Honolulu International Airport, located on the island of Oahu, is the major arrival point for most travelers to Hawaii. From there, flights to the other major islands range from 20 minutes to Molokai to 40 minutes to the island of Hawaii, known as the Big Island. Decide whether your trip's final destination is Oahu, the most populated island, or whether you plan to spend your time on Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Kauai or the Big Island.
Once you know which island or islands you plan to visit and have your flights booked, decide whether to rent a car right away or wait and rent one for only a portion of your trip. Some travelers use shuttles or a taxi to quickly arrive at their hotel and enjoy a couple of days in the immediate vicinity. They rent a car once they are ready to explore other areas of the island.
Locate a rental car company either at the airport, if you plan to obtain a car immediately, or in town. At the Honolulu International Airport, six companies rent cars, as of 2010, from counters near the baggage claim area. For those planning to rent a car later, four off-airport locations are available in Honolulu, according to the airport's website. At Maui's Kahului Airport, eight rental car companies are located on site.
Once you select a company, decide what size car you may need and reserve well in advance of your trip. Most car rental companies have a minimum age of 25 for drivers of their cars and may charge additional fees for younger drivers. Confirm your reservation near your day of departure to be sure a car will be ready upon your arrival in Hawaii. If you will be requesting children's car seats or navigational systems for your rental car, be sure that information is included in your reservation.
After stepping off the airplane and inhaling the tropical island breezes, make your way to the rental counter and register for your car. Be sure to ask for directions to your hotel if you need them and whether the car needs to be returned with a full tank of gas. Once you load up your car and buckle in, you are free to roam about the island and explore volcanoes, beaches, luaus and golf courses as well as dine on fresh pineapple and pupu platters.
