Travel times are tricky in Hawaii. You may imagine a route from Point A to Point B and say, “Hey, our destination is only 5 miles away. That’ll take about 5 minutes.”
Not so!
Between the unique terrain, older roads, and traffic in Hawaii, it’s hard to determine how long your drive time might be just from looking at the mileage. Instead, check out our estimated travel times on Hawaii’s neighbor islands, so you can get to your destination on time:
Maui
Kahului Airport to Kaanapali
When you land in Kahului after a long flight, you may be looking forward to a quick trip to your Kaanapali hotel. Unfortunately, the ride will take you about 50 minutes to travel the 28.8 miles. That’s WITHOUT traffic. During heavy traffic times, you may have to double your ride time.
Wailea to Kaanapali
If you’re staying in Wailea and want to do some shopping in Kaanapali, pack for quite the commute. The drive is 32 miles, and it will take you about 55 minutes to get there (more with heavy traffic).
Kahului to Hana Hawaii Travel Times
The famous Hana Highway isn’t just well-known for its beauty — it’s also known for being an uber-slow road. The road is windy and narrow, and it can be crowded during peak travel season. So, expect the 30.6-mile drive to take you one hour and 15 minutes. But, add another two hours for stops along the way to gaze at the beautiful scenery!
Yes, Hawaii travel times are slower because you want to sightsee!
Kaanapali to Maalaea
Staying in Kaanapali but want to take the kids to the Maui Ocean Center? You’ll spend about 40 minutes in the car traveling the 20 miles to the aquarium.
Kaanapali to Haleakala Hawaii Travel Times
Haleakala, the “House of the Sun,” is one of the most popular visitor destinations on Maui. But, from Kaanapali, it will take you about one hour and 45 minutes, or about 54 miles, to reach the entrance of the National Park.
Kauai
Poipu to Waimea Canyon
If you’re staying in the resort area of Poipu, but want to head out to Waimea Canyon, plan to spend about 48 minutes traveling the 25.5 miles there. But it’s well worth the trip — Waimea Canyon is called “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” for a reason.
Lihue to Kapaa
Interested in seeing the Fern Grotto after shopping in Lihue? You have a relatively short trip — 20 minutes to travel 10.6 miles.
Lihue to Na Pali Coast
Who can resist the beautiful Na Pali coast on the North Shore of Kauai, near Princeville? In the summer, the waves are just tolerable enough to take a boat ride and see them up close. But, be prepared for a bit of a haul. It will take you about 50 minutes to travel the 29.7 miles to the area.
Hawaii Island Travel Times
Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:
You’ll want to bring some food and water for your trip from Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. That’s because the trip will take you a whopping two hours and 15 minutes to travel the 102.2 miles. Keep in mind that the road is a bit treacherous, too. So, drive slowly!
Waikoloa to Mauna Kea
Expect to spend about an hour and 20 minutes in your car during the 48.2-mile drive to Mauna Kea. However, spending time at one of the observatories atop the summit is one of the most breathtaking experiences you’ll have during your time in Hawaii.
Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Travel Times
Should you decide you’d like to fly into Hilo to be closer to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you’re in luck. The drive is only 43 minutes and 28.8 miles.
Avoiding the Hassle of Hawaii Travel Times
Of course, if you want to avoid driving AT ALL, book a guided tour with Hawaii Aloha Travel. We’ve got great tour partners that can take you around the islands, seeing all the great sights without worrying about driving.
Plus, many island excursions booked through Hawaii Aloha Travel come with complimentary hotel pick-up!
You need to understand travel times on Hawaii’s neighbor islands, so you can get where you need to be. After all, just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you can be late!
