kona taxi
The important Island of Hawaii's beauty is famous and contains one of the most diverse landscape on earth-but it may be as hard to explore because it is charming. From the icy heights of snow-covered volcanoes, to steamy jungles and tropical beaches, to flowing fields of lava, flower choked canyons and wide-open tropical grassland, its landscape is unsurpassed. Generally the grade of your journey for the Big island of hawaii is determined by how much of it you determine to see and the way you set about discovering your own Big island of hawaii adventures. Here are some thoughts around the options for dealing with Hawaii and then for making your way around Hawaii, when you are here.
taxi in kona
Another step to the caliber of your time about the Big island of hawaii is due to the spirit of aloha. Individuals you meet in Hawaii, in general, tend to be open and friendly-quick to assist or befriend-than elsewhere. Here is the tradition of "Aloha". Whenever you meet local residents, if they should request directions and advice in order to hire services or simply in casual conversation, treat all of them with respect, humor and openness-return their spirit of aloha and you'll find your trip, and yourself, deeply enriched for this.
kona taxi
In Hawaii, your smile is the passport.
Dealing with Hawaii
The standing joke among residents of Hawaii when dealing with time, inconvenience and hassle of planing a trip to the mainland is: "This was once far less difficult prior to the bridge blew down"! Of course, there was not ever a bridge spanning the roughly 2500 miles between your Big island of hawaii and mainland USA, but the humor has a tendency to underline the commitment, planning and time it takes to travel to and from Hawaii.
Flying to Hawaii: Certainly the most common, quickest and most affordable (note I did not say "inexpensive") method of getting to Hawaii is to fly. Many major US and international carriers fly to Honolulu on Oahu and along with a host of local and international carriers offer flights from there to all or any one other Hawaiian Islands, like the Big island of hawaii. Kona's airport will be the only one about the Big island of hawaii which has direct flight connections to the US Mainland, Canada, Japan and Australia. Despite styling itself as "Hilo International Airport", flights both to and from Hilo ONLY hook up to other Hawaiian islands.
Although both airports have similar facilities and services, including onsite rental-car agencies and access to public transit, shuttles and taxis, it makes a big difference towards the traveller where they land. Definitely most people to the large Island be in either Kona or the Kohala Resorts which are all on the west side of the island and are between 20 to Forty-five minutes from the Kona airport. If you are remaining in Hilo, it's fine to fly inside; however, Hilo doesn't have the place facilities, fine beaches and great weather of the Kona side and few tourists decide to stay there anymore. Many people booked into resorts around the west side mistakenly take flights into Hilo, as a result of misleading airport name, unaware (as well as misinformed by ignorant but well-meaning travel agents) that they now, at the conclusion of a stressful day's travel plus the fading twilight of the early tropical sunset, face a drive of almost 3 hours, across high mountains as well as on narrow, winding, unfamiliar roads to get to their resort. They only better hope it does not start raining, too.
So-know where you stand staying, fly to the appropriate airport.
If you are flying directly into Kona or flying to Honolulu and becoming a linked flight into Kona or Hilo, you would like to make sure you reserve a seat so you see quite as much of the incredible scenery as possible. Since 90% from the flight has ended open ocean (which seriously isn't as riveting together might expect) you need to wring probably the most enjoyment out of those areas of your flight which do feature scenery. If you are first stopping in Honolulu, located on the port (left) side of the aircraft because of this leg of your trip affords the best views since the plane screams in past Koko Head and over the top of the Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, turns around directly over Pearl Harbor and settles directly into land at Honolulu International Airport. Looking at the starboard side is not as spectacular, however, it provides views of Moloka'i and Maui islands, along with views of Pearl Harbor, the Wai'anae and Ko'olau Mountains of O'ahu and downtown Honolulu just before landing.
Flying into Hilo from O'ahu, one also really wants to lay on the port side of the aircraft. The flight path crosses within the islands of Moloka'i and Maui, skims along the eastern margin of Hawaii Island presenting a wealthy, fascinating panoply of soaring sea cliffs, jungle canyons and volcanic mountains, jaw-dropping waterfalls and crashing surf along the coast. Flying into Kona either directly or from Honolulu is no less wonderfully scenic than flying into Hilo, one wants to be around the starboard side. This provides the traveller great views the hawaiian islands of Maui, Molokini, Lana'i and Kaho'olawe, as well as incredible views from the Big island of hawaii, Kohala Mountain, Mauna Kea, Hualalai and, on clear days, Mauna Loa because the jet cruises in within the Kohala Coast, making land right over Makalwena Beach as well as on to Kona Air-port at Keahole.
Cruise lines and Cargo Ships: There are several cruise liner lines which ply the waters from the Hawaiian Archipelago, however of the ones that service the large Island, most require passengers to book with an entire cruise, meaning that although you may make one or two stops on Hawaii, you will remain in port to get a day, overnight at most of the, before sailing on. Generally, you can't arrive on one ship, disembark for a stay, and catch another ship out.
