What You Need to Know About
Car Rental in Maui
If you are looking for a car rental in Maui, it is an easy task to accomplish: all major rental car companies can be found at Kahului Airport, Maui’s main airport. More car rental locations are in resort areas.
Why Renting a Car in Maui?
... because Maui is not the usual vacation destination: off the plane, on the beach, all inclusive. Not at all! Maui is a place asking to be explored and discovered.
Even though Maui is offering a variety of transportation options, such as shuttles, taxis, and buses - I recommend renting a car. In my opinion, renting a car in Maui is your best transportation option. The island is not too big, but large enough to justify the need for a car.
Driving your own rented vehicle is a great way to explore. It will save you time and allow you to be flexible with your discovery schedule. It is simply an efficient way, helping you to get the most out of your investment: your Maui trip. Not to say that your trip will be more comfortable too: your car can carry a cooler, extra clothes, your shopping bags:)
Choose to stay worry free by planning ahead: reserve your car online. I can suggest three companies that usually offer great deals in Maui: Almo, Budget or Avis. It is free, and you can cancel your reservation without problems, anytime. If you are familiar with car rental in US, expect the same rules for car rental in Maui.
What Size of Car Rental in Maui is Recommended?
Depending on your family needs, you can select the type of the car that is most suitable for you. Just remember one thing: don’t go for a large car unless you really need it. This is not only from the money point of view, or for the environment. The Maui parking spots are really narrow and busy. Many roads (think ‘Road to Hana’) have single lane areas or are just plain narrow. If you will stay at a hotel, you will find a parking spot for sure, but the problem is to get out of the car ;) Planning to explore more roads upcountry Maui? Then a jeep/ 4 wheels drive is a better choice. Some roads can be really rough.
Car Rental in Maui - Legal Requirements
To drive a rental car in Maui you need a valid driver’s license (US or Canada). Purchase insurance if yours is not valid in Hawaii. An additional small daily fee applies if there is a second driver. When you pick up your (reserved) car, you just need to show your license, sign the papers and the car is yours!
On The Road
- Seat belts are mandatory (it is a fine if you don’t buckle up)
- Pedestrians have the right of the way, even if is not a crosswalk
- A 4-wheel drive is also very handy to get to remote locations, where you can view remote lava flows
- Don’t honk! In Maui, honking is considered very rude
- Plan to avoid rush hour (yes, it is rush hour in Maui, when locals are going to, or returning from walk. A long line-up is especially on the way to Lahaina, around 5:00 PM
- If you plan to go to Hana, tank gas before you pass Mama’s Fish House
- Always lock your car doors and keep valuables out of sight (Maui is a very safe place, but better prevent, than feel sorry…
- Be very careful: some roads (Napili, Hana) can be very narrow and difficult for new drivers. If you are one, better avoid risky situations (see below)
Be Aware!
If you are driving past Napili, Kapalua & Nakalele Point - the famous Blowhole , the road is changing… BE AWARE: you reached Maui’s rugged North Shore. I have a map of Maui that is mentioning: “Caution, the road along this North side of Maui is for the most part a narrow, winding one-lane road. Drive at your own risk!” Furthermore, even your rental car insurance will not cover if you are driving that part of the road! Think at locals, driving this road daily...Well, if you want to stay safe, as soon as you pass the spectacular blowhole, the scary road is very close. The best is to stop at the school bus, grab some treats and return :)
Driving Maps of Maui
Always make sure you have a good map while driving around. Most car rental in Maui will offer you an island-driving map. Click here to find out more about Maui maps.
My Car Rental in Maui - - April 2009
I had a nice experience in April 2009, when I picked up my rental car. The car type I reserved was not available, and I received a free upgrade: a convertible. First, I was concerned about the wind blowing my hair and the smaller luggage storage space. It turned out to be a lovely Maui experience! From now on, I will get only convertibles in Maui! Can be windy, but so much worth it! Basically, is enhancing the Maui experience. Instead of air conditioning, you get fresh air, tropical flower scent & road to Hana in a cool breeze…
Extra Tips for Car Rental in Maui
- Book your car early, as soon as you know the date of your trip and you might be pleasantly surprised, like I was, with a free upgrade. It is good to book the car in advance: it is free and you can shop around for prices, while having at least one on hold. Canceling a car reservation is not a problem at all, so go ahead, check online with different car rental companies and reserve a few
- If you are collecting Air Miles, you can redeem air miles for car rental in Maui. For example, for a two weeks rental, medium sized sedan you will probably need less then 4, 000 air miles. Call the Air Miles company, and you will receive all the details. It is important though to keep in mind that every time you want to redeem points with Air Miles, you need to do so in advance (at least one week for car rental). Sooner you call and reserve, better is your chance to find more options. From Airmiles website, Alamo conditions:
From 275 reward miles for a daily rental (and up). Reward mile offers vary based on reservation date, car type, insurance packages, etc. Alamo offers daily and weekly rentals of an economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, convertible, minivan and SUV (on request only) All rentals include unlimited free mileage. All taxes paid locally. To book, please call the AIR MILES Service Centre at 1-888-AIR MILES.
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Car Rental In Maui
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