Share this page:

Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is main gateway for the state of Hawaii and is identified as one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving over 21 million passengers a year. It is located three miles northwest of the central business district of Honolulu, the state capital. The airport serves as the principal hub of Hawaiian Airlines, its largest carrier, followed by United and Japan Airlines, who along with several other major carriers, offer flights between the various airports of the Hawaiian Islands, throughout the continental United States, Australia, Samoa, Tahiti and the Philippines. A Honolulu International Airport car rental is a great way to explore the city, whose name means “sheltered bay” in the Hawaiian language, and the rest of the unique island of Oahu. Look for great deals on Honolulu International Airport car rentals and save time and money to explore popular destinations like Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Kaneohe Bay, Kailua Bay, and the North Shore. Honolulu International Airport car rentals are offered via complementary shuttle by Enterprise, Thrifty, Alamo, Dollar, Budget, National, Hertz, and Avis. Try Enterprise for the lowest rates, followed by Thrifty and Dollar. Many agencies offer additional locations downtown, usually with better rates than those at the airport, including Dollar, Hertz, Alamo, National, Enterprise, Thrifty, and Budget. Try Enterprise for the best deals, followed by Thrifty and Alamo. You must present a valid driver's license and credit card issued in your name at most Honolulu International Airport rent a car agencies (although some will take a cash deposit depending on a credit check), along with proof of insurance if you decline the vendor's coverage options. The minimum age to drive in Hawaii is 15 years, but most car rental agencies require drivers to be at least 25. Expect to pay about 25% more for gas than the average mainland US prices. Although most main highways are fairly easy to navigate and well maintained, many rental car companies have restricted areas. Plan your route and check with the agency first, to keep from voiding insurance coverage if your rental car breaks down or gets stuck. All roads and street are well marked, and many feature red-capped warrior signs provided by the Hawaii Visitors Bureau that mark major visitor attractions and scenic spots. Always check the weather before driving long distances as sudden rainstorms can arise without warning. Follow Hawaii’s strict seatbelt laws and carry a cell-phone and emergency items with you in case of a breakdown or accident on a remote part of the island. Jaywalking is common on the island, so watch out for pedestrians, especially in congested areas.