SUV rental at Kona International Airport (KOA)
Discover the Turo car rental marketplace
- Car rental
- SUV rental
- Kona 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 in Kona International Airport
Average daily prices for a 3-day trip
Subaru Crosstrek
2022
•5.0
(237)
Toyota 4Runner
2012
•4.99
(251)
Honda HR-V
2018
•4.96
(56)
GMC Terrain
2022
•4.95
(19)
Honda CR-V
2016
•5.0
(3)
Toyota 4Runner
2021
•4.97
(76)
Ford Escape
2019
•4.98
(51)
Subaru Crosstrek
2024
•4.97
(71)
Toyota 4Runner
2022
•5.0
(114)
SUV rental at Kona International Airport
Kona International Airport serves as your gateway to the Big Island's incredible volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and lush tropical terrain. This remarkable destination offers everything from black sand shores to snow-capped peaks, coffee plantations to ancient lava fields. An SUV provides the perfect combination of comfort and capability for navigating the island's diverse roads, from smooth coastal highways to winding mountain paths that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden gems throughout Kailua Kona and beyond.
Why choose Turo?
Enjoy a streamlined airport experience
100+ airports across the US and Canada let Turo hosts bring cars to airport parking lots and garages. Some smaller airports even allow curbside pickup at the terminal.*
Get personalized service from a local host
Turo hosts are everyday entrepreneurs who share cars in their communities.
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.
Recent reviews
We had an amazing experience renting Sean's Jeep. The vehicle was clean, reliable, and perfect for exploring everything the island has to offer. Sean was friendly, responsive, and made the entire rental process smooth and hassle-free. The Jeep handled all of our adventures with ease and made our trip even more memorable. We would absolutely rent from Sean again and highly recommend him to anyone visiting the Big Island. Mahalo, Sean!
The host was genuinely amazing, and very nice and communicative. Me and my sister had and great time and the car was perfect and the price was very reasonable too! I’d recommend this host if you’re looking for a car to rent! :)
Great jeep! We had so much fun - easy rental and process. Pick up location was convenient. Best way to see the island! We had grandparents and kids on this trip and everyone loved it!
Loved the vehicle! Clean, great gas mileage, beautiful sun roof! It got us safely to our destinations all over the island. Retrieving the car was a pretty seamless process. The price of the car was also cheaper than any of the local car rental companies, even Costco. I would definitely rent from them again:)
Kat and Dustin were amazing hosts and played a big part in making our Big Island trip so enjoyable. From the moment we booked, they were friendly, responsive, and made the entire process incredibly easy. The vehicle was spotless, comfortable, and exactly what we needed for exploring everything from Kona to the volcanoes and beaches around the island. What really stood out was how easy and stress-free they made the experience. Their communication was excellent, and it was obvious they genuinely care about their guests having a great trip. The car was dependable, fuel-efficient, and handled every adventure we threw at it without a problem. We couldn’t have asked for a better Turo experience. Thank you, Kat and Dustin, for helping make our Hawaiian vacation such a memorable one. We would gladly rent from you again and highly recommend you to anyone visiting the Big Island!
Bit of a mix-up at first, but the host was kind and understanding of our situation to where we were able to go through with the reservation, which allowed us a beneficial day.
Michael was a great host! The Tesla Model Y was clean, well-maintained, and exactly as described. The car made exploring the Big Island of Hawaii comfortable and enjoyable. We had a wonderful trip and created some great memories along the way. Communication was smooth, and the entire rental experience was hassle-free. Thank you, Michael, for helping make our vacation so enjoyable. Highly recommend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Was the best car and was super delighted to use it for my trip with my family
If you see this hosts car rent it. Well taken care of cars. Perfect for your trip to Kona
Easy pick up and drop off, did have check engine light on but was informed before trip that it was for regular maintenance. Had no issues great rental!
