At Hawaii Aloha Travel, we typically recommend getting a rental car during your Hawaii vacation. But do you really need one? Today on the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast, we’re revealing how to vacation on the islands without a rental car. 

Our expert host, Aloha Bruce, assures us that a rental car isn’t essential for a great vacation, no matter what island you visit. Sure, it depends a lot on the vision you have for your vacation and what all you want to do. But Bruce works with all kinds of travelers who opt out of rental cars and have a unique, fulfilling vacation (without being tethered to their hotels!). 

Who May Not Need a Hawaii Rental Car

Throughout the podcast, Bruce highlights the kinds of visitors who may not need or want a rental car. Here are just a few of the travelers he mentions – do you match any of these descriptions? 

People visiting Oahu may not need a rental car, since alternative transportation is so easy to find. 

Elderly vacationers who aren’t comfortable driving a lot are better off without a rental car. 

Solo travelers may find it works out better to join group tours and find alternative transportation than to deal with having a rental car and driving around alone. 

3 Essentials for Vacationing in Hawaii Without a Car

1. Book Group Island Tours

You can still see a lot of each island, even if you don’t have a rental car. Booking a group island tour is the best option for exploring and sightseeing. 

Group sizes and routes vary – you can work with Bruce and his team to find tours that are right for you. You may join a larger group in a full-size motorcoach or opt for something more personalized in a tour van. 

Guided tours are a great way to experience Hawaii’s top sights. And, you don’t have to sightsee from behind the steering wheel. Your entire travel group will be free to chat, take pictures, and let your eyes linger on each amazing piece of scenery. 

2. Stay in a Central Location

If you don’t have a car, you’ll want to have a lot of dining and activity options within walking distance. 

Bruce shares an example of a couple vacationing in Maui. He helped them book a stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort in Kaanapali. This fantastic resort is close to other hotels, the Whalers Village shopping center, and small shops with essentials. 

Bruce also walks us through each island to recommend the top area to stay if you don’t have a rental car. And don’t worry, even though Kauai is the toughest island to enjoy without the car, Bruce says it’s totally doable as long as you have realistic expectations!

3. Budget for Hotel Costs

While forgoing a rental car will save you rental and parking fees, you do need to plan for extra costs.

Sure, you can stay within walking distance of shops and book guided tours, but you will still spend a lot of time at your hotel. This means you’ll pay inflated hotel prices for every meal, snack, and activity. 

So, if you’re looking to save money on your Hawaii vacation, skipping a rental car probably won’t be your best bet. 

To Rent, or Not to Rent? 

So, what do you think? Would you ever visit Hawaii without a rental car? 

It’s definitely possible to enjoy your Hawaii vacation without a car, especially if you work with local pros like Bruce, who understand exactly what you’ll need and want while you’re here. 

Bruce and his team are ready to create the perfect Hawaii vacation package for you, whether you envision endless days cruising around the island or a restful retreat at a hotel. We can’t wait to hear from you!