Hawaii’s airports are the gateways to paradise — connecting travelers from around the world to the islands’ beaches, volcanoes, and lush rainforests. Whether you’re flying directly from the mainland United States, arriving internationally, or hopping between islands, knowing the layout of Hawaii’s airports makes your journey smoother. This guide covers all major airports across the Hawaiian Islands, including how to get there, what to expect upon arrival, and practical tips for inter-island travel.
Main International Airports
Hawaii’s primary entry points for international and mainland flights are:
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) – Oʻahu (Honolulu)
- Kahului Airport (OGG) – Maui
- Kona International Airport (KOA) – Big Island
- Līhuʻe Airport (LIH) – Kauaʻi
Most long-haul flights arrive via Honolulu (HNL), which serves as the main hub for inter-island and Pacific connections. From here, travelers can easily transfer to domestic flights bound for Maui, Kauaʻi, or the Big Island. Smaller airports like Hilo and Molokaʻi cater mainly to local and regional routes.
Inter-Island Airports
Island hopping is part of the Hawaiian travel experience. The islands are well connected by short 25–50 minute flights operated by regional airlines. These are the key inter-island airports:
- Molokaʻi Airport (MKK) – Molokaʻi
- Lanai Airport (LNY) – Lānaʻi
- Hilo International Airport (ITO) – Big Island
- Kapalua Airport (JHM) – West Maui
Inter-island travel is fast, efficient, and scenic — you’ll often spot volcanic peaks and turquoise coastlines from your window seat.
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) – Oʻahu
Location: Honolulu, Oʻahu (5 km west of downtown Honolulu)
Overview: Hawaii’s busiest and largest airport, HNL handles nearly 20 million passengers annually. It serves as the hub for Hawaiian Airlines and major carriers like United, Delta, and American Airlines. The airport has three terminals connected by walkways and shuttles.
Facilities: Duty-free shops, lei stands, lounges, local food vendors, and rental car counters are available. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are provided throughout the terminal.
Transportation: You can reach Waikīkī by taxi (25 minutes, ~$40–$50), shared shuttle, or TheBus (Route 20). Rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft operate from the ground transportation area.
Kahului Airport (OGG) – Maui
Location: Central Maui, near the town of Kahului
Overview: Serving as Maui’s main gateway, OGG receives direct flights from U.S. mainland cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. It’s well-designed and easy to navigate, offering quick access to resorts in Wailea, Lahaina, and Kaʻanapali.
Facilities: Cafés, shops, and car rentals on-site. Although smaller than Honolulu, Kahului is efficient and has excellent signage for travelers continuing to the Road to Hana or Haleakalā National Park.
Kona International Airport (KOA) – Big Island
Location: West coast of the Big Island, about 11 km from Kailua-Kona
Overview: Kona’s open-air terminal captures the essence of Hawaii — you’ll step off the plane directly into the tropical breeze. KOA handles both domestic and limited international flights, including routes from Tokyo and Vancouver.
Facilities: Open-air boarding, snack shops, and car rental desks. Note that Kona has no jet bridges; all boarding is via outdoor stairs.
Pro Tip: For the clearest sunsets, book an evening flight arriving in Kona — the runway faces directly west over the Pacific.
Hilo International Airport (ITO) – Big Island (East Side)
Location: Near downtown Hilo
Overview: Hilo Airport serves the island’s lush eastern region, close to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Most flights connect via Honolulu or Kahului. Hilo tends to be quieter, with shorter lines and easy car rentals.
Facilities: Basic but comfortable, featuring local food vendors, gift shops, and a traditional lei stand.
Līhuʻe Airport (LIH) – Kauaʻi
Location: Southeastern coast of Kauaʻi
Overview: The charming, open-air Līhuʻe Airport welcomes visitors to the “Garden Isle.” LIH serves direct flights from Los Angeles, San Diego, and Seattle, as well as inter-island connections. From here, it’s a quick drive to Poʻipū Beach or Princeville.
Facilities: Rental car facilities, shops, small cafés, and cultural displays celebrating Kauaʻi’s heritage. It’s a stress-free airport perfect for relaxed arrivals.
Island Hopping Flights
Flights between islands are short (25–50 minutes) and scenic. The main carriers are:
- Hawaiian Airlines – most frequent routes
- Southwest Airlines – competitive fares between major islands
- Southern Airways Express – smaller commuter aircraft
- Mokulele Airlines – scenic small-plane experiences
Island hopping is perfect for travelers who want to explore multiple islands — for example, Oʻahu’s nightlife, Maui’s beaches, and the Big Island’s volcanoes — all in one trip.
Airlines Serving Hawaii
Nearly every major U.S. airline flies to Hawaii. The most common carriers include:
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Japan Airlines (JAL)
- All Nippon Airways (ANA)
- Air Canada
Direct flights are available from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Dallas, Vancouver, Sydney, and Tokyo.
Ground Transportation & Car Rentals
All major airports in Hawaii offer easy ground transportation. Options include:
- Taxis & Rideshares: Uber and Lyft available island-wide.
- Car Rentals: Best choice for exploring remote beaches or volcano parks.
- Airport Shuttles: Operate between terminals, hotels, and resorts.
- Public Buses: Oʻahu’s “TheBus” system connects HNL to Waikīkī affordably.
During peak season (December–March), pre-booking car rentals is essential — prices and availability fluctuate quickly. For eco-conscious travelers, hybrid and EV rentals are widely available on Maui and Oʻahu.
FAQs About Hawaii Airports
Which airport should I fly into first?
If it’s your first visit, Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the best entry point due to its wide connections and tour options.
Can I fly directly to Maui or Kauaʻi?
Yes. Several U.S. mainland cities offer nonstop flights to Kahului (OGG) and Līhuʻe (LIH).
Do I need to go through customs when flying between islands?
No. Inter-island flights are domestic — no customs or immigration required.
Is there public transportation from the airports?
Yes, especially on Oʻahu where TheBus provides reliable service. Other islands rely more on car rentals and shuttles.
Are Hawaii airports open 24 hours?
Most major airports are open 24/7, though ticket counters and rental desks may close overnight.
