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Current Travel Advisories, Restrictions, & Updates

What are the travel restrictions & requirements in hawaii, last updated:  march 2, 2024.

We've covered all of the latest Hawaii travel news and announcements below, including the steps travelers should follow to safely visit Hawaii in the future.

Maui Travel Updates

Lahaina remains closed.

Lahaina will remain fully closed to the public until further notice out of respect to the town's residents. County, state, and federal emergency responders continue with efforts to identify victims and the missing, and conduct clean-up efforts of debris and hazardous materials resulting from the wildfires.

— article continued below —

Garden of Eden - East Maui

Before you visit…

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority advises travelers to check with individual accommodations, activities and businesses in West Maui for their availability and hours of operation. As travelers return to Maui after the devastating August wildfires, they will help to sustain jobs, keep businesses open, and support the community.

We urge all visitors to be especially mindful and respectful in the islands as the community continues through this tragedy.

Maui Wildfires

In August 2023, wildfires damaged a significant portion of West Maui, many lives were lost, and 2,200+ structures were destroyed -  making it the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century and Hawaii's worst natural disaster in modern history . 

More information can be found on our   August 2023 Maui wildfire  page.

Remainder of West Maui Reopened November 1, 2023

In late September 2023, Maui's Mayor, Richard Bissen,  released brand-new details  about how the island will go about reopening the resort areas surrounding Lahaina, which will remain closed indefinitely.

The plan initially involved three phases, but the Mayor  reopened the rest of West Maui on November 1, 2023 .

Latest Pandemic Developments in Hawaii

Last updated:  december 16, 2022.

At this time, there are no pandemic travel-related restrictions for domestic travelers, and neither the Governor's office nor island mayors have indicated they plan to reintroduce any restrictions.

Travelers can check the state of Hawaii's confirmed cases here .

'Safe Travels' program & mask mandate both officially ended March 26, 2022

According to Governor Ige, the state of Hawaii dropped the 'Safe Travels' program for domestic U.S. travelers at midnight on  March 25, 2022 . Governor Ige has also announced the indoor mask mandate has ended as of March 26, 2022 . Masks may still be required on public transportation, such as buses, and within Hawaii’s airports.

That now means domestic travelers to Hawaii will no longer need to fill out online forms via Safe Travels, no longer have to worry about QR codes, no longer have to provide proof of vaccination, and ultimately, there won't be any additional requirements or restrictions to fly to Hawaii on a domestic flight.

On the county level, the County of Kauai, the County of Maui, and the County of Hawaii have repealed their COVID-19 Emergency Rules. The City and County of Honolulu's Safe Access Oahu program ended on Sunday, March 6, 2022.

" Safe Travels is one part of a multi-layer approach to COVID safety. The program played a key role in keeping Hawaii's residents safe before vaccinations were widely available, and during the surges we've seen through this pandemic ," said John De Fries, Hawaii Tourism Authority President and CEO. " Bringing the Safe Travels program to a close reflects the progress we have made as a state , and Governor Ige’s decision is a good balance of maintaining reasonable health precautions while reopening our society and economy ."

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Upcoming months of travel.

We think it is safe to say that any month of the year you will not be disappointed when you visit the Hawaiian islands. Here's an overview of what to expect in the coming months. Not sure when to visit? Read about the  Best Month to Visit , where we present an overview of each month OR take the quiz on our  Best Time to Visit Hawaii  page.

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Maui Residents to Visitors: Come, but With Care and Respect

Following catastrophic wildfires that leveled the western maui town of lāhainā, the island’s residents grapple with the slow return of tourism..

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When visitors do come, locals ask that they be mindful of the trauma and devastation the island has been through since early August.

Courtesy of Unsplash

This week, Maui mayor Richard Bissen announced the next phase of the reopening of West Maui to tourism following horrific wildfires that blazed through areas of the islands of Hawai‘i and Maui in early August, completely leveling the town of Lāhainā in western Maui. On November 1, the areas of West Maui north of Lāhainā, from Kahana to Kā‘anapali, will reopen, as officials and residents focus on recovery and rebuilding efforts, including a campaign to encourage travelers to return to Maui, albeit respectfully and with compassion. The phased reopening of West Maui began on October 8.

“Here’s the reality, as much as people don’t like it, we are driven by the visitor industry,” says Tim Lara of Hawaiian Paddle Sports , a certified B-Corp in Maui that offers surf lessons, kayak tours, canoe tours, and stand-up paddleboard lessons. “If all of a sudden everyone stops coming, which they did . . . it’s going to create a bigger economic collapse. And more people are going to need assistance. Whereas if the visitor industry keeps going, not only can we sustain ourselves, but we can help with relief on the west side.”

Lara lives in Kula in Maui’s Upcountry, which experienced wildfires as well—19 houses were lost in Kula, including 10 within a mile of Lara’s house. Lara and his neighbors spent the days after the fires working together to extinguish new hot spots, cut back green waste to create fire breaks, and clear trees that had fallen onto properties. A donation center was established in the community where people could pick up bottled water, in addition to supplies and food.

In the first 10 days or so following the wildfires, Lara’s business was essentially put on pause. “I just didn’t have the headspace to deal with it,” he says. But, he adds, “We’re back [in business] now.”

Hawai‘i tourism officials have released a map that indicates the reopening progress in West Maui.

Courtesy of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority

The losses due to the wildfires in Maui were staggering. Authorities reported that 97 people died, more than 6,600 acres burned, and approximately 2,403 residences were destroyed.

In the initial hours following the August 8 fires, as blazes were still burning, as rescue efforts were still underway, and as losses were still mounting, the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority issued a statement that “non-essential travel to Maui is strongly discouraged at this time. Visitors who have travel plans to West Maui in the coming weeks are encouraged to consider rescheduling their travel plans for a later time.” Unfortunately, the distinction between West Maui, where Lāhainā is located, and the rest of Maui, which remained open to visitors, got lost in the chaos and communication efforts.

Several celebrities jumped in to reinforce that message, including Hawaiian-born actor Jason Momoa, who has 17.2 million followers on Instagram and posted to the platform on August 11, “Do not travel to Maui . . . if you were planning on traveling to Maui in the near future, cancel your trip.” (He has since posted numerous updates , including detailed clarifications about what remains open now—the vast majority of Maui—and the area around Lāhainā that had been closed.)

And many people did cancel their trips. Prior to August 8, Maui’s domestic passenger count ranged from between 4,000 and more than 8,000 visitors each day. In the weeks following the wildfires, they dipped down to between 1,800 and 3,000 daily and have finally climbed back up to above 4,000 daily visitors on most days, according to data provided by Hawai‘i’s Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism.

The number of domestic passengers flying to Maui has dropped drastically since the wildfires.

Courtesy of Hawaii’s Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

It’s estimated that the current economic loss is as much as $9 million per day due to the drop in travelers, according to the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism.

“There was a lot of talk in the beginning that ‘Maui is closed. Visitors need to leave. Don’t come to Maui,’ ” says Lara, adding that more recently, there’s been a welcome adjustment in the communication. “Now people are saying, ‘Maui is open. Please come.’ ”

In September, the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority approved a $2.6 million recovery plan to restore demand for travel to Maui, which includes a new Mālama Maui campaign that promotes a responsible return in tourism to Maui .

“After listening to the Maui community and visitor industry, the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority is supporting residents who work in the hospitality industry and business owners who count on visitor spending by ensuring that visitors return to Maui,” Ilihia Gionson, public affairs officer at Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, tells AFAR. “We are asking for respectful, compassionate, responsible travel to the island at this time. Visitation is welcome and encouraged to the many open areas of Maui, now more than ever.”

Is it OK to visit Maui now?

So, what does “respectful, compassionate, responsible” travel to Maui look like?

Britney Alejo-Fishell, owner of Haku Maui in Maui’s Upcountry, a small business that makes traditional Hawaiian leis and teaches lei-making workshops, says she wants to spread the message that “it’s OK to come.”

But, she adds, “I know that people love to come to Maui to heal. You come here, and you find your healing in this beautiful place. But this is where people come from. We live here, this is what we’re made of. Come right, come respectfully. The people that come and just stay at the hotels, I get it, it’s helping the hotel. Come with the openness that you are going to travel and to explore and see what Maui has to offer and meet the people and talk to them and not just shelter in place.”

In addition to getting off the resort compound and supporting local businesses, reaching out to aid organizations that are contributing to relief efforts on Maui, and donating time and money to help (see below), Alejo-Fishell says that conscious travelers should also be aware of how severe the trauma that many residents have experienced has been.

Now, more than ever, residents are asking visitors to shop and buy local when they visit Maui to help support small businesses and their families.

Courtesy of Lo Sarno/Unsplash

Alejo-Fishell recalls that “the very first week, we were getting supplies, taking them directly to Lāhainā, and you can hear tourists complaining in the stores, saying ‘Why is there nothing on the shelves? What are we supposed to do?’ People have nothing, they just survived [this disaster], they may have lost their loved ones. Come on. Just be aware that you may be in line and there may be someone behind you in line that lost everything.”

Lesley Texeira, owner of Aloha Missions , which creates customized give-back experiences for people in Maui, says that following the wildfires, it felt like the COVID-19 pandemic all over again in Maui with rental cars piling up on empty lots around the airport and a dearth of visitors.

The difference this time around is that Maui residents experienced something so sudden and so shocking—and they are, quite frankly, still processing it all.

“If you are coming here . . . [you should be] leaving our island better than you found it. That’s how you should do anything, but especially right now. We are so fragile, and we are so emotional that you have to come here and you have to be mindful,” says Texeira. “The whole island is traumatized.”

Texeira says that for those visitors who want to reach out to local communities and volunteer or provide services and resources while they are in Maui, Aloha Missions can help make those connections between visitors and support efforts.

Says Lara of Hawaiian Paddle Sports, “Just by simply coming and spending money as you normally would, you are helping the situation because you’re stopping that many more families from needing assistance. But then—extra credit—make a charitable donation while you’re here.”

The road to recovery and eventually rebuilding will be a long one for the western Maui town of Lāhainā.

Courtesy of the Office of Hawai‘i Governor Josh Green

How to help Maui

For travelers wondering how they can help, several organizations have jumped in to provide aid and assistance.

American Red Cross

To donate: redcross.org

The Red Cross is providing assistance to thousands of displaced residents in Maui and Oahu.

Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement

To donate: memberplanet.com

This nonprofit organization that supports Native Hawaiians is raising support “for ‘ohana impacted by the devastating wildfires on Maui.”

Maui Food Bank

To donate: mauifoodbank.org

The Maui Food Bank, which distributes food to the hungry in Maui County, is raising money to help feed residents of Maui who have been displaced by the fires.

Maui Strong Fund

To donate: hawaiicommunityfoundation.org

The Hawai‘i Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization that focuses on creating an equitable and vibrant Hawai‘i, has developed the Maui Strong Fund to provide shelter, food, financial assistance, and other services to residents.

Maui United Way

To donate: ignite.stratuslive.com/auw/get-involved/donate/mauirelief

Community aid organization Maui United Way has created a Maui Fire Disaster Relief Fund that will assist victims of the fires.

When is it OK to Visit Maui Again?

Donate now • volunteer now, are tourists welcome to maui right now, maui is open.   burn zone of lahaina is closed. west maui reopened oct 8th, 2023., fema & disaster relief are finally here, what should you do about your booked maui vacation, if you are visiting maui ( unaffected areas) : (makena, kihei, wailea, central, north shore, upcountry, hana), if you are visiting west maui : (olowalu, ka’anapali, kahana, napili, honokowai, kapalua), areas of maui unaffected physically by the fires:, what’s open in maui:.

When Can You Vacation in West Maui Again?

If visiting west maui, how do tourists visit respectfully, again, before commenting, take a deep breath, and share constructive feedback.  we’re all exhausted, angry, and heartbroken. please leave your thoughts below., 544 responses.

Maui stil no ka oi

If I had money I would send it to you to continue to help those in need on Maui. Visitors need to stay someplace else until all of the damage can be repaired or replaced. My heart aches for every on Maui

Stay away for God’s sake!! It’s a catastrophic disaster. Geezzz!!

Can you please share some constructive ideas on how everyone will survive economically, or how long they should stay away for?

Scheduled for the Sheraton of Black Rock early Oct. How is Kaanapali Beach? Was it affected? Thanks, Ann

Kaanapali is also cut off right now, so we don’t know what the future of all of West Maui looks like.

Please correct your spelling on this website in order to portray a more professional and respectful image. Many tourists will look for information online. I’m not trying to be rude or disrespectful. You can delete this but please spell check hawaiian place names. Thank you.

Can you share what was misspelled? We’re all exhausted over here.

OH I see, we misspelled Ulupalakua. We’re all exhausted. Next time, please share what was misspelled to save us some time.

You have a colorful post with the months to visit. Could you make that so we can copy and alert others of Maui etiquette.

We live in east Tennessee and six years ago when the Gatlinburg wildfires came through destroying 1000+ Houses and businesses, many displaced workers were hired by the relief agencies to assist in the rebuild, the services being rendered and business clean ups. Granted, you all have suffered far more. This was just one way that our folks survived financially through the loss.

Thank you so much for this posting and thread. We have had a family vacation scheduled end of September/1st week October for a year. We are NOT going to cancel, but obviously are concerned about the trip. I have told my 6 & 9 yr old girls that “if nothing else, at least we can offer help….” There is a lack of site specific tourist information available, so any insights like this are fantastic. It is truly difficult at the moment to balance our “tourist” expectations and our “decent human beings” responsibilities. I truly prefer spending my $ with the local providers than canceling my trip and sending a few $ to a charity.

Maybe a couple cruise ships could come and park along there so people could stay on them for a while for people in need for a place to stay and the government help pay for it

You should see if a couple of cruise ships would come and park along the water for people to stay on until some housing can be provided for them since they’ve lost their homes and may not have nowhere to stay the ships May donate their services this is just an idea

Hi there. I know it’s too early to tell, but is there anything physical wise yall need help with? I will be in Kauai in two weeks for a week. If there’s something I can do to help I could fly over there afterwards for as long as yall need. Right now I’m volunteering in denali national park then head to kauai for the marathon then I’m free to volunteer if I can help

Thank you for your thoughts and willingness to help! I think we have enough local volunteers here on Maui, but we’ll keep you updated. I would just donate money.

Thank you for sharing updates and information. You mentioned volunteer opportunities while visiting Maui – is there a website that shows these? We hope to visit in early October and would love to help! Mahalo and prayers for the people of Lahaina and Maui.

The tasks needed along a timeline for Maui recovery is unknown, so it’d be best to check closer to the date. There will be plenty of opportunities, we just don’t know what exactly will be needed at the time.

We are scheduled to visit in February but will check with friends living on island before we travel. We have also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity when it is time to rebuild and encourage others to do the same.

February is far out. So long as you’re on the south side, it’ll be fine.

God Bless those with the suffering from the horrible fires. Praying for strength and courage to move on. Have been to Oahu twice and my family was planning to visit west Maui in November. Thank you for this article. Helps to understand wether we should go or not.

Our heart is breaking for your community- we’ve spent so many lovely visits in Lahaina and West Maui. I hope we can come back to see you at our scheduled December visit and will definitely look for ways to volunteer and support you. Donations and miles already sent with love.

Is the Aston shores kannapali open? Did it receive fire damage? If we can’t go through Lahaina how do we get there?

