All you need to know about airports in Hawaii

Traveling to Hawaii might seem simple—this remote island chain in the Pacific is mainly accessible by air—but determining which Hawaiian airports to use can be a challenge for many travelers.

Some travelers believe that starting their journey in Honolulu is ideal, while others might not even be aware that certain islands host two airports located on different coasts. To optimize your time at the airport and maximize your beach experience, I’ve put together this guide to Hawaii’s main airports.

Here’s everything to consider before booking your next Hawaiian getaway. Additionally, while you’re enjoying your visit, aim to leave the islands’ fragile resources as undisturbed as possible for the benefit of future visitors. Make sure to read up on being a responsible traveler before your flight and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Situated along the stunning southern shore of Oahu, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), also known as Honolulu International Airport, stands as the largest and busiest airport in Hawaii. Each year, over 21 million passengers traverse the nearly century-old airport's terminals. The airport is served by 21 different carriers, including Hawaiian Airlines, Delta Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Southwest Airlines. Its four operational runways accommodate both domestic and international flights, featuring the world’s first major runway built offshore on a reef.

Terminals at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

HNL features three terminals, although most travelers typically utilize just two based on their flight destinations.

• Terminal 1 is dedicated solely to Hawaiian Airlines, offering flights to the mainland, international locations, and inter-island routes.
• The larger Terminal 2, previously known as the Overseas Terminal, handles flights to the mainland and international destinations. If you are not traveling with Hawaiian Airlines, you will be using Terminal 2.
• Terminal 3 caters to commuters flying with inter-island airlines such as Mokulele Airlines.

In recent years, HNL has seen major renovations, featuring new pedestrian sky bridges and a revamped concourse for Terminal 1, akin to those at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Unlike many large airports on the mainland, I find navigating Honolulu International Airport to be quite straightforward, with the two primary terminals conveniently close to each other—ensuring no missed connections. A shuttle service called the Wiki Wiki is also available for added ease.

How to reach Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Reaching the airport is quite straightforward, as it’s just 10 miles from Waikiki, making for a drive that typically takes between 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Living in central Honolulu, I usually make it to the airport in under 30 minutes.

Dining options at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

When it comes to dining, HNL boasts the most extensive selection among all Hawaii airports. You can choose from seven sit-down restaurants and various take-out spots like California Pizza Kitchen and Chow Mein Express. For those in the mood for a brew, Island Brews & Torn Basil serves up pizza along with local beers.

Kahului Airport (OGG)

If you’re flying to Maui to visit Haleakala, pristine sandy beaches, and the rugged Road to Hana, you’ll arrive at Kahului Airport. Also known as OGG, named after former Hawaiian Airlines Chief Pilot Jim Hogg, it is the second-busiest airport in Hawaii, serving flights from ten different airlines, including United and American Airlines, across its two intersecting runways. OGG sees over 140 flights daily to destinations like San Diego, Phoenix, and Chicago, allowing travelers to bypass a connecting flight in Honolulu.

Terminals at Kahului Airport (OGG)

Most passengers will find themselves in the Main Terminal within the Central building, as the other facility, the Commuter Terminal, serves travelers on island airlines like Mokulele Airlines. While Wi-Fi is accessible, there are no baggage or locker services available, and seating can be somewhat limited. Be prepared with your luggage by checking out Dinogo’s Flight guide to determine whether check-in or carry-on luggage is best for your needs.

How to reach Kahului Airport (OGG)

Traveling to and from OGG can be a bit challenging, so it’s wise to plan for longer travel times due to the often congested one-lane roads around Maui. During one visit to the Valley Isle, my journey from Kapalua, located on the island's northwestern tip, took over an hour each way.

Expect at least a 45-minute drive to popular resort areas like Wailea and Kaanapali. Additionally, remember that the rental car facility at OGG is an 8-minute walk from the terminal, so you might prefer to take the free tram to escape the heat of the Maui sun.

Dining options at Kahului Airport (OGG)

At OGG, there are only two dining options available: Sammy’s Beach Bar & Grill and Stinger Ray’s Tropical Bar & Grill. (You might recognize these names from their locations at HNL as well.)

Lihue Airport (LIH)

The tranquil island of Kauai is served by just one airport: Lihue Airport (LIH). Named after the largest city on the Garden Isle, Lihue remains quite small compared to Honolulu.

Terminals at Lihue Airport (LIH)

This airport features a single terminal with 10 gates, accommodating 6 airlines: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and WestJet. Cities such as Los Angeles, Seattle, Las Vegas, Vancouver, and Denver offer direct flights to Lihue without needing to stop in Honolulu.

How to get to Lihue Airport (LIH)

Be sure to factor in traffic when heading to the airport. Kauai can be accessed via two main roads. If you're staying in the northern region of Princeville, expect the drive to Lihue to take up to an hour. In contrast, if your lodging is in the southern area near Koloa, the trip to the airport might only take about half an hour.