Of increasing popularity, however, is cruising to Hawaii on cargo ships-cheaper than a cruise line with a totally open and adjustable itinerary, this can be a great substitute for flying. It is both more costly plus more time-consuming (average sailing is 3 days from La to Honolulu, and times are variable for getting after that to the Big island of hawaii) than flying, but it is restful, peaceful and unique. Cargo ships offer spacious passenger cabins and, whilst not the floating feed-lots that cruise lines have a tendency to resemble, the meals on cargo ships is wonderful and plentiful. Perhaps the biggest problem with riding cargo ships to the Big island of hawaii is that about the east side they dock in, let us say, the less desirable a part of Hilo; on the west they dock at Kawaihae, halfway between Kailua Kona and also the resorts from the Kohala coast-in other words, out in the midst of nowhere. Both land many miles from resorts and rental car agencies. However, both docking facilities are serviced by taxis and public transit; if you intend ahead, it should present no problem.
Making your way around Hawaii
Shuttles/Taxis/Limos/Tours: Taxis, needless to say, service both Big Island airports, the metropolitan regions and all the resorts. The taxis, whilst not cheap, aren't as usurious as you might fear and also the drivers generally are knowledgeable, friendly, HONEST and genuinely nice-it's that whole aloha thing. Taxi drivers are content to reply to the questions you have, the silly ones you are type of shy to inquire about; they'll freely give assistance with how to proceed and find out and where to eat and usually act as as helpful as you can. However, many speak in pidgin English that can be nearly impenetrable to the newcomers' ear. You shouldn't be shy about respectfully asking him to repeat himself, and again if necessary-he hears that on just about any fare he carries. Question to write down place names, restaurant names and such-many Hawaiian words usually do not look at all like they way he's saying them and you'll want to be in a position to see the words on maps and signs, or perhaps be capable of ask someone else, later.
Both Kona and Hilo airports are serviced by point-to-point shuttles and limos, whose price is actually quite reasonable and certainly less expensive than the taxis. The drawback here is that there will be many people aboard planning to many diverse destinations-so it requires much more time than the usual taxi.
Many of the larger resorts give you a free limo want to and from your airport and some may even arrange to have your car rental waiting for you on-property when you turn up in the airport...check whenever you make reservations. If available, this is the least personable, but quickest, easiest and most affordable way of getting to your lodgings.
Some boutique tours provided by Hostels and the smaller tour companies will even pick you up at the airport at the outset of their tours, if the arrival time is convenient for the tour schedule; thus, the cost of addressing your resort is made available to the cost of the tour. This method may be worth looking at if you aren't likely to rent an automobile in your stay.
Tipping tour, taxi, limo and shuttle drivers isn't just encouraged, it's their main way to obtain revenue. Remember to return the aloha they showed you.
Rental Cars and Driving Tips: Even though some people choose to not rent cars throughout their stay, counting on tours and public transit to obtain around, you should be aware that there's a reason they refer to it as "The Big Island". Distances between attractions could be long, public transit schedules aren't always convenient and, admit it, it's just a great deal freer, easier plus more independent to get your own wheels. Make sure to thoroughly investigate the online booking agencies before you decide to arrive-ofttimes money saving deals bundling airfare, room and rental car is found, mainly in the slack seasons.
There are 2 kinds of rental car agencies around the Big island of hawaii. The key, international rental car agencies can be found on property at both airports, giving the customer a wide selection of corporate deals and specials-particularly flight-room-car combo deals--as well being a diverse palate of obtainable cars. Another option, frequently a smaller amount expensive designed for long lasting rentals, are the off-property rental agencies. These folks won't generally pick you up at the airport so that you must make your way to their in-town offices, but the choice of vehicles, and rates, are generally wider ranged.
In case you are under 21, the rental companies won't rent to you. In case you are between 21 and 24, they might put in a surcharge to the rental that may be up to twenty-five dollars each day on top of the regular daily fee.
The first question the traveller must answer for themselves is what type of vehicle they will want while on the Big Island. Some rental agencies focus on luxury and exotic cars--Mercedes, Lamborghini, Most highly regarded and such. Others offer Volkswagen Campers and RVs. Many individuals arrive and judge they want to flash round the island in a Mustang or Camaro convertible-which are excellent and fun, however they offer no to protect your personal items plus they severely limit the kinds of roads you are able to drive on, along with almost guaranteeing sun and wind burn. For those travelling to explore the island, you should look at visiting the extra cost of renting a four-wheel drive vehicle-either a jeep or even an enclosed SUV. Most of the mountain country and several of the more interesting beaches and canyons require 4 wheel drive. I would recommend an enclosed SUV so that you do not have to shout being heard, as you do in a jeep, and also have even more protection from the elements and from thieves.
