Driving and Transit in Maui
Commutes, congestion, transit, and parking: what getting around Maui really takes.
Matt, Our Local Expert Guiding Your Move
Matt was born and raised on Oahu and currently makes the North Shore playground his home. He has lived in four states, half a dozen countries, and more houses across Oahu than he can remember. Each move requires relocating something like 40 surf, foil, and paddle boards and the sobering realization that they all have to fit somewhere. He is an adventure journalist, backcountry snowboarder, rock climber, mountain biker, and relentless swell tracker who loves scouting out obscure waves in far-flung corners of the world. Favorite constants include swell checks, tide charts, and vegan sushi at Tane. At Snappy Scout, Matt edits Hawaii guides with saltwater honesty and local precision.
Read moreWritten with local insight from Snappy Scout relocation experts
How Do You Get Around Maui?
Commutes, congestion, transit, and parking: the daily logistics nobody puts on the listing.
The time I spend getting to/from work every day is
twenty minutes, plus a sunset detour.
Traffic congestion areas to avoid include
Hana Highway in Paia, Honoapiilani by Maalaea when surf is firing.
Ability to get around without a car means
Maui Bus if patient, otherwise befriend someone with a Tacoma.
Locals dream of driving around in a
lifted 4Runner with surf racks and sandy floor mats.
The reality is that most locals drive
a sun-faded compact with Costco haul and beach chair imprint.
Quirky local driving habits include
stopping to let chickens cross like honored elders.
The likelihood of finding parking?
Beachfront prime spots in Kihei are rare. Costco dawn patrol is more likely.
#1 driving tip is
pull over to let locals pass on Hana Highway.
Where I Go for a Quiet Escape
The cliffs overlooking Peahi are loaded with spectators and photographers during big winter swells, but the rest of the time they are empty and peaceful, with nothing but the trade winds and sound of the ocean to keep you company.
— Matt Rott
Hawaii Local Expert
Ready to See If Maui Fits You?
Compare neighborhoods, check the routes, or head back to the full Maui guide for the bigger picture.