Getting Around Maui: Transportation Options for Your Adventure
Ahh, Maui. So lush, so welcoming, and filled with beautiful landscapes. Exploring this tropical paradise is an experience like no other. The Valley Isle is only 48 miles long and 26 miles wide, but navigating its terrain successfully often brings you back to one essential aspect: transportation.
Public transportation primarily connects major towns, which means you can’t easily reach stunning locations like Haleakalā National Park, the Road to Hana, or ‘Iao Valley State Monument without a car or a guided tour. The roads tend to be narrow and often face unpredictable weather conditions, making cycling a less viable option as well.
The good news is that in certain areas, such as small towns or resort hubs, you can explore on foot or by bicycle. Furthermore, services like the Maui Bus and rideshare options are great for local travel.
The Best Way to Explore: Renting a Car
Maui is segmented into five distinct regions, with each anchored by a town or small city. If your plan includes traveling beyond your immediate area, it is advisable to rent a car. Visiting sites like Haleakalā National Park and traversing the Road to Hana would be nearly impossible without one, though many recommend guided tours for the latter to help minimize traffic congestion that has become a significant issue over time.
There are nine international car rental options available at Kahului International Airport, with additional offices in places like Ka‘anapali and many resorts. For eco-conscious travelers, consider renting a hybrid or electric vehicle from Bio-Beetle in Kahului. Discount rental options are scattered across the island, and Kihei Rent a Car provides older-model vehicles at lower prices along with complimentary airport rides.
While the rental car market in Maui can feel tight, especially after the pandemic caused many companies to downsize their fleets, it is suggested to reserve your vehicle a month or two in advance to guarantee availability upon arrival. An alternative to conventional rentals is carsharing via Turo, which boasts a diverse selection of vehicles. Remember, specific guidelines for your rented car may restrict operations on unpaved roads, especially when accessing remote beaches.
Local Transportation: Buses and Taxis
The Maui Bus operates within major towns, providing a reliable means of transportation; however, it doesn’t reach more secluded areas like Haleakalā National Park. Managed by Roberts Hawaii, the bus service runs 14 routes, with main routes available every hour from approximately 7 am to 8 pm. The fares are inexpensive, with a one-way ticket costing $2 and a daily pass costing $5. Notably, children aged 5 years and under travel free with a paying adult.
In Ka‘anapali, the Ka‘anapali Trolley offers a free shuttle service connecting Whalers Village, the Ka‘anapali Golf Course, the Fairway Shops, and various resorts every 20 to 30 minutes from 10 am to 10 pm, except during lunch and dinner breaks for the driver. Taxis are readily available in the main areas, with app-based rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also widely accessible.
Exploring by Foot and Bicycle
In most towns and coastal resorts, walking is a great way to explore. Lahaina features historical pathways, while Ka‘anapali, Kapalua, and Wailea offer coastal trails that connect resorts. However, traversing from town to town by bicycle comes with challenges due to narrow roads and traffic conditions. Kihei, a more level area, features bike lanes that can ease cycling considerably.
Additional Options for Travel
If you prefer to bypass road travel, consider flights. Mokulele Airlines offers two daily flights between Kapalua International Airport and the small Hana Airport, significantly cutting travel time to just twenty minutes.
Guided tours can be an excellent alternative if you’re seeking to experience locations such as the Road to Hana or Haleakalā without the hassle of navigating yourself. Companies like Roberts Hawaii and Valley Isle Excursions provide insightful tours that significantly reduce transportation-related stress.
Accessibility Considerations
Most transportation options in Maui, including the Maui Bus, are ADA accessible. Rental car agencies also provide hand-controlled vehicles and wheelchair-accessible vans. It’s advisable to bring your disability parking placard to utilize designated disabled parking spaces throughout the island.
In summary, irrespective of your preferred method, getting around Maui can be enjoyable and convenient with proper planning and understanding of available options.