Briefly stated earlier, RVs and Volkswagen Campers are perfect approaches to begin to see the island and obviate the necessity for a pricey hotel. However, RVs are not common on Hawaii and there aren't any RV parks as such; not in the towns of Hilo and Kona there's nowhere to drain the waste tanks, so you've got to make sure to use public venues whenever possible. However you can park and camp free almost anywhere, although most campgrounds bills you an outdoor camping fee with an RV, if you are camping inside the car park.
Motorcycles and scooters could be rented both in Kona and Hilo and therefore are a fun approach to see the island, until it rains. Which happens. It's also difficult to travel with anywhere of luggage on a motorcycle. You will see a burgeoning fraction with the local population zipping about town on scooters (locally, and incorrectly, referred to as "mopeds"). For bikes with engine sizes smaller than 50cc, no motorcycle license and no insurance are essential. The "moped" class vehicle has the same license and road regulations like a bicycle, so it is unsurprising to find out them zip across the the roadside, passing cars stuck in traffic, or pop-up and run down the sidewalk. Should you rent a moped in Hawaii, please do not bring them what sort of locals do; it simply isn't safe. I take advantage of a moped almost exclusively to get around Kailua Town where I live-do not ride your scooter how you see me ride mine.
The price of gas in The hawaiian islands are even worse than you have been led to believe, when selecting a car rental, remember this. Costco in Kona gets the absolute cheapest gas around the island (and it's really handy, close to the airport); the service station off the Akoni Pule Highway in Kohala near mile marker 76 has got the cheapest gas in Kohala as well as the Chevron Station on the Airport turn-off in Hilo has got the cheapest gas in East Hawaii. Keep in mind that the large Island is basically rural-gas stations, particularly in the far north and on the south side with the Island, may not keep regular hours as well as stick with their posted schedule-especially when the surf expires or the fishing is good. In general, outside of the towns of Kona and Hilo, gas is hard to locate after about 6 later in the day. Personally, i don't ever let my gas tank acquire more than half empty, ever, due to this very reason. Certainly, you should never allow it acquire more than half empty when on the south side of the Island; you should be certain to fill up before late afternoon when you've got the opportunity, definitely before going into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (you'll stay longer and use more gas than you planned because, count on me, oahu is the coolest place, ever) and before crossing the Saddle Road.
Driving times between attractions around the Big island of hawaii are more than you could expect, because of the actual mileage between points of interest. This can be simply because much of the "highway" product is composed of winding, narrow, two-lane blacktop with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour. One more reason drives take longer than expected is really because you are going to want to pull over and look, stop and explore, take your time and revel in. Since the bumper sticker says: "Slow down, Brah-dis ain't da mainland!" About this note, many local residents will give hills and blind corners, even into oncoming traffic; they understand the road, you don't-don't follow their lead. Wanting to drive just like the locals drive is like jumping into the ocean and trying to surf like they surf-it is just not a very bright idea. Local custom is to eschew usage of turn signals and horn; this is another custom you mustn't emulate.
The authorities around the Big Island are well-trained, serious professionals. However, most cruise around within their personal cars (using a blue light on top) and can be tough to spot (a Ford Mustang or Toyota Rav4 using a light bar? It happens...). They're particularly intent on drunk drivers, speed limits and child restraints/seal belts. Aloha, respect and honesty significantly help toward creating any interactions with the Hawaii County Police nicer. This isn't Louisiana or some Third World banana republic-do not think about offering a bribe if you are stopped with a Hawaii County Cop. On the subject of police, it is local custom to flash your brights at on-coming traffic if there is a cop behind you. Be involved in this your own discretion, however this 's all those folks are flashing to you.
There are feral goats and sheep (feral donkeys over the highway in Kohala!), wild pigs, feral cats and dogs that present driving hazards, especially through the night. Fruit for example mango, avocado and guava frequently fall, en masse, into the road and produce a slimy hazard, particularly to motorcycles. Around, await cyclists, pedestrians and skateboarders (have a look at those guys skateboarding towards the beach making use of their surfboards under their arms!). Kailua Kona will be the proud the place to find the Ironman World Championship Triathlon and many runners and cyclists fully utilize, and rigorously defend, their rights of way; smile, wave and yield, OK? You found have fun: relax. The important Island can also be Big Sky country...driving east to the sunrise or west to the sunset is painful and hazardous; make an effort to plan your day you need to.
Do not leave valuables in your car, not the trunk. Ever. The locals are friendly, but however, many are frisky and high value items will evaporate from the car with alarming alacrity. Consider any spot frequented by people to attend risk for theft, although you may only are getting one hundred feet from your car.
