Car hire at Lihue airport from R726/day

Toyota Corolla

or similar MEDIUM

R772/day

Volkswagen Jetta

or similar MEDIUM

R897/day

Ford Fusion

or similar LARGE

R937/day

Chrysler Pacifica

or similar VAN

R1 068/day

Chevrolet Tahoe

or similar SUV

R1 094/day

Ford Mustang Convertible

or similar CONVERTIBLE

R1 109/day

Chevrolet Suburban

or similar SUV

R1 739/day

Hyundai Kona

or similar SUV

R726/day

Nissan Rogue

or similar SUV

R801/day

Class Special Sedan

or similar MEDIUM

R823/day

Chevrolet Equinox

or similar SUV

R829/day

Best prices found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

A car is the best way to move from Lihue Airport (LIH) to various parts of Kuai. It is also the only means of getting around for tourists because the available bus service only caters to residents. On the other hand, taxis are scarce; hence they do not make the most reliable means of transportation when you have a day full of activities. Consider a car rental at Lihue Airport if you want to get the most out of the time you'll be spending in Kauai. Enjoy the security and comfort of driving a well-maintained car on the many scenic routes of this Hawaiian island.
First, think about where you are going before booking a vehicle model through our website. A compact car is probably easier to drive alone in the town of Lihue, while a full-size SUV is perfect for cruising mountainous regions such as Waimea Canyon State Park. Or you can choose a convertible to soak in the tropical air and rich scenery along Kuhio Highway on your way to Ke'e Beach.
All you need to make reservations at Lihue Airport car rental is to fulfill the driver's requirements regarding age and driving license. Most companies will give out cars to renters who are 21 years or older. Some rent out to younger drivers (aged 21 - 25) at an additional fee, so read their payment policy carefully. Don't forget your voucher, passport, ID, and credit card.
Being one of the busiest Hawaiian airports, LIU receives a multitude of travelers every day. You will want to avoid traffic when picking or dropping off your rental car. Most passengers arrive at around 8 am to 10 am to catch flights, so you can anticipate traffic delays at this time. You might also want to return the vehicle at the airport location earlier than 4 pm before the evening rush hours catch up with you. Moreover, understanding TSA wait times can help plan a flight out of LIH. Return your car an hour before your scheduled flight as security gets busy when large planes are leaving.
Book your car hire at Lihue airport at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price

Where are car rental agents located at Lihue Airport?
Once you've alighted from the plane, proceed directly across the street to 3259 Hoolimalima Place to find offices for Avis, Dollar, Hertz, Budget, Sunnycars, and Alamo car rentals. Car parks at this place are also the best return locations since they're open even at late hours. There's always a friendly customer care agent waiting to guide clients. For general inquiries about car rental at Lihue Airport, stop by the counters in the baggage claim areas.
What type of driving permit do I need to rent a car at Lihue Airport?
If you are a US resident, you'll be asked to produce a non-expired state-issued driver's license at the pick-up point. It should be in your name. If you have a permit issued from another country, say, Canada, you have to show a Canadian enhanced license or a passport. Some car rental agencies do not rent to people who have held their DLs for less than three years. Each company has its own rules, so check their terms and conditions.
Does a car rental at Lihue Airport offer one-way trips?
It is possible to get a one-way rental, but it is likely to cost more than a round trip. A drop fee, which differs from one provider to another, might apply. To book a one-way car rental, select where you want to pick it up. Then choose a return location that is different from the original point. You might see a prompt such as ‘drop off at a different location’. Select yes and complete other details to receive a quote for your one-way car rental.
What is the best car hire company at Lihue airport?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car hire companies at Lihue airport are Alamo (9,2, 83 reviews), Sixt (9,2, 70 reviews), and Thrifty (7,4, 55 reviews).
Which car hire companies will pick you up at Lihue airport?
Car hire companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Lihue airport to off-airport locations include Advantage, Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Economy Rent a Car, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Europcar, Hertz, and National.

Budget

6,5

Okay

Read 69 reviews

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.1

Value for money

6.3

One location in Lihue Airport

Locations in Lihue Airport

3285 Hoolimalima Place

+1 808 245 9031

Monday	05:00 - 23:00
Tuesday	05:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	05:00 - 23:00
Thursday	05:00 - 23:00
Friday	05:00 - 23:00
Saturday	05:00 - 23:00
Sunday	05:00 - 23:00

Filters

Reviews

4,0 Mediocre

Anonymous, May 2024

People carrier

The line for pick up had one agent working and customers were lined up out the door. It took 40 minutes to get the car. I would never use budget again at this location.

