Transportation

Travel to Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (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 Oahu first and then taking a short, 45-50 minute flight to the island of Hawaii.

Getting to the island of Hawaii is easier than ever with daily direct flights into Kona International Airport. Major air carriers from the U.S., Japan and Canada fly directly into Kona. Direct flights are from: Anchorage (seasonal), Bellingham, Dallas Ft. Worth, Denver, Los Angeles, Oakland, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, Seattle, San Francisco, San Jose, Vancouver (seasonal), Haneda, and Narita. Some seasonal carriers also make the trip with charters.

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 Hawaii. 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. Rental car companies are located just a short distance from both interisland terminals. Taxis and other ground transportation are available curbside.

Hawaii County also offers free mass transit via the Hele On (Let’s Go) Bus. There are stops all around the island of Hawaii, 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 www.heleonbus.org/schedules-and-maps.

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