Maui, HI
Welcome to Kahului, the gateway to the magical island of Maui! This vibrant port is a favorite stop for major cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line on their Hawaiian itineraries.
While the port itself is industrial, it offers cruisers direct access to a world of natural wonders, from the volcanic landscapes of Haleakalā National Park to the lush rainforests along the legendary Road to Hana (Hana Highway).
Kahului's central location makes it the perfect starting point for exploring Maui's diverse attractions, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation on world-class beaches, or a taste of authentic Hawaiian culture.
One of the most awe-inspiring excursions from Kahului is a trip to Haleakalā National Park, home to the dormant Haleakalā Crater. The drive to the summit takes about 90 minutes to two hours, offering otherworldly views above the clouds, but a ship-sponsored tour is recommended due to the time commitment.
For a truly unforgettable scenic drive, the Road to Hana (Hana Highway) is a must-do. This all-day adventure winds through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls and dramatic seascapes. Key stops can include the black sand beach at Waiʻanapanapa State Park and the beautiful waterfalls at Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park.
A much closer and more accessible option is the Iao Valley State Monument, located just a 20-minute drive from the port. This sacred and historic valley features the iconic 1,200-foot Iao Needle and offers peaceful walking trails through verdant scenery.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The charming town of Paia is a popular stop just a 15-minute drive east of the port. Known for its bohemian vibe, unique boutiques, and great local eateries, it's also the official start of the famous Road to Hana (Hana Highway).
About a 45-minute drive to the west lies the renowned resort area of Ka'anapali. Here you can relax on the world-famous Kaʻanapali Beach, stroll along the beach path connecting luxury hotels, or shop at the upscale Whalers Village mall.
Further south, approximately 30 minutes from Kahului, is the upscale Wailea area. It boasts some of Maui's most luxurious resorts and stunning crescent-shaped beaches like Wailea Beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Cruise ships dock at Kahului Harbor, which is an industrial and commercial port. It is located about one to two miles from the main town center of Kahului.
The port area itself has very few amenities, and it is not considered safe or pleasant to walk from the pier to town due to heavy traffic and lack of sidewalks. Passengers will need transportation to go anywhere. Taxis, pre-booked tours, and rental car shuttles are typically waiting at the pier to transport visitors to their destinations. Ships dock directly, so no tendering is involved.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The official currency in Kahului, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Foreign currencies are not accepted. Cruise passengers will find that major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and tour operations.
ATMs are readily available in shopping centers and banks throughout Kahului and other towns for those who need to withdraw cash. There is no need for currency exchange for visitors from the US mainland.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Kahului and the island of Maui are generally very safe for tourists. However, visitors should take common-sense precautions. The biggest safety concern is often theft from rental cars, so never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially at beaches, trailheads, or other scenic lookouts.
Ocean safety is paramount. Be aware of strong currents and high surf, especially on the north shore beaches like Hoʻokipa Beach Park. Always heed warning signs and swim at beaches with lifeguards if you are not an experienced ocean swimmer. When hiking, stay on marked trails and bring plenty of water.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Maui enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, making it an ideal cruise destination. Average temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C). The year is divided into two main seasons: a drier summer season from April to October and a slightly wetter winter season from November to March.
Rain showers can occur at any time but are often brief and localized, particularly on the windward (eastern) side of the island. Visitors should pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. A light rain jacket is also a good idea, especially if planning a trip on the Road to Hana (Hana Highway). Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, but major storms are rare.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Transportation is essential for exploring Maui from the Kahului cruise port, as the immediate area is not pedestrian-friendly. The most popular option for independent travelers is to rent a car; several major rental agencies offer shuttle service from the pier to their airport-area offices.
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, but they can become expensive for longer trips to destinations like West or South Maui. The Maui Bus public transit system offers an affordable way to get around, but its routes and schedules may be too slow for time-constrained cruise visitors. For a hassle-free day, booking a shore excursion that includes transportation is often the most convenient choice.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The primary shopping area in Kahului is the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center, Maui's largest shopping mall, featuring department stores, local shops, and food court options. For more unique, locally-made crafts and souvenirs, exploring the small towns is highly recommended.
The nearby town of Paia offers a wonderful collection of art galleries, surf shops, and bohemian boutiques. Popular souvenirs to look for include macadamia nuts, locally grown coffee, aloha wear, and handcrafted jewelry. While prices in malls and established shops are fixed, you might find some room for friendly negotiation with artists at local craft fairs or markets.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Discover Maui on an exclusive, personalized private tour, uniquely crafted to suit your interests and pace. Your adventure includes stress-free, door-to-door service in a luxury SUV with a passionate and knowledgeable guide. Explore the iconic Road to Hana, visiting enchanting black and red sand beaches, rainbow eucalyptus trees, and cascading waterfalls. This VIP tour guarantees a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience perfect for all ages.
Take to the skies on Maui's only private air tour, ranked as the #1 outdoor activity on TripAdvisor and seen on HGTV's 'Hawaii Life.' This award-winning and affordable aerial activity takes place in a private metal cabin with non-tinted panoramic windows for crystal clear clarity. The cabin safely and comfortably seats up to five, offering an intimate space to create cherished memories as you soar free as a bird.
