🇺🇸 Kahului, USA — Cruise Port Guide
Maui's main port opens the way to the winding Road to Hana, sunrise atop volcanic Haleakalā, and world-class snorkeling and whale-watching.
Updated September 2026
Quick facts
Getting ashore
When to visit Kahului
April-May and September-November shoulder seasons are driest and least crowded; summer highs are in the high 80s°F, winter in the high 70s°F.
Getting back to the ship on time
The Road to Hana is a long, narrow, one-lane-bridge drive far from port, so independent drivers should turn back well before all-aboard. Lahaina is also not the town in older guidebooks: Front Street reopens to traffic on 1 August 2026 with a marketplace and a dozen-odd businesses back, but fencing and rebuilding continue after the 2023 fire.
All-aboard is ship's time — check it in the daily programme, and set your watch to it.
Things to do in Kahului
Road to Hana drive
Wind past waterfalls, rainforest, and coastal views on the legendary 600-curve road.
Haleakalā National Park
Ascend to the 10,000-foot volcanic summit for otherworldly crater vistas.
Snorkeling at Molokini
Boat to the crescent islet crater to snorkel clear, fish-filled waters.
ʻIao Valley State Park
Hike a lush green valley to the iconic ʻIao Needle rock spire.
Whale watching
Spot humpback whales in winter off Maui's sheltered western waters.
Paia & North Shore
Browse the artsy surf town and watch windsurfers at Hoʻokipa Beach.
Popular excursions
Haleakalā Summit & Upcountry
Stand above the clouds at the 10,023-ft dormant volcano crater.
What to eat
- Poke
- Kalua pork
- Fresh mahi-mahi
- Hana banana bread
- Shave ice
Weather by month
Best time to visit: Apr–Oct (dry season)
| Month | High | Low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 80° | 64° | 3.4" |
| Feb | 80° | 64° | 2.4" |
| Mar | 81° | 66° | 2.3" |
| Apr | 83° | 67° | 1.3" |
| May | 85° | 69° | 0.6" |
| Jun | 87° | 71° | 0.2" |
| Jul | 88° | 73° | 0.4" |
| Aug | 89° | 73° | 0.5" |
| Sep | 89° | 72° | 0.4" |
| Oct | 87° | 71° | 1" |
| Nov | 84° | 69° | 2.2" |
| Dec | 81° | 66° | 3" |
Local phrases
A little history
Lahaina town was devastated by the August 2023 wildfire; visit respectfully as the community rebuilds.
The 'aloha spirit' of kindness and respect guides island life; greet people warmly.
Tipping is expected US-style — 15–20% for restaurants, guides, and drivers.
Respect the ʻaina (land): never disturb sea turtles, take lava rocks, or trespass on sacred sites.