Many roads, intersections and attractions are poorly marked and just what signs exist will be in Hawaiian, that is difficult to read, harder to keep in mind precisely the name from the place you are trying to find. Whenever you ask directions, have the person get the exact name with the place. Many residents have been in the habit of giving directions in terms of landmarks that mean nothing to you ("Remember where Uncle Kealea had the fruit stand Twenty years ago? You need to go just across Aunty Tutu's pig farm following that to where the coconut grove was previously...") and so do them show you on the map. Make sure they begin everything about the what your location is, at this time. Respect, humor and aloha will help get you where you are going.
Along these lines, many tourists bring their GPS from home to aid navigate-be certain to download the maps for Hawaii before you come; some brands of GPS do not offer Hawaii coverage. A number of the rental-car agencies have GPS units to rent at inexpensive price points. The best solution, however, will be the folks at Tour Guide Hawaii (808.557.0051; http://www.tourguidehawaii.com) who provide a hand-held computer by having an onboard GPS at very reasonable rental rates. They've stuffed into this product over 1000 tourist attractions (have you heard that? 600!) of recreational, cultural and historical importance. They've got produced a short audio/video presentation for each site, telling you about it, a history and culture, what things to bring, what to do while there; they even possess the public restrooms listed! These presentations play when you approach the points of curiosity, or may be sought out anytime or location. Thus, the unit can be used to preview all of the sites across the island inside the convenience of your hotel room, pre-plan trips or to get information and turn by turn navigation traveling. Combining cutting-edge technology and old-fashioned story-telling, the unbelievably easy to use, fabulously informative and terrifically fun Tour Guide Self-Guided GPS Tours are an incredible bargain and a good way to see Hawaii. Vehicle offering a pared-down version (45 of the top sites-iAND the restrooms!) that's downloadable to iPhone and iPod.
Commercial Tours: If you rent a vehicle, commercial tours give you a great way to get oriented to the island and hear a little about the background and concerning the culture of our own home. Tours can be found in all sizes and description, from your taxi driver who causes it to be on the fly while he goes to dinner, to personalized taxi tours lasting a half to a full day, to specialized van tours and large, full day, across the island tours in full-size motor coaches. You can find charter bus and tours towards the summit of Mauna Kea, tours through the coffee country of Kona, tours to find out the volcano, historical tours-tours of most lengths and covering just about anything and everything you need to see. Some tours include meals-one even takes you to a real, working ranch to get a barbecue! Then there are the highly specialized tours: fixed wing and helicopter around this tropical isle, whale and dolphin watching tours, snorkel tours, sunset cruise tours, organized bicycle tours, powered hang-glider tours, around Kailua Bay in the submarine as well as boat tours to see the lava flowing to the ocean. Although they may be fairly spendy, nearly all are fully well worth the price. Make sure you check around ideal tour at the right price to match your interests.
Bicycle Rental: There are numerous places to rent bikes about the Big Island-and it is extremely pleasant to pay the afternoon pedaling through Hilo and Kailua Kona. However, problems of weather (hot sun, torrential downpour!), the long distances between tourist attractions and the ever-present, enormous volcanoes (think: "HILLS!") preclude this being a major way of exploration, aside from probably the most avid bike tourer.
Public transit: The Hawaii County-run Hele-on Bus travels the majority of the Island, and makes decent time-the very good news here is that riding the bus is free of charge...the not so good news would it be is scheduled to acquire workers between the large resorts in Kona and Kohala and also the small towns all across the island where they live. As such, riding on the bus schedule may not be convenient for the visitor nor conducive to exploration. However, it is extremely handy should you would like to go somewhere and spend the afternoon there. Make sure to view the bus schedule, however, as many places only are serviced two times a day by bus (one in-bound then one out-bound trip per day) and when you miss your return ride and possess to find a different long ago to your hotel, you may quickly learn why they label this "The Big Island"!
Walking and Hitch-hiking: Two words here: BIG ISLAND. You'll be able to hike throughout the Big Island (I've done it both west-to-east and south-to-north; heck, in 2008 one of the wheels chair athlete rolled his wheel chair from sea-level in Hilo 37 miles and 13,800 feet in elevation up to the summit of Mauna Kea-did you catch the part about "wheel chair athlete"?), nevertheless the long distances, rural nature (it's an impracticably long way between places to obtain food, water and also to camp) and intense sun make this an epic adventure, not a restful sight-seeing vacation. Both Hilo and Kailua Town are happy and safe simply to walk around, but getting to beaches, waterfalls along with other sights is hard on foot.
