Airport to Alamoana area and t Turo question

Question

What are my options and costs. I will be arriving at 11pm and don't know if any Turos autos would want to meet me and I don't want to be stranded. Options?

Answer

When you arrive at the airport late at night and are considering transportation to the Ala Moana area, along with using Turo, there are a few things to consider to ensure you have a smooth and hassle-free arrival. Here's a breakdown of your options and what to keep in mind:

Transportation from the Airport to Ala Moana Area:

Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): The most reliable and convenient option at night is a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Both services are available at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), and there are designated pick-up zones for each. A ride to the Ala Moana area should cost around $35-$45, depending on traffic and time of day. Since you're arriving late, this is a great option as both taxis and rideshare services operate 24/7.
Airport Shuttle: You can also opt for an airport shuttle service, which can be booked in advance. However, keep in mind that shuttles typically make multiple stops, so this might take longer and can cost anywhere from $15 to $30 per person. Some companies may have limited hours, so you’ll want to check if they operate late at night.
Car Rental at the Airport: Another option is to rent a car directly at the airport. Most car rental companies, including Alamo, have counters open until midnight or later. Renting a car is a good idea if you're planning on exploring Oahu extensively and want the flexibility to travel at your own pace. The cost can range from $30-$50 per day, depending on the car type and the rental company. You can book the car online in advance to ensure availability.

Turo and Late-Night Pickups:

Turo, the peer-to-peer car rental service, has become a popular choice for renting cars directly from owners. However, meeting a Turo host for a late-night pick-up can be more complicated, as not all hosts are available for after-hours transactions. Here’s what you should consider:

Availability of Hosts: While many Turo hosts are flexible, some may not want to meet at late hours, especially if you’re arriving after 11 PM. It's important to message your Turo host in advance and confirm if they are willing to accommodate your late-night arrival. Some hosts may offer an "airport delivery" service, but these can have additional fees.
Costs for Turo Late-Night Deliveries: If your host agrees to meet you at the airport, you might be subject to an additional delivery fee. These fees can range from $20 to $50, depending on the location and the host's preferences.
Alternatives for Late-Night Car Rentals: If you're unsure about getting a Turo car at night, you might want to consider going with a traditional car rental company like Alamo or Enterprise, which offer 24-hour service. Renting a car directly from the airport ensures you won’t be stranded, and you can drive to your destination without waiting for a host.
Alternatives: Turo Keyless Delivery: Some Turo hosts may use keyless entry systems, which means you can access the car without needing to meet in person. If you find a host that offers keyless delivery, this could be an excellent option for a smooth pick-up even at late hours.

Recommendations:

For Peace of Mind: If you’re concerned about being stranded or having trouble with Turo late at night, I recommend using a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to get to the Ala Moana area. These services are 24/7 and will get you to your destination quickly and safely.
If Using Turo: If you’re set on using Turo, make sure to contact the host well in advance to confirm they can meet you late at night. Alternatively, look for Turo cars that offer keyless delivery, which would allow you to pick up the car without meeting the host.
Consider a Rental Car: Renting from a traditional car rental service like Alamo at the airport might be the most straightforward and stress-free option for your late arrival. It offers flexibility and guarantees that you'll have a car ready for you when you arrive.

Overall, while Turo can be a great option, it's best to ensure that your host is willing to meet you at a late hour. If you're looking for a more reliable option with minimal hassle, taxis, rideshares, or traditional car rentals are probably your safest bet for a smooth start to your trip.