and convenient. The car drove perfectly and made my trip stress-free and enjoyable. It’s clear the host takes great care of both their vehicles and their customers. I truly appreciated the attention to detail and overall professionalism throughout the rental process. I would absolutely rent from this host again in the future and highly recommend them to others looking for a top-quality rental experience.

Eliasmanuel
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Ella
Mitsubishi Mirage 2023

Easy pickup and drop off, saved us when the car rental companies ran out of cars at the airport.

Ella
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Jennifer M.
Subaru Outback 2013

Andre was great, the car was somewhat still dirty, dust, dirt, what appeared to be cigarette ashes, animal hair, sticky spills around the cup holders in the center console and the door panels. Crumbs and dust/dirt left in the door handles and cubby's. In the center console cup holders and cubbys. On the top of the dashboard, around the steering column and gauges. Sticky dusty windows and stereo buttons. Rear view mirror had sticky smudges on it. All the windows inside were dusty and dirty with smudges and idk what really.. the car had a bad smell of animals like dogs, and faint cigarette smell.. however as I got further into my trip I got used to it and wasn't bothered by it anymore. A lot of these issues honestly didn't bother me very much. I was more worried of being blamed for them when I returned the car. Unfortunately I was put behind schedule due to a passenger side headlight and passenger side tail light being burned out. However upon informing andre, he was very quick with a solution to take the car to valvoline where they were able to repair the lights before I left for my trip. If I wasn't already running late It wouldn't of bothered me. Andre was also very quick to reimburse me the whole price of the repairs immediately upon me sending him the receipt of the work.. I very much appreciated that! I also appreciate that instead of canceling my trip Andre worked out a way to have the lights fixed with no trouble of my own. He was always quick to respond to all of my very long messages full of questions. This is my first time using turo and I did not know the ins and outs of the rental process. He was able to guide me threw every step all while being polite and keeping his patience with me! Hah. I ended up running behind schedule on my way back as well and was surprised how simple and easy it was to change the return time from noon to after 9 p.m. all without adding any fees to my bill! That was very helpful of andre to allow me to do. I also ended up being a little passed my return time due to vacuuming the car and dusting everything to my best ability. So that andre wouldn't have to deal with someone else's mess and the next person who rents the vehicle will not have to worry about it either. I had no issues with doing that for him after he was so helpful with me! The vehicle was a little different then what im used to. But in no time I settled in with the car and had a very enjoyable trip! I would forsure rent another vehicle from andre in the future due to how well he accommodated me on this trip. Even tho the car had the mess, that was not andre, But left over from previous renters. He even made sure to have a snow brush and ice scraper in the car for me. But unfortunately the previous renters also took that with them. Im sure there will be a new one for the next person who rents the car because thats how much andre cares about his customers !! 5 stars for andre !!! Whoever returned his vehicle like that should be ashamed and think about how it would feel if someone treated your things the same way! Once again THANK YOU andre! I will reach out to you next time I need to rent a car.. I appreciate all your help thru the process! I appreciate your professionalism and quick responses to all my questions and thank you for making sure the vehicle was 100% good to go for me before I left and wouldn't of been able to fix it. 5 of 5 stars for andre !!

Jennifer M.
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Azeema
Toyota Yaris 2012

My credit card wasn’t working for some odd reason and rental companies wouldn’t let me rent a car so I booked this Turo last minute and it was a reasonable price for five days. I will do it again when I come back to Vancouver in August.

Azeema
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Chevrolet Cruze Limited 2016

Excellent 1st experience using Turo. The host was very responsive and timely. The vehicle was in great condition and rode very well. The price was a good deal and would definitely use this again as opposed to a major car rental facility. It was a simple process overall and very straightforward.

Jaretta
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Toyota Camry 2018

Kiara had great communication throughout the rental process , the car was amazing , clean and comfortable. Rental was a great price as well. I'll be happy to rent from Kiara again in the future.

