Why Rainbow Car Rentals Is the Best Local Car Hire on The Big Island

Rainbow Car Rentals provides the best rental car service in Hawaii. Get the greatest local car hire rates on the island. We have availability!!

Local Rental Car Rates for Tourists

Rainbow Car Rentals on The Big Island provides the best prices for everyone — locals and tourists. If you live on the island, you will get the best deals. If you are visiting from another place, you will get the best deals.

The reason why we are the best local car hire on The Big Island of Hawaii is that we offer a Low-Price Guarantee. If you receive a direct quote from a car rental company that is more affordable than our costs, we will match it, and offer 5% off on top of it!

Moreover, we have weekly and long-term rates available. So, if you are looking to visit the island for more than two weeks — we can cover for you. The longer you plan to stay the more affordable the rates get. Schedule a reservation today!

We Have Availability!!

Throughout the year we have availability. However, make sure to call as soon as possible during the peak seasons. We try our best to make sure that we have vehicles for everyone. It is always recommended to give us a call to chat about what we have available for you on the lot.

Another reason why we are the best rental car company in Hawaii is that we have a diverse selection of vehicles. Rainbow Car Rentals has vans, 4x4s, and older and newer cars available for you to rent.

Plus, our cars are economical, so you won’t have to worry about sticking out like a sore thumb while you’re traveling on the island. Give yourself a local style when you drive the cars that we offer. And as always, our vehicles are extremely safe.

Unbeatable Service

As the best local car hire company, we strive to have the finest service around. We offer to deliver and pick up your rental vehicle, even as far as Kona from Hilo with a reasonable fee. Right after you land on the island, we can have your car ready for you.

Not only do we offer delivery and pick-up, but we also provide car insurance if you don’t have any. It’s extremely affordable. It is highly suggested that you have personal insurance to cover you, but we understand that sometimes that isn’t available. So, ask us how to get you covered!

We want you to have fun during your travels around the island. Whether you are a local or a tourist, you deserve to experience the magic of Aloha in Hawaii. Breathe the fresh air and know that we have your back with safety, reliability, and comfort.

Finally, we have availability!! If you need a vehicle — contact us. We are the best local car hire service. We understand the challenges of going through big companies when it comes to getting your needs met. Support local businesses instead, so that we can treat you like family.

Easy Navigation to Five Must Visit Destinations From Our Office In Hilo

Tour five top attractions on the Big Island with the best local car hire service — Rainbow Car Rentals. We have an office in Hilo!

After you pick up your rental car from our office in Hilo, you’ll have to visit the beautiful outdoor spots around town. However, there are many other attractions aside from the lovely beaches, waterfalls, and forests.

Here are five top attractions around the northeastern side of the Big Island. Explore these destinations with the best local car hire service. To start our list…

1. ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center

“‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawai’i – Hilo” by brewbooks is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

• Admission: https://imiloahawaii.org/tickets

• Address: 600 ‘Imiloa Place Hilo, Hawaii 96720

This destination is a part of the University of Hawaii at Hilo. It’s located on nine acres of the campus’s Science and Technology Park. The headquarters conduct extraordinary astronomical research on top of the dormant volcano, Maunakea.

Moreover, the exhibition center combines astronomy with native Hawaiian culture. Out of all the information shared it also includes the natural history of the volcano. At the center, organizations help to teach the community’s kindergarten to 12th graders. Locals and visitors can dive into the education on the scientific growth of the island and universe too.

The drive to the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center from our office in Hilo is only six minutes. Be sure to make arrangements by visiting their website for tickets beforehand.

2. Scenic Drive On The Hamakua Coast

“Hamakua Coast, Hawaii” by stevecadman is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

The scenic Hamakua Coast is worth a day-long road trip. Start your morning in Downtown Hilo near our office where you can pick up your rental car. Afterward, make your way up the coast to catch sights of marvelous outdoor landscapes. Starting just north of Hilo, you will be able to find breathtaking scenery.

Greet Hawaii’s gorgeous waterfalls, beaches, forests, and farms. Tour the exotic plants at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden or World Botanical Gardens. Stop and visit small towns such as the Historic Honokaa Town for a deeply local experience. Breathe in the tropical air and Aloha. Then finally, end your journeys at the Waipio Valley Lookout draped in rich Hawaiian culture and history.

