If you’ve got a layover in Kahului, don’t let it go to waste sitting at OGG. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 35 minutes by Maui Bus. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at OGG:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Maui Bus takes about 35 minutes into Kahului, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Kahului:
Start with Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Kanaha Beach Park. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at OGG, check out Hawaiian Airlines Premier Club Lounge or Maui Divers Jewelry to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Kahului, local travelers recommend Tin Roof. If you have time for a second stop, Tasaka Guri Guri is another popular pick.
Back at OGG, PGA Tour Grill is the go-to. California Pizza Kitchen rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into Kahului from OGG
From OGG, the Maui Bus gets you to Kahului in around 35 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 55 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Maui Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Kahului, budget roughly $48 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $25 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kahului.
Bag Storage Near OGG
Luggage storage options at OGG can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Kahului for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at OGG should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at OGG
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at OGG.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Kahului count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave OGG. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.