For months I have had a ticket to go to Maui on November 1. I will be staying in Kihei. I wish I could be there now to help in relief efforts. I would like to volunteer a couple of the days I am there (there the whole month of November). I would also like to find out before I come, if there are things still needed that I could bring (for instance, I have many sweatshirts that haven’t even been worn, and I know that Hawaiians have told me they are cold when it gets to 75!)

If you bring or send items, make sure there’s someone specifically to receive it. Our needs change daily, and we’re often getting pallets worth of items that the need has already been filled. Then we have a waste disposal or storage issue. Thank you!

I am surprised by the suggestion here. Most people in Maui outside of West Maui need tourists to come back in order to live. Already my friends in South Maui are losing so much businesses and they need tourists to come back. Is it possible that you meant to type “If You Are Visiting WEST Maui in:…”?

Things have changed a bit, you’re right. Changing it.

Can you please direct us or list the links for the local charities where we can donate directly? We’ve seen so many in different social media posts it’s confusing and we want the donations to go directly to the community.

Here’s a list of verified Maui charities .

Heartbreaking. What’s sad is my husband and I decided to come – staying in Wailea. My husband is retired army and deployed to hurricane Katrina and Adams. We thought we could help by volunteering and donations. To our surprise, we went to a shelter and they did not need anymore volunteers or donations. And, now the news says the same thing – no more donations or volunteers (not money). There are also several articles and new presses on tv that encourage tourists because they support the economy. People need jobs, especially now. Our hotel is practically empty except for FEMA workers, etc. Why are the rooms filled with those in need? Why – because the hotels are greedy. So, before anyone judges, people should educate themselves.

The majority of the displaced have now been given places to stay.

Heartbreaking. What’s sad is my husband and I decided to come – staying in Wailea. My husband is retired army and deployed to hurricane Katrina and Adams. We thought we could help by volunteering and donations. To our surprise, we went to a shelter and they did not need anymore volunteers or po

Hello, we have a vacation scheduled for September 26th. We are supposed to stay in HONOKOWAI. The VRBO says Lahaina though. I do not want to to bother the host again he lives in Maui. We have been so torn and unsure as to what to do. Can you tell please give me some info on this exact area. I live on the west coast, we have never traveled to Hawaii so I do not know if it is the area of devastation or not. Bless all those that have experienced this horrific tragedy.

Check in with your host. I don’t know if we’re getting power there yet. I’m sure there will be power by then.

Sending love and healing to you all in Maui. May you all know that tourists are not like grim-reapers — most tourists are families that respect the beauty and magic of Maui. And, some tourists are travelers who are in-tune with Maui’s sacredness and want to help to contribute to protecting the sacredness and culture. On a recent trip in April, I was so thankful for the opportunity to visit The Sacred Garden of Maliko – a place of peace and inspiration — a place to offer more peace and inspiration for the island. When Lahaina is rebuilt, may it be rebuilt as it was, with even more local-culture visible, and with affordable housing. Developers with intentions to turn Lahaina into a mini-Waikiki should not be allowed! May peace, preservation, and love reign!

Thank you for this post. We have had you all in our thoughts. If our trip isn’t canceled our plan is to volunteer for a few days when we come in Nov. we want to support where we can but definitely not overstep and allow Maui to heal.

We will be coming to Molokai soon. Planned on hopping to Maui for snorkeling, etc. but now cannot even think about going there as a tourist. Is it possible to hop over to Maui for a day or two to help as volunteers? I have experience as a Nurse aide (STNA) but can do anything I can to help, and my wife would want to whatever she can as well…

We would like to come over in the year 2024 if we can .we have made friends over there since we have been coming since 1980 and then 1989 to this year in April.

I have been a visitor to Maui’s west side for 23 years. I have made friends with some of the people who have worked at the hotel or shops. Some I know have lost their home and their work. My heart goes out to them. I have donated to the Maui Food Bank and the fund that Montage has set up for their staff, and provided financial support to a few friends who have lost their homes. I know financial support is needed and appreciated but how to provide the emotional support through the traumatic event?

Emotional support teams are being put into place by different organizations. There is certainly a need.

We plan to visit Kanapalli in October 11-18 for our honeymoon we are trying to decide if we should go or cancel? We would travel to other island and figure things out please let me know your thoughts

Reach out to your hotel for their take.

Maui was in an emergency situation before the fire. The wastewater, the dump, the constant flow of chemicals, asphalt, and petroleum is destroying the island. You may see paradise, but Maui as an island is dying.

Very well written and helpful

We have plans for early December up in Napili, which is not mentioned. Please advise. Also, please include a link to how we would volunteer. Thank you and we are thinking of you all and donated.

I’m not sure how the island on the west side will be by then. I’m praying with have all the displaced homed and safe far before December. We’ll find Maui volunteer opportunities soon.

Yes please include a link or a go fund me account

There’s a link at the top of this page. Or you can find more organizations hereL Maui Fire Updates .

Many years ago someone from Jamaica raved about Maui and I’ve been meaning to visit ever since! I hope to visit some day! Praying from the people of Maui! Blessings!!😋🌺🌺🙏🙏🌴🦋

God bless the citizens of Maui❣️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

Aloha and mahalo for this great post. We are scheduled for December in Kaanapali and believe we should cancel so as to not be in the way but we will gladly come and volunteer if that would be helpful. We have donated to the Maui food bank and the humane society. I don’t believe your guidance on when to come back included West Maui unless perhaps I read it too quickly and missed that part. Please tell us if cancelling is the right thing to do.

It looks like HandsOn Maui is posting volunteer opportunities on their Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/handsonmaui?mibextid=ZbWKwL

We’re hesitant to put together a volunteer page with listings because it changes day to day. I don’t have the time/resources to check throughout the day whether they need people at each. Once things stablize, I can put something together. For now, yes please look at each organization, and make sure you’re needed before showing up.

I don’t know why this OLD article showed up as something to click on in January 2024. Currently this article is so outdated, is obnoxious and economically dangerous. Someone should delete it.

I guess it depends on where you clicked on it from? We just updated it, and before doing so clearly saw that the date of publish was from late August 2023. So, I guess I could say that your comment is obnoxious and poorly timed. Here on Maui, we’ve had a lot of work to do, and going and deleting old articles isn’t on our list. But, since you’re so kind as to remind us, we’ve updated it in a few spots. It still holds true. Good luck with your trolling of 1/2 year old blog posts.

Our wishes and prayers to Maui, especially West Maui for a fast recovery. You wrote a good sensitive article here.

We try, but I’m sure there will be push back.

As a planner, I had always arranged lots of activities lined up before a visit. I was uninspired this time to fill my Oct days. I now know this is because I am to use this time to volunteer; it was no accident my time remained unscheduled. I am looking forward to volunteering. I’ll keep checking this site to see where I can help. Continued prayers for all of you.

We are donating now, and will come to Maui in January ready to volunteer and donate more…Aloha to all.

Mahalo Pat!

I live in honolulu, hawaii & all the years i have lived here ive never seen so many historic disasters happening at the same time globally.

An Aloha and much love from a sister in Florida.Floridians understand tragedy but we also know the strength of love.It will get better. Peace and love to y’all.

If possible We are coming to Kaanapali in late February /early March, we will offer as much help as needed as well as giving the economy as much business as possible. This will be our 16th year coming to Maui and will do whatever we can to give back

mahalo for your dedication and willingness to help! I’m sure there will be ways to contribute next year.

West Maui residents are stuck. Their mail, medical prescription, internet, fresh food are all stored in central Maui because of the fires. If they have any car and enough gas to get to Kahului, airport and Wailuku they can only return via the grid locked, cliff side , goat track of a road called Kahekeli road. This road has no guard rails, landslides, no street lights and I would rather drive off a cliff than sit in gridlocked traffic for 5 hours on the cliff and run out of gas. The central Maui services, fresh food, prescriptions, propane, Costco , internet and supplies will be needed by West Maui evacuees for a long time. We evacuated my house in the second fire on Friday. Again No siren. Hope any visitors will allow evacuees all the food, water, gasoline, building supplies, Target, Costco, restaurants , water , postal services, bank machines of Kahului and Wailuku For the displaced people of West Maui, Kula etc.

Relief to this disaster has been 100% local so far, and other than our few firefighters, official response has been a disaster. I know a ton of local businesses on the south side running supplies every day to the west side. These businesses are the heart of the recovery. Hoping/praying they open up roads for locals in a larger capacity soon.

Where is the best place to direct money to help the ‘everyday’ residents? We cancelled our trip to free up resources, we will be back later and in the meanwhile, God’s Speed to all of Maui.

We’re working on a list of verified GoFundMe campaigns. For now, we’ve listed a few of them on our Maui Twitter .

Hello – like millions of other hearts around the world, mine breaks for the people of Lahaina. My family has visited often since 1980, and we’ve always felt so welcomed by the beautiful people who work so hard to help us haoles have a wonderful time there. I’m wondering if at some point in the future, a directory of businesses that are owned by Lahaina residents and are still up & running might be shared, so that those of us wishing to support small business owners & their staff could do so? (for example a Lahaina business owner whose products ship from Kahului or some other unaffected area, or someone who provides remote services such as consulting) Keeping all of Maui in my heart. Mahalo

This is a great idea! We’ll work on doing something like that once our people are safe and housed.

My heart goes out to the people of Maui. I was there and witnessed the devastation first hand. While I was there God laid on my heart to buy some food and distribute to the people stuck on the freeway which was my pleasure. My prayers go out to Maui and it’s good people! May God continue to bless them in their time of need.

Mahalo for helping, Lauraanne!

Laura I’m glad you’re ok! I’ve been worrying about you.

My 3 daughters and I had plans to come to Maui in late September/early October for our fun “girls’ trip”. We have canceled our reservation recognizing Maui residents need time to regroup and organize their ow lives and families. HOWEVER, Maui has been a to go destination since 1975 – celebrated my husband’s 40th birthday at the Sheraton! We have made annuals trips almost every year since then. Most of our stays have been in Kaanapali Beach. We have stayed at every hotel and condo along the beach over the years. We all hope to return –

We hope to see you again soon!

If you could provide a list of businesses that need support maybe we can purchase from them online?

With complete understanding that tourism is an unfortunately large part of the island economy it should go without saying that visiting the island now or anytime in the near future would be extremely distasteful. Go to GoFundMe and donate to those impacted send supplies. The State has been putting tourist dollars first. Hawaiian Native and other locals don’t need to wait on tourist while still dealing with this tragedy.

It’s the most uncomfortable thing to talk about, because it IS distasteful. That being said, We can’t trust government or GoFundMe campaigns to keep a over a hundred thousand people on island without working.

First and foremost my prayers and sympathy are with all of you in Maui. My husband and I planned to fly into Maui on Halloween. In respect of your limited resources and not knowing the conditions that we would find as we were to stay in Lahaina, we rescheduled for Oahu. MICHIGAN stands with Hawaii. My husband and I will find away to support you. I am glad the hotels are helping for now. They should extend that time to more than 30 days. Maybe giving up our room will help someone else. I know it is not enough and I hope we can come back and enjoy what beautiful Maui has to offer someday. We will donate to legitimate organizations that will make sure it reaches the place in need. May God watch over you. May the still standing Banyon tree survive to be the beacon of light in all this darkness. Please be safe. Sarah K

I only want to know how the fires started, why the hurricane warnings weren’t engaged, how many died and who they are? I don’t care about tourism.

The fires likely started due to downed power lines from high winds. We’ve seen video of power poles flopping around in the wind just before the fires. The hurricane warnings weren’t engaged due likely to incompetence. We won’t know how many died probably for at least a month. And it’ll still be an estimate due to how hot the fires burned and foreign governments not sharing missing citizens. Who each victim is will also come out eventually, once families have been notified.

God Bless Maui and all Who live there,my heart hurts for all you suffering this tragedy and I pray for peace and healing. Iam praying for all the missing to be found and all the precious animals. I know God will hear our prayers and comfort you. I can’t imagine 😢 the pain and loss. Love you all in the name of Jesus.

Maui will always be no ka oui 🌺 Sending all my big Aloha’s 🤙

We’re praying here in AZ for a swift recovery! Money will be sent to help the locals, as we love Maui, and look forward to returning soon. Take care to you, and beloved Maui.

Maui will always be no ka oi. The residents of Maui have so much Aloha. That’s why we love it there so much. Personally, we would open our timeshare in Kahana for those displaced. Our hearts are devistated with the loss of life and history in Lahaina. Sending love and prayers to all affected. We will not turn our back on our Ohana ❤

Trip planned 6 – 24 Sep, staying in Kihei. What is the outlook for groceries, gasoline, etc?

Dunno. Probably fine.

I’m in Kihei and have been since before the fire. Everything is totally normal here, it’s kind of surreal with the devastation just 20 miles away, but in S Maui you would never know. The grocery stores are fully stocked and have been throughout, and all gas stations open. Kahului was not affected so all supplies are coming in. Was just at Costco yesterday and fully stocked and not too busy. I have talked to many locals and they were very sad to hear the governor tell people to stay away. They need the tourists to survive. One shop owner said “tell all your friends to come!” She also said occupancy in Kihei and Wailea was 10% and they were all struggling. Have a friend that has a stall at the Maui Swap Meet and he said they discussed whether they should open and decided they should, even though some vendors were from Lahaina. I’ve been coming to Kihei for over 40 years and it’s devastating what happened and I pray for the victims and survivors. But what we are experiencing is that the rest of the island needs tourism to survive, and for the locals to be financially able to support the victims

Thank you for the update. It’s an uncomfortable time, but we still need tourist dollars.

In response to Joanne – With the devastation that they are going through, professionalism on their website is the last thing we are looking at. Quality of life and safety is what we are hoping for and grateful to get word to relieve our minds that they are safe. How inhuman can you be to admonish the author to be careful of their spelling because you obviously can spell Ulupalakua! Who cares? The focus is on helping those live through this tragedy and getting any type of update to let us know they are safe is welcomed in any form. They are exhausted, worried, and sad. I think we can forgive a misspelled word.

It doesn’t bother me that we’re being corrected. But we need to have people share what needs correcting. Time is one of our most precious resources right now. So, no more comments on this please. Let’s move forward.

Planning trip to south Maui early Sep for almost 3 weeks, mostly playing golf and relaxing. I am feeling guilty about the trip in light of the tragedy, but my wife wants to come. What will the residents think about tourists, will we divert critical resources? We want to respect the island we love. I am also concerned that my wife’s asthma might be a problem due to residual smoke.

You won’t be diverting critical resources. Support the local area and stay out of Lahaina. Unless the fires start up again, asthma shouldn’t be an issue.

Our trip is planned for February 2024 and we wouldn’t think of cancelling it. Still looking forward to visiting the most beautiful place on earth.

February is way far out, and we’ll need your support on island. Mahalo!

Thank you so much for this article. We have a trip scheduled for February and have been conflicted as to what to do that is best for Maui and it’s residence.

Love you Maui Guide. Thank you for all you are doing!! I will be there to backfill my disaster teams. They leave in Sept. new teams arrive in Oct. I’m a disaster Chaplain and grief counselor and it will be a blessing to serve you. My dozens of vacations in Maui over the years were always so so wonderful!! Now it won’t be about ME, rather You, the beautiful Ohana I love so dearly! Many prayers going out to you all. Thank you for all the love and hospitality you have poured out. Praying that people will continue to simply pray, be respectful, loving and show empathy in this devastation and heartbreaking situation. There is deep trauma that no-one could ever fathom. God Bless you!

Mahalo, God bless!