Timothy
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Trieu-Chung
Honda Civic 2025

The host, Tadeh was exceptional. The very best in customer service. I had the best experience with renting from Tadeh. Everything was so easy; Tadeh was super accommodating, very kind, he went way above and beyond what I reasonably expected. Tadeh is a thousand times better than AVIS, HERTZ, Enterprise, Thrifty, Budget, Dollar, and all the major car rental. Tadeh gave me the best deal; the major car rentals do not come close; I saved a lot of money. The car was great, very good on the gas mileage; and very clean. Tadeh made sure pick-up location was very convenient for me, Tadeh drove the car to where I was; it’s the best. Tadeh also picked up the car when I was done and again made sure it was convenient for me. I am very grateful for this. Once I return from my deployment, absolutely renting from Tadeh again; will be telling all my friends and colleagues. This is just amazing customer service. I am very appreciative for everything. THANK YOU

Trieu-Chung
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Jose
Ford Fusion 2016

Good Morning 🌞 Yall! This Car was Amazing! I was able to go see my older Son's College Graduation during the week. The Car rental process was amazing and an easy process. I would definitely rent this Car again!!

Jose
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Muhammad
MG MG3 AUTO 2024

Carma definitely restored my faith in Tullamarine car rental companies. Hannah was super friendly. Pick and drop off was a breeze. Car got 700kms on one tank. No complaints at all. Thanks team!

Muhammad
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Toyota Corolla Hybrid 2026

“10/10 experience. I rented the car for a week and the total came out to around $400, which was an amazing price for a brand new 2026 vehicle. The entire process was incredibly easy from start to finish. Pickup and drop-off were smooth and convenient, and I loved that I didn’t have to physically meet or talk to anyone. The key was waiting in a lockbox by the window, which honestly made the experience even better for me. The car itself was spotless, smelled clean, and drove perfectly. It was also amazing on gas — I drove all the way through Saturday and the tank was only halfway. The host responded quickly to messages and was super helpful the entire time. Overall, this was one of the easiest and best rental experiences I’ve had. I would absolutely rent from them again and honestly would choose this over Enterprise or Hertz any day

julissa
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Chevrolet Volt 2014

A great car and definitely attentive host. I really appreciate that- Leon was great. So glad I went this route to rent a car vs going to a commercial car rental place. So much more personable. Would definitely recommend working with Leon!

Tracie
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Stuart
Honda Insight 2020

Fandi and our cohost provided excellent communication throughout the process. Our car, 2020 Honda Insight was clean and in good working order. Performance was good around the hills and mountains in the greater San Francisco area. The drop off at the San Jose airport was excellent. Why go to the “normal” car rental companies!

Stuart
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Unforgettable experiences await in and around Keaau

Keaau's strategic location on the Big Island opens up a world of possibilities for adventurers and nature lovers alike. From exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, having a rental car allows you to make the most of your Hawaiian getaway. Discover the vibrant Hilo Farmers Market, hike through lush tropical forests, or take a scenic drive along the stunning Hamakua Coast. With your own wheels, you can easily access these diverse attractions and create a personalized island experience.


Hawaii Volcanoes National Park captivates visitors

A must-visit destination near Keaau is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to two of the world's most active volcanoes. Drive through ever-changing landscapes, from lush rainforests to barren lava fields, and witness the raw power of nature. Park at the Kilauea Visitor Center to start your adventure, then take the Crater Rim Drive for breathtaking views. Don't miss the Thurston Lava Tube, an easily accessible underground marvel. Having a rental car allows you to explore the park's vast expanse at your own pace, ensuring you don't miss any of its geological wonders.


Akaka Falls State Park showcases natural beauty

Just a short drive north of Keaau lies the stunning Akaka Falls State Park, featuring one of Hawaii's most impressive waterfalls. The park offers a paved loop trail that leads you through lush tropical vegetation to two cascading waterfalls, including the 442-foot Akaka Falls. With ample parking available, your rental car provides convenient access to this natural wonder. Take your time exploring the trail, breathing in the fresh rainforest air, and capturing photos of the magnificent falls. The drive to the park itself is a scenic journey through the island's lush countryside.


