The other night we picked up our son from Kahului airport (OGG). A fair number of our guests have a late arrival at Kahului Airport. You will have been flying 5+ hours if coming from the West Coast. You’re tired but excited to start your Maui vacation. Here are a few observations to share.
Airport shops close at 9 PM
There are a few drink vending machines, but there will be no food available for purchase at the airport. Currently Safeway in Kahului is open 24-7 (as is the Kihei Safeway), a great option to grab some late night snacks if hungry, or breakfast for the morning. They do have some pre-made grab and go options. Double check hours prior to your arrival.
Luggage is slow to arrive
If you can, avoid checking luggage. It will take a good 20 minutes from your arrival in the luggage hall until bags start coming down the conveyor belt. Double-check the luggage carousel information and listen for announcements. They often switch carousels while you’re waiting.
The bathroom art is beautiful
Not something you’d typically talk about, but Kahului airport has beautiful prints by Maui artist Curtis Wilson Cost. Years ago his gallery was at the Kula Lodge. His current upcountry studio is by appointment only, so stop and enjoy the bathroom art.
Dale Zarella carving in the luggage hall
Check out Dale Zarella’s carving ‘Hiva Hiva’ in the luggage hall. Dale Zarrella is a famous Maui sculptor and artist. This particular carving is from one of the charred trees from the devastating 2023 Lahaina fire. Curious to see more of his art? Check out the lobby at the Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea. His wood carvings are full of intricate detail.
Do you need a rental car?
There are taxis and uber/lyfts available. If arriving late, you may want to consider pre-ordering one. There are also shuttles you can pre-order. Renting a car is a personal choice, some visitors like to just chill and relax, others like to explore and adventure around the island. You do you. However, I strongly recommend booking your rental car in advance rather than waiting til you arrive to figure it out.
Lei greetings
Yes, you can pre-order your own lei greeting. It’s a little cheesy, but we do see people have them from time to time.
Where to find the rental cars
When walking out of the luggage hall, cross the street to catch the trolley to the rental car building. Hot tip ~ it’s just a 5-10 minute walk, stretching the legs might feel great after your long flight. There are multiple trolley stops, should you change your mind and want to ride. And yes, the rental car counters will usually stay open until the last flight has arrived, just make sure you add your flight info to your rental car reservation. Some travelers will send one person on to get the car, while the other waits for luggage (this won’t work if you both plan to drive).
What about late night arrival at the condo?
Check that you have your check-in info handy. If you are staying at one of our condos, I send it out a few weeks prior to your arrival (it will be a pdf in your email, or in your Vrbo app if you booked through Vrbo). It has directions and access instructions to your condo, together with your personal door code. If you have any questions, please be sure to check with me before your flight. You can also call me on arrival if need be.