Hey mike. I just wanted to say as a mainlander who spent every spring break on maui how heartbroken i am to see what happened its an absolute tragedy. All of us on the mainland want to help in some way. Please continue your updates and absolutely when my family comes in june we would be honored to help in anyway we could. Mahalo

Great article. I will come back to it from time to time. We come to Maui every year and stay on West Maui. We are sickened by what has happened. We have donated, but want so much to help. If possible, we will volunteer when and if we are able to come next year.

we love you – you are doing an excellent job – we were there and yes we are exhausted, angry and heartbroken.. but like the phoenix Lahaina will be once again.. it has to with aloha

SURF CITY CLASSICS is ready to help. i want to go and give back to the place i love. i pray they don’t change anything. its time to show aloha to the people of maui. we will raise money and help build back !!

Great article with much Aloha. Mahalo nui.

My heart just broke when I heard the news and first saw the devastation o Lahaina. When I visited Maui in 2005, we had breakfast in Lahaina almost every day. All of the history, the businesses and people’s homes all gone. My heart just aches. I sent a donation to Maui Foundation, but I would love to visit and volunteer and give back the aloha I was given when I visited.

Where can I donate money that will help the most?

I’ve lived here 40 years and worked in lahaina And while we are working hard to house people has anyone considered that housing is hard to find? Why? Because nobody wants growth and yet we want the money from tourism?? That doesn’t work We keep electing the same politicians who never address the housing issue A band aid her and there but 20 people living in a house is not a solution Time to build and hire mainland firms that have the manpower and resources to build affordable and nice homes 500000 for 800 sq foot apartment isn’t housing for a worker who has a family That’s why people leave

God Bless and Pule for Maui 🙏🏽❤️ Ohana is all we have!

I’m sending love ❤️and prayers to Hawaii from my church members jersey Lahaina strong 💪🏽 amen 🙏

We have reservations for January. I have some construction background and would like to help…my body is not what it used to be… but use me as you wish.

I won’t have any tools but I do have some knowledge.

Areas of competency: Architecture design, CAD, Framing, trim, cabinetry ETC.

Dave Weidkamp woodturning on Facebook

Mahalo Dave! I’m sure there will be plenty of opportunity to help once here. Once we get closer to understanding long term rebuild needs, we’ll put something together to share.

I am coming to you from Santa Monica, CA. I am praying for the people in MAUI! My trip has been booked for months to Maui for the dates of 08/31-09/04. I canceled by hotel reservation and car reservation. I still have yet to cancel my flight because I still think I want to go out there *obviously stay closer to the airport if I were to* to primarily use my time there to volunteer! I would really like some resources on this type of request because I’ve done non-profit work for communities and would be honored to put in my efforts for the people of Maui. I will obviously have to wait and see but this is what mainly is in my head, is how can I make myself useful as an experienced volunteer who already has a flight booked to go there and leave, I would really like to take advantage of that so I can help! MAUI STRONG

There will be plenty of opportunities to volunteer. You don’t have to stay at the airport, as most of Maui is unaffected. South side is physically the same as before and needs visitors.

How can I volunteer? I’m a retired widow, can be available on days notice I live in Texas Prayers for all

We’re working on finding opportunities. Mahalo!

4 of us are coming to Kay 094 through 914. We would like to volunteer for a day. We are seniors 80 year olds, but could help with food distribution or something of that nature. Any ideas where should we go first

I don’t understand where you’re coming to?

Sending prayers to the people of Maui love you all stay strong .

We arrived the morning after the fire. Had no idea of the extent of the devastation until we arrived. Our hotel was booked in Kaanapali but we obviously couldn’t get there. We just drove south and found a hotel in Wailea. Businesses in Kihei are hoping tourists continue to come. It’s a difficult situation and fine line for sure trying to keep tourism alive yet ensuring resources go to residents first.

My trip to Maui at kahana beach resort is scheduled 9/7, i am having a hard time getting in touch with anyone, not sure whether or not to cancel but when you say wait and see around when would be good to find out. I feel horrible for all of damage and would love to volunteer

Cell and internet is still slim in certain areas.

Great idea. You might bring 2 suitcases full of snacks and water and money. Lahaina will need a master plan implemented before it rebuilds. However the Lahaina UM church feeds homeless on Weds and Fridays. So perhaps you can lend a hand there.

Bringing water in a suitcase doesn’t make much sense. Maybe some water bottles that filter bacteria and heavy metals? I would make sure anything you bring has a home before you come. Our needs change on a daily basis.

I thought the Lahaina UM Church was completely destroyed, right down to the foundation.???

I’m still shocked. Saddened. But I believe that a better Maui will be built from this. The people that remain are now the heart that will be the impetus for the future. Cancelled my one-day trip to go north. Will trust God’s guidance for wisdom, if a return is ok. Believing for imua o kakou I ke aina o Maui.

I was coming to Maui. But as someone who survived a devastating fire here in California. I decided against. The people of Maui need time to heal, grieve and figure out the next steps in their lives. I don’t want to get in the way of the clean up process. I’ve been in the Maui people are going through. I was frustrated that tourist needed to come see the devastation of the fire and take pictures. I will visit the beautiful island another time. Maui is my favorite place on earth. I pray for all who have been affected. I love you Maui.

We respect your decision and words. Mahalo!

Thank you for your post.

Our thoughts go out to all of the residents of Maui that are living through the horrible devastation and aftermath of the wildfires. We are a family of 6 that were in Maui on the 2nd day of our vacation in 2018 when Hurricane Lane warnings were given. It was a very traumatic experience for us while anticipating the arrival of the hurricane. We can only imagine what you are all going through.

We tried to do a redo trip to finish all of the sights we missed during that trip but unfortunately had to cancel as it was booked for March 2020 when Covid was announced and travel to Maui was not advised.

Our third attempt is booked for January 1st. We were so looking forward to being back on your amazing island and cannot believe the situation that has happened. We are still hoping to continue with our trip but will wait and see how everything is going on Maui prior to coming.

Thank you for the suggestion to volunteer for a dating we come…I think that is a great idea!

Wow, yah we’ve had our fair share of trauma over here. Thank you for being respectful and wanting to help.

I have visited the islands 5 times and love the variety each one offers. I was in Maui in December and have vivid memories of walking down Front Street, going in shops and restaurants and seeing the beautiful Banyon tree. I have sent money to the Hawaii Community Foundation to go to the Maui Strong Fund so I hope the small amount will go where ever it is needed. Also sent some for Humane Society. Bless all of you

Mahalo for your support!

Hi there. I lived in Hawaii when I was young, we go to visit every year. I have always wanted to find a way to move back. I am a master electrician and electrical contractor. I would love to come over and pitch in with getting power back on. Do you know who is running the efforts to get services restored?

I’d reach out to the Red Cross

I agree I think sendine money there is the thing to do I canceled my flight on Oct. Love Maui I will send money every month.

YES! Thank you!

Who do we send money too ?

Maui Strong Fund

We will be coming in January to help support the local economy.

Thank you for your understanding. We will see you soon 😊

We too were coming to Maui. I just cancelled our trip for November and have rescheduled for June next year. Hopefully this will give the people and island time to heal. Our kids grew up coming to Maui twice a year since they were 3 years. We just introduced our grandson to the island last June. He is now a Maui little one. Our prayers are with all Maui and they are in our thoughts daily. See you Soon Maui!

Very well stated Nancy! GF and I commit to a visit to Maui once things get stabilized. Maui needs generous tourists to help fund the rebuilding of paradise! Volunteering when we visit will be an honor!

I’m excited to go to Maui, HI next month for my vacation and to help out since I am an Emergency Medical Professional, I will not be canceling.

Have reservations for Kaanapali for late November. Our AirBB refuses to cancel our reservations.

West side (other than Lahaina) is back open October 17th.

We have been going to this beautiful island since 2001. We have many friends who live there. When we go the end of October we plan on helping any way we can, but only if it’s acceptable. We have donated financially but would like to help physically. Prayers have been sent since this horrific event began.

Mahalo for your kōkua!

My family and I started going to Maui in 1979. I took my daughters there last year. We are sending love to you Lahaina. What is the best way to help? ❤️

Donate money to one of these organizations: Online Monetary Donations: Maui United Way, Maui Mutual Aid, Maui Strong Fund, Safe Havens, Maui Humane Society, and more to come. 

Thanks, this is very helpful. We are scheduled to arrive September 6, but with accommodations in Kaanapali we are taking a wait and see approach. We don’t want to burden anyone but understand you need tourist dollars and we would love to volunteer. Keep up the good work. G

Is there a list of small businesses on Maui that do mail-order? That’s one way we can support the economy from afar.

Like Maui-made products? Some of these Maui shops sell online. We’ll work on a more comprehensive list.

We’re in exactly the same boat … I called to check in with one of the places we had reservations with mid September and he was almost in tears begging us not to cancel. We’re taking the wait and see approach, donating funds, and looking for volunteer opportunities while/if we’re on the island. It’s very challenging to know the right thing to do 😢

Yah, it’s hard in every direction. wait and see is good. I think we’ll get our people in homes soon.

We also own a condo that we rent full time to a wonderful local woman. She is our Ohana.

We did cancel for latte Sept. it felt disrespectful to come so soon and expect to be able to “business as usual” – we have no idea how long that will take. We have another trip on the books for February and are hopeful we will feel that our energy will not be in the way. We will absolutely do at least one volunteer day (likely more). We care, and we always love our time on the gorgeous island. We are grieving along with the entire Hawaii population. We will do what we can to help you get get through this devastating time in history. Maui no ka oi.

I think February will be perfect. Thank you!

Please post a list of shows that we can order online. It’s a start for us to help. If there is some place that we can send clothing for anyone. I’m in Texas , but I have brand new clothing that I can send. Please let us know. Praying for all.

Wow. This is so perfect. I’ve been a visiting haole since 1976. I have often said to those that would listen that west Maui was the only place on planet earth where I felt completely at home. I love it and I feel like it loves me. This is one of the most impactful and soul crunching events of my life, so I can’t even conceive of the impact it is having on the 1,000s of beautiful Lahaina residents, many of whom k have gotten to know and live. My heart is with you and I’ve been raising funds to go to the Hawaii Community Foundation like a mad man. The message from Byron says it all. Thanks so much for this. I’ll see you when I’m ready to make my return, may this year, maybe not.

YES! We feel you. It’s soul crushing for everyone, especially those that have lost family,homes, and businesses.

I have a time share in Kaanapali Beach booked fir the whole month of November. Will it be OK to visit then?

Not sure. West Maui is currently ground zero and not really accessible. We’ll see.

We feel exactly the same – gong to Lahaina always felt as though we were going home. Heartbroken for all the wonderful people we got to know over the years (& those we never had an opportunity to get to know), who have lost everything 💔💔😢😥

The other islands are just as beautiful. The native people are the same.

Maui no ka oi! I’m a better person for having had the chance to experience the beautiful Aloha of Maui. We are due to visit again in January and would be honoured to help out by volunteering anywhere we are needed.

So much Aloha! I think we’ve weeded out all the terrible humans and are just getting the gold! Mahalo!

Please suggest reputable agencies to make donations. Mahalo!

YES!!!! Maui Strong Fund is a really good one. There are many more on https://mauifireupdates.com and we’re also putting together a list of verified GoFundMe campaigns.

Who is coordinating volunteer efforts of those wishing to volunteer during their “vacation”

I don’t think we’re quite there yet. I would reach out to Maui Rapid Response. Maybe we’ll work on doing this ourselves, but right now, we’re concentrating on information and helping with those on the ground now.

Please let us know! We will becoming in December. We love this Island. We want to support in any way we can ❤️

December will be fine. We’ll work on finding ways for visitors to support and volunteer.

The American Red Cross has put out a call for volunteers. They are in desperate need.

Yes please help if you’re on island! You can also apply if off-island.

I was wondering the same- thanks for asking ! We have a visit to South Maui planned in September and I would really love to be able to help West Maui in some way.

How close did the fires come to Kihei? We haven’t heard much about the other fires on Maui besides Lahina and are worried how the rest are doing too. We are donating to the animal shelter as we heard about the poor pets effected. Our hearts are breaking. Such a terrible disaster.

Kihei is safe. It could have been bad, but it didn’t get to any neighborhoods.

We are going to Wailea Oct-17, please keep us posted as we get closer on whether it’s appropriate to come or not. My brother and I have a brick at the smokestack tower that we wanted to visit, but not sure if that will be possible. Our hearts break for Lahaina. ;-(

There’s no visiting Lahaina right now, but you’ll probably be fine coming mid October if you stick to unaffected areas.

My family are so torn on what to do with our trip coming in on Sept. 3rd. Yes we want to help with the tourism and hospitality but also do not want to be in the way and take away resources from the locals and people that need them. If we do end up coming, we hope to in some way help out. I just don’t know what to do.

The more feedback we get, the more we’re realizing that your being here will not hinder relief efforts if you stick to non-affected areas (south side.) And, we’ll work on getting some voluntourism going.

Our trip is Sept 3rd-13th and we’ve battled with what to do as well. We tried making other accommodations in order to respect the residents of Maui during this time. Unfortunately we have had no success in receiving a refund from our host. We are planned to stay in Kihei, although I still feel awful for imposing.

If you can change it, that would be good. Is your host AirBnB or VRBO? They really need to stop being so greedy.

We are booked through VRBO. It’s been incredibly frustrating.

We need you. Kihei is good 👍 to visit. You are welcomed

I own a vacation rental in Kihei and am listed on Vrbo and Airbnb. I had a cancelation for last Wednesday and worked with Vrbo to fully refund my guests. Vrbo has refused their service fee. But I have heard that anyone who booked through Vacasa is not being refunded anything! Just thought I would come in with what I know. My husband and I will be there at the end of October and will most likely spend some time volunteering. Prayers to all of Maui! I have listed my place as available for sorry term housing for displaced Mauians.

Thank you for refunding them! Vacasa: that’s evil.

I am feeling the same, our trip is scheduled for Oct 21 – Nov 4th. We want to come to Maui but we are worried about using resources that the local people need and we do not want to seem disrespectful in anyway. We love Maui and are heartbroken over the devastation.

Will evaluate in Nov for our early Dec visit to KAHANA. I suspect the bus will be welcomed, despite heavy hearts. Lahaina Town was always a huge part of our visits for past 15yrs. We will help if we can when there and have donated to local businesses we frequented and to food bank last Thur. Frustrated for you that Red Cross and FEMA, for whatever reasons, aren’t getting the help to W Maui. Aloha to you!!

Please recommend best way to donate that will provide most immediate relief to W Maui.

Supposed to come Sept 3 but Westin kaanapali Nanea canceled my reservation stating Maui closed. I felt we should cancel anyway as locals hopefully are being helped with places to stay by the resorts. Maybe not? All confusing and trying to be respectful. Thought governor told tourists to stay away. Heartbroken for Maui and Lahaina. I come yearly. I have donated and wish I could do more. Thoughts? Should tourists stay away for a few months? I know locals depend on tourism.

It’s a little too soon, so I’m glad they cancelled. Especially up in Ka’anapali.

Is Ka’anapali, or is it more infrastructure issues – roads, power, etc. have a spring trip planned and having trouble figuring out whether to keep it.

Plan on staying on the south side, and you’ll be good. We have all kinds of infrastructure issues among many others.

I tried to cancel my trip in September but the Ali’i resort said I would not get my money back because it’s not policy this close to the trip. They would need someone else to schedule my room on the same dates to be able to get a refund. So for now I guess I’m stuck with going. I want to give the people of Maui there space for now but I don’t know what to do.