Kapoho Tide Pools offer unique snorkeling opportunities

For a truly unique experience, drive your rental car to the Kapoho Tide Pools, located southeast of Keaau. These naturally heated, spring-fed tide pools offer some of the best snorkeling on the island. The crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of colorful fish and marine life. Park near the coast and take a short walk to the pools. Remember to bring water shoes, as the volcanic rock can be sharp. Having your own vehicle allows you to visit during less crowded times and stay as long as you like, making for a memorable day of exploration and relaxation.


Reaching Keaau from major travel hubs

Getting to Keaau is convenient with several options:
- By plane: Fly into Hilo International Airport, the closest major airport to Keaau.
- By car: From Hilo, take Highway 11 south towards Keaau.
- By bus: Public transportation is available from Hilo to Keaau, but a rental car offers more flexibility.


Essential tips for renting a car in Keaau

When booking a rental car in Keaau, consider these helpful tips:
1. Book early on Turo to secure the best selection and rates.
2. Choose a vehicle suitable for island driving, such as an SUV for exploring rough terrain or a convertible for scenic coastal drives.
3. Look for extras like GPS navigation or a backup camera to make your island adventures easier.
4. Consider a 4-wheel drive vehicle if you plan to visit more remote areas or during the rainy season.
5. Check for vehicles with bike racks or roof racks if you plan on bringing or renting outdoor equipment.
Remember, selecting the right rental car can enhance your Big Island experience, allowing you to discover all that Keaau and its surroundings have to offer.

Frequently asked questions in Keaau, HI

What are some popular pickup locations for rental cars in Keaau, and how do they compare in terms of convenience?

Keaau, located on Hawaii's Big Island, offers several convenient pickup locations for rental cars booked through Turo. Many hosts on Turo provide flexible options, including local meetups in Keaau's town center or nearby areas. Some hosts may offer delivery to your accommodation, making it easy to start your Hawaiian adventure. The Hilo International Airport, situated about 15 miles north of Keaau, is another popular pickup point for rental cars. Guests can often find a wide selection of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs, perfect for exploring the Big Island's diverse landscapes. When comparing convenience, consider factors such as proximity to your arrival point, the host's delivery options, and the type of vehicle you need for your Hawaii trip. Always communicate with your host on Turo to arrange the most suitable pickup location for your rental car in Keaau.

What are some pleasant driving routes near Keaau for enjoying the scenic beauty of Hawaii's Big Island?

Keaau offers access to stunning driving routes that showcase the Big Island's diverse landscapes. The Hamakua Coast drive north of Keaau presents lush tropical scenery, winding along cliffs with ocean views. For a volcanic adventure, head south to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness the raw power of nature. The Puna coastline, easily accessible from Keaau, offers a unique drive through black sand beaches and lava-shaped terrain. These routes allow you to experience the island's beauty at your own pace, making a car rental invaluable for your Hawaii exploration.

How can visitors prepare for driving in heavy rain conditions, which are common in Keaau's tropical climate?

Preparing for Keaau's frequent heavy rains is crucial when renting a car on the Big Island. Ensure your vehicle has good tread on its tires for better traction on wet roads. Familiarize yourself with the car's windshield wipers and defrosting system before setting out. Drive slower than usual and increase your following distance to allow for longer stopping times. Be cautious of potential hydroplaning on pooled water. It's wise to plan your routes in advance, avoiding low-lying areas prone to flooding. Keeping a towel in the car can be handy for wiping foggy windows. Remember, safety comes first when driving in Hawaii's tropical climate.

Where can guests find reliable gas stations in and around Keaau for refueling their rental cars?

