Maui & Oahu] What is Maui like? Can I go there from Oahu? Thorough Comparison of Maui and Oahu

Discover the attractions and sights of Maui and Oahu.

Oahu is the gateway to Hawaii, but did you know that you can fly from Oahu to Maui in about 40 minutes?

For those who usually spend most of their time on Oahu, or for those who would like to visit other islands in addition to Oahu, we recommend a visit to Maui from Oahu.

Here we will tell you about the charms of Oahu and Maui, with plenty of information on sightseeing spots and other attractions.

We hope you will find it useful for your next trip to Hawaii.

 

Distance between Maui and Oahu

The distance between Maui and Oahu is 116 miles, or 186 kilometers.

Maui, the second largest island in Hawaii, is popular for its many tourist attractions and easy access from Oahu.

There are also two-island excursions, and more and more people are visiting Maui from Oahu.

 

Getting to Maui from Oahu

From Oahu to Maui, take scheduled flights from Honolulu International Airport.

Maui has Kahului, Kapalua West Maui, and Hana airports, and most tours use the main Kahului airport.

If you are flying to Maui, please note that the building is different from the international building you will be in when you arrive from Japan.

The trip takes about 40 minutes using a jet plane.

Flights depart and arrive every 20 minutes to an hour, so you can fly at your own convenience.

 

What is Maui like?

Maui was originally two islands, but they were connected by lava that flowed from the eruption of Haleakala volcano and became one island.

It is the second largest island in Hawaii and has gained a reputation as a power spot with many natural tourist attractions, and in recent years the number of Japanese tourists has been increasing.

Tourists from all over the U.S. and Canada visit the island. On the east side of the island is the Hotel Hana Maui, a high-class hotel frequented by American celebrities and a popular hideaway.

Public buses run throughout the island, and public transportation is the second most developed on the island after Oahu.

In winter, humpback whales come here to give birth and raise their young, making it one of the most famous places in Hawaii for whale watching.

Snow may also be observed at higher elevations.

 

Maui Attractions

Maui is an island rich in nature, and we will show you what kind of attractions it has to offer.

Maui's spectacular scenery, which is different from that of Oahu, makes it a very popular power spot.

Since the islands are connected by volcanoes, you will feel the life force of the earth when you visit the powerful landscape sites.

It is a mystical place where you can spend time facing yourself.

 

Magnificent Nature

The canyons, formed by volcanic and tectonic activity, have mysterious waterfalls and ponds, and the beaches have capes formed by molten lava.

You will be overwhelmed by terrain that you cannot see anywhere else.

The sunrises and sunsets seen from the spectacular terrain are so beautiful that you will want to visit again and again.

For Japanese born in an island nation, Maui's natural beauty is a soothing sight.

 

Enjoy the resort atmosphere!

Maui has many wonderful scenic spots, but it is not only the spectacular natural scenery that makes the island so appealing.

Sightseeing spots that offer a resort atmosphere and the streets of Maui are also recommended, as they offer a different way to enjoy the island than on Oahu.

The beach is surrounded by upscale resort facilities, shopping spots and golf courses.

 

Nostalgic townscape is also attractive

The streets of Maui are lined with cute pastel-colored stores, and palm trees create a resort atmosphere.

In the past, the city of Lahaina was ranked No. 1 in the "Best Seaside Towns to Live in the U.S.".

Beach towns where surfers gather are lined with surfboards and are photogenic.

Just walking and exploring the cozy town offers a variety of discoveries.

 

Featured Attractions on Maui

Maui is an island full of attractions, and we would like to introduce some of the best places to visit in Maui.

The spectacular views in scenic areas are amazing and can be a mind-blowing experience.

There are also many beaches and cityscapes that will enhance your resort experience.

 

Haleakala National Park

With an elevation of 3055 meters, this national park is home to Mount Haleakala, the highest mountain on Maui.

Mount Haleakala, visible from any location on Maui, is the world's largest dormant volcano and is also known as the mountain where the legend of the "demigod Maui" remains.

The coastal area offers a different view from the summit area, with bamboo forests, waterfalls flowing into ponds, and the ocean nearby.

Temperatures near the summit are low, even in summer, and can drop below 10°C (50°F), so be careful with clothing and equipment.