Driving the Hamakua Coast is a noteworthy experience. It’s one of the main reasons to reserve a rental car.

3. Downtown Hilo

“Aloha & Welcome to downtown Hilo” by daveynin is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Near to where we have an office in Hilo, Hawaii’s largest small town welcomes you. Scattered with local gift shops, the most popular Hilo Farmers Market, and many eateries — this area will be a highlight of your stay. Find your Aloha attire and souvenirs. Visit museums and elegant art galleries. Tour the produce-packed tables at the farmers’ market.

All your visitor essentials get made whole in Downtown Hilo. It’s the essential place to buy postcards and locally crafted gifts for family and friends. After walking around the town, stop by a restaurant to grab fresh cuisine. Enjoy fruity drinks such as a smoothie held in a pineapple. Or cool off with a locally brewed beer on tap. Don’t forget to try out the local style dishes and desserts too.

“Downtown Hilo (DSC_4514)” by thtbln is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

4. Farmers Markets

“Hilo farmer’s market” by Randy Stewart is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

• Hours:

  • Daily from 7 AM to 3 PM

  • Big Market: Wednesdays & Saturdays

• Admission: Free

• Address: Corner of Kamehameha Ave. and Mamo St. Hilo, HI 96720

There are about seven farmers’ markets near Downtown Hilo. The most popular one is the Hilo Farmers Market. Surprisingly, it turns into an even bigger market on Wednesdays and Saturdays known as “Big Market.” More vendors come to sell goods on those days, which is a sight to see.

At the market, you’ll find produce such as various strains of delicious bananas and mangos. Of course, you’ll have the essentials such as lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados. But might you try the longan, jackfruit, papaya, and other exotics for a true taste of Hawaii? Plus, there are a bunch of unique veggies to select from too.

Not only will you find fruits and vegetables, but vendors prepare awesome specialty food items too. Prepare yourself for delicate seafood delights, coconut desserts, fruit jellies, and more. Further, artwork and flowers are available to purchase as well. If you are staying on this side of the island, the Hilo Farmers Market is definitely a place to stop by more than once.

We have our office in Hilo, so you can cruise over to the market after you pick up your car to grab some food. It’s only four minutes away!

“Hilo Farmer’s Market” by brewbooks is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

“0709C02 Farmer’s Market” by syntheticaperture is licensed under CC BY 2.0

5. Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm & Factory

“Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm and Factory” by ohsarahrose is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

• Website: https://www.maunaloa.com/ 

Finally, our last destination is the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm & Factory. Sadly, this spot is temporarily closed during COVID-19. When it reopens you will be able to tour its facilities. Until then, you can find the company’s classic chocolate-covered macadamia nuts all around the Big Island.

Visit their website for more information on their product offerings.

Click Here for a Map of Our Top Five Destinations In Hilo

Click the words above to view a map of all the destinations listed in this blog post.

Before you arrive in Hawaii, make sure to reserve a rental car from us so you can visit these places. You are also welcome to visit us in person, as we have an office in Downtown Hilo.

When you’re exploring the island, remember to pack water and a light rain jacket or umbrella. Then take a drive in Hilo and most definitely along the coast. Visit cool sites. At Rainbow Car Rentals, we want you to have a good time.

Advice from a past visitor client on Hawaii Car Rentals

Hawaii Car Rental

Hawaii is the 50^th state of the United States of America, is widely known as an Island holiday paradise. This status has been built on the state’s amazing islands, panoramic beaches as well as all sort of activities on offers for tourists and guests. Some of the important things to see on the islands in Hawaii are The Big Island, Hilo, Pahoa, Kona and Volcano. Hawaii not just pulls visitors from the rest of the American states but from all corners of the world. Hawaiian vacations are also very popular because of the easy availability of Hawaii car rentals in the state.

What are the Benefits of Car Renting in Hawaii?

The guided tourist and guide tours are somewhat hectic. Because these are package tours, you’ll be shown only chosen places and also for a small span of time. You can shun away from this when you rent a car of your own. You could take a map of the interesting places and visit them one by one at your own pace.

What are the Kinds of Cars Available in Hawaii?

Hawaii car rentals providers have many kinds of cars that range from the ordinary ones to the luxurious models. Visiting a place abundant in natural beauty it can annoying and incomplete with no proper car. You can select from luxury sedans, sports car, SUVs as well as prowlers.

