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Cheap Car Rental Lihue airport

Cheap Car Rental Lihue airport

Car rental Lihue Airport

Lihue Airport (LIH) is the primary airport on the Island of Kauai. The island is the fourth largest of Hawaii and is also known as the “Garden Island”, which is a quite accurate description. Imagine emerald green valleys with cascading waterfalls and tropical rainforests. Kauai is the island of your dreams! Some parts are only accessible by sea or air, which will guarantee you with breathtaking views. There are also plenty of other secrets to explore on the Island of Kauai and hiring a car at Lihue Airport is the best way to discover them.

Lihue Airport

Lihue Airport is located about 1.5 miles east of Lihue, on the southeast coast of the island of Kauai. The airport offers domestic, overseas and interisland flights. Various airlines such as Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and United Airlines operate through Lihue Airport.

Shops and restaurants at Lihue Airport

Lihue Airport offers a variety of shopping and dining options to take your pick from. Satisfy your hunger by grabbing a sandwich, burger or a snack from the food kiosk or one of the restaurants. Try some of the local favorites and indulge in the sophisticated tastes of the exotic island. Or do some last minute shopping on souvenirs or reading materials. The shops and restaurants opening hours are based on the flight schedules. Other facilities such as ATMs can be found in the Main Lobby and in each Baggage Claim Area.

Rent a car at Lihue Airport

To pick up your rental car at Lihue Airport, follow the airport signs for baggage claim. After collecting your bags, exit and walk across the street where you’ll find the car hire booths. Both pick up and drop off is behind the supplier’s respective rental car booth. Lihue Airport represents eight major rental car suppliers:

Exploring the Island of Kauai

After picking up your rental car at Lihue Airport it’s time to get on the road and to explore this tropical Hawaiian island. Whether you’re looking for adventure, romance or pure relaxation, Kauai has it all. The island offers beautiful beaches, exciting water sports and stunning landscapes. The beaches range from calm, family-friendly bays to perfect waves for surfing. Other ways to enjoy some time on or in the water are kayaking, snorkeling and fishing. On land you’ll find unique cultural landmarks and hiking trails that lead to amazing sceneries.

Kauai is divided in different regions. The North Shore is a true paradise for outdoor lovers, the East Side is known for coconut palms that grow here, Lihue is the island’s government and commercial center, the South Shore offers cultural, historical and geological highlights and beautiful beaches and the in the West Side you’ll find the charming Hanapepe Town, Kokee State Park and much more.

Lihue Airport car hire at HolidayCars

Hire your car at Lihue Airport with HolidayCars and you’ll be guaranteed of the best price. All you have to do is search, compare and book!

Special Alert

If you’ll be exploring Kauai by rental car, it’s important to keep in mind that from August 2018 visitors won’t have access to one lane of Kuhio Highway between Waikoko and Haena. Due to safety concerns, Hanalei Beach Park around Black Pot Beach is currently closed. Also remaining closed is Haena State Park, including the Kalalau Trail. For more information and the latest updates, please check the Hawaiian government site and the Hawaiian Tourism Authority.

Contact

3901 Mokulele Loop, Lihue, HI 96766, United States
Tips and experiences for Lihue airport

Our customers rated Lihue airport with an average of 9.0 based on 96 ratings, and these are the most recent tips, experiences and highlights.