4,0 Mediocre

Anonymous, May 2024

Standard SUV

Check in line was far too long

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, May 2024

People carrier

Vehicle pick up and drop off was quick. The staff was friendly and helpful. The vehicle was in great condition.

2,0 Poor

Anonymous, Apr 2024

Intermediate SUV

Waited over an hour to check in. Car was dirty. Had to walk back to terminal after drop off because shuttle was late. Took $50 off my deposit with no explanation. Not happy

6,0 Okay

Anonymous, Feb 2024

Standard SUV

Keep was great! Grouchy staff during pickup and especially drop off. The Jeep had mud on it when we picked up which we didn’t care that much but of course we put more mud on the week we had it and the manager lectured us saying he wanted to charge us $250 cleaning fee. We settled on $35 which I suppose was fair. Website says don’t worry about cleaning but you actually better bring it back clean. Heads up.

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Dec 2023

Intermediate

Friendly staff and didn’t overprice the rentals. Easy to deal with and secure the car.

Dollar

6,0

Okay

Read 97 reviews

Cleanliness

7.1

Comfort

7.2

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.1

Value for money

6.1

One location in Lihue Airport

Locations in Lihue Airport

3250 Hoolimalima Place

+1 808 245 3652

Monday	05:00 - 23:00
Tuesday	05:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	05:00 - 23:00
Thursday	05:00 - 23:00
Friday	05:00 - 23:00
Saturday	05:00 - 23:00
Sunday	05:00 - 23:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

4,0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Mar 2024

Open-air all-terrain

The 4 dr keep wrangler had no power locks or windows…therefore no way to easily u knock and lock the car. Super base model. It was fairly new but we saw several others w nicer trims. Separately the fuel wasn’t full at pickup. We did 150 miles and were empty and had to fill up. Didn’t have time to haggle at the counter so I have to call them about that. We paid well over $100+ per day and the value wasn’t worth it.

4,0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Feb 2024

Full-size SUV

At the Lihue a/p check-in counter, there were a lot of extra charges added to the bill. Plus charging $18.00 daily to add a second driver. When I asked for an explanation about the extra charges, there was just a take it or leave it attitude. They were not friendly nor helpful. However everything about the car itself was great. It was bigger than expected, so all of us were comfortable and the surfboard fit into the back without a problem. I would probably rent from Dollar again, but not at in Lihue.

2,0 Poor

Anonymous, Oct 2023

Intermediate SUV

The wait for our car in line was over an hour. We got a chair for an elderly lady that we eventually moved to head of the line. They charged us an additional $214 saying you didn’t send those fees with our payment. The car was great, but the service needed more people to accommodate very line, out the door, line! Very slow, not congenital person!

6,0 Okay

Teresa, Oct 2023

Intermediate

There was a 2 hour wait list to pick up car in 80 degree weather and none of the vending machines were stocked to have something cold to drink while waiting. Finally we got up to the counter where we were greeted by the manager who breezed us through and we got a Jeep. Unfortunately, the Jeep had manual locks and windows which I didn’t realize newer cars still had manual entry so for the entire trip we had to reach across seats and reach behind to the back seats to unlock everyone’s doors. What a missed opportunity to market the newest Jeeps. Dropping off a car was much less painful and we were able to pull up, get out and hop on shuttle back to airport in less than 5 minutes. Dollar really needs to come up with faster process for pick up or provide comfort stations during the wait.

2,0 Poor

Dane, Sept 2023

Compact SUV

65 minute wait to receive car. Pathetic.

6,0 Okay

Stacey, May 2021

Pros:

The woman outside checking on reservations was very kind. The billing was not easy to understand. When you place the order it says you were charged the quoted amount. When you are at the counter they give you an additional bill. Seemed to add up to the original amount but was confusing.

Cons:

The billing part could have been better. The car was not very clean inside but was a good car and comfortable. The staffing was very understaffed. Three car rental companies inside and only one or two staff. Should be one staff person per car company. Very long wait in line.

Alamo

9,2

Wonderful

Read 42 reviews

Best rated

Cleanliness

9.0

Comfort

9.2

Pick-up/Drop-off

9.3

Value for money

8.6

One location in Lihue Airport

Locations in Lihue Airport

3276 Hoolimalima Pl

+1 844 914 1551

Monday	06:00 - 22:45
Tuesday	06:00 - 22:45
Wednesday	06:00 - 22:45
Thursday	06:00 - 22:45
Friday	06:00 - 22:45
Saturday	06:00 - 22:45
Sunday	06:00 - 22:45

Filters

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Tanya, May 2024

People carrier

Booked online. Check in upon arrival was quick. Vehicle was as expected. Return of vehicle was also quick.

10,0 Wonderful

Colleen, Jun 2021

Pros:

Very easy pick up and drop off, shuttle to and from was prompt

Cons:

Most expensive car rental I’ve ever had!

