Flights to Kahului Airport (OGG) -- Maui, Hawaii
Kahului Airport (OGG) is Maui's main airport, 2 miles from downtown Kahului. United, Alaska, American, Southwest, Delta, and Hawaiian Airlines all operate nonstop mainland service. FareOptic compares all carriers to find the cheapest available fare for your Maui trip.
Flights to Kahului (OGG) -- Maui, Hawaii
*All above fares are one way/round trip. Fares incl. all fuel surcharges, taxes & fees and our service fees. Displayed fares are subject to change and cannot be guaranteed at the time of booking. See all booking terms and conditions.
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Why Visit Maui?
A 10,023-foot volcano with the world's best sunrise, 65 miles of waterfall-lined coastal road, crystal-clear snorkeling, and 10,000 humpback whales
Haleakalā National Park -- A 10,023-Foot Dormant Volcano and the Most Otherworldly Landscape in the United States
Crater Rim at Sunrise, the Silversword Plant That Grows Nowhere Else on Earth, and 75% of Hawaii's Unique SpeciesHaleakalā National Park (30,183 acres, summit elevation 10,023 feet above sea level, 'House of the Sun' in Hawaiian) encompasses the massive dormant shield volcano that forms 75% of Maui's land area. The park's two distinct sections -- the Summit District (volcanic crater and high-altitude shrubland) and the Kīpahulu District (coastal rainforest with the 'Ohe'o Gulch / Seven Sacred Pools waterfall series on the Road to Hana) -- are connected by the volcano's interior but not by road; driving between them takes 3+ hours around the island. Haleakalā's summit crater is 7.5 miles across and 2,600 feet deep -- a landscape of red and grey cinders, lava flows, and volcanic formations that NASA used for Apollo astronaut geological training. The silversword plant (Argyroxiphium sandwicense, 'ahinahina in Hawaiian) grows only on Haleakalā's upper slopes: a rosette of silver-leafed fronds that grows for 10-50 years, flowers once in a spectacular burst of hundreds of purple blossoms, then dies.
The Haleakalā Sunrise Reservation System -- Why Dawn Visitors Must Book Months in Advance and What Happens If You Arrive Without One
Haleakalā summit sunrise has been managed by a timed-entry reservation system since 2017, when unmanaged sunrise viewership caused severe traffic jams on the 10,000-foot summit road beginning at 2am. The reservation (Recreation.gov, $1 reservation fee plus $30 vehicle entrance fee) allows one vehicle to enter the summit between 3am-7am. Reservations open 60 days in advance and sell out within minutes for popular dates (weekends, holidays, clear-weather forecasts). Without a reservation, vehicles are turned away at the summit entrance. Afternoon visits require no reservation (9am-3pm entry is uncontrolled). The alternative for unreserved sunrise seekers: the summit parking areas at Kalahaku Overlook (9,324 feet) are sometimes accessible before the controlled zone; rangers will direct you if capacity allows. The Kīpahulu District requires no reservation.
The Road to Hana -- 65 Miles of the Most Dramatic Coastal Drive in the United States
620 Curves, 59 Bridges (46 One-Lane), Waterfalls, Black-Sand Beaches, and the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā NPThe Hāna Highway (Hawaii Route 360, 65 miles from Kahului to Hāna, then continuing to Kīpahulu) is consistently ranked among the most scenic coastal drives in the United States -- a narrow two-lane road (with 46 one-lane bridges) winding through dense tropical rainforest along Maui's northeastern coastline, gaining and losing elevation as it crosses dozens of stream valleys with roadside waterfalls. The drive's highlights: Twin Falls (Mile 2, easy walk, two waterfalls, swimmmable pools), Ke'anae Peninsula (Mile 17, black lava coast, ancient taro patches, the most remote-feeling point on the drive), Wai'ānapanapa State Park (black sand beach, sea caves, blowhole, advance reservation required for parking), and the town of Hāna itself (population ~1,200, the end point for most tour itineraries). Beyond Hāna: the 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) at Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā NP (tiered pools and waterfalls descending to the ocean) and the grave of aviator Charles Lindbergh (Palapala Ho'omau Church, Kīpahulu).
