Kahului Airport (OGG) Arrival Guide: Car Rental, Baggage, And First Stops

Written by the Maui Snorkeling team, operating Molokini and Turtle Town tours out of Maʻalaea Harbor since 1985. Tours are led by USCG‑licensed captains aboard a USCG‑inspected passenger vessel. We spend more days in these waters than on land.

Last updated: January 2026

At A Glance

• Rental cars: Across the street via tram or walkway
• Rideshare pickup: Between baggage claim and car rental counters (TNC pickup zone (Floor 1)
• Airport shuttle: SpeediShuttle counter in baggage claim; hours 9 am–9 pm
• Arrivals: Passengers arrive at different levels depending on the terminal; follow signs to baggage claim/ground transportation

Arriving on Maui is exciting—but after a long flight, the last thing you want is confusion at the airport. This Kahului Airport (OGG) arrival guide walks you through exactly what to expect when you land, from baggage claim and rental cars to smart first stops before heading to your hotel or condo.

Welcome To OGG: What To Expect When You Land

You’ll arrive at Kahului Airport, commonly called OGG. It’s Maui’s main airport and serves travelers to Wailea, Kihei, Lahaina, Kaʻanapali, and beyond.

OGG is an open-air, easygoing airport with multiple small terminals rather than a single massive terminal. Expect warm breezes, palm trees, and that “you made it” feeling the moment you step off the plane. 🌴

Good news: OGG is straightforward and well-signed. Even first-time visitors usually find it easy to navigate!

Deplaning And Walking To Baggage Claim

After landing, you’ll exit directly to an outdoor walkway. There are no long jet bridges here—just fresh air and short walks.

Follow the signs for Baggage Claim, which is centrally located. Walking time is usually 3–7 minutes, depending on your gate.

Helpful tip: Restrooms are available right before and inside baggage claim—worth a quick stop after your flight.

Baggage Claim: How Long It Takes And What To Know

Baggage claim at OGG is straightforward, with multiple carousels in a single open area. There are multiple signs and visitor information booths, and the baggage claim is on the ground floor.

Average Baggage Wait Times

• Carry-on only: 5 minutes or less
• Checked bags: 10–25 minutes (longer during peak hours)

Oversized Items (Snorkel Gear, Strollers, Boards)

Oversized luggage is usually placed near the main carousels or in a clearly marked side area. Surfboards, golf clubs, and large snorkel bags are common here—just ask an attendant if you’re unsure.

Lost Or Delayed Bags

Airline baggage offices are located right inside baggage claim. File any issues before leaving the area—it’s much faster than calling later.

OGG Pickup: Cell Phone Waiting Lot

If someone is picking you up, have them wait at the Cell Phone Waiting Lot (open 5 am – 1 am, max 60 minutes) and come to the curb once you’re ready.

Rental Cars At OGG: What Travelers Need To Know

Renting a car is the most common way to get around Maui, and OGG makes it fairly painless.

Where Rental Cars Are Located

All major rental companies are across the street at a consolidated rental car facility, just a few minutes away. Based on your preference, you can take the tram or walk.

Here’s how it works:

1. Exit baggage claim
2. Follow signs to Rental Car Facility/Tram/Walkway
3. Cross the street to the tram platform or pedestrian walkway
4. Take the tram (~4 minutes) or walk (~7-10 minutes) to the consolidated rental car facility
5. Go to your company counter

Note: If the tram is temporarily down, walking takes 7-10 minutes.

Peak Season Tip

During busy months (summer, holidays, whale season), lines can back up. If possible:

• Join your rental company’s express program
• Have your reservation number ready
• Avoid arriving late at night if you need a specific vehicle type

Alternative: Airport Pickup Or Rideshare

Uber, Lyft, and taxis are available, but wait times can be long during peak arrivals. If you’re staying in South Maui or West Maui for several days, a rental car is usually worth it. Speedishuttle has an airport shuttle counter in baggage claim. Hours are 9 AM – 9 PM; check rates for your area.

Uber/Lyft Pickup Location (Floor 1)

• Where to stand: The airport provides designated TNC pickup zones; a published OGG map notes pickup is between baggage claim and car rental counters.
• What to expect: Uber says pickup points can vary by terminal, and the app will direct you.

Picking Up Groceries Or Supplies First

Many visitors stop for groceries before heading to their hotel, especially if staying in a condo.

Best Grocery Stops Near OGG

All are within 5–10 minutes of the airport:

• Costco Kahului – Great for families, snacks, beach gear
• Target Kahului – Easy in-and-out for essentials
• Foodland Kahului – Local feel, excellent poke
• Safeway Kahului – Full grocery selection

Pro tip: If you arrive late, check store hours in advance. Some close earlier than mainland locations.

Food Stops Near The Airport (Fast And Local)

If hunger hits after your flight, you’re in luck. Kahului has excellent quick eats.

Food Stops Near Kahului Airport (OGG): 6 Quick Restaurant Picks

If you’re hungry right after landing, these spots are close to OGG (mostly Kahului + a couple Wailuku classics). Hours change on Maui—especially seasonally—so it’s smart to double-check before you drive over.

1) Tin Roof (Kahului) — iconic local takeout

A small, popular takeout spot owned by Chef Sheldon Simeon—great if you want something “Maui local” immediately without a long detour. Expect lines at peak times. (Closed Sun/Mon; open Tue–Sat.)

Address: 360 Papa Pl, Ste 116, Kahului
Hours: Tue–Sat 10:00 am–8:00 pm (closed Sun/Mon)

2) Maui Coffee Roasters (Kahului) — coffee + real breakfast

Perfect for early arrivals or if you just need caffeine + a breakfast sandwich before the grocery run. Their online ordering page lists breakfast items such as egg wraps and breakfast sandwiches (handy for quick pickup).

