Transportation

Travel to Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) in Kona to the west, or Hilo International Airport (ITO) in Hilo to the east. Most visitors arrive in Kona. There is also the option of flying into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oʻahu first and then taking a short, 45-50 minute flight to the island of Hawaiʻi.

Because it's a large island, we recommend a rental car for flexibility and ease, and we strongly suggest booking before you arrive. All the major rental companies are found on the island of Hawaiʻi. There are also guided tours of every type, from bus tours and taxis to shuttle services and private limos. Rental car agencies are located at the Kona and Hilo International Airports as well as some resorts. 

Hawaiʻi County also offers free mass transit via the Hele On (Let’s Go) Bus. There are stops all around the island of Hawaiʻi, with service between Kona and Hilo offered Monday through Saturday. All buses are wheelchair accessible, and it’s free to go anywhere on the island. For schedules, go to https://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov/home-transit. Helpful resources (mālama ʻāina, Hawaiian language, etc.) can be found here: https://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov/visitors.

For more information about transportation for people with special needs, please call the Hawaiʻi Mass-Transit Agency at (808) 961-8744.