If it’s on the south side, I’m sure it’s fine. Just respect the island and stay away from the west side.

We are scheduled to arrive in Wailea on Sept. 22nd. Do you think this is ok? Is the road to Hana open?

I like so many others have to much love for Maui and the wonderful locals. I truly feel in my soul this was a place meant to be part of my life. Iam so devastated and heart broken over the the tremendous loss you all have endured. I have made some donations already and plan to make more. Wish i lived where i could also physically help. Prayers to all the wonderful people of Maui. I will be back as soon as we are allowed. Love to beautiful Maui and all of the wonderful locals. Stay strong 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💜🌴🌺🍍🌈🤙

Mahalo Gina!

We love Maui (married there 18 years ago). We planned and prepaid all for the end of August to CB Island Vacations Kahana area. They will not refund unless the Mayor bans travel. We do not want to do anything to hamper the beautiful people of Maui rescue. We’re Alaskans and have always felt the kinship. We plan on being respectful.

That’s super messed up. How do they expect you to vacation at Kahana right now?!?!? That’s crazy. August is not for visitors, ESPECIALLY on the west side. I’m so sorry.

I cancelled my labor day trip to kaanapali, but extended my Thanksgiving trip. I don’t want to be a burden at this time, but I know how much the islands rely on tourism. I plan on frequenting local business as much as possible. I love the island and it’s people, and I’m hoping to be a help more than a hindrance

Please let us know if there is anything we can do to protect Lahaina for the locals as it rebuilds. I’d hate to see a bunch of outside developers swoop in and price people out of their history.

Thank you! I agree. We hope the rebuild keeps the locals in mind. It’s going to be hard keeping big developers from wanting to suck it all up.

I heard on the news that they placed a moratorium on buying/selling real-estate in Lahaina to prevent people from losing their homes

They’re talking about it. A lot of creaping people trying to buy land and bothering our people at time where it’s beyond uncalled for.

Have you all in our prayers and still plan on coming for our trip. We are coming in October and staying part of the time in Kapalua and part of the time in Wailea. Not concerned about the Wailea portion, but do they think the highway to Kapalua will be open by October so we can drive up there from the airport when we arrive?

I’m not sure if it’ll be open. It’d be a good idea to switch to only south side in October.

Hope everyone be safe and healthy. We are planning to visit maui after mid sept and planning to visit road to hana and haleakala national park for sunrise. Would it be safe to travel at that time. Any suggestions would be helpful

It’s still early, but I think if you stay away from the west side, you should be fine. Just be respectful.

We are also very torn as well with our upcoming trip set for 9/9-9/13 in Kihei. We do not want to be disrespectful to the locals by coming when we are not welcome but would like to come volunteer some of our time there.

Stay out of west Maui, volunteer, donate, and be respectful.

Staying at Mana Kai resort in Kihei 9/13-9/16. So far it seems like that is far enough from west Maui to still come. My wife and I have been praying for everyone daily!

We been coming to beautiful Maui since 2005. We are so heartbroken for everyone 💔 We are supposed to come in February. We have donated to help but we would love to volunteer in anyway we can if its possible ❤️

We’ll keep you updated on opportunities. Please check back and bookmark this site. February is a great time to come to Maui.

My heart goes out to those affected by the fires. We planned a family trip mid September but airlines/airbnb policies are being very difficult so we can’t get a refund. Hope to visit and help out in any way we can.

Yah, it’s a tough situation. We have the government saying south Maui visitors are not affecting the relief efforts. We locals saying we need time to grieve. They’re both right. Hopefully by mid-September we have the displaced in homes safe.

Thank you Maui Guide. Our hearts are with you and the community. My husband is an artist and saw Lahaina for the very first time last October and is deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to visit. Selfishly, our mind’s eye can’t stop wandering down a bustling Front Street alive and well: gentle trade winds at our back, blue sky, pillowy clouds, and diamonds dancing on Pacific.

I wish plumeria would fall like snow and blanket the ashes in memoriam.

Have reservations in Napili mid-October and are currently keeping our plans. Please do keep us posted on volunteer opportunities for Mainlanders.

Yes, we’ll keep you updated with volunteer opportunities.

We arrived the day the fire started in Lahaina. We had heard power was out in Lahaina (winds were unbelievable that day) but no one had any clue that a catastrophe was in progress. Since we were staying near Kihei (Sugar Beach #127, lovely) we decided not to evacuate as things felt relatively normal in South Maui. We had already bought our groceries and decided to just stay off the roads so officials and locals could do their thing. We especially wanted to support the local businesses, which they welcomed. I don’t understand why some knuckleheads tried to get to Lahaina to looky-loo. We love Maui, we love immersing ourselves in the culture and I hope the Governor makes it clear that people should visit the unaffected areas and enjoy. It wouldn’t hurt to make a donation to the Hawaii Community Foundation too.

The governor was pretty clear in the video. Thank you for donating. Yes, Hawaii Community Foundation seems to be the best spot right now.

My friend and I booked months ago to go to Kihei for 2 weeks starting Sept 5. We have tried to cancel, to give time and space for Maui to heal, but the condo property rental co. will not refund or give us a credit. If we have no choice but to come at this very difficult time for Maui, we will try to help while we are there.

My Fiancé and I are in the same boat, staying in Kehei as well. It’s been extremely frustrating!

We were scheduled to stay at our Timeshare Kihei Oct 18th to Oct 25th, but switched to Kauai as we were not certain what the situation would be like and could not really change dates as I have to schedule timeoff like year in advance a d we already had flights booked and paid for. We will try to make a day trip over if possible

Thank you for switching. It’s hard to know where we’ll be at that time. I would definitely wait and see before doing a day trip and make sure it’s worth it (that there are volunteer opportunities available.)

While I agree with your basic, “like it or not” assessment of the reality regarding the need for tourism on Maui, I don’t think your take will be very popular with many island residents. Residents are justifiably still very RAW right now and it’s understandable that they need something to blame for this tragedy that has no clear villain. So they are blaming tourism. People will be displaced, living in hotels and Airbnb’s for months if not years. People with nothing will go to work to make other people’s vacations special when they are dying inside. I fear that this is going to breed such a resentment and lead to altercation.

Two weeks is not enough time to grieve. Listing September as – “wait and see” is irresponsible in my opinion. I am in no way an authority on the subject of grief, so I’m not sure what the right timeframe is, but it’s further than 2 weeks away.

Tourism needs to take a back seat to this for a while. The revenue that is lost needs to be made up by disaster relief, insurance, and donation from the Uber rich celebrities who call Maui, in particular, and Hawaii, in general, home. Bezos’ 100M is a good start. I feel Oprah will match. I’m looking at Zuckerberg, Ellison, Willie Nelson, Stephen Tyler, and a host of other millionaires and billionaires. It’s time to put their money where their mouth is.

There is no ethical way to visit Maui in the coming weeks and months on a leisure vacation. There just isn’t.

I agree with most of your points. How are locals going to survive if tourism stops and disaster relief, insurance and uber-rich donations don’t cover expenses? They certainly didn’t during COVID, and many locals lost their businesses and moved off island. There’s a real danger of us losing MORE of our local community as they’re forced to exit the island for the mainland.

I’m not arguing that tourism isn’t a necessary evil, I’m challenging the responsibility and compassion of your timeline.

Biden and Schumer are seeking a 13B appropriation through Congress as we speak. Obviously there will need to be oversight to make sure those funds are distributed fairly, but relief is coming.

I’m not saying money is not important. It is vitally important. But isn’t giving people the time and space to grieve, mourn and bury loved ones also vitally important?

That process is going to take a while and I just don’t think it’s right to ask people who have lost everything and who are still in crisis to paste on a smile to help some leisure tourists have their magical vacation.

You say you are not an authority on the subject of grief yet you know that 2 weeks is not long enough. People can and should be able to grieve for as long as they want. Since you are defining the minimum of how long they should be grieving, the question for you then is who, where, and how should we be “grieving”. Does your grieving extend a certain number of kilometers. Does it include the rest of Maui, Hawaii, perhaps the world. Does your grieving mean that people should stop everything everywhere?. Perhaps it does, but the reality is that the rest of the world, and I would argue the rest of Maui, have to go about their daily lives just to survive. Maybe you think that is selfish but it is not. To survive, that might mean doing business. Like it or not, the business of Maui is tourism and, like it or not, that is how you survive if you live on Maui.

I love that you want us to volunteer. As a former resident of Oahu it would be a most memorable vacation to volunteer on Maui and look forward to it.

We’ll keep you updated!

My heart and prayers go out to all Maui residents. We have been visiting your beautiful island annually since 1988. We are devastated for all of you. This communication is extremely helpful. We want to do what is best for Maui. You all just survived the effects of Covid and now this! Maui is strong and loved by millions. We will watch for ways to help in the coming months. Media will die down but please keep the communication coming so the help will continue. Mahalo

Mahalo! We’ll keep sharing updates and opportunities to help. Other than helping ourselves, there’s not much else we can do until our people are safe.

Thank you for the information. We had a trip booked for Aug 19th in Lahaina but cancelled as of last week. Thankfully Southwest and other airlines are offering free changes. Have donated through our local Church to assist and are praying for everyone affected.

MAHALO! You are appreciated!

Our hearts are with you all on Maui. We will possibly come in January and will most certainly be looking for ways to be of service. Thank you for this informative and thoughtful article. Love to you all!

Mahalo! January will be a good time to come and help.

We have family on Maui. Glad they are all safe. When Maui is ready to have visitors again, we will make plans to visit our family, friends and to support the Maui island. Until then , we will give as much “Aloha we can”.

Aloha is strong on Maui, more than ever. Mahalo!

Aloha … from Ontario Canada 🇨🇦

Our hearts go out to the wonderful of Maui and the beautiful town of Lahaina.

Although we may not be able to visit for awhile, we all have unforgettable memories of enjoying many days in the Paradise of Maui.

We have made a substantial contribution to the Maui Wildfire Campaign of the Canadian Red Cross in honor of the many lives lost in Lahaina.

Mahalo Dave! Really appreciate you.

We are scheduled to visit Maui (after Oahu) from September 12-16 in Kulei. We’re not quite sure what to do since we already paid for the condo rental and with Kulei being “open” as you say, we would not get our money back. We obviously know we won’t be visiting west Maui but we’re big hikers and were planning on spending most of our time in the national park and the road to Hana anyway.

Where are you staying exactly? Kihei or Kula?

Hello Maui Guide. We are staying in Kihei near Coves Beach Park. If allowed, we would have canceled our reservation out of respect to the relief efforts but the owners of the condo refused, saying the condo was fine. We can’t be out $1400 so we’re going to come, staying away from west Maui.

Oops… “Our hearts go out to the WONDERFUL PEOPLE OF MAUI and the beautiful Town of Lahaina’.

Aloha! Do you know the best way to make voices heard by decision-makers (sign a petition or similar) to show Lōkahi for ensuring there is equity and inclusion in the decisions about rebuild. Many people are invested in supporting locals to be able to continue to inhabit Lahaina and that developers don’t get blinded by opportunities to build back bigger. Any known, targeted resources that we can support for this, beyond our support of immediate funds, would be great. Mahalo!

No, I don’t know, but it’s something we need to discuss and find a solution for. I remember HAPA (Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action) was working towards that. I’m not sure if they’re still in action. Maui Rapid Response is headed up in part by Kainoa Horcajo, and we trust his leadership. I’m sure he’ll be a driving force.

Thank you for the information you are providing. It’s hard to know what to do in a situation like this. My heart breaks for the people of Maui. Maui is where I can decompress and escape. My trip is planned for the end of August and I plan on coming. We stay in Maalaea and would never think of trying to go to Lahaina. We want to help with our money and possibly volunteer for a day. Maui is truly a beautiful place with the friendliest people. Lahaina was a daily visit for us every time we visited. So many memories!! The beautiful Banyan Tree, the shops and harbor. I pray for the people of Maui and those who are tasked with the recovery and rebuild. I feel blessed to have visited Lahaina and feel for the people who will never get to see it’s charm and glory. Mahalo to the people of Maui for sharing your beautiful island with us.

I would reschedule. It’s hard enough just to get in and out of Maalaea right now.

Our usual visit is in January. We stay at KBH hotel which I understand has now been changed to an outrigger! We have lots of friends who have lost family and homes, but we also know they depend on our tourist visits. We will not cancel our trip yet but certainly hope to support our “ohana” if possible !🇨🇦

January is pretty far out, but west side will be a challenge probably still. I would talk with your friends about it.

I have been travelling to West Maui for 20 years and have heard from the residents that it is largely under served. By this I mean there is no local hospital and only one road in or out from the rest of the island (not including the Lahaina bypass).

I hope that part of the rebuild includes improved infrastructure and better transportation, eg. from Wailuku through Iao Valley and forest preserve is a possibility. It is a short run connecting existing roads.

I agree it’s always been underserved. We now have some urgent care clinics, but west Maui needs a hospital. But it’s hard enough to get doctors and nurses to work at Maui Memorial. There’s pretty much zero chance we’ll ever build transportation through Iao Valley. No chance. It’s too important of a historical, cultural, and natural site.

We have a trip to Maui set for September 8-22/23. I am not sure whether to cancel or still go. Any thoughts?

If you have the opportunity to postpone, it’d be a good idea.

God bless you. We’ll look forward to visiting when you’re ready for us. Aloha. ❤️❤️❤️

There are no words to express our sadness and grief for the devastation of Lahaina Town. We have so many beautiful memories of time spent there over many years of visiting. We can’t comprehend what has happened. We will be returning to Maui several times over the next year, but it will never be the same. Our hearts are breaking.

Mahalo for your thoughts! It’s devastating.

So sorry for the residents of Maui we will be assisting in relief efforts from FL. We had an anniversary trip planned for August 20-31, we have cancelled as to not be an added drain on the needed resourses and essentials. Two more people on the island taking up rooms and road space is not helpful at this time. We will reschedule in the near future.

Our hearts go out to you all and our freinds on the island.

Thank you for cancelling! Mahalo!

Aloha, Maui friends! I am Linda, in California, and I am holding you in my Huna prayers every day for a whole lunar cycle as of yesterday. I have visited Maui Nui three times so far. I feel oh so much what you all are experiencing. I’m passing on the links for legitimate Hawaiian charities who are helping the wildfire displaced. I am a local artist. I am thinking of you blessed, blessed people. Please know I am going to visit Hawaii again, at the right time in the right way. Love, Linda in California

Have the Cruiselines donate a couple ships for displaced residents and workers during rebuilding. On calm days they can achor off lahina. During rough days stay in port at kahului. Our Payers are with the people of Maui.

Haven’t heard anything.

I don’t think the Cruise ships have extra capacity now. NCL has 17 ships total, and the only US-based cruise ship in the world. NCL has donated money to the fund and is working to assist in any way possible. Right now, their Pride of America ship has reworked its itinerary to not visit Maui, but is still sailing, so tourists will be contributing overall to tourism dollars throughout the rest of Hawaii.

Beautiful people, beautiful land. Always have hope. Good things take time.

Thank you. Very informative. We’ve postponed for August. Will visit in the near future.

Mahalo for your Kōkua!

Thank you so much for this information! We are planning to come in December and I was just about to remove the Maui leg of the trip because it felt disrespectful but this has me reconsidering. We would love to still expose our children to the Hawaiian culture and hopefully we can find a way to get them involved with us in helping out however we can.

