Bus Rentals in Hilo, Hawaii

Charter bus rentals in Hilo typically cost between $1,100 and $4,000+ depending on vehicle size, trip duration, mileage, and season. Local trips are often billed hourly (with 5-hour minimums), while longer or multi-day trips are charged by the day or mile. Large 56-passenger buses average $250–$350 per hour, while 18–28 passenger minibuses run $150–$250 per hour. Get an exact quote fast by calling Charter Bus Company Hilo at 808-657-3240 with your trip details.

We calculate each quote based on the pickup location, drop-off location, number of passengers, type of bus, length of the trip, and time of year. Additional factors include requested amenities (like WiFi or DVD monitors), whether the driver needs overnight accommodations, and any special routing or scheduling requirements. Local Hilo trips are usually billed hourly with a minimum number of hours, while longer or multi-day trips are charged either by the day or by the mile.

Yes, we require a non-refundable deposit to secure your reservation. The deposit amount is typically a percentage of the total rental cost and must be paid when you sign the contract. Your reservation isn’t final until we receive the deposit. The remaining balance is due before your trip departs. Our team will provide specific payment instructions and deadlines when you book.

The final payment for your Hilo bus rental is due before the trip begins—typically 30 days prior to your departure date. If you book less than 30 days in advance, full payment is required at the time of booking. We accept major credit cards, checks, and ACH transfers. Your reservation must be paid in full before the bus is dispatched. Our team will provide a clear payment schedule when you book.

Yes, your Hilo charter bus quote will include a standard driver gratuity—typically 10–20% of the base rental fee. This amount is added automatically for your convenience. If you feel your driver provided exceptional service, you’re welcome to offer an additional cash tip at the end of the trip. All gratuities go directly to the driver. If you have questions about tipping, just ask our reservation team.

Charter Bus Company Hilo offers a wide range of buses for rent in Hilo and across the Big Island. Options include 18- to 35-passenger minibuses, 40- to 56-passenger full-size motorcoaches, and several models of school buses seating 44 to 48 riders. Many vehicles are available in multiple colors. We can also provide ADA-accessible buses with wheelchair lifts upon request. If you’re not sure which type of bus you need, our team can help you choose the best option for your group size and budget.

Many of our Hilo-area buses offer premium amenities such as onboard WiFi, power outlets at every seat, flat-screen TVs with DVD/Blu-ray players, and powerful air conditioning. Larger coaches typically feature comfortable reclining seats with armrests and footrests, individual reading lights, overhead parcel racks for carry-on items, and spacious undercarriage luggage bays for larger bags or equipment cases. Most full-size motorcoaches include a clean onboard restroom located at the rear of the bus. Additional amenities may include USB charging ports, Bluetooth-enabled sound systems, and PA microphones for group announcements. For longer trips, some coaches offer forward-facing seating with optional tray tables. If you require specific amenities—such as WiFi, power outlets, or an onboard restroom—please let us know when requesting your quote so we can assign a vehicle that meets your needs.

It’s best to book your Hilo charter bus 6 to 9 months in advance, especially if your trip falls during peak travel seasons like summer, spring break, or major local events such as the Merrie Monarch Festival. Booking early gives you access to the largest selection of vehicles and the most competitive rates. Last-minute rentals are possible but may be more expensive and offer fewer vehicle options. Large events and busy seasons can sell out quickly.

Booking a Hilo charter bus with Charter Bus Company Hilo is simple: call our 24/7 reservations team at 808-657-3240 or fill out the online quote form with your trip details. Provide your pickup location, destination, group size, travel dates, and any special requests. We’ll send you a personalized quote quickly. Review your options, choose the bus that fits your needs, and secure your reservation with a deposit. Our team is available around the clock to answer questions and assist with any changes.

Yes, if your trip requires an overnight stay, you are responsible for providing hotel accommodations for the driver. The hotel must have parking available for the bus and should be rated at least 2 stars. If your itinerary requires more than 10 consecutive hours of driving, you will need to provide accommodations for a second driver as well. Our team can recommend hotels that are convenient and suitable for bus parking.

No, your quote covers the bus rental, driver, fuel, and standard insurance, but not additional expenses like parking fees, entry fees to attractions, or meals and lodging for the driver. Any tolls incurred during the trip will be your responsibility. These extra costs are typically paid directly by the client as they arise. Our team can help estimate additional expenses based on your itinerary.

Charter bus parking in Hilo is available at several locations, including the Hilo Harbor area, Prince Kūhiō Plaza, Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium, and the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium lot. Many hotels and larger attractions offer designated bus parking—just check ahead. Downtown street parking is limited for large vehicles, so use public lots or arrange private parking when possible. For visits to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, follow NPS guidelines for bus staging and parking.

Hilo’s public transit system, Hele-On Bus, operates fixed routes across East Hawaii but offers limited schedules, infrequent service, and few direct connections between popular destinations. Groups relying on Hele-On face challenges with split parties, missed transfers, and long waits—especially for custom itineraries to places like Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Waipiʻo Valley, or Akaka Falls. A private charter bus provides door-to-door service on your schedule, keeps everyone together, and offers comfortable seating with optional amenities like A/C, Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms. It’s the most reliable and flexible way to move large groups around Hilo and the Big Island.

We provide charter bus services to and from Hilo International Airport (ITO) and can also accommodate groups traveling between Hilo and other major airports on the Big Island, including Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA). If your group needs transportation to or from a smaller regional airport or private airstrip, we can arrange that as well. Just provide your flight details when requesting a quote.

We provide charter bus services to any type of group in Hilo, including schools, universities, sports teams, corporate groups, wedding parties, military and government agencies, religious organizations, tour groups, and cruise ship passengers. Whether you’re organizing a field trip, business event, athletic competition, sightseeing tour, or family reunion, we have the experience and resources to handle your transportation needs.

We provide charter bus services for all types of events in Hilo, including school field trips to the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, Liliuokalani Gardens, or Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park; corporate events and business meetings at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or Grand Naniloa Hotel; wedding shuttles to venues like Wainaku Executive Center or Hilo Daijingu; sports team transportation for games at Wong Stadium or the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium; and festival or concert shuttles for events like the Merrie Monarch Festival, Hilo Orchid Show, or Big Island Film Festival. We also handle airport transfers, cruise ship excursions, church outings, and multi-day tours around the island.

Charter Bus Company Hilo serves Hilo and every nearby city or town on the Big Island, including Kailua-Kona, Waimea (Kamuela), Honoka‘a, Pāhoa, Volcano Village, Kea‘au, Mountain View, Pepe‘ekeō, Honomū, Laupāhoehoe, Nā‘ālehu, Pāhala, Captain Cook, Hōnaunau, Ocean View, and Waikoloa Village. We also operate in resort areas like Waikoloa Beach, Mauna Lani, and Mauna Kea. Need a bus to or from another island? We can coordinate inter-island transportation statewide.