If you visit Haleakala National Park to watch the sunrise on your own, you will need to make a reservation in advance and present a photo ID.

 

Recommendations

Haleakala National Park is known for its rare alpine flora.

Depending on the weather conditions, a fantastic view of the sea of clouds can be seen from the top of the mountain, which attracts many visitors for sunrise and sunset tours.

The view of the dormant volcano is a must-see when visiting Maui, as the contrasting red and black soil makes for a beautiful and spectacular landscaping.

There is also a huge crater near the summit that makes the landscape look as if it has been plunged into the world of a science fiction movie.

It is a photogenic place, so it is recommended that you have a good memory for your camera so that you can take pictures to your heart's content.

 

Access

You can drive to the summit area of Haleakala National Park, but public buses do not have routes to the summit area.

It takes about an hour by rental car or tour vehicle, and the roads are winding, so if you are not a confident driver, a tour is recommended.

Also, since the altitude is high, taking your time and going slowly will help prevent altitude sickness.

 

Maui Tropical Plantation

The large plantation where the crops are actually grown is Maui Tropical Plantation.

The expansive facility offers activities, shopping, and more.

The facility is home to a variety of plants, including photogenic sunflower fields, coconuts, pineapples, mangoes, macadamia nuts, and starfruit, which can also be toured.

It is the largest shopping facility on Maui, so many people stop by to buy souvenirs.

 

Recommendations

Both children and adults can enjoy this facility because they can see how tropical fruits such as bananas and mangoes actually grow.

Although the plantation is vast, there are streetcar tours that take visitors around the area so that they can see the highlights in order.

There are also restaurants in the shopping area, so you can enjoy a meal or a relaxing time at a cafe.

Zip-lining, an activity using wires and pulleys, has become a popular way to view the park from above and slide down the mountain.

 

Access

From Kahului Airport, it takes about 20 minutes by car.

 

Iao Valley State Park

Iao Valley State Park is a lush green valley that is famous as a power spot on Maui.

Around the island's landmark "Iao Needle," a raised rocky peak, there is a thick subtropical forest and a clear mountain stream.

Iao Valley State Park, with its several towering, divine volcanic rocks and sacred atmosphere, was used in the past as a royal burial site and revered as a sacred place.

It is close to Kahului Airport and is a popular trekking and hiking destination.

 

Recommendations

Trekking trails have been established in Iao Valley State Park, and a trek to the observatory is recommended.

It takes only 30 minutes to get there, and you will be able to enjoy a relaxing forest bath while watching the plants and the babbling brook.

From the observation deck, you can see the Iao Needle and the lush green land.

Also, since it is a canyon, even if it is sunny in Kahului, it may rain in Iao Valley State Park on some days, so you should be prepared with rain gear.

The tour may have rain gear available for rent, so you can deal with sudden rain.

 

Access

From Kahului Airport, it takes about 20 minutes by car.

The road may be closed due to landslides, etc., so you need to check the website in advance when visiting.

 

Lahaina

Lahaina is a fashionable and cute harbor town located in western Maui.

There is a shopping district called Front Street, lined with shopping and restaurants.

A 30-minute walk will get you to the edge, so you can enjoy walking around the city efficiently without getting lost.

There is also a gallery of unique Hawaiian art, perfect for those who want to enjoy the stylish atmosphere.

There is also an outlet mall to the north for shopping.

There are also historical museums and many historic sites such as palaces and cemeteries, making it a good cultural tourist destination.

 

Recommendations

In Lahaina, of course there is shopping and dining, but sightseeing that traces the history of Lahaina is also recommended.

You can learn about Lahaina's history, built during the dynastic and whaling eras, at the museum in the old courthouse and on the sugar cane train.

There is also a large banyan tree near the old courthouse, a popular spot for many people to rest under the shade of the tree.

Lahaina is on the west side of Maui, so you can see beautiful sunsets in the ocean in the evening.

After enjoying shopping and dining, relaxing and watching the sunset is also recommended.

 

Access

It takes about one hour from Kahului Airport by public bus or 40 minutes by rental car.

 

Kaanapali Beach

Kaanapali Beach is considered to be one of the best beaches in the United States.

You can enjoy various marine activities such as snorkeling, diving, parasailing, SUP, and cruising.

