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🌺 How to Get to Maui From San Diego [2025–2026 Guide]

Maui is ~2,600 miles from San Diego. Nonstop flights take 5.5–6.5 hours ($300–$600 round trip). Driving isn’t possible, but cruises and multi-island flights are alternatives. Car rentals on Maui cost $40–$80/day for exploring the island.

Maui, part of Hawaii’s iconic island chain, is famous for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, pristine beaches, and the legendary Road to Hana. Traveling from San Diego is straightforward thanks to nonstop flights, though cruises and multi-island connections are also options. This 2025–2026 guide outlines flights, cruises, and local transport options for visiting Maui from San Diego.

✈️ Flights From San Diego to Maui

Flying is the most direct and fastest way to get to Maui.

Nearest Airport: Kahului Airport (OGG) – Maui’s main airport.
Nonstop Flights:
- Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest often operate nonstop flights from San Diego (SAN → OGG).
Flight Duration: 5.5–6.5 hours nonstop.
Cost: $300–$600 round trip, depending on season, airline, and advance booking.
Connecting Flights: If nonstop isn’t available, connections via Honolulu (HNL) or Los Angeles (LAX) are common.

✅ Best for speed, convenience, and maximizing vacation time.

🚢 Cruises From San Diego to Maui

For travelers who enjoy the journey, cruises are an alternative.

Duration: 4–6 days at sea to reach Maui, often as part of a Hawaiian Islands itinerary.
Cost: $1,200–$2,500+ per person (includes lodging, meals, and entertainment).
Cruise Lines: Princess, Holland America, and Carnival sometimes offer seasonal San Diego → Hawaii routes.
Notes: Cruises typically stop at multiple Hawaiian islands, with Maui as one of the ports of call.

✅ Best for those who prefer a leisurely journey and multi-island experience.

🚗 Driving or Bus Options

Driving is not possible—Maui is separated by ~2,600 miles of ocean. The only realistic transport methods are flights or cruises.

🚁 Local Transport on Maui

Once you arrive on the island, you’ll need local transportation to explore:

Rental Cars: Highly recommended; cost $40–$80/day. Essential for visiting the Road to Hana, Haleakalā National Park, and beaches around the island.
Shuttles & Taxis: Available from Kahului Airport to resorts; fares range $40–$100 depending on distance.
Public Bus: Maui Bus Public Transit runs around the island; $2 per ride but limited coverage compared to a car.
Biking & Walking: Good for short distances in towns like Lahaina or Kihei.

🌞 Best Time to Visit Maui

Winter (Dec–Mar): Peak whale-watching season; cooler and wetter in some areas; busier with holiday travelers.
Spring (Apr–Jun): Warm, fewer crowds, good balance of weather and pricing.
Summer (Jul–Aug): Hotter, especially inland; busiest family travel season.
Fall (Sep–Nov): Quieter, pleasant weather, often lower prices.

📝 Travel Summary Table

Travel Mode	Duration	Cost (per person)	Notes
Flight (SAN → OGG nonstop)	5.5–6.5 hrs	$300–$600	Fastest and most convenient.
Flight (SAN → HNL → OGG)	7–9 hrs incl. layover	$350–$650	Flexible if nonstop isn’t available.
Cruise (San Diego → Maui)	4–6 days	$1,200–$2,500+	Leisurely, includes multi-island stops.
Driving/Bus	Not possible	N/A	Ocean crossing required.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How far is Maui from San Diego?
About 2,600 miles across the Pacific Ocean.

Q2: What is the fastest way to get to Maui from San Diego?
A nonstop flight from SAN to OGG, taking ~6 hours.

Q3: Are there direct flights from San Diego to Maui?
Yes, airlines like Hawaiian, Alaska, and Southwest often offer nonstop flights.

Q4: Can I take a cruise to Maui from San Diego?
Yes, but it takes 4–6 days at sea and is usually part of a multi-island itinerary.

Q5: Do I need a rental car on Maui?
Yes, strongly recommended for exploring beaches, Haleakalā, and the Road to Hana.

✅ This 2025–2026 San Diego to Maui guide covers flights, cruises, and local transport so you can plan a smooth, unforgettable trip to Hawaii’s Valley Isle.