Address: 444 Hana Hwy, Ste B, Kahului
Typical hours: Around 7:00 am–6:00 pm (closed Sundays per listing—verify day-of)

3) Fork & Salad (Kahului) — healthiest “I just flew” option

Great if you want something fresh that won’t make you feel heavy (salads, bowls, sandwiches). It’s also easy when your group can’t agree on food, because there are lots of lighter options.

Location: Puʻunēnē Shopping Center, 120 Ho’okele St, Unit 330, Kahului
Hours: Open every day 10:30 am–8:30 pm

4) Tasty Crust (Wailuku) — classic diner breakfast (and pancakes)

A longtime Maui diner (open since 1942) that’s famous for fluffy pancakes and an easy, family-friendly “diner meal” vibe—ideal if you landed early and want a real sit-down breakfast.

Address: 1770 Mill St, Wailuku
Hours: Tue–Sun 6:00 am–8:00 pm (closed Mondays)

5) Ichiban Okazuya Hawaii (Wailuku) — local plate lunch + takeout

A beloved okazuya-style spot (Japanese comfort food + sides) that’s great for grabbing takeout plates to bring to your condo/hotel. They’re typically open weekdays and closed weekends.

Address: 2133 Kaohu St, Wailuku
Hours: Mon–Fri 11:00 am–7:00 pm (closed Sat/Sun)

6) Kahului Ale House (Kahului) — easiest sit-down lunch/dinner near OGG

If your group wants to sit down, this is a reliable “everyone can find something” choice (burgers, pizzas, salads, plus sushi hours). They also list happy hour from 3–6 pm.

Address: 355 E Kamehameha Ave, Kahului
Hours: Listed as 11 am start, with later hours shown for Thu–Sun

Getting From OGG To Popular Maui Areas

Here are realistic drive times (not Google’s optimistic estimates):

• Kihei: 15–25 minutes
• Wailea: 25–35 minutes
• Lahaina / Kaʻanapali: 45–60 minutes
• Kapalua: 60–75 minutes
• Hāna: 2.5–3 hours (not recommended immediately after arrival)

Arrival Day Driving Tip

If you land after dark, avoid long scenic drives (like Hāna). Save those for a rested, daylight adventure.

Restrooms, ATMs, And Airport Amenities

OGG isn’t fancy—but it has everything you need.

Available Amenities

• Restrooms in all terminals
• ATMs near baggage claim
• Small shops and snack stands
• Wi-Fi/internet access is available (coeverage varies)

What OGG doesn’t have: Large lounges or extensive dining. Plan meals outside the airport when possible. If you want to see what’s actually open inside the airport, here’s the official OGG Shop & Dine list.

What To Do If You’re Waiting For Check-In Time

Hotel check-in often isn’t until 3–4 PM, but many flights arrive earlier.

Smart Ways To Use That Time

• Grab groceries and supplies
• Get lunch near the airport
• Visit a nearby beach park
• Take a short walk to stretch your legs

Beach bag tip: Pack swimsuits and sandals in your carry-on so you can enjoy a beach stop even if rooms aren’t ready.

First-Day Snorkeling? Read This First

We love the enthusiasm—but arrival day snorkeling is hit or miss.

Why Arrival Day Snorkeling Can Be Tricky

• Jet lag and dehydration
• Afternoon winds and rougher ocean conditions
• Limited time before sunset

Our Recommendation

Plan snorkeling for the following morning when ocean conditions are calmer and visibility is better.

👉 That’s why our Maui Snorkeling Tours run morning departures to places like Molokini Crater and Turtle Town—when the ocean is at its best.

Maui Snorkeling Tours: A Perfect Early-Trip Plan

If snorkeling is on your Maui must-do list, booking early in your trip is smart.

Our Most Popular Options

Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour

• Runs daily from 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Two snorkel stops: Molokini Crater & Turtle Town
• Breakfast, lunch, and snorkel gear included
• Led by USCG-licensed captains

Afternoon Snorkeling Tour

• Runs daily from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Snorkel Coral Gardens
• Great for relaxed schedules
• Lunch and gear included

Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred day—especially during busy seasons.

Common OGG Arrival Mistakes To Avoid

Even seasoned travelers make these mistakes:

• ❌ Overpacking checked bags (longer waits)
• ❌ Forgetting reef-safe sunscreen
• ❌ Planning long drives immediately after landing
• ❌ Assuming grocery stores are 24/7
• ❌ Scheduling water activities on the afternoon of arrival

Avoiding these helps your trip start smoothly.

Quick Arrival Checklist (Save This!)

Before leaving the airport:

• ✅ Grab checked bags
• ✅ Confirm rental car paperwork
• ✅ Pick up groceries if needed
• ✅ Eat and hydrate
• ✅ Check your accommodation check-in details

Final Thoughts: Start Your Maui Trip The Easy Way

Your Maui vacation begins the moment you land—and with a little planning, OGG can be one of the easiest airport arrivals you’ll ever experience.

This OGG airport arrival guide is designed to help you skip stress, avoid rookie mistakes, and get straight to enjoying Maui. Whether you’re heading to the beach, your hotel, or planning a snorkeling adventure with us, a smooth arrival sets the tone for an unforgettable trip. 🌊

If snorkeling is on your list, we’d love to welcome you aboard soon. Until then—welcome to Maui, and enjoy every moment! 🛬

*Cover Photo Courtesy of Hawaii Guide