Getting around Maui

By Car

The best way to get around and explore Maui is by renting your own car, this way you have the most flexibility to see the gorgeous coastline and extended areas of the island at your own pace. Without a vehicle, you are limited to your hotel and the beach, you can walk around the surrounding areas but you need a car to see other spots and it allows you to choose where and when you go. The bus service can be limited and taxis are expensive.

By Taxi

Taxis are available on Maui but can be expensive, rates are determined by the distance you travel and the prices can add up quickly, generally you will not be able to hail a cab on the island, it is best to call or have your hotel contact a taxi service to arrange for a ride. Rates can run at about $3 a mile.

By Bus

The County of Maui operates an extensive public bus system providing service between the main towns and the airport. The Upcountry and Haiku Islander routes stop at the Kahului Airport. Route 40 (Upcountry Islander) operate daily from 7:15 am – 10:15 pm and runs every 90 minutes. Route 35 (Haiku Islander) operates daily from 6:45 am – 9:45 pm also running every 90 minutes. Tickets run around $2 per person, check the website for departure times and rules for luggage www.co.maui.hi.us or call -808-871-4838 for more information.

By Shuttle

Many hotels and resorts in the popular tourist destinations offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport as well as to nearby attractions. Check with your hotel for details on shuttle services offered for guests.

The free Whaler`s Village shuttle is offered if you are staying on the Kaanapali coastline, it stops at major resorts in the area and runs every half hour from 9 am – 6 pm.

The Lahaina Express shuttle is also free it runs from 9 am – 10 pm and takes passengers in and out of Lahaina and along the Kaanapali strip.

The West Maui Shopping Express runs from Lahaina to Kapulua and Kaanapali hotels and shopping areas and costs about a $1 it runs until the early evening.

The South Maui Shopping Express travels to Wailea, Makena and Kihei and costs around $15 for adults and about $5 for children for a one-way trip. If you make a purchase in the areas you can show the driver your receipt and your return trip is free.

By Ferry

The Island offers a ferry service operated out of Lahaina harbor. A ferry runs from here to Manele harbor to the nearby area of Lanai several times a day, departures start at 6:45 am an end around 6:45 pm. Roundtrip rates cost approximately $60 for adults and about $40 for children, one way trips run about half these prices. There is a daily service between Maui and Molokai through Discover Molokai that runs around $70 each way for adults.

By Foot

Getting around on foot is fine if you plan to stay in one area and only see the surrounding neighborhoods or the beaches close to where you are staying. Local transport is limited and getting around to the main attractions will require some form of transportation.

The idea is for you to use the bikes in place of public transport, not to keep it with you all day. If you think your trip will take more than a half hour, just stop off at another rack, select a new bike after a 5 minute wait, and the clock restarts. You can do that as many times as you want, but you are required to follow the same traffic rules that cars do. Locations of nearby docks are on every pylon, use the free apps Santander Cycles (tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/santander-cycles; tel. 0343 222 6666). Don’t expect many dedicated bike lines, but the major parks are perfect places for an afternoon ride.

By Boat

Since the 2012 Olympics, river travel has become a part of London’s overall public transport system. River bus service now stops at 22 piers between Putney and Woolwich (Royal Arsenal). Tickets are £8.60, with a discount to £7 for Oyster card and Travelcard holders. A £19.80 River Roamer ticket offers unlimited river travel from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends. There is also a River Bus Express boat to and from The O2 for concerts and special events (£10, £7.30 if bought online or through Oyster card).

Thames Clippers (tel. 020/7930-2062, www.thamesclippers.com, generally 9am – 9pm) catamarans go every 20 minutes during the day. Narrowboat trips on London’s canals, especially Regent’s Canal, are also a good way of seeing the city. The season runs April to October, with daily trips at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm. Contact Jason’s, www.jasons.co.uk, Jason’s Wharf, Westbourne Terrace Road Bridge opposite 42 Blomfield Rd., Little Venice, W9 (tel. 020/7286-3428; Bus no. 6: Little Venice; Tube: Warwick Ave.).

Maui FAQ

How do I get on the Ferry in Maui?

The island offers a ferry service operated out of Lahaina harbor. A ferry runs from here to Manele harbor and to the nearby area of Lanai several times a day, departures start at 6:45 am and end around 6:45 pm. Roundtrip rates cost approximately $60 for adults and about $40 for children, one-way trips run about half these prices. There is a daily service between Maui and Molokai through Discover Molokai that runs around $70 each way for adults.

Read More

Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.

Should I rent a car in Maui?

Renting a car is the best option while staying on the island, the bus system is limited, shuttle services tend to be slow due to making several stops and taxis are expensive, a journey from the airport to your hotel can run anywhere from $40 – $70. Plus with your own car you are not restricting your travel options, many areas are spread out and if you want to explore more of Maui a car is a great option.

Where can I pick up my rental car?

