Oceania > 🇺🇸Hawaii
Should You Hire a Car in Hawaii ? This can be broken down into two similar questions - do you need a car in Hawaii (in other words, will your holiday be ruined without one), and is it worth hiring a car in Hawaii - i.e. is a car better value than using public transport? We'll weigh up both questions and give you a response generated by Chat GPT, together with our own curated opinion before finally giving a yes or no verdict at the end.
🌺 Car or No Car: Hawaii
Hawaii’s beauty lies in its diversity — from Oʻahu’s bustling beaches to the Big Island’s volcanoes and Maui’s lush valleys. But with that variety comes the big question: should you rent a car in Hawaii? For most travellers, the answer is a strong yes, although it depends on which island you’re visiting.
🚗 Driving in Hawaii
Each island has its own rhythm, but public transport is limited almost everywhere except Honolulu. On Oʻahu, you can get by without a car if you stay in Waikīkī, using TheBus or ride-shares for short trips. However, if you want to surf the North Shore, visit Pearl Harbor, or explore scenic drives like Hanauma Bay, renting a car is far more convenient.
On Maui, Kauaʻi, and the Big Island, a car is practically essential. Roads like the Road to Hāna or the drive to Haleakalā National Park are unforgettable, but you’ll need your own wheels to reach them. Parking is easy outside major resorts, and driving is on the right.
🚌 Alternatives to Driving
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Oʻahu: The island’s bus network (TheBus) covers most areas but can be slow.
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Maui & Kauaʻi: Limited shuttles operate between airports and resorts.
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Inter-island flights (Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest, Mokulele) are frequent, with quick hops between islands.
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Tours: Volcano, snorkelling, and scenic tours can replace a rental car if you prefer not to drive.
🌋 Travel Tips
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Book your rental well in advance, especially in high season — already high prices can double last-minute.
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Fuel stations are widespread, but on remote parts of the Big Island, plan ahead.
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Respect local driving etiquette — it’s relaxed, patient, and aloha-driven.
🏝️ Summary
So, should you rent a car in Hawaii? Absolutely, unless you plan to stay put in central Honolulu. A car gives you freedom to chase sunsets, hidden beaches, and fresh poke stalls far beyond resort areas.
Car or No Car Rating: 🚗🌴 Strong Yes – a car unlocks the islands.