11-11-2021
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says:
Renting a car through thrifty was affordable, convenient, and painless! The pick up location was a two minute shuttle ride from the terminal, and we were on our way very shortly despite the airport being very busy. We got a great looking Ford Explorer and it was the perfect car for driving a surfboard around the island. The car was both fuel efficient and spacious and everything you need for driving and adventuring around to hike and surf and do anything you might want to do around any of the islands! We stayed in Kapa’a and it was the perfect location because it’s basically equidistant to both Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast. Plus there are lots of wonderful beach resorts and hotels, a plethora of delicious restaurants (would strongly suggest JO2, Street Burger, the beachside Lava Lava Beach Club). We took the car to the Na Pali coast for a gorgeous hike in Ke’e State Park (you need to reserve a park pass a few weeks in advance) and a boat tour of the coast as well as a day of laying at the beach, surfing, and drinking and dining in Hanalei. We also took the car to Waimea Canyon for the most beautiful views we’ve ever seen and stopped in Poipu Beach for more surfing, beach lounging, and tasty food and beverages there as well. We would definitely recommend all of these breathtaking and super fun activities and Thrifty at Lihue Airport made it all possible and very easy! 10/10
11-11-2021
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Waimea Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," is one of Kauai's amazing attractions. Red rocks, highlighted with vibrant green vegetation, waterfalls, and expansive canyonlands carved 3,00 feet deep await. But, you must plan your visit to avoid the frequent cloudy weather that can obscure this western region of the island. The rocky Kilauea Point coast with picturesque lighthouse and bird sanctuary is a "must see" on the island's north shore. Look for Hawaii's endangered native goose, the nene, and numerous cliff roosting seabirds, along with passing whales. Kauai's south shore has many opportunities to experience and explore, including renown Po'ipu Beach, one of the finest beaches on the island. Nearby is "Spouting Horn," an ancient cast lava tube that funnels incoming ocean waves to create a soaring, geyser-like fountain of wonder. Spouting Horn is particularly impressive on storm driven high tides. Just down the road is the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Visitors take a guided shuttle bus tour, then walk through a plant paradise on their own self-guided journey of discovery. After a visit, you'll understand why Kauai is called "the garden island."
09-11-2021
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1. Plan well in advance. 2. Compare vendors for best values. 3. Make reservations well in advance of trip. 4. Do not overpack. 5. BE flexible because the unanticipated can happen. 6. Rent your vehicle from Advantage
07-11-2021
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Limited food options for travelers making connections.
02-11-2021
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Take the car to visit all the waterfalls. There is a wonderful secret Grove of rainbow eucalyptus. Take raingear as the weather is unexpected. Look for signs for local fish. Go to the fruit market to get fresh fruit. Look for people who can open up coconuts for you in the parking lot. Go to the markets and bring the food back to your hotel. Eat on the beach!
01-11-2021
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When you rent a car, they give you a chance to note any damage to the car. Be sure to make note of everything, and take a picture with your cell phone, in case the rental company disputes the claim when you return the car. When leaving Hawaii, you must pass an agricultural inspection. You are not allowed to take any produce, plants (without an agricultural inspection sticker) or live creatures with you. This may sound obvious, but this applies to things you might not think about, like live coral and fresh flowers. We also had several tangerines in our bags to eat on the plane, and we had to surrender those. Also, don't try to take a live-flower lei.
29-10-2021
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Fill your own gas. Drive safely when driving. Wear your shoes every day. Drink soda. Only sometimes. Bye!
24-10-2021
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This airport is very easy to fly out of in the morning, no lines. The afternoon flights all leave around the same time so the wait times can be very long, be prepared and arrive early for afternoon flights!
17-10-2021
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Research reviews!
14-10-2021
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I would definitely drive to Waimea Canyon to hike and wee the "Pacific Grand Canyon". Go kayaking with the humpback whales. Do a helicopter tour of the island Go on a boat and snorkel in the Napali Coast. Rent a bike and ride on the Coconut Coast trail.
12-10-2021
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1) Leave lots of time for flight clearance at Lihue. 2) Check the office closing times form the car rental agencies especially for late evening arrivals. 3) Make sure you check that you have all your belongings with you before heading to the car return. 4) Be prepared for very abrupt,TSA agents so go in serene and rested. 5)If you plan to take food for on your flight get it before you are at the airport. Lihue has very limited food service choices. 6)Bring fully charged devices as in airport charging opportunities are limited.