Why the Road to Hana Takes a Full Day and the Logic of Going vs. Returning on the Same Road vs. Completing the Loop
The Hāna Highway takes a minimum of 3 hours each way (with no stops) and 8-10 hours with meaningful stops -- making it a full-day commitment from Kahului. The return routing decision: most visitors turn around in Hāna and return the same way (most rental car agreements require this -- the loop road beyond Kīpahulu via Ulupalakua is a rough unpaved section that many rental agreements prohibit). The full loop continues southwest from Kīpahulu on the Pi'ilani Highway past the lava fields of South Maui and back to Kahului -- scenic but rougher. For a meaningful Road to Hana experience: leave Kahului by 7am (before tour buses clog the one-lane bridges), stop at Twin Falls, Ke'anae, and Wai'ānapanapa, eat in Hāna, continue to 'Ohe'o Gulch, then return. Plan for 10-12 hours total.
Molokini Crater -- Hawaii's Most Popular Snorkel and Dive Destination and One of the Clearest Waters in the Pacific
A Partially Submerged Volcanic Crater 2.5 Miles Off Maui's South Shore with 150-Foot Visibility and 250 Species of FishMolokini Crater (a partially submerged volcanic tuff cone 2.5 miles off Maui's southern coast near Maalaea Harbor and Kihei) is Hawaii's most visited snorkel and scuba destination -- approximately 350 boats and 1,500+ visitors per day during peak season. The crater's crescent rim rises 160 feet above water on its windward side while the submerged half forms a protected lagoon with: (1) exceptional visibility (100-150 feet in clear conditions -- among the clearest snorkeling water in the Pacific, a result of the offshore location away from sediment-carrying runoff); (2) a diverse reef ecosystem (approximately 250 fish species, with Hawaiian triggerfish, moorish idol, parrotfish, eels, rays, and occasional white-tip sharks); and (3) the 300-foot outer wall (accessible to scuba divers only -- the outer crater wall drops vertically to 300 feet and hosts different species than the interior lagoon). The crater is a Hawaii State Marine Life Conservation District -- no fishing, no coral touching, no anchoring on the reef. All access is by tour boat (multiple operators from Maalaea Harbor, typically 7am-noon for calm morning conditions).
The Science of Molokini's Exceptional Visibility -- Why Offshore Volcanic Craters Produce Clearer Water Than Nearshore Hawaiian Reefs
Molokini's 100-150 foot visibility (compared to 30-60 feet at most nearshore Hawaiian reefs) results from its oceanic isolation: the crater sits in open ocean water 2.5 miles from shore, receiving no land-based sediment from stream runoff (the primary visibility-reducing factor at nearshore Hawaiian reefs). Hawaii's nearshore reefs are periodically turbid after rain events because streams carry red volcanic soil (laterite clay) into the ocean -- the same brilliant red soil visible throughout Maui's interior. Molokini receives only open ocean water, which is sediment-free and highly transparent. The crater's bowl shape also creates a protected environment that limits wave-induced sediment suspension. The result is consistently high visibility regardless of recent weather -- a reliable factor that makes Molokini the gold standard for Maui snorkeling even compared to Maui's many beautiful nearshore reef sites (Honolua Bay, Black Rock/Kaanapali, Coral Gardens).
Humpback Whale Season -- November to May, the Highest Density of North Pacific Humpbacks on Earth in Maui's Waters
Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and Why Maui's Auau Channel Is the World's Premier Whale NurseryThe waters surrounding Maui -- particularly the Auau Channel between Maui, Lana'i, and Moloka'i -- host the highest concentration of North Pacific humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) on Earth during the winter breeding and calving season (November-May, peak January-March). Approximately 10,000-12,000 North Pacific humpbacks (representing the majority of the North Pacific population) migrate annually from their summer Alaskan feeding grounds to Hawaiian waters to breed, give birth, and nurse calves. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary (formally established 1992, administered jointly by NOAA and Hawaii DLNR) protects the primary Hawaiian humpback habitat. Whale watching from Maui: multiple licensed operators (Pacific Whale Foundation, Trilogy Excursions, Maui Princess) depart from Lahaina Harbor and Maalaea Harbor with 2-3 hour cruises achieving near-100% whale sighting success rates January-March. Shore-based whale watching from McGregor Point (Maui's best shoreside viewing, mile marker 8 on Honoapiilani Highway) and Papawai Point requires no boat.