Amenities at Lihue Airport (LIH)

The advantage of this small, open-air airport is that you’ll find it difficult to lose your way since there’s only one terminal. However, LIH is somewhat outdated, resulting in limited amenities and few options for passengers to occupy their time. There are five eateries and drink spots featuring local brews and island-inspired dishes, along with three souvenir shops. Unfortunately, there are no charging stations or Wi-Fi at LIH, so make sure your devices are fully charged before arriving.

Kona International Airport (KOA)

Located 7 miles northwest of Kailua-Kona, Kona International Airport at Keahole is the main gateway to Hawaii Island, one of the two airports in the region. Visitors heading to the sun-kissed beaches and golf courses along the Kohala coast will find themselves passing through KOA’s terminals.

Set on lava fields, this charming open-air airport accommodates 10 airlines, including Japan Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, WestJet, and Mokulele Airlines. In addition to domestic flights, KOA also connects to Canada and Japan.

Terminals at Kona International Airport (KOA)

KOA features two terminals but only one security checkpoint, making it simple to navigate the airport. Most gates are outdoors, so if you’re looking for a break from the intense Kona sun or need to charge your phone, check out Gate 11. This newer gate offers a more modern space, along with updated restroom facilities. Plus, with free Wi-Fi available, it’s a great spot to hang out if you have some time to spare.

How to reach Kona International Airport (KOA)

Traveling to and from the airport is a relatively quick drive, perfect for enjoying the sunny shores of Hawaii Island’s western coast. Most resorts are more easily accessed by flying into KOA rather than Hilo International Airport (ITO). During my recent stay at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, it was only a 12-minute journey. Waikoloa’s popular resort area is about a 30-minute drive, while Kailua-Kona is roughly 20 minutes away by car.

Dining options at Kona International Airport (KOA)

At KOA, there’s just one dining choice: Laniakea Cafe. It operates as a cafeteria rather than a sit-down restaurant, offering selections like hot dogs, sandwiches, and local dishes such as teriyaki chicken. The cafe is quite small, and in all my visits, I’ve never found seating inside. Luckily, there are a few tables outside and additional seating available near the gates.

For a more enjoyable dining experience, I suggest grabbing a meal before heading to the airport. I often opt for Pine Tree Cafe, a wonderful place to enjoy tasty and substantial local dishes, located just a 5-minute drive from the airport.

Hilo International Airport (ITO)

On the eastern shore of Hawaii Island, Hilo International Airport, or ITO, serves as the gateway for travelers eager to discover Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, stunning waterfalls, or the charming town of Hilo. In comparison to its counterpart on Hawaii Island, Hilo International Airport experiences significantly lower passenger traffic and flight volume. In 2022, it hosted only about one-third of the passenger numbers that KOA did.

Only four airlines – Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, and United Airlines – operate at ITO, primarily connecting the neighboring islands. However, there are notable exceptions: Southwest Airlines offers a direct route to San Diego (SAN), Hawaiian Airlines flies to Las Vegas (LAS), and United Airlines connects to Los Angeles (LAX).

Gates and amenities at Hilo International Airport (ITO)

With just 9 gates housed in a single building, ITO is straightforward to navigate. Instead of conventional benches, it showcases Hilo’s small-town charm with comfortable seating made from traditional Hawaiian koa wood. There is one Hawaiian Airlines lounge, a modest air-conditioned space that provides snacks and beverages. For dining options, the airport features a single restaurant and a take-out spot, both serving local cuisine.

When to opt for Hilo International Airport (ITO) and how to get there

Originally utilized for military purposes, ITO is conveniently situated just two miles from Hilo, making it a quick 10-minute drive. One of Hawaii’s top attractions, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, is a mere 45-minute drive from ITO, whereas it takes over two hours to reach if flying into KOA.

Best Hawaii airport to choose for your arrival

Now that you’ve learned about Hawaii’s major airports, it’s time to decide which one suits your needs. Travelers from the West Coast of the US and other fortunate locations have direct flights to the five major islands, while many others will have a layover at Honolulu International Airport. Fortunately, Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines offer nearly hourly flights between islands, and the journey is so brief that you won’t spend much time waiting at the airport. If you have the option of a direct flight to Maui, Kauai, or Hawaii Island, take it, as you’ll save at least a couple of hours.

Regardless of your starting point, your flight to Hawaii will last at least five hours, if not longer. In that case, you may want to discover ways to enjoy your time on the plane.

How this guide was crafted

As a travel journalist raised in Honolulu, I spend considerable time flying to and from Hawaii and between the neighboring islands for work. Over time, I’ve perfected my flying skills to Hawaii. This guide compiles everything I’ve learned about the airports in Hawaii through personal experience and comprehensive research into the amenities and various airlines available.

For additional expert airport insights, don't miss out on Dinogo’s Airport guide.