09-10-2021
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There is nothing better then landing at this airport and walking off the jetway to smiling faces and helpful people. We were excited to begin our vacation and they were excited to help us get there! Mahalo for a great experience on both ends of a perfect trip! MUST-DOs: 1. Drive up to Waimea Canyon - most beautiful Sight/view I have ever seen! 2. Hike first 4 miles of Kalalau Trail. Take the shuttle to trailhead at He’ena State Park - DO NOT DRIVE- super easy and convenient! Hanakapi‘ai Falls is well worth the tough hike 4-miles in. Swimming beneath these falls makes the world go quiet! Tennis shoes okay, but your feet will appreciate hiking shoes! 3. Visit the Princeville Resort on north shore for an amazing view of Hanalei Bay, the mountains, and an excellent dinner. Free valet and enjoy the beach or just stop in for the view with a mai tai! You can access the pool and chairs by purchasing a day pass if you would like to enjoy these amenities, but costs nothing to plop your towel on the beach and have lunch at the pool! 4. From airport if you are heading north, stop in Kapa’a for a Bubba’s Burger! Just yum! If you are headed south, stop in at Puka Dog in Poipu for the best hotdog ever!
04-10-2021
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1) Stay in the east side of the Kauai island so that you can see sun rise every day if the weather is good. 2) Book the shuttle bus before going to Haena state park. There is no parking there. 3) Save two days for Waimea Canyon Park because lots of beautiful trails to hike. 4) Take helicopter tour with door off. Otherwise wearing dark cloth to avoid reflection. 5) Visit grand Hyatt it has beautiful garden. 6) Snorkeling in Poipu beach. It's the best place to see turtles and fishes.
28-09-2021
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says:
Get out and see wherever you are. Do not be stagnant. Move and see your surrounding. Synthesize with nature and the culture in which you visit.
28-09-2021
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Wear comfortable clothes and give yourself plenty of time prior to your flight to check in so you don’t start your trip off stressed and angry.
26-09-2021
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says:
Plan with extra time TSA is slow so is the airlines checking agents . We were 2 hrs ahead of time at the airport still had to run to catch our flight. Also enjoy the fruits in the island, TSA does not allow to take it them to mainland
22-09-2021
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Sidewalk on other side of road to shuttle was quirky
22-09-2021
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says:
Must do's Waimea canyon, kayaking the Wailua river, spouting horn and a luau. Went to a slack key concert with the McAllasters and loved it! Must drive around the island. Don't forget to get poke and island fish! The local people are very friendly and deserve a thumbs up. Watch out for traffic in Kappo.
20-09-2021
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Pack light and use a carry-on suitcase as this is Hawaii. Weather is usually warm. Pack light weight rain jacket or small umbrella for occasional rain. Hawaii is casual so formal clothes are unnecessary. Lightweight walking shoes are handy to have. Empty plastic water bottle is always something to have with you inside airport terminals.
14-09-2021
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says:
Great value. Decent car for value.
13-09-2021
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says:
Have fun but also stay vigilant while traveling. Keep your valuables out of sight by keeping them in the truck of your car before arriving at your destination. Wake up early so you can make the most of your day and sometimes not having an itinerary makes it that much more adventurous! Always, always take lots of pictures and if you see something you like you should most definitely buy it because you may not come across it again later on during your trip. Travel with a water thermos to stay hydrated, because it’s easy to forget to drink water when your out having fun! There’s nothing worth more then the experiences you make when traveling the world!
07-09-2021
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Plan every step of your trip, i.e., restaurants, to do's, sights to see and meals other than eating out. your trip will be better the more planning you do.
05-09-2021
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says:
Definitely rent from Holiday Cars and Dollar, was super easy to catch the shuttle and the driver was very helpful and loaded and unloaded all our millions of bags, the people were amazingly nice behind the counter. I expected to have confrontation regarding our type of vehicle but was actually offered an even better one than I what we originally ordered. Overall really good experience!
03-09-2021
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says:
Pretty Straightforward. Get off the plane, gather your luggage and take the shuttle to your rental car company. Quick sign up and the car is ready for you to drive off to your destination.
