Transportation Around Maui & Haleakal: Haleakala National Park

Public Transportation: Maui Bus

The Maui Bus Public Transit System operates throughout populated areas of Maui. It mainly serves local residents, with routes connecting towns like Kahului, Kihei, Lahaina, Wailuku, Paia, and some Upcountry areas. The buses are clean and generally reliable within their service areas. However, the Maui Bus does NOT go to Haleakalā National Park's Summit or Kipahulu Districts. A private vehicle (rental car or tour) is necessary for park access.

Route maps and schedules are available on the Maui County website. Transit hubs include the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center in Kahului and the Lahaina Cannery Mall in Lahaina, where multiple routes converge. These hubs allow for transfers between different lines.

Bus Information

Cash fares (exact change) are paid upon boarding.
Day passes or multi-day passes may be available.
Hours vary by route (generally early morning to late evening).
Vehicles are generally wheelchair accessible.

Route Map Access

Route maps and schedules are available on the Maui County website. Confirm your route prior to boarding.

Transit Hubs

Queen Ka'ahumanu Center in Kahului and Lahaina Cannery Mall are major transfer points.

No Park Access

The Maui Bus does not travel to Haleakalā National Park's Summit or Kipahulu Districts.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Appear white or yellow with a visible taxi sign.
Find at Kahului Airport, major hotels, shopping centers.
Fares are metered; confirm credit card acceptance.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft operate on Maui.
Often more cost-effective for general island travel.
Do NOT operate Within Haleakalā National Park.

Rental Options: Cars & Motorcycles

Car Rentals

Most freedom; book well in advance.

Motorcycle Rentals

Available; not for Haleakalā summit drive.

Bicycle Rentals

Shops available; independent summit descent not permitted.

Specialty Vehicles

Jeep rentals are popular; check road restrictions.

Driving & Parking Information

A valid driver's license from your home country is a requirement. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended or a requirement for some nationalities. Most rental car companies require drivers to be 21+, with surcharges for those under 25. A major credit card is also needed.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Cell phone use while driving is restricted (hands-free only).
Hana Highway can be very congested; watch for local drivers.

Parking in Park & Maui

Haleakalā Summit: Parking lots fill very early for sunrise.
Kipahulu District: Main parking lot fills quickly.
General Maui: Parking can be challenging/expensive in towns (Lahaina, Kihei).
Check signs for restrictions, time limits, and payment requirements.

Hiking & Cycling Areas

Haleakalā: Numerous designated hiking trails in both districts.
Walking tours: Self-guided or ranger-led programs.
Bicycle infrastructure: Some bike lanes, but not extensive.

Haleakalā Summit Road: Challenging for cyclists.
Safety: Wear a Helmet, use lights, obey traffic laws.
No-go areas: Stay on marked trails, no illegal parking.

Maui Transportation: Tips for Efficiency

Maui Bus

Use online maps for schedules. Factor in longer travel times due to transfers.

Limited service weekends/holidays.
Not for full island exploration.
Not for Haleakalā.

Taxis & Rideshares

Confirm driver/vehicle details. Share trip details with a trusted contact.

Avoid unmarked vehicles.
Not for park exploration.
Expensive for long trips.

Rental Cars

Book far in advance, especially peak season. Allow extra time for airport shuttles to lots.

Check rental agreement for Hana Highway restrictions.
Drive defensively on winding roads.
Parking can be challenging.

Final Transportation Advice

For comprehensive exploration of Haleakalā National Park and Maui, a rental car is the recommended choice due to the limited public transport to natural attractions.

Consider a guided tour for specific experiences like sunrise viewing to ease navigation and parking challenges.

Transportation Around Maui & Haleakal