The tides are fast in some areas, but there are no lifeguards on the beach, so swimmers should exercise caution.

The white sandy beach stretches for more than 4 kilometers and attracts many people who enjoy the resort.

There are resort hotels and shopping malls near the beach, and there is a whale museum in the shopping mall.

 

Recommendations

Kaanapali Beach is the place to enjoy beach resorts to the fullest.

The white sandy beaches are beautiful and the sea is clear and clean, so you will be able to enjoy both the scenery and the activities to the fullest.

Kaanapali Beach has a large rock from which locals jump, called "Black Rock," and from which torch ceremonies are held at dusk.

This location is also a snorkeling spot where you can observe many tropical fish and sea turtles.

Compared to Waikiki Beach, this beach is visited by more Western tourists and locals, and is recommended for its exotic atmosphere.

 

Access

From Kahului Airport, it takes about 50 minutes by car.

 

Oahu, Hawaii's most popular resort island

Accessibility for international travel is an important deciding factor for those who travel.

Such accessibility is one of the reasons why Oahu, with direct flights from Japan, has become the most popular resort destination in Hawaii.

From Honolulu Airport, it is easy to get to hotels and shopping malls in Waikiki, and tours are organized based on the place where you are staying, making it convenient for sightseeing.

Since many Japanese visit Oahu, there are many TV programs and magazine features on resorts, and information is available regardless of the season.

It is a recommended place for first-time travelers abroad, as it is well maintained with tourist attractions and Japanese menus for Japanese, allowing for an inconvenience-free trip.

 

What is Oahu like?

Oahu's mild climate makes it feel like summer any time of year.

It is popular as a beach resort like Waikiki Beach, but those who love natural scenic areas will be impressed by both the sea and the land, as they can view special landforms created by volcanoes and tectonic movements.

The island also has many historical sites that have relevance to the Japanese, so a trip to learn about history by visiting the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) and the Arizona Memorial, a memorial facility for the crew of the battleship Arizona, which was sunk at Pearl Harbor, is a good option.

Oahu is an island that not only offers resorts, but also satisfies intellectual desires.

 

How to get to Oahu

There are direct flights from Japan to Oahu from Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International Airports.

Direct flights reduce travel fatigue, so if you want to enjoy sightseeing to the fullest, you should choose a direct flight with a quick travel time.

Recently, relatively inexpensive flights such as LCCs are available, so you can choose the airline that best suits your convenience.

The flight time is approximately 7 hours for the outbound flight and 9 hours for the return flight.

There are also flights via, but please note that the return trip takes more than 10 hours.

 

Attractions of Oahu

A trip to Oahu is a great reward for your daily hard work or a gift for your filial piety, but it is chosen because it has a special charm.

The island offers a wide variety of tours and activities for visitors of all ages, with well-developed tourist attractions.

In addition, since Oahu is the gateway to Hawaii, it provides good access for visiting other islands in the Hawaiian archipelago.

Oahu is a great place to plan a trip based in Waikiki.

 

Beautiful beaches and vast wilderness

When visiting a beach resort area, one cannot miss out on activities in the ocean or sunbathing by the waves.

The famous Waikiki Beach, with its palm trees, blue ocean, long sandy beach, and colorful parasols, is a true beach resort.

Beaches other than Waikiki Beach also have their own characteristics, and you will be able to enjoy beautiful beaches.

In addition, the vast wilderness is deeply related to Hawaiian mythology and history, and visitors can experience Hawaiian culture in addition to sightseeing the spectacular scenery.

Japanese headsets are available for rent, and many guides are in Japanese, so even those who are not comfortable with English can relax.

 

One of the world's leading resorts

Oahu, with its well-developed tourist attractions and pristine nature, is famous as one of the world's top resort destinations.

Many tourists from within the U.S. and from Europe and the U.S. visit the area and enjoy marine activities such as diving and surfing.

On social networking sites, there are many posts of celebrities getting superb massages while enjoying the spectacular view, as well as gourmet reports from celebrities on video sites.

The resort is also continuing to evolve with the times, with an increasing number of restaurants offering organic and vegan menus.

It is probably because of such a flexible attitude that it has become one of the world's leading resort destinations, welcoming tourists from all over the world.