02-09-2021
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It’s good to plan but try to be flexible. Sometimes it’s good to go with the flow. You never know what you might discover.
11-08-2021
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says:
Lihue Airport is a small airport and everything is close, so getting in and out is quick and simple. There is an Agriculture Inspection station at each end. Use the one at the same end of the terminal as your airline. The two ends of the terminal are not connected, so if you have to take your bags outside again to get to your airline, you will have to send your bags through the AI scanner again. Security is more thorough at Lihue than most airports I have been through. I use an "airport security friendly" laptop backpack and had my laptop on one side and a 7 inch tablet on the other. Other airport security screeners let this pass with no questions, but Lihue Security pulled my backpack aside, did a visual inspection, and they rescanned it with my tablet being scanned separately. They also did a visual inspection of my wife's purse, but I didn't get an explanation.
08-08-2021
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Good to have a mini van vs. a car. Good service. People were polite & friendly, that matters to us. Reasonable price. I would recommend service to my friends and family.
04-08-2021
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says:
It’s a small airport, checking in or arriving at the airport and getting a rental is pretty fast and easy. They have enough shops inside the terminal that covers your needs. No traffic, everything is calm and people are pretty nice. Just be aware when you go to your departure gates they will be a second screening of your carry ons, make sure not to have fresh fruits or veggies with you they will remove them. You can eat them when your in the main hall before entering the gate seating area. They do let you take in already pre-made salads from stores.
04-08-2021
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Plan your trip carefully and consider one way airfare for flexibility as it doesn't cost as much as the fee for changing a flight if necessary or desired.
26-07-2021
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says:
Lihue airport is compact and easy to get around. Fairly congested check-in area. Check-in luggage is weighed and tagged and then you take it to the adjoining area to be put on a conveyor belt. Parking for a short period to pick up family cost $3. Limited places for refreshments. Appears to be no seating that enables you to lay down,
13-07-2021
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says:
Nice, small airport. You can't get lost! If going on a long flight somewhere off island, be sure to layer your clothing. Some areas at the airport are not air conditioned and can get warm. Be sure to give yourself ample time to arrive to the airport before your flight. Kauai only has one main road, and if an accident occurs you might risk being late. That being said, I stayed near in Kapaa and it was a nice 10 min drive to the airport! There is also a shuttle to the car rentals. Enjoy your stay!
04-07-2021
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Small airport so security is overwhelmed at peak times and can back up. Arrive earlier than you would at other small airports.
28-06-2021
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I love this little, charming airport and it's laid back vibe. Everyone is very friendly and helpful.
15-06-2021
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The airport was great! The staff was nice, friendly, and positive. We enjoyed our flight and experience in the airport.
15-06-2021
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says:
Plan ahead and download an offline map before you go. You would never know if there is connection in remote areas. Compare rental car prices on different websites to get your best rate. Act early-the earlier you book, the more likely you will get a lower rate. You don't need to buy additional insurance on site as long as you have your own car insurance. Finally, bring a cell phone stand along so you would feel like driving your own car!
06-06-2021
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says:
The airport was very easy to navigate, but there are not many food options for a long flight. The island of Kauai was a magical place! I suggest driving all the way around the coast in both directions and of course don't miss Waimea Canyon. Drive dirt roads with no signs you never know what beautiful beaches, mountains or towns you will discover. Make sure to hike some trails! You have to put some work towards seeing Kauai's most beautiful places, But it is well worth it! The food is incredibly good! The Thai and Korean food is some of the best I have ever had! Some favorite restaurants were street burger, kiawe roots, kalaheo cafe and kalypsos bar and grill! And finally you must go to Hanapepe art festival on Friday nights! I thought it was an amazing way to get to meet local people, support art, eat amazing food and listen to Hawaiian music!
18-03-2021
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* Check a rental car completely before driving off the rental lot. Take a picture of any concerns next to the slip where you indicate any problems with the car.
12-02-2021