Book Hawaii Car Rentals in Advance

It’s always advisable and preferable to book a Hawaii car rental service in advance. This avoids any confusion after reaching the place. When you have planned to rent a car after reaching this place, it could be annoying and troublesome. Because it will be a new place for you, it will take you time to look for trustworthy and reliable car Rental Company. Hawaii is a hot tourist destination. It’s always packed with tourists. A lot of guests and visitors want to enjoy the place in rented cars. High demands of these during the peak times reduce supply. Visitors who make the booking ahead of time are provided first preference. Booking ahead of time is also cost efficient. If you want to book a car then and there, the car rental company may charge some addition amount. So, in order to avoid these issues, you have to book in advance.

Where to Hire Car in Hawaii?

There are lots of hire rental companies that offer this kind of service, but http://www.rainbowcarrentals.com is the best one. Their aim is to give personalized service for a cheap rate for a Hawaii car rental. Customer service staff are available all the time to answer your queries and help with the issues you might encounter whether it concerns car rental accommodations or general information. Visitors can contact this company through live chat or through calling customer hotline number at 808 936 6347_.

Rainbow Car Rentals is one of the best car rental company in Hawaii that offer a very reasonable rate. There are wide selections of car to choose from. Whats more, they also offer discounts when you book in advance.

Why You Need a Car Rental When you Vacation on Big Island, Hawaii

There are many places in the world you can travel without needing a rental car to get you around. In some of these places, you can easily hop into a nearby rickshaw, tuk-tuk, jeepney, tram, or light-rail to bring you to your destination. However, the Big Island is not one of these places. Public transportation is not widespread, and taxis and Uber are expensive compared to the price of renting a car.

If you are planning to see the sites of the island, a rental car is a must! The Big Island is really a BIG island, and takes around 5 hours to drive around the island, and different attraction sites can be at a far distance from one another.

So, what kind of rental car is the best? Should you rent a 4×4? 

The short answer is no. You can get by just fine with a regular economy car. A 4×4 would allow you to drive down to Green Sand Beach, Wai’pio valley, and the top of Mauna Kea, however, most rental car companies do not allow their cars to be taken on these roads, and if you get caught, can get fined heavily. You can park at the head of the trail to Green Sand Beach and hike in to the beach (around 2 miles). You can book a sunset or sunrise tour to visit the top of Mauna Kea (15k feet!). You can also hike down into Wai’pio Valley. However, 4×4’s are convenient for driving down to beaches and into little dirt road pullouts along the shore.

One thing to consider, for the more adventurous, is the possibility of renting a van and then camping out of it instead of staying in a hotel room. There are plenty of spots to car camp on the Big Island and you can shower and use the facilities at beach park restrooms. CarinHawaii.com and Rainbowcarrentals.com can rent out camping gear along with a van rental.

Why You Should Check out Puna on your Big Island Hawaii Trip

7 Reasons To Check Out Puna on your Big Island, Hawaii Vacation

Puna Coastline

The following blog post is a guest post from Megan Chingari over at her travel blog wanderfullylost.com.

When people visit the Big Island, they typically spend most of their time in Kona, where all the swanky resorts and powdery-white sand beaches are. There’s certainly nothing wrong with getting fancy and kicking back in luxury if that’s your style, but, if you’re the type of person who wants to experience some of the “real”  Hawaii on your Big Island vacation, you must check out Puna! I can understand why Puna (which is a large district located in the south-eastern side of the island) is hastily overlooked by many tourists who don’t know any better: There are no white sand beaches or hotels, no major touristy attractions. So, what is there to do or see? Why should you go there? Well, let me tell you my 7 favorite activities in Puna!

1. The drive down Red Road. This 15 mile road is one of the most scenic roads on the island. The road follows along the shoreline, at times snaking through thick jungle where you can find giant mango, coconut, native hala, and noni trees. You will have many opportunities to enjoy scenic overlooks and places to explore (like Mackenzie beach park, which has lava tubes and steam vents), and it is also the route to lots of other key attractions. It was when I was driving on this road for my very first time, watching the sun reflecting off of the rolling waves, when I spontaneously decided I would be moving to the Big Island. This drive does that to people!