 

Shopping and restaurants are also recommended

Oahu offers a wide range of shopping opportunities, from small souvenirs to treats for yourself.

Large shopping malls with high-brand and Hawaiian brand stores, as well as hotel souvenir stores, are well-stocked and attract many tourists.

You can easily buy golf equipment or swimsuits that you suddenly need.

There are also many restaurants to choose from, so you can enjoy meals outside of the hotel buffet.

Since the number of take-out restaurants is increasing, we recommend that you take out at a restaurant you are interested in and eat at your hotel in a relaxed atmosphere.

If you miss Japanese food, there is a Japanese restaurant where you can stop by.

 

Recommended Sightseeing Spots on Oahu

Oahu is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beaches and spectacular scenic areas.

We have selected a few scenic areas and tours that are easily accessible and based in Waikiki to help you make the most of your trip to Oahu.

 

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach, a staple of Hawaii travel, attracts many tourists who enjoy sunbathing and swimming in any season, and marine activities are also popular.

Diamond Head can be seen behind Waikiki Beach, making it a photogenic place with a spectacular view of the beach and mountains.

Sunglasses are a must due to the dazzling reflections of the ocean, but you can also enjoy the beach resort experience by wearing an aloha shirt.

 

Recommendations

Waikiki Beach is a fun place just to visit, with many shopping malls and restaurants in the area.

However, if you have come to visit our beautiful beaches, be sure to experience the abundance of marine activities available.

There are many other marine activities such as snorkeling, SUP, diving, parasailing, etc., so you can enjoy Waikiki Beach to the fullest.
Marine activities on Waikiki Beach will be a special memory.

 

Access

From Honolulu Airport, it is about 20 minutes by public transportation such as The Bus, or by rental car or cab.

It can be reached on foot from hotels in the Waikiki area.

 

diamond head

The large mountain that can be seen from Waikiki Beach is the famous Diamond Head.

Diamond Head has several trekking trails and offers a panoramic view of Honolulu from the top.

It has become a popular tourist spot because it offers a view of the entire island of Oahu, and many people visit it at sunrise on tours.

At the end of the observation deck are the ruins of a gun emplacement, a historic site on the island of Oahu.

It is a place where you can enjoy trekking, spectacular views, and historical sites.

 

Recommendations

You can enjoy a panoramic view of Honolulu city including Waikiki Beach.

Don't be discouraged if a passing shower falls; wait for a rainbow to appear.

The panorama will be even more beautiful when a rainbow is over the panorama.

Trekking is relatively easy on the compensated paths, but sandals are slippery, so be sure to wear shoes.

 

Access

From downtown Waikiki, there are several access options.

Use The Bus or Waikiki Trolley transportation, or rent a car or cab.

The Waikiki Trolley is recommended as it takes you inside the crater.

 

Ala Moana Center

Ala Moana Center is a large shopping mall visited by many of Oahu's tourists.

With more than 340 stores, including boutiques and restaurants of top brands, it is the perfect place for those who travel mainly for shopping.

In addition to shopping, Ala Moana Beach and well-maintained parks are located nearby, attracting many people who spend time relaxing on the beach or walking.

The sunset from Ala Moana Center is reputed to be beautiful.

 

Recommendations

Ala Moana Center alone is an all-day destination that will satisfy the needs of everyone from children to the elderly.

To get the most out of your shopping and dining experience, check the Ala Moana Center website before you visit to find useful information.

Information is compiled in Hawaii information magazines and on the Internet, so please take advantage of this information.

You can also use "biki", a bike-sharing (bike rental) service from Waikiki, and enjoy cycling while getting around.

Ala Moana Center is located between the Waikiki and Kaka'ako districts, making it a convenient place to go either way.

 

Access

You can rent a "biki" bike from Waikiki, walk, or take The Bus or the Waikiki Trolley.

It is recommended that the "biki" application be installed in advance so that information on available bicycles can be viewed.

Many visitors rent a car or take a cab, which takes about 5 minutes.

 

Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch, with its movie-like scenery, has actually been used in Hollywood movies and dramas.

It is a popular place for the many activities that can be experienced in such a spectacular setting of vast land and jungle-like forests.

In the past, the site was used as a sacred place to which only Hawaiian royalty was allowed, and is protected as an important scenic area from a historical perspective.