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says:
This is one of the easiest airports that I’ve negotiated. I was through security within 30 min and it wouldn’t be more than a 5 min walk to any of the gates. Not too many food and gift options, so it would be much better to prepare with food prior if you have a long journey home. The parking and shuttle stop for car rentals is literally right across from the airport. Renting a car is 100% the best way to see the island and our car rental with budget was as smooth as can be with no surprises.
04-12-2020
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says:
First off you need to visit the Na Pali coast. It is stunning. We booked this excursion with Captain Andy’s and had an awesome day! We saw humpback whales, spinner dolphins and a monk seal. Next go snorkelling in Poipu beach. This is the best snorkelling on the island during the winter months and monk seals are often spotted here. Poipu is also a great place to shop and buy swimwear. Hanalei is another great place to visit. It has a beautiful bay, white sandy beaches, a pier, shopping, and some nice restaurants. You should also consider prebooking a luau and Kauai mountain tubing. Both of these activities fill up fast. On your last day if you have time to spare, visit the mini golf and bontanical garden.
03-12-2020
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says:
If you have a night flight, make sure your rental car company stays open. We were originally with Budget, which closed at 11pm. Our flight was delayed by 3 hours in LA, and we had to scramble to rebook with a company that would be open when we arrived. It was fortunate that I had actually read the fine print of the contract, so knew to be concerned. To be honest, I figured the rental car company would have an employee stick around if they knew a flight was arriving late (figured that was why they ask for arriving flight number) but found out they didn't. We were relieved to find Thrifty, and it was open when we finally arrived after midnight.
09-11-2020
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says:
Pick your time to go on the North side. Traffic can be a problem. As of this date (Feb. 2019) the road was blocked at Hanalei Bay. If you want to explore hiking trails, get a 4-wheel drive and not a passenger car. Some access roads cannot be used by regular cars.
18-10-2020
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says:
Perfect place to rent. Very close to airport and closes late at night. If you plan on doing hikes and heading to different beaches, go with a small SUV. But you can get around with a car as well
25-09-2020
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says:
We had checked baggage and finding the correct place to go to drop off checked baggage was the most challenging thing about this airport. Our flight was at 9:30 pm so late enough for the airport to be quiet. I did some walking back and forth with luggage to find out where we needed to go. My suggestion is that you ask the first airport worker you see which direction to go to save yourself some confusion and schlepping. This is a small airport so don't expect a lot of shops and dining selection. From what I saw, there was one book/magazine shop that had snacks and some gifts and a second shop next door where I bought my water for the plane. There was also a nice little bar where we had a beer but did not order food. So if you like a lot of selection, you won't get it at this airport but its an easy airport to navigate and everyone is very friendly.
24-09-2020
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says:
Enjoy as much of the island of Kauai in the time you have available. There are some great dining establishments and, if you haven’t been to a Luau try one. The beaches are spectacular and the waves are very high. Expose yourself to as much of the local culture as you can fit in.
22-09-2020
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says:
The Lihue airport is a very easy place when arriving and departing. Baggage is easy to retrieve and easy to check in. Be sure to not bring raw fruits or vegetables into the state or out of the state. They are not allowed due to agricultural restrictions. The TSA personnel are good, always watchful, and those I met were very specific.
19-09-2020
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Small airport; easy to get in and out. Dollar is close and convenient. Shuttles run regularly so only a short wait.
19-09-2020
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says:
Great airport. Quick deplaning and out to the rental shuttle. Quick trip to the rental agency and into the car. Lihue is very close by and offers a lot to see and do. Checkout Barefoot Bistro below Dukes. Good food and great view.
18-09-2020
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As always, the staff at the airport were very accommodating and polite. I guess working and living in Kauai would make anybody like that.
13-09-2020
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Easy small airport to rent cars, Dollar was good and reliable. I liked the rate we got and it included the gas option. WHen I arrived the car ony had 1.2 tank, so they pulled me around and filled the tank all the way up . This was very nice.
06-09-2020
