There are so many places to visit on the island, you will want to take advantage of the benefits of a car rental on Oahu. Your choice will depend on your specific needs activity expectations. With your own car rental in Oahu, you make the choices on where to go and when, as you are not on the schedule of a tour bus operator, or spending money taking a taxi.



You may choose have chosen to stay up on the North Shore, and spend your time surfing, exploring the beaches and getting immersed in the culture of the area. A rental car is pretty necessary here, as you may be transporting luggage, surfboards, scuba gear, and family or friends. You will want to discuss your plans with your party, so you have a car rental on Oahu that will suit your trip, and accommodate your family and any items you want with you as you traverse the island.

Can you drive around Oahu in a day?

You can most certainly drive around the Island in one day - and see and experience many different areas heading to the North Shore, and back. If you want to explore one particular area in more detail, you may want to return to that area on a separate day, and spend the day watching surfing, then dine out on the North Shore, or spend some time exploring the Polynesian Cultural Center, and not let time limit your ability to take in the whole experience. This will mean multiple trips, and rental cars will be needed on multiple days.

What do you need to rent a car in Oahu?

You will need a valid driver’s license to rent a vehicle in Oahu. If you are from outside the United States, and your driver’s license is not in English, you may need an International Driver’s Permit as well as your driver’s license. And it is always a good idea to carry your passport as a form of identification.

How old do you need to be to rent a car in Oahu?

The major car companies all have restrictions on age for car rentals. No one under the age of 20 can rent a vehicle. If you are between the ages of 20 and 24, you are considered a “Young Driver”, and there may be some restrictions on which vehicles you may rent, and whether you will be able to use a debit card. It is always safer to have a credit card if possible. When booking your vehicle on our website, look for the best young driver rates - we have some rentals where young drivers can get a much-reduced young driver rate. All young driver will have an additional Young Driver charge added at the counter - this charge will not show on your original booking, but will be added when you pick up your car and show your driver’s license. Always read the DETAILS section to see what the car company’s rules are for young drivers and debit cards.

How long does it take to drive around Oahu?

The Oahu Circle Drive can take about 4 hours. This is the estimated time for driving, considering traffic etc. If you wish to stop and visit beaches, have lunch, visit any of the local towns or any of the tourist attractions, this will add time to your trip. Budget your time according to what you wish to do, allowing about 4 hours driving time.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Oahu?

Car rentals in Hawaii vary in price, often depending on the season you are travelling, and the length of your stay. The size of the vehicle can also make a big difference in the price of the vehicle, so it is best to book only what you will need. We always recommend booking the best option the first time you search our website, as it is always free to book and to cancel a reservation. Rates can fluctuate, so you can then come back onto the website from time to time and search for better rates. Once you find one, you can cancel the old reservation as soon as you have rebooked the lower rate.