If you have not booked your rental car with us, you can arrange to pick up your car from the airport. The car rental building is located at the end of the baggage claim area on a walkway. There are several options available and a shuttle bus will take you to the car rental building.

I will have a car in Maui, where can I park?

Public Parking is offered at some of the public beaches but can fill up quickly, if you are planning a day at to the beach, head there early (before 8 am) to try and secure a parking spot. A new state law says that each oceanfront hotel has to provide free beach parking and beach access, normally around 10 parking spots per hotel, check with the hotel or parking attendant before parking your vehicle.

Is Maui a walking city?

The beach areas are fine for walking around to local restaurants, shops, etc and some of the beach areas may be close enough to walk to other attractions close by. However the islands main attractions are spread out and you will need some form of transportation to get to them.

What are some popular areas for shopping?

Some of the top shopping in Hawaii can be found on Maui, at the Queen Ka`ahumanu Center which is the largest shopping mall on the island, to high-end shops in Wailea and Whalers Village in Kaanapali Beach. Visit Lahaina`s Front Street where you can explore jewelry shops, clothing stores, art galleries and find one of a kind souvenirs. Also popular is the Maui Swap Meet which is held each Saturday morning in Kahului with over 200 vendors, also the Maui Mall and the largest movie theatre are found in Kahului. Paia and Makawao are popular areas to shop. Kona coffee is world renowned, exotic fruits, salad dressings, the famous Hawaiian lei and Hawaiian Heirloom jewelry.

What is the currency? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?

The currency in Hawaii is the US dollar. US standards apply when tipping, restaurants 15 – 20%, bartenders $0.50 – $1 per drink, housekeeping $1 per bed, per night, luggage porters $1 per bag, room service 10 – 15% of the total bill, for taxis, 15% of the fare. For more detailed information, consult our guide to tipping in Hawaii by clicking Hawaii

What is the weather like?

The average temperature in Maui is between 75 and 85 degrees. There are generally two seasons, summer which is between April and November when it can be warmer and drier and winter is between December and March when it can be cooler with low`s in the 70`s to mid 80`s, the trade winds throughout the island keep things comfortable.

Is there a popular time of year to visit Maui?

The popular whale watching season begins in December and ends in May the peak months are January through early April and during the winter months the Auau channel which runs between Maui, Lanai and Molokai are said to be one of the best whale watching areas in the world. Winter is also home to the big wave surf season on the north shore. Aloha Festivals take place in September and October and Pearl Harbor Day is December 7th.

What are the best beaches in Maui?

The island has more miles (120 miles of shoreline) of swimmable beaches that any other Hawaiian island. Featuring 80 incredible beaches, such as Wailea, Ka`anapali, Kahekili, Napili, Makena State Park where Big Beach and Little Beach are found and Hamoa Beach, all featuring activities like swimming, surfing, bodysurfing and snorkeling. A day at the beach is a classic Maui experience.

What is the nightlife like?

Maui isn’t typically known for its Nightlife, the island tends to have limited options but the fun does not stop after sunset, you can head to Wailea and dine under the stars, check out restaurants and bars in Lahaina and Kihei, listen to live music on Kaanapali Beach at the popular Whalers Villages or check out a show, Ulalena is a 75 minute award-winning musical extravaganza held at the Maui Theatre. Maui Luaus are held all over the island and a great way to experience hula dancing and the interesting culture of Hawaii. A sunset dinner cruise is a spectacular way to enjoy the evening.

What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?

There are two hospitals in Maui, Maui Memorial Medical Center located in the town of Wailuku about 4 miles from the airport and Kula Hospital in the town of Kula. Lanai Community Hospital is also located in Kula. And the Hana Health Clinic found in Hana on the southeastern side of the island.

Maui Memorial Medical Center: (808) 244-9056

Hana Community Health Center: (808) 248-8294

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places such as pubs, restaurants and clubs across England and Wales. The regulations are observed and strictly enforced. Smoking is allowed in beer gardens and on outdoor terraces in bars.

Top Attractions

Haleakala National Park

Experience the breathtaking Haleakala volcano, known for its stunning sunrise and otherworldly landscapes, offering hiking, biking, and stargazing opportunities.

Lahaina Historic Town

Explore Lahaina town’s historic sites, including the Lahaina Banyan Court Park, historic whaling village, and vibrant Front Street with art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Unique Experiences

Discover the vibrant marine life at Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic caldera known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse coral reefs.

Explore the scenic Upcountry Maui, visiting lavender farms, vineyards, and enjoying panoramic views of the island from the slopes of Haleakala.

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau, featuring hula dancing, Polynesian music, and a feast of local dishes like kalua pig and poi.

Learn to surf or hone your skills on Maui’s legendary North Shore, where you can catch waves at famous surf spots like Ho’okipa Beach Park.

Experience a peaceful sunset at Kihei’s Secret Beach, a hidden gem known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

What to expect while traveling