Getting Around the Big Island (1 of 4)
BIG ISLAND RENTAL CARS
Unlike Oahu, the Big Island does not offer a public transportation system like "The Bus." Renting a car is the best way to get around the island. The airport will have ways to contact the various car rental companies. An even better and cheaper solution is to reserve your car ahead of time, well before setting foot on the Big Island.
Car Rental Costs
The rental companies often (quietly) offer discounts for certain cardholders like AAA or American Express Blue members. Make sure to ask for the discount — ou will more than likely not be offered one voluntarily. Expect to pay comparatively high prices for fuel at the pump (20% higher than mainland prices). There is a $2 per day road tax on all rental cars in the state of Hawaii. Here is the contact information for the most car rental companies:
Alamo: (800) 327-9633
Avis: (800) 331-1212
Budget: (800) 527-0700
Dollar: (800) 800-4000
Enterprise: (800) 736-8222
Hertz: (800) 654-3131
National: (800) 227-7368
Thrifty: (800) 367-2277
The minimum age to rent a car is 25. You must also have a valid driver’s license and a major credit card.