Absolutely the best car for this trip. Any terrain or road it handled it with ease, smooth ride and definitely would boom again when back
Tarek’s 4Runner was absolutely the perfect vehicle for exploring the Big Island. From the roads of Hilo to the beaches of Kona and everything in between, this thing handled it all effortlessly. The car was in great condition, clean, well-maintained, and exactly as described. You could tell Tarek takes great pride in keeping it in top shape. Tarek was incredibly responsive throughout the entire process, quick replies, smooth pickup and drop-off, and just an overall seamless experience. No stress, no hassle. It was hands down one of the best decisions we made for our trip. Highly recommend Tarek as a host!
Don was a gem, highly recommend this car and host for your stay in Hawaii. We drove it all around and spend <100 on gas. It’s fantastic on gas, reliable, and was plenty of room for our family of four. Don was a great communicator and made our trip better with his tips. Again- highly recommend!!! ❤️
Michael was an excellent host. First experience with an EV. Vacation is not the place to learn how to deal with the whole world of EV.
We had a 6hr layover on Kona and needed a car during that period of time. We had a family of 7 and easily fit into Peter’s vehicle with one of our kids being 6’2”. Great communication and fast response! Peter even went out of his way to help us locate my husband wallet that he left at the KOA airport. I couldn’t be more happy with this rental and so thankful for Peter and his kindness.
The car was a bit bumpy/shaky with some of the roads but gets the job done and was great to have on roads down to beaches and bays! We had the check engine light come on, but Michelle was very prompt in letting us know the situation, and it didn’t hinder our trip. We did find it hard to find a place for our phone with our limited reach of the media charger but not a big deal. Just limited room up front besides the cup holders. All-in-all had a great trip and Michelle and Grant’s vehicle was great for what we needed and had plenty of room in the trunk for our luggage and the kids to sit in the second row! Thanks again for the great communication and easy trip!
Great car to get your family around the Big Island. Very clean, smooth drive, Stephanie even included a first aid kit! Easy rental, Stephanie was very communicative. Highly recommend. Thank you!
Great rental for Hawaii. The 4Runner was clean, comfortable, and perfect for exploring the island. Plenty of room for passengers and luggage, and it handled everything from beach trips to mountain roads with ease. Would definitely rent it again.
Discover Big Island adventures from Kona International Airport
The Big Island beckons with an extraordinary range of attractions easily accessible by rental car from Kona airport. You'll find yourself exploring active volcanoes, world-famous coffee farms, and stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters. Historic Kailua Kona town offers cultural sites and waterfront dining, while the island's interior reveals cascading waterfalls and botanical gardens. An SUV enhances your island exploration with elevated seating for panoramic views, ample space for beach gear and hiking equipment, and the confidence to tackle varied terrain as you discover this tropical paradise.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park showcases nature's raw power
This UNESCO World Heritage site stands as one of the world's most active volcanic regions, featuring the legendary Kilauea crater and dramatic lava landscapes. You'll witness steam vents, sulfur banks, and ancient petroglyphs while driving through this geological wonderland. The park's Crater Rim Drive offers spectacular viewpoints, and your SUV provides the ground clearance and stability needed for the park's sometimes challenging roads. Multiple visitor centers provide educational exhibits about volcanic activity, while hiking trails lead to recent lava flows and scenic overlooks that showcase the island's ongoing creation.
Mauna Kea summit offers world-class stargazing opportunities
Rising over 13,000 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea represents one of Earth's premier astronomical observation sites. The journey to the summit takes you through multiple climate zones, from tropical coastline to alpine desert. Your rental car handles the winding mountain roads with ease, though the final stretch requires four-wheel drive capability. The visitor information station provides educational programs about Hawaiian culture and astronomy, while the summit itself hosts international observatories and offers unparalleled views of the night sky.
