How to Get from Oahu to Maui: Your Up-to-Date Guide in 2025!

Last Updated on June 16, 2025 by Aram Vardanyan

Are you planning to travel from Oahu to Maui? Whether you’re on a short island-hopping adventure or starting a longer stay on the Valley Isle.

This guide covers everything you need to know about how to get from Oahu to Maui quickly, easily, and affordably.

From the best flights to practical travel tips and common FAQs, here’s your ultimate guide to getting from Oahu to Maui in 2025.

I also have a helpful guide about the best places to stay in Honolulu and Waikiki that will help to plan your trip. 

For those planning a round trip, my guide on traveling between Maui and Honolulu offers all the essential details.

Best Way to Travel from Oahu to Maui: Take a Flight

The fastest and most popular way to get from Oahu to Maui is by plane. Daily flights operate between Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu and Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui.

Airlines Flying from Oahu to Maui:

• Hawaiian Airlines (most frequent)
• Southwest Airlines
• Mokulele Airlines (smaller, local)

Flight duration: 40 minutes
Typical cost: $50–$120 one-way, depending on the season and time of day

💡 Pro tip: Book early morning or evening flights for cheaper fares and fewer crowds.

Popular Search Variants:

• How to fly from Oahu to Maui
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Departing from Oahu: Honolulu Airport (HNL)

When departing from Oahu, you’ll fly out of Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL).

• Terminal for Inter-Island Flights: Terminal
• Time to arrive: 60–90 minutes before your flight
• Transportation to HNL:

  • Taxi/Uber from Waikiki: ~$30–$40

  • Public bus: Route 19 or 20, ~$2.75

  • Hotel shuttles: Many hotels offer direct airport shuttles

Arriving in Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG)

Maui’s main airport is Kahului Airport (OGG), located on the north side of the island.

• Arrival time: 40 minutes after departure from HNL
• Ground transport from OGG:

  • Rental cars: Best for exploring the island

  • Uber/Lyft: $35–$50 to Lahaina or Kihei

  • Maui Bus: ~$2 (limited luggage space)

Can You Take a Ferry from Oahu to Maui?

Currently, no passenger ferries are operating from Oahu to Maui.

Although there were once plans for a ferry service between the Hawaiian Islands, the last attempt (Hawaii Superferry) ended in 2009. Today, the only reliable way to get from Oahu to Maui is by airplane.

What to Pack for Your Oahu to Maui Trip

Whether you’re planning a day trip or staying a week, pack smart for a smooth inter-island flight:

• Government-issued ID or passport (required)
• Light jacket (airplanes get cold)
• Water bottle (refill after TSA
• Swimsuit and sunscreen (you’re going to Maui!)
• Mobile boarding pass for quick check-in

Suggested Itinerary: Oahu to Maui Day Trip

Want to explore Maui in a day? Here’s a sample itinerary. I also have a complete 7-day Maui itinerary if you are planning to stay longer.

5:00 AM – Depart Waikiki; arrive HNL by 5:45 AM.
6:30 AM – Flight from HNL → OGG.
7:15 AM – Pick up rental car or shuttle to Kihei.
8:00 AM – Breakfast at a Kihei café—try local acai bowls or malasadas.
9:30 AM – Snorkel at Molokini Crater or relax on Kamaole Beach Park.
12:30 PM – Lunch in Paia—grab fish tacos or a famous plate lunch.
2:00 PM – Drive Hāna Highway to scenic viewpoints (Three Bears, Twin Falls).
5:00 PM – Return to Kahului for dinner—farm-to-table cuisine at Maui Nui Botanical Gardens.
7:30 PM – Check in at OGG and board a late flight back to HNL (e.g., 8 PM departure).
8:00 PM – Depart Maui → HNL → 8:45 PM: Land in Honolulu.
9:30 PM – Return to Waikiki by shuttle or rideshare—grab that post-trip shave ice on your way home!

Note: Adjust times to match your booked flight. Allow extra buffer for traffic, especially on Hāna Highway loops.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the flight from Oahu to Maui?

Flights typically take 35–45 minutes. Add time for security and boarding.

What’s the cheapest way to get from Oahu to Maui?

Flights with Mokulele or early-bird fares on Hawaiian Airlines can go as low as $50 one-way.

Can you drive from Oahu to Maui?

No. There is no bridge or ferry. You must fly to get between the islands.

Is there a ferry from Honolulu to Maui?

No. There is no active ferry service between Oahu and Maui.

Can I book same-day return trips?

Yes, with flights nearly every hour, you can be back in Oahu by evening. Just leave a 1–1.5 hour buffer before your return flight to accommodate any delays.

What baggage allowances apply?

• Carry-on (free): One personal item under the seat.
• Checked bag: $30–$35 each way (up to 20 lbs).
• Oversized (surfboards/golf clubs): $75–$100 each way.

Are there any plans to restore ferry service?

As of 2025, no passenger ferry is planned between Oahu and Maui. Flying remains the most reliable choice.

How do I handle cancellations or weather delays?

• Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest allow free same-day changes if you rebook on another flight that day (subject to availability).
• Monitor flight status via the airline’s app for real-time updates.
• Hurricane season (June–November) can affect schedules—keep an eye on local news (KITV, KHON2).

Wrapping Up

Flying from Oahu to Maui is quick—30–40 minutes in the air—and offers you a chance to experience two of Hawaii’s most distinct islands in a single day.

Book your flight early, pack light, and follow these tips to ensure a seamless trip.

Safe travels, and aloha! 

Other Articles about Maui and Oahu

• 4 days in Oahu
• Best Luaus on Maui
• 2 days in Honolulu
• 1 day in Volcanoes National Park
• Best luaus in Maui

More How to Get Around in Hawaii Guides

• How to Get from Big Island to Maui
• How to Get From Maui to Honolulu

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