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Drive all over the island. Keep a map with you but go down side streets and see how the locals live. Go to the Farmer’s markets! There is one every day of the week! Wonderful produce and food! Meet the people! Live, free music is everywhere!
04-09-2020
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A little gem of an airport, Lihue is compact and as mellow as the rest of Kauai. Airport displays of local history and culture are worth a read. More recent kiosk display on invasive plants and how visitors can help should be required reading on arrival. Car rental services at Lihue were very convenient. Renters should study the island and airport map before driving out of the lot. Intersections of spur roads with the main highway come up very quickly on leaving the airport, very easy to make a wrong turn at the first light. Visitors need to drive with patience and aloha. Traffic never moves fast; remember you are on vacation!
22-08-2020
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Always make a reservation and be prepared for inclement weather in Hawaii.
20-08-2020
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When in Lihue airport get there early enough to weigh luggage and dispose of forbidden fruits. I recommend Thrifty for rental car and think the Hyundai Elantra for the money and very good fuel mileage and economy.
10-08-2020
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says:
The audio announcements at the airport are accurate, though the video announcements are delayed or misleading, causing some travelers to not understand whether or not their flight is delayed. Do not arrive to the airport particularly early for an inter-island flight, one hour is plenty of time. The signage for finding the rental car offices is also a bit confusing, you may need to either contact the rental car company or explore a bit to find the shuttle. The airport itself is very conveniently located, as access roads on Kauai basically follow a horseshoe shape with the airport located at the toe. The Lihue area has plenty of accommodations and facilities a short drive from the airport, however after exiting the terminal you are stuck with few options until you leave the airport property. Flights to and from the airport are convenient and will get you to similarly-sized or larger population centers on Oahu, Maui, or the big island. If you don't have access to a rental car during your stay, there are public transportation options from the airport to the downtown area of Lihue.
18-07-2020
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says:
Would advise to go to Costco to get food is your staying in a condo before going there so you have food and drinks on hand. Get your gas at Costco cause it’s the cheapest on the island. Visit the Kauai coffee and get samples but buy it at Walmart. A lot cheaper. Do your souvenir shopping at Walmart. Try the different local plate lunches. Attend the Hanapepe Friday night event. Real local style with variety of food.
14-07-2020
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says:
Advantage is on top of their game. They know what you need before you walk in the door. Having your proper I.D. is enough to get you signed up and on your way enjoying the vacation you are there for. Their transport to and from airport is easy to find and gets you to their door. 'No worries' is their motto. Thanks, John D. (San Marco's, CA)
30-06-2020
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I would suggest staying in poipu. It’s probly the best part of the island to stay. Lots of great spots to eat and snorkel. I recommend the Jeep Wrangler for travel because there are some roads you don’t want to go on with your normal size car.
29-06-2020
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Great airport, nice people, no concerns.
23-06-2020
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says:
Small airport, no complaints. Hawaiian airlines was really busy around noon on a Saturday, we almost missed our inter Island flight. Plan to arrive 1.5 hours or more ahead of your flight
23-06-2020
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says:
Po’omau Canyon Trail- it’s worth the challenge. Absolutely breath taking!
06-06-2020
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says:
Rent with Dollar. By far the most affordable rental car company I have ever used! Book in advanced if you can, but even a last minute booking like the one I made is great because Dollar offered the best deal. The money saved can be used for other deals or even upgrading to a more luxury vehicle. Will definitely book through Dollar every chance I get!
03-06-2020
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We enjoyed our helicopter ride on Sunshine. Took a nice kayak ride with Ali I rentals. Drove up to Princeville for a great lunch and shopping trip. Loved the Tree Tunnel, drove thru it several times. Snorkeled at Poipu and saw beautiful fish in rather calm waters. Ate at several local food trucks. The prices were reasonable and the Shaved Ice was something we had never eaten, and loved it. Santa Maria rest had great food and live music.
30-05-2020
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says:
Don't forget to bring a bug spray all the time with you. Plan weather related activity(Na Pali, Helicopter, so on) earlier for cancellation due to bad weather so you will have a chance to reschedule. Do river related activities and swim in waterfall basin or river. It's refreshing!
28-05-2020