Stick to unaffected areas, and donate. Mahalo!

Truly great information. Thank you. Will be on Maui the month of January, and we will be volunteering. How does the money from Maui strong get distributed? Does it go directly to affected residents? Mahalo.

It’s a constantly moving target. I trust those in charge, and I’m sure it’ll be handled with the most efficient benefit to survivors. Specifics are unknown on the day to day.

Well written and informative article. God bless, sending aloha to your wonderful island. Mahalo

We have current plans to visit 10/25-11/12 to Kahana area. Will there be access to that area? The bypass only goes to the Lahaina mall area. Is that area beyond the affected area? Definitely do not want to be a burden to the locals affected by this and would love to volunteer as well!! Just not sure what to do! Any input appreciated!

I would change your stay to the south side.

Our travel plans were for Kaanapali at the end of October. Expedia is telling me to wait a week before making any changes. Is it too early to know whether Kaanapali will be receiving tourists late October, or if it is even ethical to still come? We definitely don’t want to be a burden, and while we would spend time volunteering and know that our tourist money beyond what we have donated can be helpful, our hearts can’t imagine holidaying just up the road from so much tragedy. Should we change plans and go to a different island, or different area of Maui? Thanks and mahalo in advance for advice.

If you can, I would look at changing your stay to the south side. I don’t know what will be going on at that time.

We are going to Paia in December. It is a bit away but we have such mixed feelings at this point. Maui is our place of peace. Our first thoughts are to be respectful to all those grieving and dealing with such tremendous challenges by postponing our trip. On the other hand, we know how important it is to financially support the island and the folks who call Maui home. We’ll see I guess. We love the idea of volunteering a day or whatever to help however we can. We love and support Maui and all who live there.

You’ll be fine in Paia that far out. Just make sure you’re staying at a permitted place.

We are supposed to come to Maui (specifically Kahana) 10/14. We have been coming to Maui often. When we leave we begin saving for our next trip. We want to be respectful and would like to help. We are supposed to be in Kahana three weeks. We are taking a wait and see attitude. What is important is the people of Maui. I have always felt so at peace in Hawaii…

If can, change for south side. We don’t know how open it’ll be on the west side at that time.

A group of 4 of us are coming to Maui for a week Dec 1st then off to Kona and Honalulu for a week. We would love to volunteer to help in anyway we can while in Maui can someone please direct us on how to do so.

We’ll work on putting together a list of Maui volunteer opportunities.

Aloha! Thank you for all this information.

I have a trip booked for September 8, arriving from Santa Cruz, so will wait and see if I should go or not. My plan is to stay in Kaanapali.

Would love to bring an extra suitcase of things people need, and would also like to volunteer to help.

I have been thinking a lot about the devastation in Lahaina, especially because it will need to be rebuilt.

Is anyone considering putting energy behind restoring Maku’ula?

Unpaving that baseball field and allowing the water to flow again from the mountains to the sea, would be a wonderful way to build back Lahaina and restore it to the locals.

Taking care of our people is # priority. Efforts towards Maku’ula have been ongoing but will be paused. I would look to either reschedule or change your stay for a different area of Maui. South, North or Upcountry.

Had a trip planned September 8th to Kahana at a condo we’ve rented for many years. We don’t want to hinder relief efforts but would love to donate our time to help if we do go. God bless to all my extended Ohana . Mahalo

Although our visit was scheduled in December, we moved our stay to another island. We love Maui, and wanted to share it with our extended family. Unfortunately our home rental was in the affected fire area, and feel that business as usual will understandably be affected for a long time. I have made donation to help, but we adjusted our plans to visit other islands. I understand the needs especially for small businesses, but with a large group such as we have, our options were limited for changing to other areas unaffected by fire. Many of those vacation rentals also I felt may be needed by locals while they rebuild.

Much love to you all. Maui is in my soul and my heart is broken for everyone affected by the fire. We have so many sweet memories in Lahaina town and under the banyan tree. We are visiting again in April and appreciate your guidance so we can be helpful and respectful.

We have come to Maui for 22 years and are devastated by the loss. We have a trip booked for Jan in North Kihei but think we should cancel as we don’t want to over burden the services. We are also concerned about managing our own safety as a tourist going forward.

Staying in Kihei in January will not over-burden relief efforts.

I am writing to you from Williamsburg, VA and am so very sad because of the devastating fire in Lahaina. I have seen many pictures and videos of natural disasters throughout the US and the world but this is the first in which I have a personal connection. I visited Lahaina in 2016 with my family. I fondly remember shopping in all the shops on Front Street and buying several souvenirs. I remember being in awe of the amazing Banyan Tree, standing under its branches and touching its bark. Mostly I remember the warmth of the people and beauty of the area and all of Maui. Because of this connection, I am feeling a sense of grief I’ve not experienced before regarding a disaster. Please accept my heartfelt condolences for all your losses, most of all your dear loved ones and all the people lost in Lahaina. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May you rise from this and rebuild your lives. Be assured I will never forget you. God bless you now and always. Jule Scanlon

My heart breaks for the people of West Maui and I feel the same way as Andy and so many other commenters above. I was wondering the same- thanks for asking about “voluntourism.” We have a visit to South Maui planned in mid-September and I would really love to be able to help West Maui in some way. Thanks for letting us know about reputable donation sites. I know that Samaritans Purse and Billy Graham’s team of chaplains are reputable and I believe they have “boots on the ground” already. They helped years ago with flooding. Please keep us posted. May God comfort the people of Lahaina and provide the resources and support they need. May He also send people to come alongside them- literally walk with them, sit with them, listen- in their grief and healing. Our prayers are with you Maui!

My wife and I have a trip booked in Napili 9/7/23 and we are feeling ambivalent about visiting too soon and using resources that are needed for locals. If we decide to come we would like to volunteer a couple of days to help where needed, praying for all who have been affected by this tragic fire. Maui has been good to us the many years we have vacationed there. Mahalo

Can you change to a different location or date? South side would be more welcoming.

Stop calling people haoles.

This is so heartbreaking. My family has such beautiful memories there. I am sorry that you have to remind people to be respectful. Thank you for caring for one of of the world’s most beautiful wonders.

My family began moving to Maui in 1975. I’ve literally grown up with Maui in my life. My immediate family still live upcountry and I have a visit planned for Aug 27-Sept 3rd, staying in a condo on the south side. I keep asking my family if I should postpone, what the “climate” for any visitors is, but I haven’t seen them in 3 years! I’m very conflicted on this. I very much want to come support local business on south Maui, but I definitely don’t want to drain resources from the island. I appreciate this information! My heart is broken for Lahaina town and the local community.

If you’ve got family here, I think your stay will be ok on the south side. They’ll know how you can assist in relief on the day to day.

Thank you so much for this candid information. We only get the media information in Oklahoma. Our plans were for mid October at Napili Kai. We have not madr any decisions yet on if we should cancel, reschedule or go to a different island to allow Maui to heal and grieve. We mean no disrespect to the native people during this difficult time.

Probably worth rescheduling or at least changing your location to be away from the west side if you can.

We’ve had a trip to Maui planned for a year, from Oct. 14 to Oct. 28, staying at Papakea. My group of 6 are torn between being respectful and being helpful and financially supportive. We want to do what the people of Maui want us to do. If they want our support we will come. If they want us to stay away, so they can heal and rebuild in peace, we will stay away. Perhaps it’s just too early for an definitive answer from the residents, so we will wait for a bit…and say a prayer for all of them.

I would take a wait and see. No one knows what the west side will be like at that time.

Our group of 6 have decided to wait until next year to respectfully give the residents time to heal and to start to rebuild their lives and their community.

My heart is aching for everyone affected by this horrible fire. If there’s a calling for volunteers then Maui will let us know. Don’t just assume that you will be needed. Right now is a time to try to begin healing for the residents of Maui. Please respect their pain and sorrow. XOXO Mahalo

SO true! Volunteers are needed off and on for different tasks and areas. And things change hourly. Pay attention to leaders of on the ground organizations on social media for their needs.

Thank you for the care and attention in this blog. It gave me a pathway in which to channel my love and support. I love the invitation to take a day to volunteer. I love the remembrance to be mindful about the lives of those who were personally touched. My thoughts and prayers are with you

We love Hawaiians and Hawaii. We hope that conscientious people will be involved in rebuilding Lahaina to accommodate the aloha of the Hawaiian spirit and not just the tourist industry. Maui strong. Gerry and Patty

I am an original MauiGuide member, been to Maui over several decades and felt the loss of Lahaina as did my family and friends as well. Planning to come to Kaanapali in late October, do not plan to cancel, we all feel that our dollars and time to volunteer there will help repay the many kindnesses we have experienced over the years,. Looking forward to Maui, Aloha

Been watching the news and keeping everyone in are prayers ! We have a trip booked for January but I’m torn on if we should come or not we had a house book right in Lahaina so sad to what’s happened there was looking forward to see it all

If you come to the south side, I think you’ll be ok.

I am so torn..got a vrbo booked starting saturday August 19th in wailea and was told they need us to come to support the local restaurants etc down there …My vrbo owner will not let me cancel or rebook saying Wailea area is open …I already packed a suitcase full of clothes to donate and hope to volunteer somewhere while we are there…

This is the big problem with AirBnBs and VRBOs. It’s not fair.

As a previous resident of Lahaina, my heart is broken. This special place has so many wonderful memories for me. I wish I could be there to volunteer to help in the recovery effort. Though I don’t live there now, Maui and Lahaina itself holds a special place in my heart and I know that the process to rebuild will be long, but I’m sure, once these terrible times pass it’s people will emerge stronger and Lahaina will be more beautiful than ever! Previous Crew Member: Spirit of Windjammer Lahaina Princess Atlantis Submarines

I could be wrong, but I think I saw Lahaina Princess in the water when we went on our last supply run.

We have reservations for January 2024 at a Westin property in Ka’anapali, we have no problem keeping our plans as there are other areas of the island we love to explore. We respectfully will do whatever is best for the island, just would like to know if the resorts on Ka’anapali will be receiving visitors, our continued prayers are with you.

By then, most likely.

We have a trip to Kihei coming October 4-11 and want to know if we should indeed come. We would love to volunteer one day as well. What do you think?

Wait and see or reschedule.

Hello. I want to say that my family and I are heart broken with the tragedy in Lahaina. My wife were married here and our entire family have been coming to the island for 20 years. While reading these updates there seems to be some misunderstanding to the actual boots on the ground activity. We had reservations at the Grand Wailea and called last week after the disaster to see about the south side of the Island. We were told “open for business” We got here Saturday and the south side is begging for customers. We have gone to Costco and purchased items to donate for the relief efforts. With the relief efforts and out of respect we had no intention of trying to go anywhere but where our resort is. The restaurants, charter companies need to have customers. We can all support the community by staying away from west side but at the same time still support what is open an unaffected. “In my opinion ” we don’t want to throw the baby out with the bath water and make a horrible situation worse by making another portion of Maui suffer when they are open for business. Costco was business as usual, Safeway in Kihei business as usual. All the restaurants are open although slower than normal. Other than organized community relief stations we looked into the facilities on the South side are begging for customers. If you had plans on west side I myself wouldn’t come for a year or when the mourning and pain has subsided. If you are on South Side come now.

So saddened. Just got back about a week before the fires. Our first visit and loved everything about West Maui. Trying to support as much as we can financially. Would love to come help volunteer when there is something useful and helpful a lowly mainlander from Michigan can do!

Is there any thought towards how to prioritize aid towards reestablishing locally owned businesses as opposed to allowing outside predatory developers taking advantage of the situation?

Please share your thoughts. I think most of the thought is going towards protecting and caring for our displaced people.

I have been coming to Maui with my family every year for more than 20 years. It has been our home away from home for so many years. We have taken the sailing cruise from Lahaina to Lanai with Paragon more times than I can count and absolutely loved our mornings and afternoons hanging out under the great banyan tree near the old courthouse. We learned of the Maui fires when my family and I were together on a sailing trip here in Washington State. We cried for the inconceivable loss of Lahaina town and those who lost their lives in these fires. We have another trip planned in February and will be sending all of the love and support that we can between now and then. Love and Aloha to all of you working to help those whose lives have been turned upside down and especially those for those who are mourning the loss of your family and friends.

I lived in Lahaina for some time and sadly the home I lived in and the majority of our friends homes are gone. We have had a trip booked to South Maui Aug 31- Sept 4 and are still torn on whether to visit or not. If we end up coming, we plan to check as many large boxes of supplies that we can. Ive seen so much differing advice, but if we do come, is there a list of resources for us to volunteer our time for a few days while on-island? We do not want to take away from resources of those who are in dire need. I dont know what we should do…

I would give your booked stay to one of your friends that lost their homes. If you come, make sure the supplies you bring have a home. Our needs change day to day and hourly. You don’t want to bring something we have just received and neglect something else.

I am travelling in from Detroit. Staying in Kihei 8/26-8/31 at a private residence. I have reached out via email to volunteer during my visit, Maui Food Bank and Maui Humane Society. I will also check for additional opportunities upon arrival. I look forward to being of some use in whatever way I can, while being respectful and unobtrusive.

We are going to be in Maui mid October. Our 2 boys 9 and 11 are very sadden by the situation. With no hesitation gave me their savings because they want to help. Is there any place we we could volunteer as as family? I want them to know the importance of helping out the community not just just financially but be there hands on.

working on it.

Until Mary had a cerebral aneurysm and bad head and neck cancer our happiest week of the year was at the Lahaina Shores.The scenery was beautiful but what made it special was the crossing guard at the school who made everyone smile the hardworking people at the desk the singer on the whale watch who always remembered us.When bad things happened to us Maui healed us now I only wish we could do more.

Beautiful. Your positivity from a distance and donations are more than enough.

Our 1st trip to Maui is scheduled for March 2024. We had a condo reserved in the heart of Lahaina. We’d still like to make the trip, but stay in Kihei. Would you recommend this location? Also, what are your suggestions of places to reach out to where we could volunteer. We feel a calling to not cancel our trip and to help out the locals while there. Thank you.

Volunteer: still working on that. It’s pretty far out. As far as Kihei, it’s great. You’ll love it, ad you won’t be in the way.

Thank you for this. We have been coming to Maui since 1981. I have been to the islands over 60 times, many on business. We have a timeshare in Kaanapali. I am devastated by what has happened to West Maui. My heart cries for all of you. We are scheduled to come 9/23. I want to help in any way I can. I will watch for updates. Aloha and mahalo.

I was raised on Oahu with my moms, married a wonderful woman in Oregon and booked a trip to Maui in Kehei from Aug 23-30th for our anniversary. We saved up thousands of dollars to go and the insurance I purchase won’t cancel since the place I booked is operating as normal. I’m so torn on what to do it hurts to see this happen to my Hawaii. I hope we can come and be helpful in some way.

We have considered for a long time and have come to the decision that we can contribute to preserving jobs by staying in South Maui ( Kihei) end of August. We have already donated to the redcross and will also make another donation on site. We think of everyone who lost family members. We also think of those who lost their home. Bjoern Nuremberg Germany

We look forward to visiting Maui again in the future when the island can handle tourism. I hope, as the rebuilding of Lahaina gets underway, they consider making Front Street a pedestrian only street, and even possibly bringing in a short light rail to prevent the gridlock of traffic that has always plagued Lahaina. It would be wonderful to see the town rebuilt in the same old, fishing village decor, but with fire retardant materials. It could still retain the same charm and tribute to the history of Lahaina

Hi there. Our hearts go out to everyone in Maui ❤️

Is the Westin nanea considered west Maui? Or is that in an unaffected area?