The Red Road begins where highway 132 meets highway 137 (AKA the four corners). Coming from Pahoa, take highway 132 until you reach the Four Corners intersection, then take a right. You are now on the official “Red Road” drive.

Red Road (photo credit punacoast.hubpages.com)

Native Hala Trees (AKA Tourist Pineapple, because tourists frequently mistake the weird fruits that grow on them as pineapples)

• 2. Kehena Black Sand Beach!  Striking black sand, steep jungle cliffs draped with ancient-looking vines,  possibilities of swimming with friendly dolphins, and oh yeah– all the naked hippies, combine to make Kehena a beach like none other. Every Sunday, Kehena beach transforms into a party and drum circle. If you’re into it, I suggest getting butt naked and dancing in the center of the drum circle. It’s really fun. Not really into the “hippie scene?” That’s okay, you can just observe the action, or, come on a weekday when there are less people. Swimming at Kehena can be a bit sketchy, so please be a strong swimmer if you decide to go in. There have been deaths almost every year of people who swim out too far and then get pulled away by the current and drown. Friendly dolphins are known to come close to the shore, so it is possible to swim with them.

 

• 3. Ahalanui Hot Pond. Ahh, the hot pond. My favorite. Puna has the only natural hot springs in all of Hawaii, and while there are several smaller hot springs to soak in nearby, this one is the best. It’s right on the shore, so you can enjoy the ocean vibes while swimming in the warm water of the hot pond. Often, curious little fish will come nibble at you (it doesn’t hurt, just tickles). Want to know a secret? The best time to come to the hot pond is at night, preferably when it’s a full moon. It’s technically closed at night…but, well, that doesn’t deter locals from enjoying it then.  At night its less crowded and it’s just awesome in general to be swimming in a warm, relaxing pool with the moonlight bouncing off the waves and palm trees.  Don’t tell anyone  I told you ;).

• 4. Uncle Robert’s Night Market. Located at the end of the Red Road on Hawaiian Homeland property, Uncle Robert’s night market is the happenin’ place to be on a Wednesday night. Arrive before it gets dark and take a stroll on the lava field trail to the black sand beach. At the market, you’ll find a tempting array of local foods, live music, a kava bar, and, naturally, a welcome center for space aliens (really). Get euphoric on some kava and talk story with the new friends you will be sure to meet. This market is a favorite activity for locals, and those lucky tourists who stumble upon it will certainly regard it as one of the highlights of their Big Island trip. Every Wednesday night starting around 5pm.

Uncle Robert’s Night Market (Hawaii Tribune Herald photo credit)

• 5. Maku’u Farmer’s Market. While the Hilo Farmer’s Market was recently ranked the #1 best farmer’s market in the U.S., locals know that Maku’u Farmer’s Market is even better.  It’s less touristy than Hilo Farmer’s Market and has a wider variety of vendors. It’s a big social event for the community. You can find all sorts of interesting local-made crafts, affordable tropical produce, and delicious food options. I highly recommend trying the green papaya salad from the small stand near the stage. As a green papaya salad connoisseur, I can attest that they sell the best green papaya salad in existence. If you’re feeling adventurous, stop by the smoothie stand and treat yourself to a Durian smoothie (smelliest fruit in the world). When: Sundays from 7am-2pm. Where: Right off Highway 130, several miles north of Pahoa. You can’t miss it.
  

  

  Maku’u Market (photo credit noelmarala.com)

• 6. Snorkeling at Kapoho Tidepools  Kapoho tidepools is one of the best snorkeling spots in all of Hawaii. You will see hundreds of tropical reef fish and impressive coral formations. Often, snorkelers can spot giant sea turtles or eels. Bring a beach chair or towel to sit on, because the shore is lava and kind of uncomfortable to sit on.

