Home to soft golden sand beaches, clear turquoise bays, and incredible wildlife, Maui is one of the most popular islands in Hawaii. Unlike Kauai or Molokai, you can access many places on this island by car, but if you don’t have a car rental, Uber in Maui is the best option to get around popular towns on the island.
IS IT HARD TO GET UBER IN MAUI?
You can get Uber in Maui, but its availability and coverage depend on the location. While Uber is usually available in places like Kahului, Wailea, and Ka’anapali, it’s tough to get in less populated areas like Hana or upcountry Maui.
If you want to visit remote areas of the island, you need to rent a car because taxis and ride-sharing services are not likely to be available in remote areas with poor cell phone service.
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Getting Uber from Maui Airport
Maui has one main airport in Kahului (OGG) and a secondary, Kapalua Airport (JHM), in West Maui near the resorts Kaanapali and Kapalua. Kapalua Airport is a smaller airport mainly used for inter-island flights, and is convenient if you are staying in West Maui.
Kahului Airport is the largest Airport on the island. If you are traveling to Maui from the mainland United States, you will most likely arrive at Kahului Airport.
The Kahului Airport has designated Uber pick-up spots, where you can get a ride share to different parts of the island like Wailea and Kahului.
What type of Uber is available in Maui?
The type of Uber available in Maui are Uber, UberXL, and UberComfort.
Can you get an Uber at OGG?
Yes, you can take an Uber from Kahului Airport to different parts of Maui. The price and availability of Uber at OGG airport depend on the timing of your trip and the season. Expect more expensive Uber prices in Maui during the high season from December through April.
Are Uber rides expensive in Maui?
An Uber ride in Maui usually costs anywhere from $30-50, if you are looking to commute between popular destinations on the island. Maui is generally not a budget destination, so don’t expect your rideshare to be cheap.
To get around the island with no hassle and save on pricey Uber rides, you should rent a car, which is usually cheaper than an Uber, especially if you rent it ahead of your trip.
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UBER PRICES FROM MAUI AIRPORT: AN OVERVIEW
Uber cost from Maui Airport to Wailea
Uber from Maui Airport to Wailea costs about $45, but if you are traveling during the high season when there are a lot of requests, be ready to pay closer to $50-60 for your trip.
How much is Uber from OGG to Kihei?
An Uber ride to Kihei will cost about $35, but the price could fluctuate depending on where exactly in Kihei you are going.
How much is Uber from OGG to Lahaina?
Uber from Maui Airport to Lahaina costs an average of $60, but you should always budget slightly more, especially during the busy season when the number of requests is high.
How much is Uber from OGG to Kaanapali?
Ka’anapali is a resort area on the western coast of Maui, and the Uber from Maui Airport to Kaanapali costs about $70-75.
How much is Uber from OGG to Kaanapali?
Uber from Kahului Airport to Kaanapali will cost about $65-70 depending on your location. The drive from Lahaina Airport to Kaanapali takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
TIPS FOR TAKING UBER IN MAUI
- Don’t take Uber to remote parts of the island – If you want to visit remote beaches or go for a hike, book a tour or rent a car because you are most likely not going to find Uber to get back.
- Uber is available in popular areas of Maui – While popular areas like Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua, and Wailea usually have at least a few Uber drivers around, remote parts usually have no rideshares.
- Uber in Maui is not cheap – Since Maui is an expensive place to visit, ride shares here tend to be equally pricey.
PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION FROM KAHULUI AIRPORT
If you are coming to Maui after a long flight, booking a private shuttle is the best option. This way, you don’t have to navigate the airport, look for Uber stops or negotiate a rate with a taxi driver.
Your driver will pick you up at the arrivals and transport you to your hotel in the air-conditioned vehicle.
➡️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TRANSFER FROM KAHULUI AIRPORT
BEST PLACES TO STAY ON MAUI
Lahaina
Located on the western coast, Lahaina is a historic town known for its lively atmosphere, oceanfront restaurants, and art galleries. It has a variety of hotels and vacation rentals, and many travelers use it as their base for adventures around the island.
Front Street is the main thoroughfare in Lahaina and has shops, art galleries, restaurants, and historical sites. Take a stroll along the street, browse the unique shops, and soak up the sun, before going on an adventure.
Ka’anapali
Located just north of Lahaina, Ka’anapali is a resort area with beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and golf courses. It offers a mix of high-end hotels, condominiums, and vacation rentals.
Kaanapali Beach is one of the most famous and scenic beaches in Maui. Black Rock, on the northern end of Kaanapali Beach, is a popular snorkeling and diving spot, where you can spot the vibrant coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish and marine life.