Thank you so much.

There was a fire near it, but it was extinguished 100%. It’s west Maui.

We were due to arrive last Friday, have postponed till October. God be with you, Maui for healing and rebuilding. Donate now!❤️

I have seen no mention of kaanapoli for tourists. I have a vacation scheduled for January. Do you think I should reschedule? So sorry for all the heartache. So sad.

good question. Not sure yet

From Texas, I ask your readers who want to financially support Maui not to forget the Maui Humane Society. They are swamped with rescues and providing vet. Services. They really need financial help!

YESSSSS!!!!!!

I’m no local, but I’ve spent 2 weeks or more every year (except for 2020 due to the pandemic) since 2000 visiting Maui. I know the people well and my heart breaks for everyone on Maui. I have air and hotel reservations for November 2023 and I hope and intend to be there to show my support. The people of Maui are wonderful, kind, and did not deserve this. The aloha spirit, from everything I’ve read and heard, is still strong and believe it will get them through this. I will be interested in volunteering my time, to give back a little kokua that the people of Maui have given to me over the years. Mahalo.

My husband and I fell in ❤️ with Maui on our first trip there in 2008. We have return many, many, many times since. Like everyone we are saddened with the devastation. Our hearts reach out to the beautiful people who call Maui home. Before the fire we were thinking of a trip in October. Now we are torn but feel in coming we can support the local businesses. We would volunteer as much as possible and I plan to bring an extra suitcase with essentials that will still be needed. I pray we can come and give support to an island that has given us so much enjoyment. Now it is time for us to give back! Maui Strong!

Thank you so much for this informative and helpful post. We are West Maui property owners, and lovers of the island and its people. We offered to fly over and volunteer, but were told by resident friends to stay back for now. We have donated money and will donate more, and will give our time when we have the opportunity to return. Please continue to update us with information like this. Many thanks – our hearts are in West Maui.

We go to Maui every May. We will be at the Westin Nanea and would be very happy to help in any way. Hopefully, in May there will be a clear plan on what is needed and how we can help. We love the people of Maui and continue to pray for everyone. Sending much love from Seattle. Mahalo to all of our memories and more to come.

By May, all of our people should be taken care of, God willing. Then it’ll just be about financially keeping them on island and cleaning up the area of Lahaina.

Very well written!! The article was respectful yet honest. Very well done 🤙🏼

My thoughts Exact Geoff. Kudos to this ‘Maui Guide’. God Bless him/her. Heartbroken for all affected.

This helps a lot with our decision to leave our reservation as they are for October. You should repost the last reel from Danny from likepoke, more people need to hear what he’s saying because it is the truth.

My heart aches for all of you. This is an excellent post. Habitat for Humanity may be a resource for rebuilding. I agree, people with means who enjoy Maui, easily can help financially to rebuild. Phoenix rising, Aloha!

I like it! Yes, we need the positivity of the Phoenix.

We have a trip planned for March 2024. We will not cancel and will look for opportunities to volunteer during that time. I know needs will change. Right now, it’s about donating money. Thats been done, we’ll look to give back in March for everything Maui has given us over all the years! My husband & I were Maui’d on Secret Beach when it was still a secret. Malama pono! A hui ho. Maui No Ka Oi! …and will recover, the God’s are with it. Maui = Love ❤️ and Love always prevails! Aloha Nui Loa!

We are booked October 13-20 at Honua Kai in Ka’anapali. Do you think we will be good to go by then? We don’t want to be a burden or insensitive.

it’s unsure. If you can reschedule or move to the south side, that would be better.

I am curious what I can do or who I can talk to or sign up with to get out to Maui and help physically rebuild structures and the like. I work in construction and am willing to bring my tools with me to Hawaii and lend my help and get building. I know it’s going to take some time to clean up and get resources to Maui for rebuilding, but I recently visited Maui for the first time and fell in love with it. Would love to help get Lahaina back and recovering!

That time will come. As of right now, we’re not even close to cleaning up before rebuilding. We’re taking care of our displaced people and finding victims.

Mahalo for this guide! I have a trip to Kihei planned for late November, and I was feeling guilty for keeping it. Everything is non-refundable and I couldn’t afford to cancel, but the guilt was eating away at me. I look forward to seeing if there are any volunteer opportunities and will keep an eye out for small businesses that I can support while visiting. Any feedback is appreciated. Mahalo, and sending love during this terrible tragedy <3

Thank you for this well thought out information. We have been visiting Maui for about 20 years almost annually. It is probably our favorite place on this earth, it touches my soul. We are just heartbroken over the tremendous loss Lahaina town, as well as all of Maui, has suffered. We own a time share at the Westin Kaanapali and are scheduled to visit the first two weeks of October. We will only come if it is acceptable and will respect all guidelines. Most importantly we would be honored to volunteer in anyway needed and be able to give back to the people of Maui who have always been so gracious and kind. I will be watching this site as time goes on for links on how to connect to find those opportunities. In the meantime I will continue to send aloha to all of you who have been affected by this tragedy and will be praying for you.

I would wait and see. Don’t know what the west side will be like in October.

Our hearts and prayers are with all the residents of Maui. We were with you end of June and beginning of July 2023. We stayed at West Maui most of our entire trip and so enjoyed being with you. We are from Texas. Please know we are heartbroken that this happened. It will take a long time to recover, especially those who have lost loved ones and those who have lost their homes. There were other Texans on your island when we were there and just know that Texas grieves with you over this tragedy.

Thank you for listing ways to safely donate, I wish we could do more. The devastation is just horrific…there are no words. Maui is one of our most favorite and treasured places. We’re just so heartbroken for all. We visit annually and are supposed to stay in Kapalua mid December. We want to remain respectful and not put unnecessary strain on resources…but understand the locals depend on tourism. I’ve been reading that tourists should stay away, then that they should come. Thoughts?

Stay away from the west side and have respect. It’s a shortsighted view to say Maui is closed for the foreseeable future. If we stay closed across Maui, including all the physically unaffected areas of Maui, then we’ll lose the local population to the mainland. Locals will be forced to move off the island. That’s the last thing we need, as locals have been the only ones helping affected locals!!!!!!!

I sincerely apologize if my comment and question were received as disrespectful or that I in any way suggested all of Maui is closed (I’m not sure where you saw that in my comment). Once again, our condolences for all affected by this tragedy.

Aloha! We are devastated about what is happening, our hearts are broken. We are in the same situation as many people who had planned to visit Maui. In our case, we have everything planned for late September, our AirBnb is in Honokowai and we haven’t received any news from our host, we don’t want to ask just yet to give time to heal and recover. We have many things planned around Lahaina, and the same, no news from the business. We are not that kind of annoying tourists so we don’t know what to do as we cannot postpone our trip, we could only cancel. We definitely want to go and help as much as possible but we don’t want to bother locals, so I guess we’ll have to wait and see. Any advice is welcome. Stay safe and strong. Our thoughts are with you.

There’s a good chance you haven’t heard anything because they are out of cell and internet service. It’s really hard still for West Maui to communicate with the outside world. If you can move it to the south side or reschedule, that would be best, but we just don’t know how the West Side is going to be functioning in September or October. It certainly isn’t right now.

Thank you very much, we feel is inappropriate to stay, as you mention, it’s not a good time. Thank you for your help with this, we don’t want to be a burden and we won’t. We’ll help anyway we can. Thanks!

Honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever come again. I’ve watched more than two dozen videos from people on Maui and frankly they are pretty brutal about tourists. All I hear about is how we are colonists and that tourism isn’t important, etc. This isn’t hyperbole. It’s really out there. I’ve never felt more unwelcome. I understand about how Hawaii was stolen etc, but until there is some consensus among native Hawaiians, I don’t want to be somewhere that I am not wanted

The truly vocal don’t work in the tourism industry. It’s easy to vilify tourism if you’ve found a way to make a living without it. Guaranteed each one of them have family and friends that will likely have to move off the island if their tourism business must shut down due to people not coming anymore. There’s simply not enough non-tourism work on Maui for all existing residents. I respect your decision and viewpoint. I respect the Hawaiian’s that have had their land stolen and are able to survive without tourism. Their viewpoint is correct too in that in a perfect world, Maui belongs to the Hawaiians and they don’t need tourism. There will never be a consensus among the native Hawaiian people or the local people of Hawaii. From the thousands of messages were getting every day, we hear both from native Hawaiian and locals. Some say stop tourism for a bit out of respect, some say stop forever, and the majority have been saying: we can’t add additional economic suffering to the existing tragedy by killing tourism. Also, keep in mind that 100% in the first 4-5 days of this disaster, and now 95%, of all recovery response has come from the local community and local businesses. A large portion of this community will have to move off island and many local businesses will shut their doors if tourism is shut down for more than 4-5 months.

My wife and I spent 10 days in Kaanapali and Lahaina over July 4, 2023. I took many pictures of the posters and 2nd floor of the courthouse by the banyan tree. Is there somewhere I can send them to for use in reconstruction? Maui strong!

Thank you mauiguide.com for this valuable information. Our hearts and prayers are with the people of Maui. And thank you so much for your recommendations on where to donate, which I will be doing shortly. We currently have a trip planned 10/25-11/1, staying in Kaanapali, and are so very conflicted, like many others who have commented here, whether we should cancel (we don’t want to be disrespectful) and visit another time, or try to book a hotel in the Wailea area. Also, I would very much like to volunteer if I keep my current reservation so I’ll definitely monitor your website for that info. Thank you for your advice. Mahalo and prayers.

I don’t know what west Maui will be like in late October. You can reschedule, change locations, or wait and see.

Our hearts are just broken by the devastation and loss. We can’t imagine what you are all going through. Maui has always been home away from home for us. A little slice of paradise. We were supposed to arrive in 10 days for 5 weeks staying in Napili but we did cancel of course. Thank you for the detailed information. Mahalo 🌺🌺

My wife and I are booked to stay in Kapalua starting Sept 2nd. When I called and spoke to the customer service, they requested I wait and see because they said that area is unaffected. However, I’ve been seeing mixed communication online. Looking to get actual local feedback because we do not want to be disrespectful.

“Unaffected” isn’t the right word for anywhere in West Maui. I certainly wouldn’t stay in Ka’anapali or Kapalua for at least a month. We’re still having to boat in supplies.

Going through this same thing! Mixed feelings, mixed signals, some say stay away and others say please still come and support. May you find the answers you are looking for. We are scheduled 9/4 (my birthday)-9/9 and the emotional rollercoaster has me sick. Most certainly do not want to offend anyone but want to provide support.

I’m heartbroken about the tragedy in Lahaina. I love those streets and have spent many hours savoring the beauty of the that magical place. Thank you for a heartfelt and thoughtful post. I will continue to pray for and donate to relief efforts. May God bless you all.

Hi we visiting from NY this Saturday and tried several times to postpone our trip but the host will not refund our money, at this this time we are forced to come or lose 8K, we are very sorry for the great people of Maui and hoping we can help in some way when we get there ❤️

This is such a wonderful guide. We lost our house in Oregon 2020 to wildfire and I wish this had been laid out for our community visitors. As a tourist heavy spot people want all the details and assume because you are working you didn’t lose anything. Be kind, be patient, don’t make them talk about it. Love to all Maui and we will see you in Feb if the time is right.

I’m so sorry about your loss! Yes, everyone I know on Maui that has not lost a home is giving money, rooms, and/or time top help. If we’re working, know a lot of that money is going to help people on our islands. We have community unlike any other.

I came to visit in 2012. Timeshare we loved it so much. I 3 yr old has already been there three times. I booked our fourth trip the day before the fires started. We were gonna be there August 23, but instead of rerouted to Oahu. The woman who sold me my timeshare is now a longtime friend, she does disaster relief she actually is back on Maui right now helping where she used to live. I decided the best way I could help right now… Is to watch her animals and take care of her house so she can continue to be there since she has so much experience. I long for the day to be able to come back, to teach my three-year-old But this is just what we do… We help people in need. West Mountain is like my home away from home, it’s where I go for a rest, and rejuvenation to my soul. When I’m in Maui all I can see is the goodness of God and how his hand has touched everything there. Maui is such a gift to the world. We love you and our hearts break for you and all those affected 💔

Mahalo for you kind words!

Thank you so much for this information. We have a trip planned mid December to an airbnb on Kaanapali Beach. The host is telling us not to cancel, as things will be getting better by then. I thought this was extremely thoughtless. We definitely don’t want to be in the way of progress being made and I just don’t feel right about it. If we could cancel, we would make other plans, but are somewhat stuck at this point. The longer we have to wait to hear something, the less availability there will be for our group on another island. I guess it all comes down to her greed. I would hope that she feels for the people of west maui and open her condo to those in need, for as long as they need? Thank you for reporting on this, and I will keep abreast on developments in the Kaanapali area. My heart breaks for you all, and if we do end up coming in December, you can count on us for any volunteering opportunitues. Nothing would be more fulfilling than giving back to a place that has given me so much joy. Mahalo and many prayers.

I’m not sure where you go on Maui, but I can guess. There are places in most US Mainland tourist destination you should avoid – that is simply traveler common sense.

As far as videos go, you must be looking in the wrong place. Good, welcoming Mauiians who love sharing Aloha far outweigh those who you speak of.

The loss of Lahaina is awful. It is the heart of Maui in many respects. However, though all of Lahaina is on Maui, all of Maui is not Lahaina. There are many more who will suffer once again if the “stay away” broadcasts continue. People can still go and support the people of Maui respectfully by keeping travel plans and visiting other areas of the island. Sure, there are voices that say “tourists stay away”. Those voices got a long enough stage during Covid and did long term damage to the economy. They often can say so because they are recipients of enough benefits that it’s no skin off their back if you come visit and spend or not. This is a nearsighted and selfish viewpoint.

So happy to finally read an article that is not discouraging all travel to Maui. We live on the South side of Maui and definitely need you to come visit the South side to keep people employed and able to pay bills. Government aid and donations are distributed to those directly affected by the fire. We are not directly affected by the fires on the South side, we are still able to work, and need you here so we can pay our bills.

This is an important point. There won’t be enough money for the people that lost everything in Lahaina and Kula. And for everyone else that financially suffers indirectly won’t be getting anything. It feels terrible to talk about money right now, but it’s going to keep locals on the island.

Thank you so much for this. We have a trip planned mid September and we have been paying close attention. We very much hope to be able to come but want to be respectful of the needs of the locals who have endured this unthinkable tragedy. We have no expectations for anything other than to respectfully enjoy your beautiful lands. We would LOVE the chance to volunteer while we are there, just as a small gesture of respect and hope for those affected. Ultimately while our vacation has great meaning to us it does not compare to the needs if the Maui community.

As an owner (part-time resident) in Kaanapali, we are absolutely devastated by the loss of life and property in our beloved Lahaina. Our son was in our condo when all of this happened and we send our love to everyone who has suffered anxiety awaiting news and help. Here are my thoughts for the future for what they are worth. Give the community an opportunity to have a communal day of mourning to grieve and remember their loved ones and town. Hopefully they will have closure in the next couple of weeks surrounding their homes and family members. The losses are great and will be felt for years, if not forever. Unfortunately, we can’t wait forever to consider other locals who didn’t lose their homes but still rely on tourism to feed their families and drive their businesses. If we don’t open up our side of the island to tourism, other families will fall upon economic hardships and will then also need aid. Respectful tourists should be welcomed back in the near future. They will be part of the healing process, both with the money they bring as well as the happy energy that will help us move past these dark days.

