Getting around on your Kauai Vacation
Planning a vacation to Kauai probably has you pretty excited
about seeing all of the amazing beaches and natural landmarks,
however you are probably curious how you are going to get
around, if you need to rent a car or taxi, or if there is some
other option for you. Basically, if you are really interested in
seeing Kauai, all of it, on your schedule and the way you want
then you need to rent a car. Of course, if you don't plan on
doing a lot of traveling then a taxi is an option as well.
However, major traveling is truly the best way to see Kauai and
this option means you need to rent a car.
Fortunately, renting a car in Kauai is extremely affordable
especially when compared to the rest of the country. In 2003 the
average daily price to rent a car in Kauai was $41 while the
national average for the rest of the country was approximately
$54. So, you will be saving a good deal of money by renting a
car in Kauai. In addition to this, you can rent a car for
approximately a week for around $180, which is probably less
than you would spend on various taxis and other transit options
while in Kauai so not only is it a good deal, but you have
control of where and when you travel.
There is plenty of competition among the rent a car companies in
Kauai, so if you have a preference you are likely to find your
favorite rent a car company. Some of the larger companies
include Avis, Budget, Dollar, Thrifty, Hertz, National, as well
as others. All of these rent a car locations have websites where
you can check and make reservations as well as handle your
account. Remember, however, that rental car companies sell out
very easily so if you know you want to rent a car for your Kauai
vacation then you should do so before you leave home, making
sure to have the confirmation handy at all times.
Once you arrive at Lihue Airport and collect your luggage then
it is time to head to your rent a car. This is very convenient
because the rent a car desks are located by the airport, but
then a van will take you to your rental car. After that, Kauai
is all yours to explore and enjoy for the length of your
vacation.
Keep in mind, however, that Hawaii is a no fault state. This
means that if you have a car accident in Hawaii you must pay for
the damages before you leave the state. While your insurance may
offer some coverage in this situation you probably want to save
yourself the headache and drama of a car accident without proper
insurance and simply buy insurance from the rental agency. This
does cost an additional fee per day, but the reassurance you and
the vehicle is covered in case of an accident or even theft is
certainly worthwhile and will allow you to enjoy your vacation.
Remember as well when you rent a car and being driving around
the island to keep in mind that driving in Kauai is not like
driving in New York City or anywhere else on the mainland for
that matter. Kauai is an island, like a small community, and
individuals respect others while driving and everything is
conducted in a more laid back and respectful manner. As a
result, when you take the wheel of your rental car in Kauai
remember to drive slowly and enjoy the island, flora and fauna,
and all the beautiful views you will come across simply by
driving. The last thing you want to do is cause a ruckus while
driving around the island. Respect other Kauai drivers and they
will respect you.
This issue of respect also comes into play when you approach one
of the many one lane bridges that are all over Kauai. These
bridges have their own rules for driving etiquette. If you are
the first car to approach from one direction then you have the
right of way and the car on the other end will wait patiently
for you to cross. However, if you are approaching the bridge and
a car in the other direction is approaching as well, but closer
than you, then you should stop and wait for them to cross. The
same goes for the situation of a long line of cars passing in
one direction with other cars waiting on the other end. If you
approach 6-9 cars passing at one time and notice other cars
waiting on the other end then it is proper etiquette to not join
the train of cars passing and stop and wait for the cars on the
other end. After all, you are in no hurry because you are simply
enjoying the island.
Another important driving tip that should always be kept in
mind, especially if you are renting a car in Kauai, is to always
keep your seatbelt fastened no matter where you are seated in
the car. Hawaii law requires all passengers to buckle up and
even though you are a tourist you can still receive a ticket.
Don't put yourself in this situation and simply buckle up and
enjoy the drive. While you are traveling to Kauai for your
vacation and want to enjoy it as much as possible you also need
to keep in mind the driving laws of the island and any
regulation set forth by the rent a car company. The last thing
you want to do is complicate your vacation, so simply follow the
rules and enjoy Kauai, the oldest and most beautiful Hawaiian
island.