Why Hawaiian Waters Are Humpback Breeding Habitat -- The Energetics of Humpback Whale Migration and What the Whales Are Actually Doing in Maui's Waters All Winter
Humpback whales migrate between two seasonal habitats: high-latitude summer feeding grounds (Alaska, BC, Washington -- dense schools of krill and herring in cold, productive subarctic waters) and low-latitude winter breeding grounds (Hawaii, Mexico, Central America -- warm, predator-free shallow waters for calving and nursing). The migration is driven by the energetics of calf survival: humpback calves are born without sufficient blubber to survive cold Alaskan waters; the warm Hawaiian waters (76-80°F/24-27°C) allow newborns to grow rapidly on their mothers' fat-rich milk (60% fat content, compared to cow milk at 4%) before the April-May migration north. Adult males are in Hawaii for competitive mating: the complex humpback whale song (sung only by males, evolving throughout each season as males copy and modify each other's songs -- one of the most sophisticated acoustic behaviors in the animal kingdom) functions as a mating display. The Maui waters are particularly productive for this because the Auau Channel's shallow depth (average 90 feet) and warm temperature match humpback habitat requirements precisely.
How to Find Cheap Flights to Maui
Book Maui Flights 3-5 Months in Advance for the Best Prices -- Peak Season Is December-March
Maui is one of the most expensive domestic destinations year-round, with peak prices December-March (whale season, school holidays) and June-August (summer families). The best-value window is April-May and September-October -- shoulder seasons with lower prices, smaller crowds, and excellent weather. For Christmas and New Year travel, book 5-6 months in advance. West Coast departures (LAX, SFO, SEA) offer the most competitive fares.
Use Miles for Maui -- It's One of the Best Domestic Award Redemptions for Value
OGG is one of the best domestic award destinations: United MileagePlus at 22,500 miles, Alaska Mileage Plan at 20,000-25,000 miles, and American AAdvantage at 22,500 miles one way in economy. The cash price of a roundtrip to Maui ($500-$1,200 from the mainland) means the cents-per-mile value of Hawaii awards often exceeds 1.5-2 cents -- among the highest for domestic redemptions. Accumulate miles strategically if Maui is on your travel list.
Fly West Coast Into OGG for the Cheapest Fares -- Midwest and East Coast Add $200-400 in Connection Costs
LAX, SFO, SEA, SJC, LAS, and PHX are the lowest-fare gateways to OGG. Chicago (ORD/MDW) adds $200-300 over West Coast fares; East Coast cities (NYC, ATL, MIA) add $300-500 or more. If flying from the Midwest or East Coast, consider deadheading to LAX first on a cheap separate ticket, then flying LAX-OGG -- the total cost is often lower than connecting itineraries through congested hubs.
Rent a Car at OGG -- Public Transit Is Minimal and Maui Requires Driving for Most Attractions
Maui has no rail transit and limited bus service (Maui Bus covers some routes but is slow and infrequent). A rental car is essential for Road to Hana, Haleakala, and moving between resort areas (Kaanapali, Wailea, Kihei, Lahaina are all 20-40 minutes from OGG). Book rental cars simultaneously with flights -- Maui rental inventory is tight and prices surge when booked late. Jeeps and AWD vehicles are worth the premium for Road to Hana and Haleakala's rough roads.
Airlines Flying to Kahului (OGG)
United Airlines
LAX, SFO, DEN, and ORD Nonstops to Maui -- United's Largest Hawaii Network from the MainlandUnited Airlines operates one of the largest mainland-to-Maui networks, with nonstop service from Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Denver (DEN), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), and Newark (EWR). United's Maui flights use Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner widebody aircraft configured for Hawaii leisure travel. United's Polaris business class and Premium Plus cabin on select OGG routes provide a premium transatlantic-style experience for the 5-9 hour mainland flight. MileagePlus miles can be used for OGG redemptions, with saver awards starting at 22,500 miles one way from the West Coast.
Key Routes
LAX to OGG (5h 30m nonstop; SFO to OGG (5h 25m nonstop; DEN to OGG (7h 45m nonstop; ORD to OGG (9h 15m nonstop; EWR to OGG (11h+ nonstop, seasonal
Alaska Airlines
SEA and SJC Nonstops to Maui -- Alaska's Pacific Strength and the Best West Coast Mileage Value for HawaiiAlaska Airlines operates consistent nonstop service from Seattle (SEA) and San Jose (SJC) to Kahului (OGG), with additional seasonal service from Portland (PDX) and Anchorage (ANC). Alaska's Maui routes use Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft. Alaska Mileage Plan is consistently rated the best frequent flyer program for Hawaii value -- Alaska partners with Hawaiian Airlines post-merger and offers competitive award pricing to Maui. Alaska's SEA-OGG route is one of the highest-volume West Coast-Hawaii routes, with multiple daily flights at peak season.
