A rental car is essential on Maui - public transit is limited, distances between towns are significant, and most top attractions (Road to Hana, Haleakala, Upcountry) are impossible to reach without one. Book rentals well in advance, especially in high season, as island-wide shortages are common.
- Kahului Airport (OGG) is Maui's main gateway, roughly 25 minutes from Kaanapali and 20 minutes from Wailea
- Maui Bus runs limited routes between Kahului, Wailuku, Kihei, Lahaina, and Kaanapali for $2 per ride - useful for resort-area hopping, not for Hana or Haleakala
- Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Lyft) operate around the airport and main resort corridors but have sparse coverage in rural areas
- Interisland ferries connect Lahaina Harbor to Lanai; there is currently no scheduled passenger ferry to Molokai
- Roads to Hana and the summit of Haleakala are narrow and winding - allow extra time and avoid driving them after dark if unfamiliar