As Maui continues to make strides toward recovery from the devastating Lāhainā wildfires, it’s important to know that Maui is healing but open. And, as of November 1, all of West Maui, besides Lāhainā, began welcoming guests also. As tourism picks back up, we touch base with a few experts in Hawai‘i who provide in-depth knowledge and tips for travelers.
A stay at Montage Kapalua Bay offers access to its picturesque beaches, as well as activities in and around the area such as tours and adventures operated by locals, and local markets, festivals and cultural events. PHOTO COURTESY OF MONTAGE KAPALUA BAY
Is it OK to visit Maui?
“Absolutely! We welcome visitors with aloha to our beautiful island,” says Dena Roady, area vice president of Hyatt Hotels Hawai‘i and general manager at Andaz Maui (hyatt.com/andaz). “You can expect to be welcomed by the beauty of our island and its people.”
“The South Side (Wailea and Kīhei area) along with East Maui (Hāna) are and have remained open throughout and are welcoming guests to enjoy and appreciate these beautiful areas of our Island,” says Jon Benson, general manager at Hana-Maui Resort (hyatt.com). “It’s an emotional time for sure, but we are an island largely dependent on tourism to drive the economic engine. Maui is healing… but not closed. Enjoy the sights and sounds that you may not have taken time previously to explore. There is so much to see and do here on Maui, and we want you to visit so we can share the Aloha.”
“All areas in West Maui are now fully open to visitors, with the exception of Lāhainā, and are awaiting visitors with activities, experiences and the surrounding beauty it is known for,” adds Robert Friedl, general manager at Montage Kapalua Bay (montage.com/kapaluabay). “Beginning in December, Maui’s whale watching season will begin, adding to the remarkable experiences that guests can add to their itinerary.”
What do visitors need to know about traveling to Maui at this time?
“Our ‘ohana (family) is all around us, and everyone has been impacted by this in one way or another. Although there is some sentiment out there regarding the timing, need or importance of tourism, there is also an understanding and belief that a balance needs to be struck as we slowly and thoughtfully work on our pathway forward to recovery,” explains Benson. “So many on our island are struggling to provide as the entire island has been impacted. We are here to welcome our visitors and guests and to move forward together. There is much aloha on the island, and we are happily welcoming our visitors back.”
“Kindness and aloha resonate strongly with residents, especially at this time, and they often welcome visitors who take a moment to comprehend and honor their customs and traditions,” adds Friedl. “We aim for travelers to depart with a richer understanding and appreciation for the place, woven through people, culture and authentic connections.”
It is important to note that preserving the allure of Hawai‘i stands as a vital mission.
“In Hawaiian culture, this responsibility is encapsulated in mālama—a term signifying care, protection and preservation, deeply ingrained in the ethos of stewardship toward the environment, community and cultural legacy,” Friedl explains. “We encourage thoughtful travelers to the island as we believe they wield the power to positively influence the environment and further nurture the sustainability of Hawai‘i’s natural splendor.”
Top five tips for Maui travelers?
1.“Bring aloha… make space in your hearts to know that although we need tourists to return, we are all still processing, grieving and creating a plan for the future,” says Benson. “Be kind, thoughtful and caring with your actions and words. Bring joy!”
2.“For ways to bridge linguistic gaps and showcase genuine interest while traveling around the island, guests can learn basic local phrases with guidance from cultural ambassadors,” says Friedl.
3.“Do not travel to the [impacted areas on the] West Side for photo ops or to share with friends on social media,” says Benson. “Those sacred lands and surrounding areas are not an ‘attraction.’”
4.“Dive deeper into regenerative tourism by volunteering your time and/ or donate to Maui Strong,” says Roady. “This link, mauinuistrong.info, is a great place to the many opportunities around the island led by Maui county’s Maui Nui Strong.” Or find volunteer opportunities through the state’s Mālama Hawaii program.
5.“Support locals and local businesses,” says Benson. “The devastation to Lāhainā and ripple effects throughout Maui have impacted our residents, businesses and all of the supporting entities in very financial ways.”
From the eastern tip at Hana-Maui Resort (above) to the Andaz Maui (below) at Wailea Resort. PHOTO COURTESY OF HANA-MAUI RESORT
Relax, unplug and recharge as you breathe in this incredible destination and all it has to offer. PHOTO COURTESY OF: ANDAZ MAUI AT WAILEA RESORT
How can visitors support the local businesses in their recovery effort?
“Search out local entities and small businesses and spend money with them. There will be a growing opportunity with pop-up shops in different areas of the island as some of our small businesses, artists, artisans, farmers etc. look to activate and start their journey to recovery and stability,” says Benson.
“Consider indulging in dining experiences featuring locally sourced ingredients, exploring local markets and supporting artisans, booking tours and activities operated by locals, participating in festivals and cultural events, and endorsing businesses committed to environmental conservation and responsible tourism,” says Friedl. “Conclude your adventure by leaving positive reviews, enhancing visibility for these businesses, and attracting travelers with similar values.”
“It is a very small community, and the amount of support has been tremendous,” says Roady. “We are extremely grateful for the amazing support of our community and from those all over the world. We are also extremely grateful for those visiting our island.”
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