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, May 2021

Pros:

Very helpful

Cons:

more employees when checking out would be helpful

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Apr 2021

Pros:

Very good good service on phone helpful people

2,0 Poor

Jeffry, Apr 2021

Pros:

Staff was horrible on pickup

Cons:

Quit ding the State's job and just rent the car

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Apr 2021

Pros:

Staff was so upbeat and friendly.

Cons:

Long line so it took 1.5 hr to get our car but not their fault since 2 planes arrived at same time.

Sixt

9,2

Wonderful

Read 46 reviews

Cleanliness

9.5

Comfort

9.4

Pick-up/Drop-off

9.2

Value for money

9.2

One location in Lihue Airport

Locations in Lihue Airport

3156 Oihana Street

+1 888 749 8227

Monday	07:00 - 22:00
Tuesday	07:00 - 22:00
Wednesday	07:00 - 22:00
Thursday	07:00 - 22:00
Friday	07:00 - 22:00
Saturday	07:00 - 22:00
Sunday	07:00 - 22:00

Filters

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Norma, Jul 2024

Intermediate SUV

Excellent

4,0 Mediocre

Anonymous, May 2024

Standard SUV

While Kayak states that changes can be made for free, Sixt does not honor that and wanted to charge $250 for a date change. Also, when we arrived at Sixt in Lihue Chrissy, the Sixt representative, said that they had to redo the rental charge because the credit cards didn’t match which was not true. However, I went along with it. She assured me original charge would be refunded. When came time to pay it was $1,000 more. She said that the car I had reserved was unavailable and was attempting to rent me an Escalade. I stood my ground and somehow the car I had rented originally was there and the price I initially paid was charged. I confirmed with credit card account that she refunded and then recharged the same card. Very sneaky . Be aware.

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Apr 2024

Compact

Customer service was excellent

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Apr 2024

Luxury SUV

Everyone was friendly. Great service. I had a problem with a car and they exchanged it with a better car at the same price. Sixt is now my goto rental car company

2,0 Poor

Anonymous, Mar 2024

Compact SUV

I made my reservation months in advance requesting a small SUV, but when I arrived they had none. What is the point of making a reservation if the vehicle is not available upon arrival? They offered me other larger vehicles, which I finally accepted, otherwise I would be without a vehicle. Was very unhappy driving a large SUV in unfamiliar locations.

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Mar 2024

Full-size SUV

Helpful staff, nice car, high trim level.

Thrifty

7,4

Good

Read 30 reviews

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

8.1

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.4

Value for money

7.3

One location in Lihue Airport

Locations in Lihue Airport

3250 Hoolimalima Place

+1 808 245 3652

Monday	05:00 - 23:00
Tuesday	05:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	05:00 - 23:00
Thursday	05:00 - 23:00
Friday	05:00 - 23:00
Saturday	05:00 - 23:00
Sunday	05:00 - 23:00

Filters

Reviews

4,0 Mediocre

G, Oct 2024

Full-size SUV

They had some problems when picking up. I stood in line for an hour with only 6 people ahead of me when I got there. No communication as to why.

8,0 Very Good

Anonymous, May 2021

Pros:

Everything was as expected

Cons:

check in was busy at no fault of the rental car companies

6,0 Okay

Alan, May 2021

Pros:

The car worked well

Cons:

Check in procedure. We had to wait in line for over one hour.

2,0 Poor

Anonymous, Mar 2021

Pros:

We were unable to go to Hawaii because of COVID. They charged us over $700.00 for a car we never used. I will never book thru Priceline or use Thrifty ever again. Trying to talk to them about this was a waste of time. They just kept repeating that the reservation was not cancelable.

Cons:

Recognize that the traveler can't foresee state law changes and that charging people for a car they never used is both immoral, bad business practice and pisses people off. I will never use Priceline or Thrifty again. And we travel all over the world.

4,0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Nov 2020

Pros:

Dropoff was comparatively easier

Cons:

Waited in line for two hours to pickup the car.

10,0 Wonderful

Elizabeth, Jun 2020

Pros:

Fast, friendly service. The agents explained everything and made it very easy on me.

Hertz

7,2

Good

Read 29 reviews

Cleanliness

7.6

Comfort

7.4

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.1

Value for money

6.5

One location in Lihue Airport

Locations in Lihue Airport

3250 Hoolimalima Pl

+1 808 245 3356

Monday	05:00 - 23:00
Tuesday	05:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	05:00 - 23:00
Thursday	05:00 - 23:00
Friday	05:00 - 23:00
Saturday	05:00 - 23:00
Sunday	05:00 - 23:00