Planning a vacation to Kauai probably has you pretty excited about seeing all of the amazing beaches and natural landmarks, however you are probably curious how you are going to get around, if you need to rent a car or taxi, or if there is some other option for you. Basically, if you are really interested in seeing Kauai, all of it, on your schedule and the way you want then you need to rent a car. Of course, if you don't plan on doing a lot of traveling then a taxi is an option as well. However, major traveling is truly the best way to see Kauai and this option means you need to rent a car.
Fortunately, renting a car in Kauai is extremely affordable especially when compared to the rest of the country. In 2003 the average daily price to rent a car in Kauai was $41 while the national average for the rest of the country was approximately $54. So, you will be saving a good deal of money by renting a car in Kauai. In addition to this, you can rent a car for approximately a week for around $180, which is probably less than you would spend on various taxis and other transit options while in Kauai so not only is it a good deal, but you have control of where and when you travel.
There is plenty of competition among the rent a car companies in Kauai, so if you have a preference you are likely to find your favorite rent a car company. Some of the larger companies include Avis, Budget, Dollar, Thrifty, Hertz, National, as well as others. All of these rent a car locations have websites where you can check and make reservations as well as handle your account. Remember, however, that rental car companies sell out very easily so if you know you want to rent a car for your Kauai vacation then you should do so before you leave home, making sure to have the confirmation handy at all times.
Once you arrive at Lihue Airport and collect your luggage then it is time to head to your rent a car. This is very convenient because the rent a car desks are located by the airport, but then a van will take you to your rental car. After that, Kauai is all yours to explore and enjoy for the length of your vacation.
Keep in mind, however, that Hawaii is a no fault state. This means that if you have a car accident in Hawaii you must pay for the damages before you leave the state. While your insurance may offer some coverage in this situation you probably want to save yourself the headache and drama of a car accident without proper insurance and simply buy insurance from the rental agency. This does cost an additional fee per day, but the reassurance you and the vehicle is covered in case of an accident or even theft is certainly worthwhile and will allow you to enjoy your vacation.
Remember as well when you rent a car and being driving around the island to keep in mind that driving in Kauai is not like driving in New York City or anywhere else on the mainland for that matter. Kauai is an island, like a small community, and individuals respect others while driving and everything is conducted in a more laid back and respectful manner. As a result, when you take the wheel of your rental car in Kauai remember to drive slowly and enjoy the island, flora and fauna, and all the beautiful views you will come across simply by driving. The last thing you want to do is cause a ruckus while driving around the island. Respect other Kauai drivers and they will respect you.
This issue of respect also comes into play when you approach one of the many one lane bridges that are all over Kauai. These bridges have their own rules for driving etiquette. If you are the first car to approach from one direction then you have the right of way and the car on the other end will wait patiently for you to cross. However, if you are approaching the bridge and a car in the other direction is approaching as well, but closer than you, then you should stop and wait for them to cross. The same goes for the situation of a long line of cars passing in one direction with other cars waiting on the other end. If you approach 6-9 cars passing at one time and notice other cars waiting on the other end then it is proper etiquette to not join the train of cars passing and stop and wait for the cars on the other end. After all, you are in no hurry because you are simply enjoying the island.
Another important driving tip that should always be kept in mind, especially if you are renting a car in Kauai, is to always keep your seatbelt fastened no matter where you are seated in the car. Hawaii law requires all passengers to buckle up and even though you are a tourist you can still receive a ticket. Don't put yourself in this situation and simply buckle up and enjoy the drive.
While you are traveling to Kauai for your vacation and want to enjoy it as much as possible you also need to keep in mind the driving laws of the island and any regulation set forth by the rent a car company. The last thing you want to do is complicate your vacation, so simply follow the rules and enjoy Kauai, the oldest and most beautiful Hawaiian island.
Steven Anderson is the Marketing Director for Hawaiian Discount Car Rentals, specialists in Hawaii and Kauai car rentals. He has personally researched and experienced many of the Hawaiian activities and as described above.