A Practical Guide to Getting Around Hawaii
The Big Island is bigger than you might expect. It’s roughly 93 miles across at its widest point and offers a remarkable range of landscapes shaped by lava, rainforest, and ocean. Because of that size and variety, planning your island transportation is one of the first things you’ll want to think about before arriving. How you get around will shape your experience, whether you’re solely based at our Big Island bed and breakfast for a quiet stay or planning to explore every corner of the island.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best ways to get around, so you can decide what will work best for your itinerary, budget, and sense of adventure.
Why a Rental Car Is the Best Way to Explore
For most visitors, the simplest and most flexible option for getting around the Big Island is renting a car. Because the island is so large and attractions are spaced far apart, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to set your own schedule. A car lets you visit coastal beaches one day, waterfalls the next, and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park at sunrise without depending on someone else’s timetable.
Most travelers pick up their rental car right at the airport, either Kona International Airport (KOA) on the west side or Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the east side, which makes arriving and heading out easy. Rental agencies typically offer a wide range of vehicles, and booking ahead usually gets you better rates and availability, especially during peak travel times.
A rental car is especially useful if you’re planning a full itinerary that includes Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, coastlines on both the Kona and Hilo sides, and longer scenic drives like the Hawaiʻi Belt Road (Route 11 and 19), which loops around much of the island.
Public Transit: Understanding the Hele‑On Bus
If you’re looking for a low‑cost way to get around the island without a car, the Hele‑On bus can help. This is Hawaiʻi County’s public transit service serving routes across the Big Island.
It’s important to know that the system is designed primarily for local residents commuting to work or school, not tourists. The Hele On bus schedule is not always predictable, and buses might not run at times that match popular sightseeing hours. Many routes run mainly in the morning and late afternoon, and service on Sundays and late evenings may be limited.
That said, if you have a relaxed schedule and are comfortable traveling on island time, using Hele‑On can be a fun way to see the island and meet locals along the way. The buses do travel through scenic areas like rainforest sections, Hilo Bay, or portions of the Hamakua Coast, so even ordinary transit rides can become mini-adventures. You might also choose to rent a car for most of your trip and take the Hele‑On Bus just for a day, perhaps using the Volcano-to-Hilo route for a low-key outing. Just keep in mind that the timing can be unpredictable, and it may not be the best option if you’re hoping to explore a lot or return to your room by a set hour.
Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re considering using the Hele‑On:
- Stations are at designated stops, and the bus won’t pick you up or drop you off anywhere else, so plan accordingly.
- Timeliness varies; it’s wise to show up 15–20 minutes early and be prepared to wait a little longer than listed in the schedule.
- If you’re curious about whether a bus is actually running, you can call the Hele‑On service from their official contact page for updates.
- Even when schedules are limited, routes like the Route 11 Red Line connect places like Hilo to Volcanoes National Park, so some major destinations are reachable if you plan ahead.
Rideshares, Taxis, and Private Transfers
If you’d like flexibility but want to avoid the responsibility of driving, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft do operate on the Big Island. They’re most reliable in and around the larger towns like Hilo and Kona, but services can be pricey and more limited in remote areas or early mornings and late evenings.
Taxis are another option, particularly useful for short distances, airport transfers, or if you’re arriving without plans for a rental car. While not as common or as inexpensive as rideshares, local taxi services can fill in the gaps, especially when buses aren’t available.
For stress‑free travel between the airport and your accommodations, many visitors also choose private shuttles or transport services, like Big Island Transportation. These can be booked ahead of time and take you directly to your lodging or destinations without the wait.
Bike, Scooter, and Specialty Rentals
On the Big Island, you’ll also find options for bike rentals and electric scooters in some towns. These are great for short local trips, exploring seaside paths, or seeing Volcano Village and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. They work especially well for short distances around Hilo or Kona where there are bike‑friendly routes.
Many of the public buses even have bike racks, so you can combine cycling with public transit if you’re up for a bit of adventure.
Tours as Transportation and Experience
Guided tours can serve as both transportation and a way to explore specific regions without worrying about navigation. Whether it’s a helicopter tour to see the full island from above, a scenic bus tour of coastal highlights, or a bike tour through rainforest trails, these options help you cover more territory with context and local insight.
Tours range from a few hours to full‑day excursions, and many operators offer pickup and drop‑off services, meaning you can enjoy the sights without worrying about rental car logistics or parking.
Big Island Travel Tips
Plan for distances. The Big Island covers a lot of ground. A drive from Hilo to Kona can take 2–3 hours, depending on traffic and stops, so give yourself time when planning day trips to other parts of the island.
Check schedules in advance. If you’re using the Hele‑On bus, always check the latest Hele On bus schedule online before heading out and be ready for changes.
Layer for comfort. Even though Hawaiʻi is warm, the elevation around Volcano Village can mean cooler temperatures, especially early in the morning or late at night. Comfortable clothing and water are essentials for extended travel days.
Plan Your Island Transportation and Unwind at Volcano Village Estates
Getting around the Big Island doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a little planning. Once you’ve decided how you want to travel, the island’s diversity, from the rainforests of Volcano to the coffee farms of Kona, is ready to be explored.
No matter how you choose to explore, having a comfortable and serene home base makes all the difference. At Volcano Village Estates, our elegant cottages and historic Dillingham House offer a tranquil retreat just minutes from Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. After a day of scenic drives, spontaneous detours, or island-style bus rides, come back to your private lanai, soak in a hot tub, and relax in true Big Island style. Book your stay today and make your island transportation adventure part of an unforgettable getaway.