Experience Maui's only all dual-line zipline adventure for a thrilling day with breathtaking views. This tour features the longest ziplines on the island and a spectacular 360-foot suspension bridge trek. The adventure also includes a thrilling ATV ride-a-long. A maximum weight of 250 lbs per guest applies, with no exceptions.
Experience Maui's only private air tour, ranked #1 on TripAdvisor and featured on HGTV's 'Hawaii Life.' Your award-winning plane ride takes place in a private metal cabin with non-tinted panoramic windows that comfortably seats up to five. For a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, you can even place your hands on the yoke and experience what it’s like to fly.
Capture your Maui memories with a professional, locally owned photography studio with over 20 years of experience. Your 60-minute session takes place at a beautiful state beach park with gorgeous views and multiple backdrops. The local Hawaiian photographers will take over 1000 shots, from which the best 250 to 350 portraits will be posted on a private website for you to select and purchase.
Take the fastest boat ride to one of Maui's most incredible snorkel sites, Mala Wharf. Within minutes of boarding, you will be ready to dive in and explore a unique underwater world built around a sunken old pier. Discover beautiful tropical fish, amazing colorful coral, and the famous resident Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles that reside there.
Go scuba diving with a Lahaina shop owned by a PADI instructor with 20 years of professional teaching experience. Your safety and comfort are the top priorities, ensured through small group sizes and excellent scuba equipment. Please note that to book this beginner dive, you must be able to swim unassisted in the ocean. This tour provides the attentive guidance you deserve for a fun learning experience.
Enjoy a completely private and customizable tour with your own personal guide for an intimate experience. Enrich your journey with cultural and historical knowledge, moving at your own pace to create either a scenic or an active adventure. Let your guide take the wheel so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. All tours begin in Kahului, with options to add transportation from other locations.
Escape the crowds with a private, 90-minute surf lesson for two near Lahaina. This session focuses on water safety, proper surf technique, and etiquette with an experienced, professional instructor. All necessary equipment is included, and your instructor guarantees you will stand up and catch a wave.
Experience a personalized, 2-hour surf lesson where your instructors treat you like family. You’ll have plenty of time to learn the fundamentals, build confidence, and advance your technique. All lessons include the best rash guards, water shoes, and boards on Maui to ensure comfort and quality from start to finish.
Enjoy a private, 90-minute surf lesson for your group of three to five people near Lahaina. An experienced instructor will focus on water safety, proper surf technique, and surfing etiquette. All necessary equipment is provided, and the instructor guarantees every student will stand up and catch a wave.
Experience the Road to Hana on a customizable private tour that features what matters most to you. Your guide shares local history and legends as you discover remote waterfalls, hidden beaches, and an off-the-beaten-track drive around the 'back side.' This flexible tour in a small vehicle avoids the big buses, and your private guide can take photos while you focus on having fun.
Experience a personalized, 2-hour surf lesson where your instructors treat you like family. You’ll have plenty of time to learn the fundamentals, build confidence, and advance your technique. All lessons include the best rash guards, water shoes, and boards on Maui to ensure comfort and quality from start to finish.
Join a family-owned whale watching tour with guaranteed sightings on a newly remodeled boat. Designed for photographers with 360-degree views, the vessel allows for an intimate and engaging small-group experience with a crew that has over 25 years of experience. Listen to the whales sing with the onboard hydrophone. Your support helps this Lahaina Fire survivor-owned business get back on the water.
Soar on Maui's only all-dual zipline course, located on the rainforest slopes of a 1.7 million-year-old volcano. This adrenaline-pumping adventure offers spectacular panoramic views as you fly. The experience also features a trek across the largest suspension bridge in Hawaii, which is 360 feet long. Please note there is a maximum weight of 250 lbs per guest.
Indulge in a deep therapeutic and relaxing 90-minute full body massage experience. Your session is conducted by a professional therapist with at least seven years of experience in the healing field. Therapists use organic oils like coconut, lavender, and eucalyptus to help unlock blocking energies and restore your mind and body to a harmonious balance.
Receive the full VIP experience from guides known for treating their guests like royalty. Travel in a brand new, spacious, and comfortable eco-friendly vehicle for a smooth, luxurious ride under the jungle canopy. A personal photographer is included to capture all your memories, and complimentary photos are provided with all tours.
Discover a different side of the reef on a guided Maui night dive. While the fish are hiding, you'll shine your light on invertebrates like lobsters, crabs, octopus, and hunting eels. This one-tank shore dive is led by a qualified guide who will point out Hawaii’s unique underwater inhabitants. For a personal experience, the tour is limited to a small group of just four divers.
Dive with an instructor known for his excellent international experience in the world's most exotic destinations. With more than 5,000 dives under his belt, he brings a wealth of knowledge to your excursion. This level of expertise ensures a professional and insightful diving experience.
This excursion is designed for people who have never tried scuba diving to get a feel for the sport. The experience consists of an in-depth theory lesson, shallow water skills practice, and a guided open water dive. No prior diving experience is necessary, and you can even use this dive towards a PADI Open Water certification. Participants must be able to swim and complete a provided medical questionnaire.
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Cruises visiting Maui during the the peak season of summer are significantly more expensive than the the low season of fall. Overall Maui is fairly expensive as a port of call. Take a look at the diagram below for the average cost per day by month.
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