Book a Whale Watching Tour
From December to April, humpback whales migrate to the waters off the coast of Maui. Join a whale-watching tour from Kaanapali and witness these magnificent creatures breaching and spouting water.
Wailea
Located on Maui’s southern coast, Wailea is known for its upscale resorts, stunning beaches, and world-class golf courses. It offers a more serene and luxurious atmosphere, with accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to private villas.
Kihei
Kihei is a town on Maui’s southwestern coast that has more laid-back and affordable accommodations. It has a variety of condominiums and vacation rentals, easy access to beautiful beaches and water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, jet skiing, and windsurfing.
Hana
If you’re seeking a more secluded and nature-focused experience, Hana on Maui’s eastern coast is a great choice. It is known for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and the famous Road to Hana. Accommodation options in Hana include boutique inns, vacation rentals, and eco-lodges.
Best Road to Hana tours
If you don’t have a car rental, book a guided tour of the Road to Hana. This is a great way to enjoy the scenic drive and let your driver do all the work, so you can admire the beauty of this place.
If you are doing this scenic drive by yourself, I recommend spending a night in Hana. By the time you get to Hana, you will be exhausted, and the island offers a perfect place to spend the night and recharge your batteries. You can continue the drive the next day and see the other part of the drive which has a more rugged scenery.
Do NOT try to see all the highlights of the famous drive in a day! There’s way too much to see here, and you definitley miss out on something if you try to cram everything in one day.
TOP REASONS TO VISIT MAUI:
Stunning Beaches
Maui boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, soft golden sand, and breathtaking sunsets. From popular spots like Kaanapali Beach and Wailea Beach to hidden gems like Honolua Bay and Hamoa Beach, there’s a beach for everyone.
Natural Beauty
Maui’s landscape is incredibly diverse. The Road to Hana is a famous scenic drive with rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning coastal views. Haleakala National Park is home to a dormant volcano where you can watch an incredible sunrise above the clouds.
Snorkeling and Diving
The waters surrounding Maui are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Molokini Crater is a popular snorkeling spot known for its clear waters and abundant coral reefs.
Outdoor Activities
Maui offers a plethora of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. You can go hiking in the lush valleys of Iao Valley State Park, try surfing or windsurfing in renowned spots like Ho’okipa Beach, or go zip-lining through the island’s lush forests.
Whale Watching
Maui is a fantastic place for whale watching. From December to April, humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth. You can take a boat tour or observe them from the shore, witnessing their majestic displays.
Cultural Experiences
A traditional Luau is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the Hawaiian culture, learn about ancient customs, and witness hula performances. Maui also has historical sites like the Lahaina Historic District, which was once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii.
Delicious Cuisine
Maui offers a vibrant food scene, combining traditional Hawaiian flavors with influences from various cultures. You can indulge in fresh seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, and unique Hawaiian specialties like poke and loco moco.
✅ Read: Your complete guide to Uber in Honolulu
HOW TO GET AROUND MAUI?
While Uber in Maui is a popular type of transportation, you can also use other types of transportation like public buses, bike rentals, and taxis.
Here’s a brief overview of transportation options on Maui:
Car Rental
Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around Maui. There are numerous car rental agencies at the Kahului Airport, and you can also find them in other parts of the island. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore Maui at your own pace and visit remote areas.
I always use DiscoverCars when I travel. They have a good variety of vehicles and have no hidden fees or surcharges. All you need to do is type in your travel dates and look for the vehicle you need.
Do I need a car in Maui?
Whether you need a car in Maui, or not, depends on your plans. If you want to stay in the resort area, spend time on a beach, and take it easy, you don’t need a vehicle. But if you want to have more freedom when it comes to planning your adventures, a car is a must.
Why you should rent a car on Maui
To see some of the most beautiful places in Maui, you will need a car. Outside of tourist zones, Maui is a rural island with several scenic drives, and there’s no better way to explore it than by car.
My experience with renting a car in Maui
I rented a car in Maui and had a great experience. I was able to visit major highlights on Maui like the Road to Haha, and ʻĪao Valley State Monument, do a couple of hikes, and also explore Lahaina.
➡️ CLICK HERE TO RENT YOUR CAR ON MAUI
TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN MAUI
Some resorts on Maui have parking fees
If you rent a car on Maui, keep in mind that some resorts and hotels have parking fees. You can usually find the parking fees listed online, but even if you don’t, it’s a good idea to ask.
Make sure to pay for parking
Some places in popular beach towns in Maui have paid parking. If you want to park your car before going off to see the area, make sure that you paid for parking to avoid a fine.
Look for a car rental online
If you walk into a local car rental company, you are likely going to pay a higher price than online. I recommend booking your car through DiscoverCars, which has good rates and many available vehicles including those from local companies.
