Since 1986
✓ Your Kihei car rental, for less. Local experience, over 40 years of established rental-agency partnerships, and straightforward reservations where you pay at the counter—so you spend less time comparing and more time enjoying South Maui’s beaches, snorkeling, whale watching, scenic drives, and unforgettable sunsets.
The Hawaii Car Rental Difference
More freedom for your Kihei trip
| Deep Savings Consistently lower rates than booking direct with major brands. | Risk-Free Reservations Pay directly at the counter on your rental day with no cancellation fees. |
| Bonus Perks Two free additional drivers on Thrifty and Dollar bookings. | Guaranteed Inventory Exclusive fleet availability during sold-out and peak rental periods. |
| Diverse Fleet Brand new SUVs, Wranglers, Convertibles, Passenger Vans, and Economy options. | Convenient Pickup Convenient rental pickup at Kahului Airport (OGG) and participating Kihei locations. |
| Expert Guidance Local agents with 30+ years of Hawaii car rental expertise. | Local Support Proudly 100% Hawaii-owned and operated local business. |
Plan With Confidence
Kihei Car Rental Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a rental car in Kihei, Maui?
Yes, having a rental car in Kihei is highly recommended. While Kihei is walkable in specific beach corridors, a car is necessary to visit Haleakala National Park, drive the Road to Hana, explore Upcountry Maui, or travel to nearby beaches and resorts in Wailea and West Maui.
Is it better to pick up a car at Kahului Airport (OGG) or in Kihei?
Picking up your vehicle at Kahului Airport (OGG)—located about 25–30 minutes north of Kihei—is usually the most convenient and cost-effective option. It eliminates the need for expensive airport taxis or shuttles to South Maui and gives you access to a larger selection of rental vehicles.
Can I rent a car directly in Kihei?
Yes, major rental agencies and local branch offices operate within Kihei and nearby Wailea. Local pickup is convenient if you only need a car for a few days during your stay rather than your entire trip.
What type of car is best for driving around Kihei and South Maui?
An economy or midsize car works great for cruising South Kihei Road and parking at local beach parks. If you plan to explore Haleakala, drive the paved portions of the Road to Hana, or travel with family and beach gear, a midsize SUV or crossover offers extra comfort and clearance.
Is parking easy and free in Kihei?
Parking is generally straightforward in Kihei. Most beach parks (such as Kamaole Beach Parks I, II, and III), shopping centers, and condos offer free parking. However, some luxury resorts in neighboring Wailea may charge daily self-parking or valet fees.
How far is Kihei from Kahului Airport (OGG)?
Kihei is approximately 12 to 15 miles south of Kahului Airport (OGG). The drive takes about 20 to 30 minutes via Highway 311 (Mokulele Highway).
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Kihei?
The standard age requirement is 21. Drivers between the ages of 20 and 24 can rent through select agency partners (such as Dollar and Thrifty) with a standard young driver surcharge fee.
Can I drive a rental car from Kihei to the Road to Hana?
Yes, standard rental cars can be driven on the main, paved route of the Road to Hana (Highway 360) to Hana Town and Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools). Always check agency terms regarding unpaved back roads beyond Kipahulu.
Are additional drivers free on Kihei car rentals?
While standard agency bookings charge a daily fee per extra driver, booking through Hawaii Car Rental with Dollar and Thrifty includes up to 2 free additional drivers.
Do I have to pay upfront for my Kihei car rental?
No, reservations require zero upfront deposit or prepayment. You pay directly at the counter upon vehicle pickup and can modify or cancel your booking at any time without fees.
Make the Most of Your Rental
Plan Your Kihei Activities & Excursions
Book popular Kihei and South Maui activities and tours through our Viator partner links:
Kihei "One of One" Collection Explore Collection →
Kihei Snorkeling & Diving Book on Viator →
Kihei Molokini Snorkel Tours Book on Viator →
Kihei Whale Watching Book on Viator →
Kihei Luau Experiences Book on Viator →
Haleakalā Tours from Kihei Book on Viator →
Road to Hāna Tours from Kihei Book on Viator →
Explore the Island
Top 10 Things to Do in Kihei & South Maui
From golden sand beach parks and volcanic crater snorkeling to volcanic summit views and scenic drives, these are the South Maui experiences worth building a trip around.
| 01 Explore Kamaʻole Beach Parks (I, II, & III) Spend the day at Kihei's famous golden sand beaches, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and watching sunset. | 02 Snorkel at Molokini Crater Take a short boat tour from nearby Kihei or Maʻalaea Harbor to snorkel the crystal-clear waters of this partially submerged volcanic crater. |
| 03 Drive to Mākena Beach State Park Drive south to "Big Beach," one of Maui's largest unpopulated stretches of sand, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations. | 04 Watch Sunrise at Haleakalā Drive up to 10,023 feet above sea level to experience an unforgettable sunrise above the cloud line at Haleakalā National Park. |
| 05 Drive the Road to Hāna Embark on Maui's iconic highway through rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, ocean cliffs, and black sand beaches. | 06 Spot Turtles at Turtle Town Snorkel along the Maluaka Beach shoreline where Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu) frequently feed along the reef. |
| 07 Whale Watching in Maʻalaea Bay If visiting between December and April, watch migrating humpback whales right off the South Maui shoreline or on an ocean tour. | 08 Stroll & Shop South Kihei Road Explore local open-air markets, casual beachside eateries, shave ice shops, and boutique shopping plazas. |
| 09 Attend a South Maui Luʻau Experience authentic Polynesian culture, traditional Hawaiian buffet dining, and hula dancing against oceanfront sunsets. | 10 Explore Upcountry Maui Take a short scenic drive up the slopes of Haleakalā to visit lavender farms, botanical gardens, and the charming town of Makawao. |