Until very recently hitch-hiking was a common and respectable method of getting around the island-if you were an area, everybody either knew you, or your aunty; if you were visitors, your uniqueness made you intriquing, notable and therefore it was very safe, too. Although probably just like safe today, with all the explosion of mainlanders moving to the island (who might be reluctant to offer rides), I watch a sharp decline inside the quantity of hitch-hikers on the roads now. Hitch-hiking is legal from your roadside, as long as you usually are not in the road, presenting a hazard to yourself or an impediment to traffic. In the event you hitch-hike use your judgement, be home before sundown and refuse to ride with drunks or folks of questionable character or cleanliness. Usually do not ride inside the backs of pick-up trucks.
taxi in kona
Another step to the caliber of your time about the Big island of hawaii is due to the spirit of aloha. Individuals you meet in Hawaii, in general, tend to be open and friendly-quick to assist or befriend-than elsewhere. Here is the tradition of "Aloha". Whenever you meet local residents, if they should request directions and advice in order to hire services or simply in casual conversation, treat all of them with respect, humor and openness-return their spirit of aloha and you'll find your trip, and yourself, deeply enriched for this.
kona taxi
In Hawaii, your smile is the passport.
Dealing with Hawaii
The standing joke among residents of Hawaii when dealing with time, inconvenience and hassle of planing a trip to the mainland is: "This was once far less difficult prior to the bridge blew down"! Of course, there was not ever a bridge spanning the roughly 2500 miles between your Big island of hawaii and mainland USA, but the humor has a tendency to underline the commitment, planning and time it takes to travel to and from Hawaii.
Flying to Hawaii: Certainly the most common, quickest and most affordable (note I did not say "inexpensive") method of getting to Hawaii is to fly. Many major US and international carriers fly to Honolulu on Oahu and along with a host of local and international carriers offer flights from there to all or any one other Hawaiian Islands, like the Big island of hawaii. Kona's airport will be the only one about the Big island of hawaii which has direct flight connections to the US Mainland, Canada, Japan and Australia. Despite styling itself as "Hilo International Airport", flights both to and from Hilo ONLY hook up to other Hawaiian islands.
Although both airports have similar facilities and services, including onsite rental-car agencies and access to public transit, shuttles and taxis, it makes a big difference towards the traveller where they land. Definitely most people to the large Island be in either Kona or the Kohala Resorts which are all on the west side of the island and are between 20 to Forty-five minutes from the Kona airport. If you are remaining in Hilo, it's fine to fly inside; however, Hilo doesn't have the place facilities, fine beaches and great weather of the Kona side and few tourists decide to stay there anymore. Many people booked into resorts around the west side mistakenly take flights into Hilo, as a result of misleading airport name, unaware (as well as misinformed by ignorant but well-meaning travel agents) that they now, at the conclusion of a stressful day's travel plus the fading twilight of the early tropical sunset, face a drive of almost 3 hours, across high mountains as well as on narrow, winding, unfamiliar roads to get to their resort. They only better hope it does not start raining, too.
So-know where you stand staying, fly to the appropriate airport.
If you are flying directly into Kona or flying to Honolulu and becoming a linked flight into Kona or Hilo, you would like to make sure you reserve a seat so you see quite as much of the incredible scenery as possible. Since 90% from the flight has ended open ocean (which seriously isn't as riveting together might expect) you need to wring probably the most enjoyment out of those areas of your flight which do feature scenery. If you are first stopping in Honolulu, located on the port (left) side of the aircraft because of this leg of your trip affords the best views since the plane screams in past Koko Head and over the top of the Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, turns around directly over Pearl Harbor and settles directly into land at Honolulu International Airport. Looking at the starboard side is not as spectacular, however, it provides views of Moloka'i and Maui islands, along with views of Pearl Harbor, the Wai'anae and Ko'olau Mountains of O'ahu and downtown Honolulu just before landing.
Flying into Hilo from O'ahu, one also really wants to lay on the port side of the aircraft. The flight path crosses within the islands of Moloka'i and Maui, skims along the eastern margin of Hawaii Island presenting a wealthy, fascinating panoply of soaring sea cliffs, jungle canyons and volcanic mountains, jaw-dropping waterfalls and crashing surf along the coast. Flying into Kona either directly or from Honolulu is no less wonderfully scenic than flying into Hilo, one wants to be around the starboard side. This provides the traveller great views the hawaiian islands of Maui, Molokini, Lana'i and Kaho'olawe, as well as incredible views from the Big island of hawaii, Kohala Mountain, Mauna Kea, Hualalai and, on clear days, Mauna Loa because the jet cruises in within the Kohala Coast, making land right over Makalwena Beach as well as on to Kona Air-port at Keahole.
Cruise lines and Cargo Ships: There are several cruise liner lines which ply the waters from the Hawaiian Archipelago, however of the ones that service the large Island, most require passengers to book with an entire cruise, meaning that although you may make one or two stops on Hawaii, you will remain in port to get a day, overnight at most of the, before sailing on. Generally, you can't arrive on one ship, disembark for a stay, and catch another ship out.