We just came home today after two weeks in wailea. People still need to come to Maui- they need the income for their economy. There is still so much you can see and do on the island. It was the most beautiful place I have ever been. We are so sad for all the people suffering on the island right now. We were lucky enough to not be in that area that day. We had been there both days before the fire. I hope people will still come and visit.

Thank you Maui Guide for giving some direction. As part-time residents, we’d love to be able to come back to our home in Kaanapali and volunteer. At the moment, we feel like we’d be taking resources away from the locals. We’ve heard “stay away” but also “it’s only locals helping locals”. We’d love to be part of the healing and positive energy that flows back to our island ohana. I know it’s hard to predict when west Maui will open back up, but our area will need love from the tourism sector too. Otherwise the shops at Whalers Village will fail and our restaurants will as well. We have sent money to the Maui Food Bank and Red Cross but would love to do more than just send money. We’d like to come to support the other locals who still need tourism to keep their businesses afloat. Thanks for your continued suggestions and guidance. Above all, love to those impacted by the fires. Maui Strong!

This absolutely breaks my heart. My husband & I spent 10 days in Lahaina in April 2023. We loved everything about it – the beautiful scenery – the amazing food – the history – and, mostly, the local people who were kind, laid back and welcoming. I’ve cried many a tear for your loss. You remain in our thoughts & prayers as you recover and rebuild. Mahalo for hosting us & showing us true Ohana.

I clear and wonderful post. We hope to visit later this year with the utmost respect, and with open hearts for the people. We will continue to listen to your voice for guidance about how we can help. Mahalo and Aloha!

We will keep our trip very end of September through October (12 days as scheduled) we didn’t cancel asap bc of this exact reason! All of the folks that work at the hotels and restaurants, excursions etc. they need the money. They need their jobs. I can’t think of a better reason to come visit (unless hotels become local shelters). We are extremely excited to come and help the economy and maybe find an organization where we can volunteer for a day or two to help with food or handing out supplies, rebuild homes. So, I think everyone should rebook if those trip is within the next few weeks but keep there after and lend a few days to give back and help!

Hello we r scheduled to arrive the Kuleana Resort on October 24th . We r not sure if the fire has effected the resort or not???

Can someone please let us know if we should reschedule a trip to the Kuleana Resort for late October, thanks

If you can, go for it. Or change to south side.

Thank you for posting this. I have stopped ready some other posts as they are so malicious and hurtful. My husband and I have owned a property on Maui since 2011. We greatly respect the land and the spirit of Aloha, as Canadians from the West Coast of Canada, we understand living on an Island. Granted, we are not as isolated, but we understand non the less. We saw so many wonderful little mom and pop businesses not survive COVID. It breaks our hearts to see the devastation and angers us at the lack of respect for the area of this tragedy. This is not about us making money, it is about supporting Maui respectfully. We will unselfishly offer up our empty unit, once we hear back from the state. If this message is even just read by one person, please respect the processes in place to protect the West side of Maui and the residents. We all need to show the spirit of Aloha. Prayers for all involved. Maui Strong!

This will be our 23rd year on 9/22/23 to West Maui and 20 at The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas. I ALWAYS volunteer at a minimum 10 days of our 21 days (which makes my wife happy as I’m not bothering her by the pool/ocean). This year I have already notified Ohana that I’m available for 21 days for hard labor. I have also convinced many KOR owner friends to help monetarily. I’ve personally Zelle/Venmo over 9k to people who lost everything. It’s the right thing to do…..

THIS is what the hard nose Maui transplant/local tourist HATERS don’t see that most tourist DO give back in many many ways.

Mahalo for the big donations and all the volunteering!

My family have scheduled a trip to stay in Kihei for over 5 months. The condo we are staying at does not want to allow us to cancel and airline didn’t let us change to a different island without $800 per person upcharge. We will be coming sept 4-9 and will be supporting other businesses as well as purchasing food for those who may need. Although we feel very guilty for continuing this vacation we have not had any success in rebooking. We will be gentle and understanding during this time. Not ideal for our first time but, hope we can pray and provide for those mourning the loss of loved ones and their beautiful island (homes and businesses) Our hearts are with Maui

How can mainlanders send packages to specific people? A street artist named Greg Savage did a portrait years ago…would love to send him a small pochade box with art supplies

If you can find his mailing address, the mail is coming still like normal to physically unaffected areas.

Thank you for your thoughtfully curated message and helpful information. My husband grew up in Maui (near Lahaina) and is devastated for Lahaina + Kula and for all the local people who have lost so much. We wish we were in Maui to be able to volunteer with the relief efforts. We have donated to multiple causes and families. Thank you for your website. I find your approach refreshing, uplifting and positively constructive. Keep reaching out and informing and educating those of us who desire to help but might not know how to best approach. Godspeed –

I’ll be quick.

Lahaina is a historic site. Rebuilding will be for business owners who are native Hawaiians or those with tenured residencies.

All land sales in the burn areas should be reviewed by Maui County Government to assure the town rebuilds in a way that honors residents that lost homes and businesses and especially those that lost their lives.

All new construction will be approved by a Historical Design Commission.

All new construction will adhere to IFC and NFPA codes and statutes. That is state of the art fire suppression and fire resistant construction.

Fire breaks or buffers should be established with the idea of of stopping or slowing future fires.

Bring water from the windward side of West Maui and establish irrigated lands with fire resistant vegetation.

Thank you so much for your informative article. My daughter’s wedding is mid- November and after reading this I know we will be fine visiting and proving support to your businesses and economy. When I think of Maui, Lahania quickly comes to mind. You all are the gem of the Pacific and you WILL come back stronger. Hang in there. Mahalo ❤️

Thank you so much for this information. I’ve been reading other information on web sites that I was confused with. We have a trip in October and I thought being there and supporting the economy was important but I wasn’t hearing that. We were waiting to hear more and will continue to do so. I’m excited for service opportunities as well because that was something my wife and I thought about. It’s terrible what’s happened and we’d like to help any way we can.

I really appreciate your thoughtful approach to what will work for the people of Maui, while balancing the tourism / financial long term side. I love the idea of tourists being able to volunteer (whether it is a 20 year old putting in a hard labor assist, or an 80 year old helping with provisions), it could help keep the drift between locals/tourists from widening even further. I will be on Oahu (for business and pleasure) in a week – I doubt there will be volunteer openings organized yet off-site – but will be looking for any way to help! Thank you for the reminder to be “extra respectful” while there.

I live in Phoenix, Oregon and 3 years ago wild fires raged though our community destroying thousands of homes and hundreds of business. One thing that we found helpful was gift cards. We were able to distribute gifts cards to those who lost everything so that they could get exactly the things that were necessary. We received thousands of donations of products- clothes, toiletries, even home goods- the generosity was incredible however it very quickly became nearly impossible to manage the logistics of sorting, storing, and distributing those items. We found it was so much easier and effective to distribute gift cards. We received gift card donations from all over the country for grocery stores, stores like Target, restaurants, gas cards and cards that could be used in a variety of places. It would be helpful to post a list of places that sell gift cards in the area that we could purchase and have them distributed locally.

Something else that was helpful was connecting people (particularly parents with children) with mental health organizations or individual counselors who can assist with working through the trauma of the event. We had many local groups offer free services for those who didn’t have insurance.

So many people started Go-Fund-Me accounts for friends or family who lost homes or businesses. I know of numerous families who benefited directly and significantly from this resource.

I hope that you find some of this info helpful or that it sparks ideas that will be helpful to your community. Please dm me if you have any questions about our communities experience. I will help in any way I can.

Your community and all those who are suffering are in my heart and prayers.

You can’t have it both ways. “Don’t step foot in Lahaina “ but “come visit, we need your money”. Good luck controlling other people’s actions. Like it or not, Hawaii is a US state. I’m so tired of hearing complaints about how awful tourists are as if you have any say what they do. We’re all Americans. Hawaii is no different than Illinois in regards to its statehood. If the US didn’t colonize Hawaii, another country would have. Luckily for you ARE part of America. Deal with it.

Yes, we certainly can have visitors back to physically unaffected areas while keeping them out of the disaster zone that is Lahaina Town proper. I agree that it’ll be hard to control the few bad apples, and I agree that the complaints are amplified due to just a very few tourists that are idiots. I also agree that we’d be controlled and a part of China or another less-desireable country if it wasn’t the US. We’re too strategic a spot in the world for a major power to not control. That being said, I would normally delete your comment because of your insensitivity and antagonistic approach, but you’ve brought up important points about how challenging it’ll be to keep things under control as things open up on the west side.

We are having some tour opetators in Maui being overly aggressive in returning to normal. This is from one of those responses after I suggested that we get a pause in tourism in Maui until we get some kind of foundation for the Lahiana residents that lost thing.

“I know you’re a smart guy but you don’t know what you are talking about here. Sure, I’m sure you’re glued to your news station and that’s giving you all your information thousands of miles away, but have you ever even been to Hawaii? 3/4 of Maui is in tact and survives on tourism. “We” can not shut tourism down all together here. All of us that work in tourism (here) don’t get a break from our bills. They keep coming in. Nothing gets paused. You should keep scrolling and stop trolling on my posts acting like you know what’s best for the state’s economy. Thanks! Aloha hard pal”

Tensions are high on every side of every problem. We need to have tolerance for each other and grow thicker skin. Both the pause Maui tourism and the tour operators have points and are right. We need to concentrate on helping Maui, but at the same time we can’t turn off the financial spigot (especially since local businesses are the ones helping.)

Our hearts go out to the people and businesses of Lahaina and Maui. Obviously not as important as the people, but I know there are dedicated people taking care of the west Maui stray cats – how are the animals doing and are their sites that we can contribute for food for the animals – both stray and pets that also need our care. We have already donated to the Red Cross and Maui Strong. We too are timeshare owners and grieve for what has been lost.

At this point, your best bet is to donate to the Maui Humane Society . They’re doing amazing work. Each shelter and most donation drop offs are accepting pet supplies. As far as strays, I don’t think we’ve gotten that far yet.

We have a trip booked for Dec 22-Dec 28 at The Kapalua Villas. We would like to volunteer and help as much as possible but not sure if we should reschedule.

Hopefully the west side is open enough and needing tourist dollars far earlier than that. We’ll see.

Thank you very much for this helpful post!!! I am headed with 2 friends and our teenage daughters to Kona for a week. We are hearing, and being encouraged by the Condo my friend owns, to still come. Is there anything we can do in Kona to help? Should we still go? We’re all feeling very conflicted!! Praying for Maui!!! 🩷🩷🌺

There’s zero reason to cancel a trip to any other island. The best thing you can do is donate money. Thank you!

I suggest you promote the purchasing of gift certificates from businesses so they have some cash flow. Tourists etc. can redeem them ( or not) when visiting later. I did this during the pandemic ….. what a way to encourage their spirits!

Very good idea! We’re building a donations page now, and we’ll mention that.

Thank you for much for this information. My hearts go out for everyone affected. Our hearts and prayers are with the people of Maui. We had plans to visit from Sept 19. We are trying to cancel and postpone to a future date. But our Airbnb in Napili-Honokowai will not accept cancellations…Very tough situation.

It’s incredibly tough and uncomfortable. Norma Russell below was able to get a full refund to her guests on VRBO. Hopefully AirBnB will come around.

Thank you for posting this rough guideline. We have a trip booked to Maui the last week of January 2024. We are not rich people grabbing fun money from vault 3 to come luxuriate on your island. We are hard working people that have saved for years just to come see your beautiful part of the world.

We have discussed cancelling our trip or moving it to another island every day since this happened. However, we haven’t yet with hope in almost 6 months time the people of Maui we be taken care of, the healing process is well along it’s path, and the long road to recovery has begun.

We had a solid day planned to come to Lahaina. Visit the local food trucks, walk the harbour and see the Banyan Tree. I’m gutted we will never get to see Lahaina as it was. I’m also gutted for everyone that has lost so much. 🙁

Take care of each other Maui. Canada is thinking about you.

January should be find. Mahalo for caring!

So sorry for all those affected. Is the Maui Food Bank a good place to donate

I was there to attend my nephew wedding when this happen definitely a historical moment for me with not knowing what our next step would be thankfully me and my family made it out of Maui safe, but just too see the workers at the resort where we stayed watch their homes and island burn down to the ground still worked with grace I would definitely return in the future to help build Maui, such beautiful people there. They most definitely kept us vacationers safe.

My heart breaks for the residents of Maui. Lahaina is such an iconic town with so many historic hotels, etc. Maui no ka oi forever! I will be making a donation and am sending love and prayers to all. Aloha.

Firstly sending much love over your way. My sister has been on Maui in Kihei for several years & while she thankfully wasn’t directly affected, I know she’s doing much grieving for her community & helping how she can. My fiancé and I had been planning to visit her for thanksgiving – staying with her while there. We’d also been secretly planning to elope. (Likely won’t do this anymore) Reiterating what everyone is saying, we want to do what’s most appropriate & helpful but also have been anxious for this visit with my sister. Glad to move the trip if its feeling too soon. Wondering if you have thoughts. (Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions, and for this write up – I’m sure you’re exhausted)

Yes, we’re all exhausted. Mahalo for your words. If staying with family, you’re more than welcome. I’m sure your sister will have ideas on how you all can help. Congrats on your engagement!

Thank you for your helpful guide. Like so many others, we are heartbroken for the people of Maui. We have a family trip planned in April 2024 for the west side of Maui and the last thing we want to do is be insensitive tourists. As a family we have agreed, if our presence will be a burden we will cancel. Even if it means a loss of thousands of dollars, our loss is tiny compared to what the people of Maui have lost. If our tourist dollars can be helpful, we will come. We will wait to make our decision as things unfold, sending donations to organizations on site and prayers to the people we love.

April is pretty far out. I think we’ll have a handle on things by then, God willing.

This is exactly the information that I was looking for – thank you for putting this together & giving us visitors a place to feel the pulse of Maui outside of the news facts.

We had a trip planned for September & were incredibly torn between coming to help support the tourism industry (and thus support Maui) & staying away due to respect for the hardships. I finally decided to cancel. This article provides validation that I made the right call at this time – thank you. We will be making our trip in the future. And continue to look for ways to help from afar.

Our wishes and prayers to Maui, especially West Maui for a fast recovery.

After moving our September 10-16 trip to Kaanapali to Wailea, we ultimately decided to cancel. I know the locals need the tourist dollars but it just felt too soon. So many on the island are grieving. We are now going to Kauai but hope to come to Maui next year. Prayers and aloha to all the people on Maui.

Totally respect your decision.

Our family has a trip planned to kahana at the end of October. Unfortunately we have reached out to our condo rental and they have stated that their property is fine and they will not issue any refunds if we cancel. Unfortunately we are renting a condo next to a condo that is owned by a family member and going as a large group and relocating isn’t possible. We are happy to drive to the other side of the island for any activities and are happy to spend our money at as many local businesses as possible. We love Maui and we love Lahaina . While we are there we want to be respectful of all locals not just during this trip but all trips to the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

My hart is broken and I’m truly troubled by this tragedy. Having visited many of the islands several times, I at least feel I have some sense of how this is affecting those that live on Maui. I see so many insensitive comments on other social media sites from people that have never experienced Hawaii and can’t grasp how this is impacting all of Maui. I’m frustrated, but will offer this blog as a means to help educate those that don’t think their vacation will hurt as they aren’t going to Lahaina. I’m also encouraged to read that not everyone that lives in Hawaii is anti-tourism. Perhaps if people would take time to learn more about the history and culture of Hawaii, there would be more acceptance of the many visitors who come to Hawaii to fulfill a lifetime dream of seeing its beauty. Those that take the time will see that th real beauty is in the people.

