Your flight home isn’t until late but checkout is at 10 am, and you’re not ready to say goodbye to paradise just yet. What should you do with those precious extra hours on Maui before heading to the airport? Here are three smart ways seasoned travelers make the most of their last day without feeling rushed, sandy, or stressed.
In this Article:
Toggle1. Book an extra night and end on a relaxed note
A surprisingly common solution? Book your accommodation for one extra night.
It might seem like an unnecessary expense, but frequent visitors swear it’s worth every penny. They like the fact that they can wake up at their own pace and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. They can pack up when they are ready, and use the room to shower after a morning beach trip or swim in the hotel pool.
If your flight isn’t until 9 or 10 pm, booking the extra night can turn your departure day into one more vacation day.
2. Check out late, use hotel facilities, or store luggage
If an extra night isn’t an option, and you’d rather save on the accommodation costs then most hotels and resorts offer alternatives:
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Ask for late checkout: Even an extra hour or two can make a difference.
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Use the hotel’s amenities after checkout: Many hotels let you leave your bags in storage at reception and continue to use the pool, beach chairs, and gym.
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Take advantage of hotel showers: Some resorts have locker rooms or fitness centers where you can rinse off and change before your flight.
If your accommodation doesn’t offer luggage storage, services like Bounce provide secure short-term storage near Kahului Airport so you can explore freely without worrying about your bags.
Avoid leaving valuables or visible luggage in your car. Break-ins do happen, even in popular tourist spots and parking lots near the airport.
3. Explore attractions close to the airport
Prefer not to deal with sand, damp swimsuits, or post-beach showers on your final day? There are plenty of fun, dry ways to enjoy your last few hours on Maui and all within reasonable distance of the airport.
Here are some top ideas:
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Maui Ocean Center: A beautiful aquarium that’s perfect for families or couples. Great food options nearby too.
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Maui Tropical Plantation: Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, browse the shops, or enjoy lunch with mountain views.
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Upcountry adventures: Visit the lavender farm, or stop at a vineyard for a tasting tour and scenic drive.
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Paia or Makawao: Stroll through local boutiques, grab coffee or dinner, and soak in the island charm.
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Iao Valley State Park: A quick, lush nature walk just minutes from Wailuku and Kahului.
These activities let you experience Maui’s beauty without needing a post-beach cleanup, and they’re all convenient enough to get you to the airport on time.
What to Avoid:
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It’s common sense but don’t risk long drives to remote beaches or hikes on your departure day. You don’t need the stress.
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Don’t underestimate traffic on Highway 30, especially from West Maui.
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Whatever you choose to do, don’t cut it too close, aim to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
Aloha until next time
Leaving Maui is always bittersweet, but a little planning can turn departure day from stressful to serene. Whether you book that extra night, make use of hotel amenities, or explore Maui’s dry-side attractions, you can soak up every last moment of paradise, right up until boarding time.