Of increasing popularity, however, is cruising to Hawaii on cargo ships-cheaper than a cruise line with a totally open and adjustable itinerary, this can be a great substitute for flying. It is both more costly plus more time-consuming (average sailing is 3 days from La to Honolulu, and times are variable for getting after that to the Big island of hawaii) than flying, but it is restful, peaceful and unique. Cargo ships offer spacious passenger cabins and, whilst not the floating feed-lots that cruise lines have a tendency to resemble, the meals on cargo ships is wonderful and plentiful. Perhaps the biggest problem with riding cargo ships to the Big island of hawaii is that about the east side they dock in, let us say, the less desirable a part of Hilo; on the west they dock at Kawaihae, halfway between Kailua Kona and also the resorts from the Kohala coast-in other words, out in the midst of nowhere. Both land many miles from resorts and rental car agencies. However, both docking facilities are serviced by taxis and public transit; if you intend ahead, it should present no problem.
Making your way around Hawaii
Shuttles/Taxis/Limos/Tours: Taxis, needless to say, service both Big Island airports, the metropolitan regions and all the resorts. The taxis, whilst not cheap, aren't as usurious as you might fear and also the drivers generally are knowledgeable, friendly, HONEST and genuinely nice-it's that whole aloha thing. Taxi drivers are content to reply to the questions you have, the silly ones you are type of shy to inquire about; they'll freely give assistance with how to proceed and find out and where to eat and usually act as as helpful as you can. However, many speak in pidgin English that can be nearly impenetrable to the newcomers' ear. You shouldn't be shy about respectfully asking him to repeat himself, and again if necessary-he hears that on just about any fare he carries. Question to write down place names, restaurant names and such-many Hawaiian words usually do not look at all like they way he's saying them and you'll want to be in a position to see the words on maps and signs, or perhaps be capable of ask someone else, later.
Both Kona and Hilo airports are serviced by point-to-point shuttles and limos, whose price is actually quite reasonable and certainly less expensive than the taxis. The drawback here is that there will be many people aboard planning to many diverse destinations-so it requires much more time than the usual taxi.
Many of the larger resorts give you a free limo want to and from your airport and some may even arrange to have your car rental waiting for you on-property when you turn up in the airport...check whenever you make reservations. If available, this is the least personable, but quickest, easiest and most affordable way of getting to your lodgings.
Some boutique tours provided by Hostels and the smaller tour companies will even pick you up at the airport at the outset of their tours, if the arrival time is convenient for the tour schedule; thus, the cost of addressing your resort is made available to the cost of the tour. This method may be worth looking at if you aren't likely to rent an automobile in your stay.
Tipping tour, taxi, limo and shuttle drivers isn't just encouraged, it's their main way to obtain revenue. Remember to return the aloha they showed you.
Rental Cars and Driving Tips: Even though some people choose to not rent cars throughout their stay, counting on tours and public transit to obtain around, you should be aware that there's a reason they refer to it as "The Big Island". Distances between attractions could be long, public transit schedules aren't always convenient and, admit it, it's just a great deal freer, easier plus more independent to get your own wheels. Make sure to thoroughly investigate the online booking agencies before you decide to arrive-ofttimes money saving deals bundling airfare, room and rental car is found, mainly in the slack seasons.
There are 2 kinds of rental car agencies around the Big island of hawaii. The key, international rental car agencies can be found on property at both airports, giving the customer a wide selection of corporate deals and specials-particularly flight-room-car combo deals--as well being a diverse palate of obtainable cars. Another option, frequently a smaller amount expensive designed for long lasting rentals, are the off-property rental agencies. These folks won't generally pick you up at the airport so that you must make your way to their in-town offices, but the choice of vehicles, and rates, are generally wider ranged.
In case you are under 21, the rental companies won't rent to you. In case you are between 21 and 24, they might put in a surcharge to the rental that may be up to twenty-five dollars each day on top of the regular daily fee.
The first question the traveller must answer for themselves is what type of vehicle they will want while on the Big Island. Some rental agencies focus on luxury and exotic cars--Mercedes, Lamborghini, Most highly regarded and such. Others offer Volkswagen Campers and RVs. Many individuals arrive and judge they want to flash round the island in a Mustang or Camaro convertible-which are excellent and fun, however they offer no to protect your personal items plus they severely limit the kinds of roads you are able to drive on, along with almost guaranteeing sun and wind burn. For those travelling to explore the island, you should look at visiting the extra cost of renting a four-wheel drive vehicle-either a jeep or even an enclosed SUV. Most of the mountain country and several of the more interesting beaches and canyons require 4 wheel drive. I would recommend an enclosed SUV so that you do not have to shout being heard, as you do in a jeep, and also have even more protection from the elements and from thieves.
