Kauai Transportation: Do You Need a Rental Car?

Kauai is known as Hawaii’s “Garden Isle”—it’s lush, tropical, and feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Unlike busier islands like Oahu or even Maui, Kauai is quieter and offers a more laid-back, off-the-beaten-path vibe. You won’t find skyscrapers or highways here, but instead, a lot of untouched nature (and chickens everywhere)!

I’m a Hawaii travel planner who’s navigated all of Hawaii’s islands, and I’m here to help you decide if you need to rent a car or if there are other ways to explore.

While planning Kauai transportation, don’t miss my Ultimate Guide to Kauai With Kids for everything you need to know before your trip.

Do You Need a Rental Car on Kauai?

Short answer: Yes, in most cases, you’ll want a rental car on Kauai. Here’s why that’s especially true if you’re traveling with kids.

• Freedom to Explore: Kauai’s best attractions—like the kid-friendly beaches of Poipu or the laidback surf culture of Hanalei—are spread out across the island. With a rental car, you can explore at your own pace and make impromptu stops without worrying about schedules. Plus, it’s much easier to haul your beach gear, stroller, and snacks from place to place.

• Island Layout: Unlike Oahu, where public transit is more developed, Kauai’s attractions are more difficult to access without a car.

• Family Logistics: With kids, there’s a lot of “stuff” involved—car seats, snacks, extra clothes, and the inevitable “oh no” moments. A rental car gives you a convenient home base wherever you go.

Tip: We always book with Discount Hawaii Car Rental, which offers great rates, no prepayment, and free cancellations. Book early to snag a deal and know that prices climb during peak seasons.

If you’re planning to explore the island’s best beaches, check out my Kauai Beaches for Families guide to help you plan your adventure.

When to Skip the Rental Car

There are a few scenarios where skipping a rental car might make sense:

• Resort Priority: If your plan is to lounge by the resort pool everyday, you may not want a car. Some resorts, like the Sheraton Kauai Resort, have everything you need within walking distance.

• Part-Time Rental: If you plan on hanging at the resort for most of the time, you can stack your adventures into a few days so you only have to rent a car for part of your trip. Most people pick up their rental car at Lihue airport, but shuttle services to your resort are available (see below) and Kauai makes it possible to rent a car in Poipu and also on the North Shore in Hanalei.

Pro Tip: Poipu, on the South Shore, is especially walkable. Additionally, many family-friendly tours and activities offer pick-up and drop-off services!

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car on Kauai?

The average cost to rent a car on Kauai is around $70 per day, though prices can spike during peak seasons, so it’s best to book early. And don’t forget to factor in hotel parking fees! Some charge a whopping $40 or more a night to vallet.

Some of our favorite resorts on Kauai—like the Grand Hyatt and Koloa Landing—include parking in their daily resort fees, while others might charge extra.

To get the best rates, I always recommend using Discount Hawaii Car Rental, which offers great deals, no prepayment, free cancellation, and an extra driver at no additional cost.

Airport Shuttles

If you decide against renting a car, arranging transportation from the Lihue Airport to your hotel or vacation rental is a must. You can pre-book a shared or private airport shuttle, and some even offer a lei greeting to welcome you to the island in true Hawaiian style.

Tip: Many of Kauai’s best kid-friendly restaurants and beaches are within easy reach from popular resorts.

What About Public Transportation?

While the idea of hopping on a local bus may seem adventurous, Kauai’s public transportation system is fairly limited, especially when you have kids in tow.

Kauai Bus

Kauai does have a bus system, but the routes are limited and tend to run on “island time” (read: slow). If you’re planning to stick close to the resort or explore only a couple of spots, the Kauai Bus could work. But if you have a packed itinerary with plans to see the best kid-friendly beaches, renting a car is still your best bet.

Other Transportation Options

If you’re not renting a car, there are other ways to get around the island. Just keep in mind that these options can be pricier and less convenient, especially if you’re exploring with little ones.

• Taxis: Available but expensive, especially for longer distances.

• Ride-Sharing: Uber, Lyft, and locally-owned Holoholo are available in some parts of Kauai, though they can be hard to find in more remote areas.

• Bikes: If you want to explore the island more leisurely, consider renting bikes from Kapa’a or Poipu.

• Scooter Rentals: Scooters can be fun for zipping around, but they’re not ideal for families with small children.

• North Shore Shuttle: If you’re staying on Kauai’s North Shore, the GoHaena Shuttle provides service to popular spots like Haena State Park and Hanalei, but you’ll need reservations in advance. Check the shuttle schedule and stops here.

Is Driving Around Kauai Easy?

Yes! Kauai may look rugged and wild, but the roads are well-paved, and the island itself is relatively small. Most of the main attractions are easy to access by car, and it’s hard to get lost on an island with only one major road running along the coast.

Just keep in mind that Kauai’s slower pace extends to its roads. The island vibe here is relaxed, so if you’re in a rush or expecting mainland-style driving, you’ll stick out (and not in a good way).

Tips for Renting a Car on Kauai

• Car Seats: Hawaii law requires car seats for young children, so make sure to bring yours from home or reserve one with your car rental company. Most airlines let you check car seats for free.

• Book Early: It’s always a good idea to reserve your rental car as far in advance as possible, especially if you’re visiting during a busy season. Discount Hawaii Car Rental is my go-to for securing the best rates.

• Jeep Adventures: If you’re up for a bit of fun, consider renting a Jeep to cruise around the island—just remember that Kauai’s frequent rain showers might make a convertible less ideal!

• Costco Gas: If you’re looking to save on fuel, fill up at Costco near Lihue. It’s usually cheaper than other stations on the island.

Enjoy Kauai’s Slower Pace

When it comes to getting around Kauai, the best advice I can give is this: slow down. Kauai’s pace is relaxed, and rushing from one place to the next won’t get you anywhere faster—it’ll just add unnecessary stress.

Let island time set the tone for your trip, roll down the windows, and enjoy the ride.

Ready to plan more than just transportation? Be sure to explore my
Kauai Activities Guide!