Overview
Kahului Harbor is the primary commercial port on the island of Maui, offering ferry services to neighboring islands and serving as a hub for cruise ships. It's a key entry point for visitors exploring Maui's diverse attractions.
Kahului Harbor is crucial for inter-island travel and tourism, providing access to Maui's beaches, hiking trails, and cultural sites.
Location
Address
Kahului Harbor, Maui, Hawaii
Neighborhood: Kahului
Coordinates
20.909700, -156.472500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild and pleasant
- • whale watching (until mid-April)
- • spring blooms
summer
hot and humid
- • cruise ships, lively atmosphere
autumn
cool and dry
- • fall foliage (limited), cultural festivals
winter
rainy and cooler
- • whale watching (starts in December), holiday events
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check ferry/cruise schedules
- Arrive early for parking
- Have ID and tickets ready
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate (walking, standing)
- • sun exposure
- • dehydration
Medical facilities: nearby hospitals and clinics
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex)
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, sandals or walking shoes, inappropriate attire
Booking Tips
- • at least 1-2 weeks for popular ferries/cruises
- • official websites or trusted travel agencies
- • varies by operator, typically 24-48 hours
- • available for some cruises/ferries
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Maui Now App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Ferry schedules, Local events, Maps and directions, Discounts and deals
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes and restaurants
Charging Stations: Visitor center, cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kahului Airport (OGG)
Distance: 2.5 km
Travel Time: 5-10 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance as a major port, gateway to adventures
Historical Significance: Key role in Maui's development, inter-island trade and tourism
Insider Tips
- Arrive early for the best parking spots
- Check out the local food trucks near the harbor
- Visit during shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try local shave ice at a nearby stand
- • Visit the Maui Ocean Center nearby
- • Ask locals about hidden beach gems
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Harbor entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide-angle for the boats and harbor
Result: Stunning harbor views
Ferry docking area
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Capture the ferries arriving
Result: Dynamic action shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Maui Ocean Center
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Aquarium
Kahului Beach Park
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Beach
Iao Valley State Park
Distance: 5km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Park
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Check ferry schedules"
- "Visit early morning for best experience"
- "Try local food trucks"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (2)
Quick Info
Available Tours
2
Rating
4.2 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
$0 (harbor area is free)