Briefly stated earlier, RVs and Volkswagen Campers are perfect approaches to begin to see the island and obviate the necessity for a pricey hotel. However, RVs are not common on Hawaii and there aren't any RV parks as such; not in the towns of Hilo and Kona there's nowhere to drain the waste tanks, so you've got to make sure to use public venues whenever possible. However you can park and camp free almost anywhere, although most campgrounds bills you an outdoor camping fee with an RV, if you are camping inside the car park.
Motorcycles and scooters could be rented both in Kona and Hilo and therefore are a fun approach to see the island, until it rains. Which happens. It's also difficult to travel with anywhere of luggage on a motorcycle. You will see a burgeoning fraction with the local population zipping about town on scooters (locally, and incorrectly, referred to as "mopeds"). For bikes with engine sizes smaller than 50cc, no motorcycle license and no insurance are essential. The "moped" class vehicle has the same license and road regulations like a bicycle, so it is unsurprising to find out them zip across the the roadside, passing cars stuck in traffic, or pop-up and run down the sidewalk. Should you rent a moped in Hawaii, please do not bring them what sort of locals do; it simply isn't safe. I take advantage of a moped almost exclusively to get around Kailua Town where I live-do not ride your scooter how you see me ride mine.
The price of gas in The hawaiian islands are even worse than you have been led to believe, when selecting a car rental, remember this. Costco in Kona gets the absolute cheapest gas around the island (and it's really handy, close to the airport); the service station off the Akoni Pule Highway in Kohala near mile marker 76 has got the cheapest gas in Kohala as well as the Chevron Station on the Airport turn-off in Hilo has got the cheapest gas in East Hawaii. Keep in mind that the large Island is basically rural-gas stations, particularly in the far north and on the south side with the Island, may not keep regular hours as well as stick with their posted schedule-especially when the surf expires or the fishing is good. In general, outside of the towns of Kona and Hilo, gas is hard to locate after about 6 later in the day. Personally, i don't ever let my gas tank acquire more than half empty, ever, due to this very reason. Certainly, you should never allow it acquire more than half empty when on the south side of the Island; you should be certain to fill up before late afternoon when you've got the opportunity, definitely before going into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (you'll stay longer and use more gas than you planned because, count on me, oahu is the coolest place, ever) and before crossing the Saddle Road.
Driving times between attractions around the Big island of hawaii are more than you could expect, because of the actual mileage between points of interest. This can be simply because much of the "highway" product is composed of winding, narrow, two-lane blacktop with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour. One more reason drives take longer than expected is really because you are going to want to pull over and look, stop and explore, take your time and revel in. Since the bumper sticker says: "Slow down, Brah-dis ain't da mainland!" About this note, many local residents will give hills and blind corners, even into oncoming traffic; they understand the road, you don't-don't follow their lead. Wanting to drive just like the locals drive is like jumping into the ocean and trying to surf like they surf-it is just not a very bright idea. Local custom is to eschew usage of turn signals and horn; this is another custom you mustn't emulate.
The authorities around the Big Island are well-trained, serious professionals. However, most cruise around within their personal cars (using a blue light on top) and can be tough to spot (a Ford Mustang or Toyota Rav4 using a light bar? It happens...). They're particularly intent on drunk drivers, speed limits and child restraints/seal belts. Aloha, respect and honesty significantly help toward creating any interactions with the Hawaii County Police nicer. This isn't Louisiana or some Third World banana republic-do not think about offering a bribe if you are stopped with a Hawaii County Cop. On the subject of police, it is local custom to flash your brights at on-coming traffic if there is a cop behind you. Be involved in this your own discretion, however this 's all those folks are flashing to you.
There are feral goats and sheep (feral donkeys over the highway in Kohala!), wild pigs, feral cats and dogs that present driving hazards, especially through the night. Fruit for example mango, avocado and guava frequently fall, en masse, into the road and produce a slimy hazard, particularly to motorcycles. Around, await cyclists, pedestrians and skateboarders (have a look at those guys skateboarding towards the beach making use of their surfboards under their arms!). Kailua Kona will be the proud the place to find the Ironman World Championship Triathlon and many runners and cyclists fully utilize, and rigorously defend, their rights of way; smile, wave and yield, OK? You found have fun: relax. The important Island can also be Big Sky country...driving east to the sunrise or west to the sunset is painful and hazardous; make an effort to plan your day you need to.
Do not leave valuables in your car, not the trunk. Ever. The locals are friendly, but however, many are frisky and high value items will evaporate from the car with alarming alacrity. Consider any spot frequented by people to attend risk for theft, although you may only are getting one hundred feet from your car.
Many roads, intersections and attractions are poorly marked and just what signs exist will be in Hawaiian, that is difficult to read, harder to keep in mind precisely the name from the place you are trying to find. Whenever you ask directions, have the person get the exact name with the place. Many residents have been in the habit of giving directions in terms of landmarks that mean nothing to you ("Remember where Uncle Kealea had the fruit stand Twenty years ago? You need to go just across Aunty Tutu's pig farm following that to where the coconut grove was previously...") and so do them show you on the map. Make sure they begin everything about the what your location is, at this time. Respect, humor and aloha will help get you where you are going.
