Lihue Airport (LIH) is the primary gateway to the island of Kauaʻi, welcoming visitors to the Garden Isle with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. While smaller than Hawaiʻi’s major international hubs, LIH provides essential visitor information services to help travelers navigate the airport and begin their Kauaʻi experience with confidence.
Whether you are arriving for a vacation, traveling inter-island, or preparing to depart, visitor information resources at LIH are available to assist with directions, airport services, and local guidance.
Visitor information assistance is primarily available near the arrivals area and is intended to support newly arrived passengers.
Location
Main Terminal – Arrivals Area (near baggage claim).
Hours of Operation
Daily hours vary based on staffing and flight schedules.
Availability may be reduced during late evening or off-peak periods.
Services Provided
Airport Navigation Assistance: Directions to restrooms, rental cars, airline counters, baggage claim, and exits.
Transportation Guidance: Information on rental cars, taxis, rideshare pickup, hotel shuttles, and public transit.
Tourist Resources: Brochures and maps featuring Kauaʻi attractions, beaches, and activities.
Local Area Information: Guidance on nearby accommodations, dining, shopping, and island orientation.
General Visitor Assistance: Help answering common questions from first-time visitors.
Language support may be limited compared to larger airports, but staff will make every effort to assist or direct travelers to helpful resources.
Throughout the terminal—especially near baggage claim and rental car areas—travelers will find brochure racks with free visitor materials.
Kauaʻi visitor guides.
Activity and tour brochures.
Driving and island maps.
Dining and shopping guides.
Cultural and historical information.
1. Flight Information Displays (FIDs)
Electronic monitors throughout the terminal provide real-time updates on arrivals, departures, gate assignments, delays, and cancellations.
Displays are located near check-in areas, departure gates, and baggage claim.
2. Official Airport Website
The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation – Airports Division website provides up-to-date information for LIH.
Terminal layout.
Parking options and rates.
Accessibility services.
Airline contact information.
Lost and found procedures.
Airport Staff Support
Airport and airline staff are stationed throughout the terminal and can assist with directions, accessibility needs, and basic airport questions.
Rental Car & Transportation Counters
Rental car desks and transportation providers often share local tips, maps, and guidance for reaching resorts, hotels, and popular destinations.
Plan Transportation in Advance: Rental cars are highly recommended and may sell out during peak seasons.
Arrive Early for Departures: Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before most flights.
Use Printed Guides: Helpful in areas with limited cell service on Kauaʻi.
Ask Questions: LIH’s smaller size makes staff approachable and helpful.
Check Local Conditions: Visitor information resources can alert you to road closures or weather changes.
While Lihue Airport (LIH) is modest in size, it offers welcoming and practical visitor information services to help travelers start or end their Kauaʻi journey smoothly. Helpful staff, printed guides, clear signage, and digital flight information ensure visitors have essential resources from the moment they arrive.
From arranging transportation to discovering Kauaʻi’s beaches, scenic lookouts, and cultural sites, Lihue Airport serves as a friendly and efficient first point of connection to the beauty and spirit of the Garden Isle.