Flying to Hawaii might seem simple—after all, this island chain in the Pacific is mainly accessible by air. However, figuring out the best Hawaii airport to fly into can be confusing for travelers.
Some might assume Honolulu is the primary gateway, while others may not realize that some islands have multiple airports, potentially on opposite sides. To simplify your travel planning and maximize your beach time, this guide details the major airports in Hawaii and helps you decide where to land.
Here’s what you need to know before booking your Hawaiian vacation to ensure a smooth arrival and departure. And remember, while enjoying your trip, it’s crucial to be a responsible traveler and minimize your impact on these beautiful islands for future generations. Consider reading about respectful travel in Hawaii before you go.
Find flights to Hawaii on KAYAK
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) – Honolulu, Oahu
Serene surfer sitting on surfboard in Honolulu waters with city skyline backdrop.
Airplane taking off into a vibrant sunset sky.
Located on the southern shore of Oahu, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), also known as Honolulu International Airport, is the largest and busiest airport in Hawaii. Welcoming over 21 million passengers annually, this nearly century-old airport hosts 21 carriers, including Hawaiian Airlines, Delta, All Nippon Airways, and Southwest. HNL accommodates both domestic and international flights across its four runways, notably featuring the world’s first major offshore runway built on a reef.
Terminals at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
HNL comprises three terminals, with most travelers utilizing two main terminals depending on their flight.
- Terminal 1: Exclusively for Hawaiian Airlines, serving mainland, international, and inter-island flights.
- Terminal 2: Previously known as the Overseas Terminal, it handles flights to the mainland and international destinations for all airlines except Hawaiian Airlines.
- Terminal 3: Caters to inter-island commuters, primarily via airlines like Mokulele Airlines.
Recent renovations have modernized HNL, adding pedestrian sky bridges and a revamped Terminal 1 concourse, bringing it closer to the standards of airports like San Francisco (SFO) or Los Angeles (LAX). Despite its size, navigating Honolulu International Airport is relatively straightforward compared to many mainland hubs, with the main terminals within easy walking distance. The Wiki Wiki shuttle offers added convenience for travelers.
Getting to and from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
Accessibility to HNL is convenient, located just 10 miles from Waikiki, typically a 20- to 45-minute drive depending on Honolulu traffic. From central Honolulu, the airport is usually reachable in under 30 minutes.
Dining at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
HNL boasts the most diverse dining options among Hawaii airports. You can choose from seven sit-down restaurants and quick-service spots like California Pizza Kitchen and Chow Mein Express. For beer enthusiasts, Island Brews & Torn Basil offers pizza and local beers.
Kahului Airport (OGG) – Maui
Lush valley views from Maui mountain ridge.
If Maui, with attractions like Haleakala, beautiful beaches, and the road to Hana, is your destination, you’ll fly into Kahului Airport. Known as OGG (named after Hawaiian Airlines’ former chief pilot Jim Hogg), it’s the second-busiest airport in Hawaii. OGG hosts 10 airlines, including United and American Airlines, operating from two intersecting runways. With over 140 daily departures to cities like San Diego, Phoenix, and Chicago, OGG allows travelers to bypass connecting flights through Honolulu, saving valuable travel time.
Terminals at Kahului Airport (OGG)
Most passengers will use the Main Terminal in the Central building. The Commuter Terminal serves inter-island carriers such as Mokulele Airlines. While Wi-Fi is available, baggage and locker facilities are not. Seating can be limited, so it’s wise to prepare your luggage efficiently. Refer to KAYAK’s Flight guide for tips on choosing between check-in or carry-on luggage.
Getting to and from Kahului Airport (OGG)
Transportation from OGG can be challenging due to traffic on Maui’s many single-lane roads. Plan for longer drives. A trip to Kapalua on Maui’s northwest tip can take over an hour. Popular hotel areas like Wailea and Kaanapali are at least a 45-minute drive. The rental car facility is an 8-minute walk from the terminal; a free tram is available to avoid walking in the Maui heat.
Dining at Kahului Airport (OGG)
OGG offers limited dining with just two restaurants: Sammy’s Beach Bar & Grill and Stinger Ray’s Tropical Bar & Grill, both also found at HNL.
Lihue Airport (LIH) – Kauai
Lihue Airport tarmac with green spaces between runways.
Kauai, known for its relaxed pace, has one main airport: Lihue Airport, or LIH. Named after Lihue, Kauai’s largest city (though still small compared to Honolulu), LIH is your gateway to the Garden Isle.