Get a full coverage
If you are visiting Maui for the first time, you should get comprehensive insurance coverage. Although the main roads on the island are well maintained, it gets a bit more tricky once you get to rural areas where you can find dirt roads and poor signage.
A full coverage will protect you during your trip, and if something were to happen you will pay nothing out of pocket.
Get a map
Depending on your cell phone carrier, you could have poor service in remote parts of the island. It’s best to have a regular map or download an offline map of the area you want to visit ahead of your trip.
Ka’anapali trolley
If you are spending your vacation in Ka’anapali, you can take a free trolley to get around the area. The trolley makes stops around the resort area and is a perfect alternative to an Uber or taxi.
A shuttle between Ka’anapali and Lahaina
Another option is to take a shuttle from Ka’anapali to Lahaina, which will be much cheaper than Uber. The shuttle runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and costs $2 one way.
Public Bus
Maui’s public bus system, called the Maui Bus, provides transportation to many popular destinations on the island. The bus routes cover major towns and attractions, including Lahaina, Kihei, and Kahului. The buses are comfortable and equipped with air conditioning, making them a budget-friendly option for getting around.
Taxi and Ridesharing
Taxis are available on Maui, and you can easily find them at the airport, major hotels, and popular tourist areas.
Bike Rental
If you prefer a more eco-friendly and active way of exploring, you can rent bicycles from various rental shops in Maui. Biking is a great way to enjoy the island’s scenic routes, especially in areas like the West Maui Loop or along the coastline.
Although Maui doesn’t have a bike program like Oahu, you can still find bicycle shops in beach towns like Lahaina or Ka’anapali.
Another option is to book a bicycle online ahead of your visit.
Tours and Shuttles
Maui offers a wide range of guided tours and shuttle services that can take you to specific attractions and activities. These services are super helpful for activities like the Road to Hana, where you can relax and enjoy the sights while leaving the driving to experienced guides.
Walking
If you’re staying in a central area like Lahaina or Paia, you can easily explore these towns on foot. Walking allows you to take in the local charm, visit shops, and restaurants, and enjoy the incredible beauty of the island at a leisurely pace.
Guided tours
If you don’t have a car rental, but still want to explore the island, your best option is to take guided tours. Some of the most popular places like Road To Hana, Molokini Crater, and Lahaina Countryside have daily tours, which can be booked online.
Other popular adventures on Maui include a helicopter visit to the neighboring Molokai island and snorkeling tours in Lahaina.
Taxi in Maui
Maui has taxi services available throughout the island, providing a convenient transportation option for both residents and visitors. Taxis can be found at various locations such as airports, major hotels, and popular tourist areas. I’ve never taken a taxi in Maui but heard that it can be more expensive than Uber.
Taxis are generally more prevalent in busier areas like Kahului, Lahaina, and resort areas such as Ka’anapali and Wailea. In less populated or remote areas, taxi availability may be limited, so it’s best to have alternative transportation options.
Taxi in Maui: prices
Taxis on the island typically use a metered fare system and are more expensive than Uber in Maui. The meter starts when you enter the taxi, and the fare is determined by the distance traveled and time spent in the vehicle.
There may be additional charges for luggage or extra passengers.
PRO TIP: It is customary to tip taxi drivers in Maui. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total fare, although you can adjust it based on the quality of service provided.
If you need a taxi in Maui, get contact information for local taxi companies or use a transportation app specific to the area. Many hotels and resorts can assist in arranging taxis for their guests.
UBER IN MAUI: FAQ’S
Is Uber or Lyft available on Maui?
While both Uber and Lyft are available on Maui, you can also take advantage of Holoholo, a local ride-sharing app.
Is there public transportation in Maui?
Yes, Maui has a public transportation system, which is called Maui bus. It’s the cheapest way to get around and a one-way ticket costs only $2. The Maui bus serves major areas like Lahaina, Kihei, and Ka’anapali, and you can check the Maui Bus website for their exact routes.
What is the best way to get around Maui without a car?
If you don’t have a car rental, you can use a combination of local transportation like buses, shuttles, and ride-sharing services. To see the scenic parts of the island without a car, book one of the guided tours which can help you to visit the Road to Hana, enjoy the best snorkeling spots, or explore the country Maui.
Is it worth driving around Maui?
Maui is incredibly scenic and taking a drive around the island is absolutely worth it. Maui has several scenic drives and you can spend several days enjoying the spectacular landscapes of this place.
Are taxis expensive in Maui?
Taxis in Maui are usually more expensive than ride shares. On top of the base fare, they also charge you a rate that’s based on the meter system, which usually ends up being expensive since you are paying for the time on the road.