Kapoho Tide pools from above (Photo credit Pahoaonline.com)

• 7. Pahoa!  Pahoa is an eclectic little town full of colorful characters (such as the “chicken man”, who is always riding his bike around with his pet chickens on the handlebars) and great restaurants. In 2014, it  almost  won the title of “Coolest Small Town in the U.S.A.” from Budget Travels. Just recently, Pahoa made international news as a lava flow crept dangerously close, threatening to destroy the town and block access to the rest of the island. After months of stressful uncertainty, the lava decided to stop just several hundreds of feet from the town’s main shopping center (whew! Well, it did take out one house and a road). Driving down Pahoa Village Road, you will notice some of the power line poles wrapped in gravel and cement. This was an experiment done in anticipation of the impending lava in an attempt protect the town’s power grid. I recommend having dinner at either Kaleo’s or Ning’s Thai (both in downtown). Kaleo’s serves excellent island fusion-type cuisine (the Kalbi ribs and coconut shrimp are my favorite!). Ning’s is a great option if you are in the mood for some Thai food (try the pineapple curry). For breakfast/coffee, check out the Tin Shack Bakery, or Black Rock Cafe.

The Chicken Man of Pahoa

Anticipating the lava

Smoke rising from fire caused by the Lava flow, behind Malama Market in Pahoa

These are my favorite things about Puna. Did I leave anything out (I totally did! These are just my top seven! There’s a lot more to do, such as Lava Tree Park, Pohoiki, Mermaid Ponds, Shipman Beach hike, Green Lake, and the giant arch)

Tips:

•   Where to stay?  There are no hotels in Puna, but there are many vacation rentals and some hostels. Check out airbnb.com. or flipkey.com.
• If you only have one day to spend in Puna, I would suggest going on either a Wednesday or  a Sunday, so you can hit up either the Maku’u or Uncle Robert’s markets.
• Be aware that there are not gas stations in lower Puna besides the three in Pahoa. Before heading to the Red Road, make sure you have enough gas.
• Don’t lather yourself in sunscreen and then go swimming in the hot pond or tide pools. Sunscreen kills coral and is dangerous to ocean life. Plus, no one wants to swim around in smelly, oily sunscreen floating on the surface.
• If you buy salad greens from the market, make sure to wash them well and check them thoroughly for slugs. Rat-lungworm parasite is found on the slime of slugs and can be deadly.
• It rains a lot on this side of the island. Just go with it, and bring an umbrella or rain gear if you don’t want to get wet.
• Bring sturdy shoes for walking over old lava flows or rocky shorelines.
• Enjoy yourself! Go with the flow!

Still Have Cars Available for Christmas Week

We know most of the bigger car rental companies are completely sold out or are incredibly expensive (looking at one major company, all of their basic cars are $1700 week total! With no vans or 4×4’s left!).

We still have one 2013 Dodge Caravan 7 passenger van for $`150/day (during Christmas week and first week of January), a 2014 Chevy Spark for $100/day, and several other economy basic cars for $75/day.

If you are still in need of a vehicle, you can reserve by filling out the online reservation form/contract.

Happy Holidays!!

Click Here to Make Reservation

Price List

Holiday Pricing List:

December 21- January 4, 2015

Daily rate of $75 (Cars and SUV’s)–STILL HAVE SOME AVAILABLE

Daily rate of $100 (Vans) —SOLD OUT

DAILY RATE INCLUDES STATE RENTAL SURCHARGE FEE

4% TAX IN ADDITION

Kona Pick Up/Drop Off Fee: $150

Hilo: FREE

Office location :

1177 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo.

Less than two miles from airport.

When exiting airport, continue straight through intersection at the light.

When you hit Kilauea Avenue, our office is on the right hand side corner.

Still Looking For Your Holiday Rental?

While the major rental companies are quickly running out of available car rentals for the busy holiday season, we still have plenty of cars available for your reservation! We are committed to providing you with a safe, clean, and reliable vehicle for a lower cost than you would find with larger companies. If you don’t ‘need’ to drive a brand new car on the island, and would like to support a small, locally- owned company, make a reservation with Rainbow Car Rentals :). If you find a better deal, we will beat it by 5%!

Make an Online Reservation

Step 1. Click Here to Complete your Reservation/Contract form
Step 2. Once we receive your reservation, we will go over the details and determine which vehicles are available during the time period you requested, and determine the total price.
Step 3. Complete reservation by making payment. You can either enter payment information through reservation form, or call to make payment. We will not process any card information without speaking to you first to verify your reservation details/total cost/ and to make arrangements for delivery/and or your vehicle pick up at our office located at 1177 Kilauea Ave, Hilo. We accept all major debit and credit cards and use a secure payment processor (Square).

 

Click Here to Make Your Reservation