Terminals at Lihue Airport (LIH)
LIH features a single terminal with 10 gates, serving 6 airlines: Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Hawaiian, United, and WestJet. Direct flights to Lihue are available from cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, Las Vegas, Vancouver, and Denver, potentially eliminating the need for a Honolulu layover.
Getting to and from Lihue Airport (LIH)
Factor in traffic when traveling to LIH. Kauai’s road network consists of two main highways. The drive from Princeville in the north can take up to an hour, while from Koloa in the south, it’s about 30 minutes.
Amenities at Lihue Airport (LIH)
This small, open-air airport is easy to navigate due to its single building. However, LIH is somewhat dated, with limited amenities. Dining options include five eateries serving local beers and island cuisine, along with three souvenir shops. Charging stations and Wi-Fi are not available, so ensure devices are charged before arrival.
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Kona International Airport (KOA) – Hawaii Island (Big Island)
Man watching sunset from airplane window.
Close-up of a vibrant Hawaiian flower.
Located 7 miles northwest of Kailua-Kona, Kona International Airport at Keahole is the primary airport on Hawaii Island, one of two on the island. Travelers heading to the Kohala Coast’s sunny beaches and golf resorts will typically arrive at KOA.
Built on lava fields, this open-air airport is served by 10 airlines, including Japan Airlines, United, Southwest, Hawaiian, Air Canada, Alaska, American, Delta, WestJet, and Mokulele. KOA offers flights to and from the US, Canada, and Japan.
Terminals at Kona International Airport (KOA)
KOA has two terminals but a single security checkpoint, making it easy to navigate. Most gates are outdoors; Gate 11 is a modern, air-conditioned gate with updated restrooms, ideal for escaping the Kona heat or charging devices. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
Getting to and from Kona International Airport (KOA)
KOA offers quick access to Hawaii Island’s western coast resorts. It’s more convenient than Hilo International Airport (ITO) for resorts on this side of the island. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is just a 12-minute drive, Waikoloa resorts are about 30 minutes, and Kailua-Kona is around 20 minutes away by car.
Dining at Kona International Airport (KOA)
Dining at KOA is limited to Laniakea Cafe, a cafeteria-style eatery with hot dogs, sandwiches, and local dishes like teriyaki chicken. Seating inside is scarce, but outdoor tables and gate seating are available. Consider dining before arriving at KOA; Pine Tree Cafe, a 5-minute drive away, is a local favorite for hearty meals.
Hilo International Airport (ITO) – Hawaii Island (Big Island)
Airplane landing at Hilo International Airport with lush background.
On Hawaii Island’s eastern coast, Hilo International Airport, or ITO, is ideal for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, waterfalls, and Hilo. ITO is less busy than KOA, serving about a third of KOA’s passenger volume in 2022.
ITO is served by only 4 airlines—Hawaiian, Southwest, Mokulele, and United—primarily for inter-island flights. However, there are direct flights from Southwest to San Diego (SAN), Hawaiian to Las Vegas (LAS), and United to Los Angeles (LAX).
Gates and Amenities at Hilo International Airport (ITO)
ITO is easy to navigate with 9 gates in a single building. Reflecting Hilo’s charm, the airport features Hawaiian koa wood furniture instead of standard seating. There’s a basic Hawaiian Airlines lounge with snacks and drinks. Dining options are limited to one restaurant and a take-out eatery, both offering local cuisine.
When to Choose Hilo International Airport (ITO) and How to Reach It
Historically a military airport, ITO is conveniently located just two miles (10 minutes) from Hilo. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is about 45 minutes from ITO, but over two hours from KOA. Choose ITO if your focus is on eastern Hawaii Island attractions.
Choosing the Best Hawaii Airport for Your Trip
Palm trees and woman paddleboarding in turquoise Hawaiian waters.
Now that you’re familiar with Hawaii’s major airports, you can decide which is best for your trip. Travelers from the US West Coast and some other locations have direct flight options to the five main islands. Most others will likely connect through Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Fortunately, Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest offer frequent inter-island flights, making connections quick. If direct flights are available to Maui, Kauai, or Hawaii Island, opting for them can save you several hours of travel time.
Regardless of your arrival airport, flights to Hawaii are at least five hours long. You might want to explore how to make flying more enjoyable for a smoother journey.
About This Guide
As a Honolulu-based travel journalist, I frequently fly to and from Hawaii and between islands for work. This guide combines my firsthand experiences with thorough research on airport amenities and airline services to provide expert insights into navigating Hawaii’s airports.
For more detailed airport information, explore KAYAK’s comprehensive Airport guide.
