By Car in Big Island

• Places to Explore
• Sights
• Restaurants
• Hotels
• Entertainment
• Shopping
• Activities
• Travel Tips
• Features

By Car

Technically, the Big Island of Hawaii is the only island you can completely circle by car, the best way to enjoy the sightseeing opportunities afforded by the miles of scenic roadway.

Instead of using compass directions, remember that Hawaii residents refer to places as being either mauka (toward the mountains) or makai (toward the ocean) from one another. Hawaii has a strict seat belt law. Those riding in the front seat must wear a seat belt and children under the age of 17 in the back seats must be belted. The fine for not wearing a seat belt is $92. Jaywalking is also very common in the islands so please pay careful attention to the roads, especially while driving in downtown Hilo, Kailua-Kona, and the smaller towns around the island.

Gasoline

You can count on having to pay more at the pump for gasoline on the Big Island than on the U.S. mainland.

Parking

Parking can be a challenge in downtown Kona. If you're willing to walk several blocks, you should be able to find free parking off Alii Drive on some of the residential streets. Otherwise, there are municipal lots just off Alii Drive with an honor system. You will be ticketed if you don't pay. In Hilo, there is a good availability of free parking.

Road Conditions

It's difficult to get lost in most of Hawaii. Roads and streets, although they may challenge the visitor's tongue, are well marked. Free publications containing good-quality road maps can be found on all Islands.

Roads on the Big Island are generally well-maintained and can be easily negotiated. Most of the roads are two-lane highways with limited shoulders -- and yes, even in paradise, there is traffic, especially during the morning and afternoon rush hour. Unless you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, do not attempt Saddle Road between Hilo and Waimea; it's narrow, windy, and poor in many areas. Most rental car agencies do not allow driving on Saddle Road, and several companies make you sign a statement that you won't, even if you rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Gas stations are fairly far apart and in rural areas it's not unusual for the stations to close early. If you see that your tank is getting low, don't take any chances; fill up when you see a station. In Hawaii, turning right on a red light is legal, except where noted. Use caution during heavy downpours, especially if you see signs warning of falling rocks. The road to Ka Lae, the southernmost tip of the U.S., provides gorgeous views, but is narrow: if you're enjoying the views, pull over to the side.

Roadside Emergencies

If you find yourself in an emergency or accident while driving on the Big Island, pull over if you can. If you have a cell phone with you, call the roadside assistance number on your rental car contract or AAA Help. If you find that your car has been broken into or stolen, report it immediately to your rental car company and they can assist you. If it's an emergency and someone is hurt, call 911 immediately and stay there until medical personnel arrive.

Emergency Services

AAA Help (800/222-4357).