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says:
I like to look at areas of interest prior to travel and mark them on a map. This helps myself navigate the area and use my time wisely. I also bring spices and some other condiments so i don't have to buy them. It's one of the easiest ways to save money is to cook most meals yourself. Local spots are a good way to taste the local flavors as well. Booking with holidaycars.com is one the first things i do after booking my flight!
23-05-2020
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says:
Advantage Shuttle was on time and the driver was great in assisting with luggage. Unless you are planning on going off the paved roads, you really don't need an SUV unless you need the space.
19-05-2020
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says:
Lihue airport is easy to navigate. Upon arrival, follow the herd of people to the baggage claim area. If you checked luggage, then collect it in a timely fashion. If you didn't check luggage, then proceed to the curbside area for pickup. In the event you rented a vehicle, simply cross the main crosswalk at the middle of the airport to board the shuttle bus specific to your rental company. Because Lihue airport is small, upon leaving the island it's wise to arrive with plenty of time before your flight. Unlike two years ago, some airlines now have check-in kiosks; however, there will still be a line if you're checking any luggage. Be sure to put any bag you plan on checking through the agricultural check-point, before proceeding to your specific airline. After checking-in and placing the luggage tags on your checked-in bag, you will likely need to take the bags to the area with all checked luggage regardless of the airline on which you're traveling. Once you've passed through security (yes, TSA Pre-check is available), just be sure not to purchase any food items prohibited by the agricultural department. You will be required to pass your carry-on luggage through an additional screening machine before accessing the gate area.
24-10-2019
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says:
We lived in our car basically driving every around Hawaii. Make sure to get a comfortable car, you’ll be going every where.
07-10-2019
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says:
If one is considering to Kauai and like/loves to hike, this is the Hawaiian Island for you. I enjoyed my entire visit with the exception of the rainy weather (unusual for this time of year and frequency). The waterfalls and the helicopter rides were also great, one truly has to experience Kauai from air, land and sea. As this was during the winter months, the waters around Kauai are rough and unpredictable and many of the “sea caves” and some beaches are submerged under water, if one appreciates snorkeling or sea cave discovery, visit this beautiful island during the spring-summer months. Be mindful that during times of heavy rain, flash flooding is a common occurance. A rental vehicle is a must on Kauai, a 4x4 is not really required, however may reduce 1-2 miles off certain hiking trails. Experience the most beautiful island of the Hawaiian chain.
19-09-2019
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says:
Get to Poipu Beach for snorkeling, turtles, and body boarding.
10-09-2019
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says:
Be kind and patient with overworked employees. Especially if they are working over the holidays. I ask every employee I encounter for a restaurant recommendation. Find the gas station closest to the airport when you leave the airport. This way, you'll know exactly where to go when returning the vehicle. Always carry a paper boarding pass. There are some airports that don't accept digital and your phone might die.
09-09-2019
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says:
We took the Jurassic Park helicopter trip and it was breathtaking! Well worth the money! All areas of this island are beautiful. We had dinner at the St Regis hotel after taking a hike on the northern coast...a great way to end the day. We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn, which is a great location...right in the middle of the east coast so we could easily get to everything. This is lovely island, enjoy your trip!
04-09-2019
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says:
Airport is clean and easily accessible.
01-09-2019
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says:
Airport is quick and easy to work within plus close to car rentals.
28-03-2019
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says:
1) Watch out for other cars because there are a lot of other tourists driving on Kauai who don't know where they are driving. 2) Make sure that you wear sunglasses because the low sun can harm your visibility. 3) I noticed that a surprisingly high number of cars were not turning on their headlights while it was getting dark. 4) Kauai has lots of windy roads on the north side and driving up Waemea Canyon so be careful when you go around blind corners. 5) I saw the Kauai police ticketing numerous cars at Haeda State Park that were parked by No Parking signs. So, don't think that you can park in No Parking areas even though you see other cars parked there. 6) Traffic can become very heavy and intense on the twisty, two lane roads so you may feel like you are back on the mainland in an urban city.
20-03-2019