Keaau and its surrounding areas offer several reliable options for refueling your rental car. In Keaau itself, you'll find gas stations along the main highway, ensuring convenient access for travelers. The nearby town of Hilo, a short drive from Keaau, provides additional fueling options, including some that are open 24/7 for added convenience. When venturing out to explore the Big Island, it's advisable to keep your tank at least half full, as gas stations can be sparse in more remote areas. Planning your refueling stops in advance can help ensure a smooth driving experience during your Hawaii adventure.

What types of vehicles are recommended for exploring the diverse terrain around Keaau and the Big Island?

For exploring Keaau and the Big Island's varied terrain, versatile vehicles are ideal. An SUV offers the perfect balance of comfort and capability, handling both paved roads and rougher terrain with ease. If you're planning extensive off-road adventures, a 4x4 might be your best bet, especially for accessing remote beaches or volcanic landscapes. For couples or solo travelers sticking to main roads, a compact car can be sufficient and more fuel-efficient. Regardless of your choice, ensure your rental has good ground clearance to navigate occasional uneven surfaces. The right vehicle will enhance your Big Island experience, allowing you to discover hidden gems around Keaau and beyond.

Are there any notable rest stops or scenic areas near Keaau for taking breaks during long drives?

Near Keaau, you'll find several picturesque spots perfect for breaking up long drives. The Liliuokalani Gardens in nearby Hilo offers a serene Japanese-style park ideal for stretching your legs. South of Keaau, the Mackenzie State Recreation Area provides stunning coastal views and a chance to witness the power of the ocean. For a unique stop, consider the Lava Tree State Monument, showcasing fascinating lava molds of tree trunks. These locations not only serve as rest stops but also as attractions in their own right, adding value to your Big Island car rental experience and allowing you to immerse yourself in Hawaii's natural beauty.

What are some key differences between driving in Keaau's rural areas versus more populated parts of Hawaii?

Driving in Keaau's rural areas differs significantly from more populated parts of Hawaii. In Keaau, you'll encounter fewer traffic lights and more single-lane roads, requiring extra caution when passing or yielding to oncoming traffic. The rural landscape means you might come across livestock or wildlife on the road, so stay alert. In contrast, urban areas like Hilo or Kona have more complex road systems with multiple lanes and frequent intersections. Rural driving often means limited street lighting, so extra care is needed at night. However, the benefit of driving in Keaau's rural areas is the opportunity to enjoy scenic routes and a more relaxed pace, truly experiencing the Big Island's natural beauty.

How can guests plan an efficient road trip from Keaau to other parts of the Big Island?

Planning an efficient road trip from Keaau to explore the Big Island starts with prioritizing your must-see destinations. Create a logical route that minimizes backtracking, perhaps starting with nearby attractions like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park before heading to the Kona coast. Consider the driving times between locations and plan for rest stops at scenic points. It's wise to book accommodations in advance if you're planning overnight stays in different areas. Don't forget to factor in time for unexpected discoveries – the Big Island is full of hidden gems. A well-planned itinerary, combined with the flexibility of your rental car, will allow you to make the most of your Hawaii adventure, ensuring you don't miss out on the island's diverse landscapes and attractions.

What are some essential tips for long-distance driving when exploring the Big Island from Keaau?

When embarking on long-distance drives from Keaau to explore the Big Island, preparation is key. Start your day early to maximize daylight hours and avoid nighttime driving on unfamiliar roads. Keep a physical map as a backup to GPS, as signal can be spotty in remote areas. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as some stretches between towns can be quite long. Take regular breaks to stay alert and enjoy the scenery – the journey is part of the Hawaiian experience. Be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially when driving to different elevations. Lastly, keep your rental car's fuel tank topped up whenever possible, as gas stations can be sparse in rural areas of the Big Island.

Is it possible to pick up a rental car in Keaau and return it in another location?

Some hosts offer one-way trips as an Extra. When you search on Turo, you can filter for one-way trips to see what’s available in your area.

Is it possible to return a rental car on a Sunday in Keaau?

Yes, you can return a car on Sunday, and many hosts may offer convenient after-hours return options. Be sure to communicate with your host to verify the specific return procedures.

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