The Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on the island of Oahu is the busiest travel hub in Hawaii, and if you’re coming from the mainland, chances are you’ll be making a quick layover here, before continuing on to Maui’s Kahului Airport (OGG).

Situated on the northern coast, OGG is part of the Kahului commercial zone, Maui’s center for industry and shopping. Although the island is small enough to comfortably base yourself in Kahului, most visitors settle in the resort regions of Wailea, Kaanapali and Kihei – all easily accessible with an airport car rental.

Key Facts

The impenetrable West Maui Mountains lie to the west of OGG, so if you’re staying along Kaanapali Beach on the western coast, you’ll need to drive the main highway south before looping back north. Located on the direct path from Kahului, Kihei’s white Sugar Beach and the small coastal village of Maalea are nearer. Even closer to Kahului is Paia, a historic town filled with shops and a gateway to the Hana Highway, a scenic road along the island’s eastern coast.

Hints and Tips

Once you’re in HNL, continuing to your final destination is a breeze. Inter-island routes are served by smaller carriers from local airlines, and the total flight time between the two islands clocks in at under an hour.