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says:
Don't check luggage unless you can't help it. Waimea canyon is amazing. The town of Waimea itself is very charming itself. We also enjoyed Hanupepe. The swinging bridge is cool, and we loved the book store. Also where Little Fish coffee started out, if I understand correctly. Poipu Beach is good for kids for the most part -- not huge waves this time of year it seems. Overall, great experience.
20-03-2019
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says:
Nice small airport--everything you need and nothing you don't. like long lines!
03-12-2018
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says:
Having been to Kauai quite a number of times, I have done just about every touristy thing there is to do and my advice is to get out and enjoy that gorgeous ocean. The water is so clear and warm and the SUP and snorkeling is excellent!
11-11-2018
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says:
Definitely take a boat trip, visit canyon.
02-11-2018
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says:
Hike the Kalalau Trail if you are up for a strenuous hike. The breathtaking scenery is well worth the effort. If not, do the boat tour or helicopter tour of the Napali Coast. It is unlike anything we have ever seen. All of the beaches are great! We had a wonderful stay at Kauai Beach Villas!
21-10-2018
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says:
the farmers market is a great place to pick up local fresh fruits and vegtables. They have one every day at different places on the island. Homemade baked goods also,very good.
21-10-2018
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says:
Keoki's Restaurant in Poipu, Visit Kauai coffee plantation, Watch for whales and dolphins as we saw many of both.
19-10-2018
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says:
While in Kauai don't be in a hurry. Enjoy the scenery, the people and the overall environment. Hawaii in general and Kauai specifically is/are unique. Suggestion, take some time and review a bit of history of the island chain and its people, your appreciation of the island will be much improved.
15-10-2018
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says:
Take your time exploring the amazing beaches, trails, sunsets, and thrift stores! The more developed spots and outings also have their charm, as do the generally 'earthy' folks who have made the island their home. Helicopter and sailing trips can be fun, but there's plenty to do on-land...and sand! Respect for the native Hawaiian peoples on the roads and in general should be part of your appreciation of their spectacular home. "Aloha" is not just a catch-phrase; it's a spirited view of life...
06-10-2018
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says:
Tour the island and spend at least two weeks here. So much to do it takes at least that long! Best island in Hawaii!!
06-10-2018
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says:
Make sure to stay at least a week. lots to see!
30-09-2018
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says:
Need at least one week to see everything. Hanalei side is better in term of more things to see/do if you like to hang out near the beach.
26-09-2018
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says:
The Napali coast is amazing and there are so many natural sites to see and explore.
20-09-2018
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says:
Love it. Excellent destination.
14-09-2018
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says:
Incredibly beautiful island with diverse scenery and activities. Tip: spend at least a week to fully appreciate this beautiful place.
10-09-2018
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says:
Do it all!!! Some of the best hikes and walks are on Kauai. Kauai also has the best beaches. It's as though all roads lead to either a beautiful beach or lovely road inland. We stayed in both the east side and south side of the island, and loved them both. Also all hotels have beach access, take advantage of this and see the hotels amenities. Everything on the island is beautiful. You can buy great fish along the highways and in Kapaa food trucks have good affordable foods to eat. EverydY there is a farmers market to get good local fruits and vegetables, the vendors are friendly and you can taste for free. I have been to most of the other islands and love Kauai the best and most!!!
08-04-2018
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says:
Enjoy the friendly island
27-03-2018
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says:
Get out and enjoy the sites
22-03-2018
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says:
a great place to snorkel with kids would be Lydgate Beach. Poipu Beach is great for boogie boarding, swimming, and snorkeling. Tunnels Beach is a must and absolutely breathtaking.
22-10-2017
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says:
Staying in Princeville is quite a ways from other activities in Lihue and traffic is often backed up
24-09-2017
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says:
Fly in a day early and stay at the Garden Island Inn to help with jet lag before the vacation starts
06-09-2017
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says:
Tubing tour was fund; eating at a Panda Express is quick and tasty; ask the locals for the best swim and snorkel spots.