Getting Around the Big Island
Hele-On-The Big Island Bus System
The Hele-On is the Big Island public transportation system that has both north and south routes from Kona to Hilo dropping at various locations in between. This is an economical way to get many places on the Island. The Hele On system has increased its route times over the past year, however, it still is good to plan in advance especially if you are looking to get there and back on the bus.
The Big Island bus system is linked to Google Maps.
All public buses on the Big Island are free.
Getting Around Kona
Kona Trolley (Hele On Route 201)
The Kona Trolley, is an open air trolley that travels round-trip from Kona Commons to Keauhou Shopping Center via Ali’i Drive. It stops directly in front of the hostel. It makes numerous stops along Ali'i Drive and reaches destinations such as Coconut Grove (many restaurants), Kailua Pier, Target, Kona Brewing Company, and Kona Commons. You really can get anywhere you want to go in Kona on the trolley! The Kona Trolley runs seven days a week from 7 am to 9 pm. Check out Google Maps for the schedule.
Kona to Hilo
It is possible to get all the way to Hilo for free on the Hele On! Check out the schedule on Google Maps.
Car Rentals
Kona International Airport Car Rental
All of the major car rental companies have offices at the Kona International Airport and it is often cheapest to get a car at this location. It is possible to get to the airport on the bus to pick up a car.
Kona Town Car Rental
Dollar Rental Car & Enterprise Rent-A-Car: These two companies do have offices in town. Dollar Rental Car is located in the King Kam Marriott Hotel and Enterprise is in Old Industrial.
Turo: Turo facilitates renting cars from private individuals.
Hilo Auto Rentals: They also have cars available in Kona.
Scooter Rental
Scooters are a convenient way to get around Kona. However, it is not advised to take a scooter out of town as they do not move fast enough to get out of the way of other traffic.
Big Island Moped: They will deliver a moped to the hostel. They also have weekly specials!
Hawaiian Island Scooters: They rent scooters and motorcycles. They deliver in Kona.
Bike Rental
Hawaii Island Bike Share: When you ride the Hele On bus you can receive a redemption code for unlimited rides up to 30 minutes for 24 hours. There are several stations around town and at beaches.
Bike Works Hawaii: Bikes ranging from beach cruisers to road and tri bikes. Also rent electric bikes.
Kona Bike Rentals: Nice bikes ranging from tri bikes, road bikes all the way to inexpensive bikes to cruise around Kona. They deliver!