There is a private beach experience and plenty of activities to enjoy the ocean and green land.

 

Recommendations

Most people enjoy a combination of many activities that take advantage of the vast expanse of land.

A tour of movie locations or a jungle adventure on an ATV is a curious experience for movie buffs.

There is also a cruise experience that departs from a private beach and a farm tour that takes visitors on a farm tour, perfect activities for those who wish to hone their senses in this magnificent land.

Photogenic wherever you take pictures, Kualoa Ranch is the perfect place for those who love to take pictures.

Some activities, such as movie location tours, are available in Japanese, so even those who are not comfortable with English can enjoy them.

 

Access

You can take The Bus from Waikiki, but if you book a pick-up activity, you can be picked up from major hotels, so it is convenient to check the official website in advance.

A cab or rental car will take about an hour.

 

Kakaako

A popular district among fashionable people is the Kaka'ako district.

There are more than 100 pieces of wall art painted on the warehouse, and the most popular wall art is a photo spot.

Hawaiian-inspired designs are popular, and the area has been developing with an increasing number of fashionable cafes and stores in the vicinity.

A major redrawing of the wall art takes place every February, so the same wall art may be gone the next time you visit.

When you find your favorite art, take a picture of it and keep it as a memory.

There is a wide variety of wall art from well-known to unknown artists.

 

Recommendations

The entire city is a museum or gallery, so you can enjoy art while walking around the city.

With your favorite wall art in the background, you can take a commemorative photo and upload it to social networking sites to keep it as a memory forever.

Famous wall art such as the Aloha Monster still remains and has been repaired, so be sure to check the location before visiting.

Famous art is wonderful, but finding your own favorite art is also a fun part of the trip.

The Kaka'ako district is the place to visit, with a focus on the arts.

 

Access

From Waikiki, it takes 30 minutes by The Bus or 15 minutes by rental car or cab.

 

Recommended Activities on Maui and Oahu

Here are some recommended activities to experience on Maui and Oahu.

There are activities that allow you to enjoy the ocean and spectacular scenic areas, so please refer to them in your travel plans.

 

snorkeling

Snorkeling is a marine activity in which visitors wear a snorkel, underwater mask, and fins (called "fins") to observe tropical fish and sea turtles in the water.

Even those who cannot swim can easily float by wearing a floating vest, so anyone can enjoy underwater observation.

 

How to enjoy

Snorkeling spots and tours are available on Maui and Oahu, making it easy to enjoy marine activities.

Visitors can observe tropical fish and sea turtles in their natural habitat, providing a more realistic experience than an aquarium.

Boat snorkeling, in which you are guided to snorkeling spots by boat, is recommended because many tropical fish cannot be seen in the shallows on the beach.

 

SUP

SUP is a marine activity where you stand on a large surfboard and paddle to move over the ocean.

Hawaii is the birthplace of SUP, and you can see many people enjoying SUP on every beach.

Even beginners can learn how to SUP while enjoying the spectacular views of Maui and Oahu.

 

How to enjoy

It takes a lot of work until you can stand on a surfboard, but if you are on a tour with an instructor, he or she will give you detailed tips on how to SUP, making it relatively easy to learn.

Floating vests are worn out on the water, so if you fall off the board, you can get back on immediately.

SUP with a beautiful view will refresh your body and mind.

There are also programs such as SUP yoga, which is recommended for those who like yoga.

 

riding horse

Many people have wanted to try horseback riding in a place that looks like a movie location.

Horseback riding experiences in foreign travel destinations make you feel as if you are in a movie because you are riding in a place with a spectacular view that you have never seen before.

You will be given a detailed lecture on how to ride a horse, so even if it is your first time, you will be able to ride a horse in no time.

A stroll along the seashore while riding a horse is recommended to feel the pleasant breeze.

 

How to enjoy

Horseback riding is a great way to interact with local animals overseas.

Although not a major activity in Japan, horseback riding is a popular activity among many people overseas.

The height is different from the eye level at which you walk, so you can see a different view.

Exploring the spectacular nature by horseback will be a wonderful experience.

 

helicopter tour

This is an activity where you can enjoy the spectacular view from the sky on a helicopter.

