Rental car - where you park it overnight

Question

Hello!! Coming in on NCL Pride of America and going to rent a car (October). Debating on just the full day or keeping it overnight for use the next day (in port just toll 2 pm). Is there somewhere nearby to park it overnight? Free. For a cost? Would it be safe? Thank you!!

Answer

Renting a car while visiting Kauai via the NCL Pride of America can be very convenient, especially if you plan to explore areas outside of the cruise port. Deciding whether to return the car the same day or keep it overnight depends on your itinerary and comfort level with overnight parking near the port.

The main cruise port in Kauai is Nawiliwili Harbor, near Lihue. Parking options near the port for rental cars vary between free street parking, public lots, and paid private lots. Security and safety are factors to consider when leaving a rental car overnight.

Port/Harbor Parking: Some areas around Nawiliwili Harbor allow short-term parking, but overnight parking may be restricted. It is not generally recommended to leave a rental car unattended overnight here unless specifically allowed by the port authorities.
Airport Parking: Lihue Airport (Lihue, LIH) is about a 10–15 minute drive from the port. Many rental agencies are based here, and their lots are secure. Leaving a rental car overnight at the airport is generally safe, especially if returning the next day.
Hotel Parking: If you are staying in a nearby hotel the night before or after your cruise day, some hotels allow guests to leave vehicles overnight for a small fee. This can be convenient if you plan to use the car for multiple days.
Private Lots: Some local operators offer paid parking near the port for tourists, which is often monitored and more secure than leaving the car on the street. Prices vary but are usually modest.

In terms of safety, Kauai is relatively low-crime compared to urban areas, but leaving any vehicle in an unsupervised lot always carries some risk. Secured rental lots or airport facilities provide the best peace of mind.

Check with your rental agency if they offer “overnight return” or if they can store the car for you between rental days.
Verify any signage or rules about overnight parking at the port or public lots before leaving the car.
Consider returning the car after your first day and re-renting the next morning if overnight parking options seem uncertain or costly.

Overall, the safest and most straightforward option is to pick up your rental from Lihue Airport, use it for the day, and either return it there overnight or confirm with the rental agency about overnight storage. This minimizes risk and ensures flexibility for your schedule.

Rental car - where you park it overnight

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