Akaka Falls State Park features magnificent tropical waterfalls
This lush state park showcases the Big Island's spectacular 442-foot Akaka Falls, surrounded by dense rainforest filled with bamboo groves, wild orchids, and native Hawaiian plants. The paved loop trail provides easy access to multiple viewpoints, while your SUV ensures comfortable transportation through the park's sometimes narrow access roads. You'll also discover the smaller but equally beautiful Kahuna Falls along the same trail. The park's elevated location offers cooler temperatures and frequent rainbow sightings, making it a refreshing escape from the coastal heat and a photographer's paradise.
Kona coffee farms reveal the secrets of world-renowned beans
The slopes above Kailua Kona produce some of the world's most prized coffee, and numerous family-owned farms welcome visitors for tours and tastings. You'll learn about the cultivation process from cherry to cup while enjoying panoramic views of the coastline below. Many farms offer educational experiences about sustainable farming practices and the unique volcanic soil that gives Kona coffee its distinctive flavor. The winding roads between plantations are perfect for leisurely exploration, and your rental car provides the flexibility to visit multiple farms at your own pace.
Punaluu Black Sand Beach creates an otherworldly coastal experience
This striking beach features jet-black sand created by volcanic activity, offering a dramatic contrast to the turquoise Pacific waters. Hawaiian green sea turtles frequently bask on the warm sand, while coconut palms provide natural shade for visitors. The beach's remote location requires a scenic drive through rural landscapes, and your SUV handles the coastal roads with confidence while providing excellent visibility for spotting wildlife. Nearby, you'll find a visitor center with information about marine conservation efforts and the geological processes that created this unique shoreline. The area also offers excellent opportunities for photography and peaceful contemplation.
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
Nearby SUV rental alternative locations Kona International Airport
Frequently asked questions in Kona International Airport
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.
What driving rules should I know before leaving the airport?
Hawaii follows standard US traffic laws with right-hand driving and speed limits typically ranging from 25-55 mph on Big Island roads. Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and be aware that many tourists unfamiliar with the area may drive slowly while sightseeing. When picking up your rental car from Kona International Airport, remember that Hawaii has strict laws against using handheld devices while driving.
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.
What documents and paperwork do I 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!
Where can I find gas stations near Kona International Airport?
Several gas stations are located along Queen Kaahumanu Highway between the airport and Kailua Kona, with additional options in downtown Kailua Kona itself. You'll find major brand stations offering both regular and premium fuel options for your rental car. Gas prices in Hawaii are typically higher than mainland US prices, so factor this into your Big Island travel budget.
Are there toll roads near Kona International Airport?
No toll roads exist anywhere on the Big Island, including the areas surrounding Kona International Airport. All highways and local roads around Kailua Kona and the broader Big Island are free to use. This makes exploring the island in your rental car particularly convenient, whether you're heading to volcanic national parks or scenic coastal drives.
Should I rent an SUV from Kona International Airport?
An SUV rental from Kona airport provides excellent versatility for Big Island exploration, offering higher ground clearance for volcanic terrain and ample space for beach gear or hiking equipment. The Big Island's diverse landscapes, from Kailua Kona's coastal areas to volcanic regions, are well-suited to SUV capabilities. Consider your planned activities and group size when selecting between an SUV, luxury sedan, or other vehicle options available at the airport.
How do I drive from Kona International Airport to downtown?
From Kona International Airport, head north on Queen Kaahumanu Highway (Highway 19) for about 7 miles to reach downtown Kailua Kona. The route is straightforward with clear signage directing you toward Kailua Kona and the Big Island's western coast. Your rental car will give you the freedom to explore beyond downtown, including the scenic coastal areas and volcanic landscapes that make this part of the Big Island so spectacular.
What are the best road trip routes from Kona International Airport?
The scenic Saddle Road (Highway 200) connects Kona to Hilo and offers stunning views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Highway 11 south from Kailua Kona leads to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of the Big Island's premier attractions. The northern route along Highway 19 takes you through historic towns and offers spectacular ocean vistas, making any of these routes perfect for your rental car adventure from Kona airport.
* Est. daily price. Search for up to date price information.