Maui travel guide

Maui travel guide

National Airports

There are two airports in Maui that serve domestic and international flights:

Kahului Airport (OGG): Kahului Airport is the main airport in Maui and serves as the gateway to the island. It is located in central Maui, about 15 minutes from the town of Kahului.

Kapalua Airport (JHM): Kapalua Airport is a smaller airport located in west Maui, near the town of Lahaina. It primarily serves regional flights and private planes.

Both airports offer car rental services, taxi services, and shuttle services to and from popular destinations on the island. Kahului Airport also has a public transportation bus stop and offers connections to other islands in Hawaii.

Trains in Maui

Maui does not have a train system. The island’s transportation options mainly include car rentals, taxis, ride-hailing services, public transportation, and biking or walking. However, there is a scenic train ride, the Sugar Cane Train, that operates on the west side of Maui between Lahaina and Kaanapali. The Sugar Cane Train is a historic steam locomotive that takes passengers on a scenic journey through the island’s sugar cane fields, offering views of the ocean and mountains. While not a means of transportation, the Sugar Cane Train is a fun and unique activity for visitors to Maui.

Buses in Maui

Maui has a public bus system called Maui Bus, which provides transportation to major destinations throughout the island. The Maui Bus operates seven days a week, and there are several routes that serve different parts of the island.

The bus fares are affordable, and the system is designed to be accessible to both locals and visitors. The buses are equipped with bike racks, and some routes operate late into the night to accommodate visitors who want to experience Maui’s nightlife.

Visitors can purchase a monthly pass or a 4-day pass that allows unlimited use of the Maui Bus during their stay. The passes can be purchased at various locations on the island, including the main bus terminal in Kahului.

Overall, the Maui Bus is a convenient and affordable option for visitors who want to explore the island without renting a car.

How to get to Maui

There are several ways to get to Maui:

By Plane: The most common way to get to Maui is by flying into Kahului Airport (OGG), which is the main airport in Maui. Many airlines offer non-stop flights to Maui from major cities in the United States, Canada, and Asia.

Inter-Island Flights: Visitors can also fly from other Hawaiian islands to Maui using inter-island flights. Airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, and Southwest Airlines offer flights between the Hawaiian islands.

Cruise Ship: Maui is a popular destination for cruise ships that sail around the Hawaiian Islands. Several cruise lines offer cruises that stop in Maui.

Ferry: There is currently no ferry service to Maui from other Hawaiian islands.

Once you arrive in Maui, there are several transportation options to get to your accommodation or explore the island, including car rentals, taxis, ride-hailing services, public transportation, and biking or walking.

What is the best time to travel to Maui

The best time to travel to Maui depends on your preferences and what you want to do while on the island. Generally, Maui has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and sunny days year-round, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The peak tourist season is during the winter months (December to February), when visitors flock to the island to escape the cold weather in other parts of the world. During this time, the beaches and tourist attractions can be crowded, and prices for accommodation and activities tend to be higher.

The shoulder season, which includes the fall months (September to November) and the spring months (March to May), can be a great time to visit Maui. The weather is still warm and sunny, and the crowds and prices are typically lower than during the peak season.

The summer months (June to August) are also a good time to visit Maui. While the temperatures can be hot and humid, the beaches are less crowded, and accommodation and activity prices are often lower.

Overall, the best time to travel to Maui depends on your preferences, budget, and what you want to do while on the island.

How to get around Maui

There are several ways to get around Maui:

Car Rental: Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to get around Maui. There are several car rental agencies at the Kahului Airport, and visitors can also rent cars in other parts of the island.

Taxi: Taxis are available on Maui, but they can be expensive compared to other modes of transportation.

Ride-Hailing Services: Uber and Lyft are available on Maui and can be a more affordable option than taxis.

Public Transportation: Maui has a public bus system called the Maui Bus, which provides transportation to major destinations throughout the island.

Biking: Maui is a great place for biking, and there are several bike rental companies on the island. Biking can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Maui, especially in areas with bike paths.

Walking: Walking is an option in some areas of Maui, especially in towns and cities. However, some parts of the island are not pedestrian-friendly, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Overall, renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to get around Maui, but visitors can also use other modes of transportation depending on their preferences and budget.

Accommodations in Maui

Maui offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, including:

Resorts and Hotels: Maui has several high-end resorts and hotels that offer luxurious amenities such as beach access, pools, spas, and restaurants.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals such as condos, apartments, and villas are popular in Maui and offer more space and privacy than hotels. Vacation rentals can be found on websites like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway.

Bed and Breakfasts: There are several bed and breakfasts on Maui that offer a more personalized and intimate experience. Some bed and breakfasts are located in historic homes, and others offer ocean views.

Hostels: Hostels are a more budget-friendly option for travelers and are a great way to meet other travelers. There are several hostels on Maui, including some that are located close to popular beaches.

Camping: Maui offers several campgrounds that allow visitors to experience the island’s natural beauty. Camping is a great option for visitors who want to save money and enjoy the outdoors.

Overall, Maui offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels and campgrounds. Visitors should choose an accommodation that fits their preferences and budget.