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Finding a car rental at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of suppliers all around Hawaii's Big Island with no booking fees. Reserve in advance, ride the five-minute shuttle to the rental center and hit Kailua-Kona, Volcanoes National Park or the Kohala Coast on your own schedule.
KOA Airport offers a dedicated rental car facility that requires a short shuttle ride.
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Location | "Baseyards" approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) from terminal | Located on airport property but not walkable |
| Shuttle Access | Free shuttles depart from center median outside baggage claim | Shuttles run continuously during operational hours |
| Companies | All major rental agencies | Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National and Thrifty |
| Shuttle Duration | Approximately 5 minutes | Can be longer during peak arrival times |
| Hours | Most companies operate 5:30AM - 10:30PM | Check your specific agency if arriving on late flights |
| After-hours | Limited options for late pickup | After-hours returns available via drop boxes |
Advantage of KOA Airport Rentals:
Considerations:
Compare brands, car sizes and even pick-up times on our site—shifting your KOA pickup a few hours outside the 11 AM-2 PM rush can drop the daily rate and shorten the line.
Peak season = plan ahead. If you're traveling June-August, December or during Ironman week, lock in a deal 3-6 months out. For shoulder or low seasons, monitor prices and pounce 3-4 weeks before arrival when flash discounts pop up.
Do the airport-fee math. KOA rentals include concession fees; if you arrive in a mellow month, pricing a short rideshare to an in-town Kona depot can beat the airport total.
Stick with economy or compact. All major Big Island sights are on paved roads, and smaller cars sip pricey Hawaiian gas and fit in tight beach parking spots.
How long does the shuttle transfer take at KOA Airport?
The shuttle ride takes about 5 minutes, but allow 10–15 minutes during busy periods as you may need to wait for the next available shuttle.
Can I pick up at KOA and drop off in Hilo (ITO)?
Yes, most major companies offer one-way rentals between KOA and ITO but they usually charge a one-way fee of about $50–85. This is a good option for people who want to explore the entire island without backtracking.
What happens if my flight arrives after the rental counters close?
If your flight is scheduled to arrive late, you should contact your rental company in advance. Some companies can arrange an after-hours pickup, or you may need to take a taxi to where you're staying and return to the airport the next day.
Is there a grace period for returns at KOA?
Most companies offer a 29–59 minute grace period, but you should confirm their policy when you pick up your car to avoid extra hourly or daily charges.
Do I need a 4WD vehicle if renting from KOA?
Most visitors find a standard 2WD vehicle is all they need. You can reach all major attractions and resorts on paved roads. A 4WD is only necessary for certain remote beaches or trails, and the rental agreement may prohibit you from driving on many of them.
How busy is the KOA rental facility during peak season?
It gets very busy, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when most mainland flights arrive. During peak season, like summer and holidays, lines can be very long. You can speed things up by using online check-in and rental loyalty programs.
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