Helicopter rides are popular among those who want a special experience, as they offer views from inside the helicopter that cannot be seen from the ground.

While daytime helicopter tours are great, nighttime helicopter tours with a night view will be an unforgettable activity.

 

How to enjoy

Many of you have probably seen aerial shots of Maui and Oahu on drones and other video footage.

On a helicopter cruise, you will see such a drone-like view of the landscape.

It will be an unforgettable moment because the view will be more powerful than what you see in the video.

This activity is recommended for those who want to have a special experience on their trip abroad.

 

trekking

Trekking is an activity in which visitors explore scenic areas on foot.

Trekking is a popular activity for health-conscious people, and the advantage of trekking is that you can enjoy forest bathing and other activities at your own pace.

Many scenic areas on Maui and Oahu have trekking trails.

You can choose the course that best suits your level of experience, so it is a good idea to find out what courses are available before visiting a scenic area.

 

How to enjoy

While trekking, visitors can enjoy observing native plants and taking a forest bath.

In a spectacular setting, you will feel more exhilarated and physically active than usual.

When you arrive at the observatory, you will be impressed by the sense of accomplishment of your hard work and the wonderful view.

Also, the sweets and lunch after trekking are exceptionally delicious.

It will also be fun to find out information about lunches to bring and cafes to stop at after the trek.

 

skydiving

This activity involves boarding a Cessna and diving from approximately 4,000 meters with a parachute attached. After a one-minute free-fall, the parachute opens and you can enjoy a relaxing five-minute walk in the air.

You will skydive with an instructor, who will encourage you even if you do not have the courage.

The moment you take to the sky from the Cessna is an experience you will never forget.

 

How to enjoy

In fact, the scenery as you fly over in the Cessna is spectacular, and you will reach the dive site in no time.

On the free fall, you will simultaneously experience thrills and exhilaration like you have never tasted before.

After the parachute opens, the aerial walk provides a spectacular view so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

It will happen in a flash, but it will be a wonderful experience and we encourage you to try it.

 

parasailing

Parasailing is an activity in which a boat and a parachute are connected to enjoy a walk in the sky.

It is more challenging than skydiving and is popular because of the beautiful view from above the ocean.

Parasailing is fast and exhilarating as you fly up.

After flying up, you can enjoy the feeling of floating and look down on the spectacular view.

 

How to enjoy

Parasailing is one of the most popular activities on the beautiful beaches.

The fact that the boat and parachute are connected makes it safe and enjoyable has made it popular.

After the thrill and exhilaration, you can take a leisurely walk in the sky, which is a recommended activity for those who want to enjoy the spectacular view at sea.

 

Recommended Tours

We have selected three tours where you can enjoy such activities.

This is an experience that makes sightseeing in Hawaii more enjoyable, so please refer to it as a reference for your trip.

 

Hanauma Bay Snorkeling

This snorkeling tour takes you to Hanauma Bay, one of the most popular snorkeling spots on Oahu.

The key recommendation for this tour is the ease with which you can go empty-handed.

Snorkeling equipment includes a snorkel, underwater mask, fins, and a floating vest, so all you need to bring is a swimsuit or rash guard.

This is a highly recommended tour that allows you to freely enjoy snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Hanauma Bay.

 

Kualoa Ranch Package (horseback riding, ATV, movie location tour, zip line, etc.) Tour

This is a set tour combining popular activities at Kualoa Ranch.

The tour of movie locations can be enjoyed even if you are not good at English, with a Japanese-speaking guide.

The mighty ATVs and ziplines will spark your sense of adventure.

Lunch is also included in the package, so you can enjoy the great nature of Kualoa for a full half day.

 

Segway Honolulu City Walking Tour

Segway tours of Honolulu are popular.

Diamond Head Road run to Amelia Earhart Lookout for spectacular views.

This tour is popular because of the exhilaration of riding a Segway on public roads and the ability to efficiently visit scenic spots.

You can take a unique time-lapse video of the view from the Segway.

 

summary

We hope you enjoyed our introduction to the attractions of Maui and Oahu.

Oahu is the gateway to Hawaii, so you can visit a variety of attractions even if your lodging is in Waikiki.

There are also tours that include a plane ticket from Oahu to Maui and sightseeing, so please refer to them for your travel plans.