Along these lines, many tourists bring their GPS from home to aid navigate-be certain to download the maps for Hawaii before you come; some brands of GPS do not offer Hawaii coverage. A number of the rental-car agencies have GPS units to rent at inexpensive price points. The best solution, however, will be the folks at Tour Guide Hawaii (808.557.0051; http://www.tourguidehawaii.com) who provide a hand-held computer by having an onboard GPS at very reasonable rental rates. They've stuffed into this product over 1000 tourist attractions (have you heard that? 600!) of recreational, cultural and historical importance. They've got produced a short audio/video presentation for each site, telling you about it, a history and culture, what things to bring, what to do while there; they even possess the public restrooms listed! These presentations play when you approach the points of curiosity, or may be sought out anytime or location. Thus, the unit can be used to preview all of the sites across the island inside the convenience of your hotel room, pre-plan trips or to get information and turn by turn navigation traveling. Combining cutting-edge technology and old-fashioned story-telling, the unbelievably easy to use, fabulously informative and terrifically fun Tour Guide Self-Guided GPS Tours are an incredible bargain and a good way to see Hawaii. Vehicle offering a pared-down version (45 of the top sites-iAND the restrooms!) that's downloadable to iPhone and iPod.
Commercial Tours: If you rent a vehicle, commercial tours give you a great way to get oriented to the island and hear a little about the background and concerning the culture of our own home. Tours can be found in all sizes and description, from your taxi driver who causes it to be on the fly while he goes to dinner, to personalized taxi tours lasting a half to a full day, to specialized van tours and large, full day, across the island tours in full-size motor coaches. You can find charter bus and tours towards the summit of Mauna Kea, tours through the coffee country of Kona, tours to find out the volcano, historical tours-tours of most lengths and covering just about anything and everything you need to see. Some tours include meals-one even takes you to a real, working ranch to get a barbecue! Then there are the highly specialized tours: fixed wing and helicopter around this tropical isle, whale and dolphin watching tours, snorkel tours, sunset cruise tours, organized bicycle tours, powered hang-glider tours, around Kailua Bay in the submarine as well as boat tours to see the lava flowing to the ocean. Although they may be fairly spendy, nearly all are fully well worth the price. Make sure you check around ideal tour at the right price to match your interests.
Bicycle Rental: There are numerous places to rent bikes about the Big Island-and it is extremely pleasant to pay the afternoon pedaling through Hilo and Kailua Kona. However, problems of weather (hot sun, torrential downpour!), the long distances between tourist attractions and the ever-present, enormous volcanoes (think: "HILLS!") preclude this being a major way of exploration, aside from probably the most avid bike tourer.
Public transit: The Hawaii County-run Hele-on Bus travels the majority of the Island, and makes decent time-the very good news here is that riding the bus is free of charge...the not so good news would it be is scheduled to acquire workers between the large resorts in Kona and Kohala and also the small towns all across the island where they live. As such, riding on the bus schedule may not be convenient for the visitor nor conducive to exploration. However, it is extremely handy should you would like to go somewhere and spend the afternoon there. Make sure to view the bus schedule, however, as many places only are serviced two times a day by bus (one in-bound then one out-bound trip per day) and when you miss your return ride and possess to find a different long ago to your hotel, you may quickly learn why they label this "The Big Island"!
Walking and Hitch-hiking: Two words here: BIG ISLAND. You'll be able to hike throughout the Big Island (I've done it both west-to-east and south-to-north; heck, in 2008 one of the wheels chair athlete rolled his wheel chair from sea-level in Hilo 37 miles and 13,800 feet in elevation up to the summit of Mauna Kea-did you catch the part about "wheel chair athlete"?), nevertheless the long distances, rural nature (it's an impracticably long way between places to obtain food, water and also to camp) and intense sun make this an epic adventure, not a restful sight-seeing vacation. Both Hilo and Kailua Town are happy and safe simply to walk around, but getting to beaches, waterfalls along with other sights is hard on foot.
Until very recently hitch-hiking was a common and respectable method of getting around the island-if you were an area, everybody either knew you, or your aunty; if you were visitors, your uniqueness made you intriquing, notable and therefore it was very safe, too. Although probably just like safe today, with all the explosion of mainlanders moving to the island (who might be reluctant to offer rides), I watch a sharp decline inside the quantity of hitch-hikers on the roads now. Hitch-hiking is legal from your roadside, as long as you usually are not in the road, presenting a hazard to yourself or an impediment to traffic. In the event you hitch-hike use your judgement, be home before sundown and refuse to ride with drunks or folks of questionable character or cleanliness. Usually do not ride inside the backs of pick-up trucks.