Key Routes
SEA to OGG (5h 45m nonstop; SJC to OGG (5h 30m nonstop; PDX to OGG (5h 50m nonstop, seasonal; ANC to OGG (5h 30m nonstop, seasonal
American Airlines
PHX, DFW, and LAX Connections to Maui -- American's Hawaii Service and AAdvantage Awards for OGGAmerican Airlines serves OGG from Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) with nonstop Boeing 787 Dreamliner service, and from Los Angeles (LAX) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) via connections. PHX-OGG is one of American's flagship Hawaii routes -- Phoenix's winter visitors frequently use this route for Hawaii vacations. AAdvantage miles for Maui are priced at 22,500-35,000 miles one way depending on the class and season.
Key Routes
PHX to OGG (6h 15m nonstop; LAX to OGG (5h 35m nonstop; DFW to OGG (via LAX or PHX; ORD to OGG (via LAX or PHX
Southwest Airlines
LAS and West Coast Nonstops to Maui -- Southwest's Hawaii Network and the Two Free Bags That Matter Most for Island PackingSouthwest Airlines operates nonstop service from Las Vegas (LAS), Oakland (OAK), San Jose (SJC), Sacramento (SMF), and San Diego (SAN) to Kahului (OGG). Southwest's Hawaii fares are often the lowest advertised prices to Maui from the West Coast -- but the no-change-fee, two-free-bag policy is the real differentiator for leisure travelers who pack heavily for beach vacations. Southwest Rapid Rewards points for Maui redemptions require checking the Southwest website directly (no GDS availability).
Key Routes
LAS to OGG (6h nonstop; OAK to OGG (5h 30m nonstop; SJC to OGG (5h 30m nonstop; SAN to OGG (5h 45m nonstop; SMF to OGG (5h 45m nonstop
Things to Do in Maui
Essential Info for Your Maui Trip
State
Hawaii
Airport
OGG -- Kahului Airport (2 miles from Kahului, central Maui)
Currency
USD -- US Dollar
Time Zone
HST (UTC-10) -- Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time
Haleakalā Sunrise
Recreation.gov reservation required 3am-7am (May-Oct). $1 reservation + $30 vehicle entrance. Books out 60 days in advance.
Whale Season
November through May. Peak: January-March. Best boat operators: Pacific Whale Foundation, Trilogy Excursions.
Car Rental
Essential. Book simultaneously with flight -- Maui rental inventory is limited and surges without advance booking.
Emergency Number
911
Most Popular Airlines
Best Airlines for Domestic & International Routes
Frequently Asked Questions on Flights to Kahului, Maui
Everything you need to know about booking cheap flights to Kahului Airport (OGG), Maui, Hawaii
What airport do you fly into for Maui, Hawaii?
Kahului Airport (OGG) is Maui's primary airport, located 2 miles east of Kahului in central Maui. It's the second-busiest airport in Hawaii after Honolulu (HNL). Most major carriers (United, Alaska, American, Southwest, Hawaiian, Delta) operate nonstop service from mainland West Coast cities. Hana Airport (HNM) has small aircraft service only. Kapalua Airport (JHM) in West Maui is served by Mokulele Airlines for interisland connections.
What is Maui known for?
Maui is known for: (1) Haleakalā National Park (10,023-foot volcano with the most spectacular US sunrise October-March); (2) the Road to Hana (65-mile coastal drive through tropical rainforest, waterfalls, and black sand beaches); (3) humpback whale season (November-May, highest concentration of North Pacific humpbacks on Earth in the Auau Channel); (4) Molokini Crater (150-foot visibility snorkeling and diving); and (5) world-class resort beaches at Kaanapali, Wailea, and Kihei.
When is the best time to visit Maui?
Best weather year-round (Maui has a pleasant tropical climate all year). Best value: April-May and September-October (shoulder seasons, 20-35% cheaper than peak, excellent weather, fewer crowds). Peak season: December-March (whale season, premium prices, school holidays). Rainy season: November-March on the north and east sides (windward Maui) -- the leeward south and west sides (Wailea, Kaanapali) stay dry year-round. Summer (June-August): school vacation peak, busy and expensive but weather is excellent.
Do I need a rental car in Maui?
Yes, a rental car is essentially required for Maui. Road to Hana, Haleakalā National Park, and moving between resort areas (Kaanapali, Wailea, Kihei, Upcountry) are only practical by car. The Maui Bus exists but is slow and covers limited routes. Book your rental car at the same time as your flight -- Maui rental inventory is tight and prices surge for last-minute bookings. All major car rental companies operate at OGG.
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