Kanaka maoli no like you come b4. No matter what town you stay. If you not hawaiian from maui. No come here and deplete our resources. Your vacation means nothing to us

We’ve heard from plenty kānaka maoli that depend on tourism to survive saying the exact opposite. I’m sure you know some.

Aloha – My husband and I visit Maui 2-3 times per year – we stay on the West Side. We have a trip planned for Mid-Sept – we are taking the wait-and-see approach as suggested. We were one of the first visitors to come back after Covid – we saw firsthand the devastation that the shutdown caused for all the small businesses/workers. I know how vital tourism is to Maui and if only half the people come in the coming months it will still be a huge burden on the folks living and working in the service industry. We are praying hard for the people of Maui – especially in Lahaina and Kula.

We were in Maui last week, however not near the fires. Much sadness, sending thoughts and prayers to all on the island as it is one community, one people and whether directly or indirectly impacted everyone is hurting for their community. The areas of Wailea and Makena were beautiful and physically unaffected with plenty to do and great restaurants. Book future travel to stay there! Buy local, support the community. And if you have access and means, they are in need of baby items- diapers and formula supplies became limited quickly.

We are scheduled to come the 2nd week of September. We are going to reschedule. We just want to make sure that the people who need help right now get what they need without us being in the way. We feel that people need a bit of time to process & grieve. We’ll reschedule for the spring.

I wish I could afford to go donate my time I have done construction my entire life from beginning to end

I have been visiting Maui for 3 weeks a year for over 20 years to visit my son & his family, recharge my batteries and get back in touch with my soul. My heart hurts for all the people I have come to know and love both directly and indirectly effected by this tragedy. With your information and updates from my son I will be able to make an informed decision about this Novembers trip. You have Ohana here. My heart and prayers are with you all.

I really liked the comment by MARY up towards the beginning. A good friend of mine was a Red Cross (Psychologist) volunteer after Hurricane Katrina on the Gulf Coast. She was brought in to help the first responders who were spent! The government brought in several large ocean liners to house not only the residents whose whole neighborhoods and homes were destroyed, but to set up shop for doctors, Red Cross, merchants, banks etc. I cannot even begin to imagine loosing your home, clothes, belongings and credit cards. God bless the people of Lahaina and Western Maui and give them strength.

My wife and I were planning on coming late Oct / early Nov and staying at my folks place in Kula. From the fire maps, their house had fires all around. Friends of ours who to evacuate their house were fortunate to stay at my folks house which is currently empty. While other Kula neighborhoods water is now contaminated, it sounds like our neighborhood is still good. Anyhow, we have been debating coming out and doing what we can to help whether it is going to restaurants or simply donating time to whatever we can do. Over the last 30 years I rarely go to Lahaina (too touristy for me) but I’m so gutted that my last visit in June will be my last for quite a while. So many memories there….

My husband and I have a two week trip planned in October at the Kuleana Resort in West Maui. We r heartbroken as Maui is our special place. We r praying for the people effected. Is it possible to keep our plans or to reschedule? Thank you

Don’t know. When in October?

October 24th eu November 7th

I’m retired and was a self employed builder for 15 years…and would love to help but don’t know anybody specific to contact.. we’ve been around kaanapali area alot….

I would reach out to the Red Cross

Reading these comments I realize, so many of us are heartbroken over the loss of life and devastation on Maui. For me, Maui is just a magical place. I’ve been many beautiful places on this planet; there is nowhere like Maui. Yes I will visit again at some point. But for now, I have sent a donation. I will send another when Maui is no longer the lead story but the needs are still there. Godspeed Maui.

I lost my home to a tornado in Canada a few years ago. It took 1.5 years to rebuild. It was a very slow and trying process. Resources and materials become scarce when a whole community is impacted. My advice is to be patient. There will be trying times ahead. Be kind to one another. You have a beautiful strong community and disaster has a way of showing the best of humanity. Our disaster relief center collected food , clothing, diapers, toys, pet food etc. and provided lists of resources of manpower and supplies. Police and volunteers kept our streets safe. Each home owner recieved a ‘passport card’ that granted access to our streets to minimize unwanted visitors. I wish you all a healing journey.

Wise words, Mahalo!

I’m really hoping ALL of the tourists give back and donate to the people that need our help more than ever. The ones that make our vacations memorable. It’s time to pay it forward!!!

It’s happening! We’re seeing tourists from all over the world supporting organizations, groups, and individuals. Here’s a list of places to donate for Maui .

My employer is matching donations through American Red Cross. Is it helpful in ANY way to organize a fundraiser through that channel? Lahaina is sacred to me. I buried my father in the sea. Anything I can do to help.

Yes, please share!

At this time, the needs of the few outweigh the needs of the many! Maui’s Aloha spirit will always be there but right now, we must let healing take place.

We will send cash but is there anything else we can do from the mainland?

That’s plenty. Mahalo

Our trip is planned for the end of November. We have an Airbnb booked just north of Lahaina in West Maui. Located between Kanaapali beach and Kapalua at the Royal Kahana located at 4365 Lower Honoapiilani Rd. Should we fight for a refund, which they are currently refusing and relocate elsewhere on the island? It seems we would have to travel through Lahaina to get to many of the other areas of the Island.

I don’t know what the upper west will be like at that time. Maybe wait and see.

We are coming to Kaanapali in February. We will definitely volunteer and spend money at local establishments. We’ve been to Maui a few times and our hearts are breaking for the people and the island. In the meantime we will also donate. A reminder to others donating, check with your employer as they may match donations. My company matches all donations 100%. Every dollar helps!

Fantastic, mahalo! Yes, good tip!

I am an insurance adjuster coming to the island in about two weeks and will need to visit the west side of the island to begin helping. Any recommendations regarding where I should stay to easily access the area? Much thanks.

Probably Kaanapali, Kahana, Kapalua, Napili. You might want to take over someone else’s reservation, since many people aren’t getting refunds on AirBnBs, VRBO, or Vacasa.

Thank you for this post. My husband and I have been going back and forth about what to do regarding our mid-September reservations. We want to be helpful to our beloved Maui and not a burden in an overburdened area, so we will take your advice and wait and see. Blessings and healing to you all.

Big way ppl can help today is going to Raising Cane’s and getting dinner . 15 percent of all profits go to Ka Hale A Ke Ola homeless resource center.

I’ve been to Maui many times and live in Southern California. My husband and I are heartbroken, cried last week watching the devastation on the news. All of your Ohana are in our thoughts. Trying to think of small businesses to support that are still in business, any suggestions would be helpful since they will be missing out on tourist dollars in the next few months.

We live in the UK, and have been lucky enough to visit Hawaii six times. Lahaina was my favourite holiday destination on the planet, and what has happened to Front Street and the rest of the town has broken our hearts. We have donated money to help in the recovery, which is all we can do at this stage, but I hope we are able to get back to Maui at least one more time in our lives (we are both retired). Please do your utmost to keep big hotels out of the town – that was never what Lahaina was about.

It’s incredible that you are taking the time to thoughtfully respond to most of these comments. Based on your comments about when and when not to visit, we will move forward visiting in December. We will also be sure to take time to volunteer to help in whatever opportunities are available. So sorry for this tragedy that your community is dealing with.

430 comments so far. There are tons of people with questions, and we’re trying to help in between volunteer shifts.

My family have a trip book for mid September in Kaanapali. I reached out to Airbnb (Host -CB Island Vacations) to cancel, and they refused. I called Airbnb and the case manager offered the host no fee to let us cancel, and they still refused. I am now disputing with my bank to get a refund. I am super upset at CB Island Vacations as they are located in Kihei for their lack of empathy and greediness.

We have family in Kihei we are supposed to visit end of August. We always stay with them, never in the resorts, and we plan to volunteer and help with the organizations they are a part of right now. Is it still ok to visit with our children, not as a tourist, in August?

If you’re staying with them, and on the south side, you’ll be a great help for us. On the south side, nothing has changed (other than people leaving from Kihei Boat Ramp to deliver supplies and many residents volunteering each day.) The kids will be fine, and if you can get them to help in one way or another, it’d be a real value to them and to us!

I am a generator technician and frequent visitor. Would my services help or would I be in the way.. we have a scheduled visit in September

I would contact someone like the Red Cross

Reading through the comments it is obvious that most of us share the same respect and love for Maui and it’s people. Being from tornado country we have seen mass destruction many times but the firestorm experienced in Lahaina is by far the most horrific event that no one should have to experience. Over the decades we have visited in beautiful Maui and made numerous local acquaintances – some we still have not been able to contact. We just pray they are safe and well. The photos, art, memorabilia, and music are my go-to’s when I start thinking about Maui. I’m sure many of think of the music of the ukelele, the native dances and Israel’s “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” rendition. Perhaps the most memorable and constant thought are the sunsets! We all recall the hospitality received by all the residents and locals. And, we notice and respect the history of the island. Maui is truly a paradise that belongs to the Hawaiian people and those who have come to love it. My hope and prayers are for peace among all who reside there and all who come to visit. Peace and unity will prevail. Maui will always be in our thoughts and will make a return for all who yearn for the aloha that is only found there. Prayers for strength to overcome and live in peace with all who are there.

Firstly, my thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. None of us can possibly imagine how difficult it must be for you all recovering from this disater. Travelling to Hawaii has been a lifelong wish for me, over here in England. Our trip to Maui has been booked for months now. When we saw the fires we, like so many, thought that travelling to Maui would now be disrespectful. However, if everyone takes that view, there will be a signidicant downturn in the economy, so soon after Covid too. We have decided to visit in January. We are going to stay in Kihei & hope our visit will show some encouragement for the people of Maui that tourism will continue with a positive impact.

We have booked a Maui Kai condo (at the northern end of Kaanapali beach) directly thru the MK website for several weeks starting Aug 30. The booking is fully paid for and apparently non-refundable. The MK website says they “are open and still accepting reservations” (www.mauikai.com/maui-travel-update/). All attempts to contact them have been unsuccessful – fast busy on dialed numbers and no response to texts or emails. So what do we do? Not go and blow off a significant chunk of money? Or go and volunteer some of our time to recovery efforts?

You can probably go. Sounds like things are getting better on the west side.

My friend and i will still be arriving late January for our planned trip. We will be staying in Kihei. Who will we contact for volunteer opportunities?

At that time, we’ll have to see who needs help.

In my opinion, I think the people of Moui needs their space, time to grieve and time to heal. I already canceled my trip for next May. Mostly out of respect for all who are grieving. My heart aches for the loss of life. There’s no way I would be able to enjoy myself. I think LOT’S OF PRAYER, and sending money would make a bigger impact, which is what I plan to do. Maui will always hold a special place in my heart. God bless. 🙏🙏🙏

I loved my visit to Maui in 2018. It was one of the most memorable trips. Is there a list of small business that we can support from a far? I’d love to place an online order for gifts that would support a local small business but I’m not sure where to start.

Here are some spots to shop online for Maui Products .

Thank you for all of this amazing information that you have given! My husband and I have a trip scheduled with his aunt and uncle to their Kihei timeshare September 17th-24th. My husband and I are really struggling with whether there is any way to travel there respectfully and not be in the way right now. His aunt and uncle are going and refuse to try and move our destination or time because the timeshare company makes it nearly impossible to do. My husband and I still have not decided whether we will be coming or not because we have seen so much conflicting information about whether we should or not. If we do come, we definitely plan on staying far away from West Maui and we don’t even feel comfortable hanging out down on the beaches. We also want to find a day or two to volunteer in anyway possible. Is there a way to respectfully come to the south side of the island in September and not hinder the people of Maui? We are absolutely devastated for what the people and island are going through right now and we don’t want to be disrespectful in any way.

Just stay out of Lahaina, and you’ll be fine and welcome.

My wife and I canceled our November trip to Napili and donated the amount of money we thought we’d likely have spent to Maui Strong …

https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/maui-strong

and the Maui Humane Society …

https://www.mauihumanesociety.org/donate-olx/

… which is providing medical attention and supplies for companion animals in need, and is helping to reunite pets and people who were separated during the fires.

Thanks for all the good info you’re providing here – Maui Guide is the best source of information we’ve found about what people in Maui need, what those of us who want to return all the aloha we’ve received from Maui can do to help.

We are slated for a visit to Kaanapali in March. If bringing tourism revenue by then would be both safe and helpful, we would still like to come, but if that would be problematic, we would prefer to look into moving locations or even islands. It’s hard to know what would be helpful vs disrespectful that far out and I keep seeing mixed messages from posts online.

It’s hard to know how soon the west side will open up again. If you need to, you can change to accommodations elsewhere on the island (unaffected areas.)

I have a landshare condo that I am only allowed to us in odd years at Kahana Villa. I am scheduled to arrive on the 23rd and leave on the 30th. While there, I was hoping to do some volunteering to help out. With the every changing come/don’t come/cancel your trip, etc, I am not really sure what to do. I was planning to wait until two weeks before I am scheduled. You never know, the government folks may change the access dates again. What do you suggest? Thank you!

What month?

We scheduled our 50th Anniversary for late Dec at the Kaanapali Alii by Hyatt Residence. We were told by our travel agent to check back late August to see if we should change to another location. From what I’ve read so far here, December may be okay, but safer to be on the south side. What is your recommendation…stay where we are or see about moving to the south for our trip? It is heartbreaking to hear about the loss of lives and those still missing. Our prayers are with all of those affected by this disaster. 😥 & 🙏

Hopefully things are open again upper west by then. But, to be safe, you can change to the south side. Everything is still up in the air.

We are visiting Ka’anapali in February and would be grateful for some information on how/where to volunteer. Maui is a special place and we would like to personally contribute to her renaissance.

Thank you! We’ll know more closer to your dates. Everything is fluid.

We would like to come visit Maui and support the local economy. While we are there, we’d like to volunteer and help where needed. How do we find where the volunteer help is needed?

We’re working on that. Volunteer needs are still changing daily. I think in a month’s time, things will stabilize and volunteer opportunities will be easier to share.

The reason Maui is the ONLY island in the World with the Hawaiian term “Maui No Ka Oi” is because “We Are The Best!” GOD Himself felt bad that He had to keep Humans out of the Garden of Eden, so He Created Hawaii Nei. He created seven islands where people are to inhabit and His jewel is Maui. I know this because I was born and raised on Maui. People from Maui have a different attitude, perspective, opinion about people who are rich and famous. We simply “Pity You!” To us, you live in a fish bowl. We say, “Pity yeah dem guys. Dey cannot even go shishi without somebody knowing. Poho all dat money and fame. Poor tings. Ass why hard.” Mauians are tough, proud and determined. Please respect us as we take the next few days to mourn our losses and to ask God to bless our Aina! Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono! Aloha

Any way of working with airlines so visitors can book a half volunteering and half vacation time? Only ask because “shorter notices” to book a flight are sooo expensive and we would love to be able to help. We were there for our honeymoon and our recent 36th anniversary. ❤️❤️

Thank you, Maui Guide, for such a detailed update. My heart is with you all, and I can’t wait to feel the spirit of Aloha when I visit again.

Mahalo Patti! Trying to keep it updated too. ALOHA!

We booked a trip a year ago for 4 of us to return to our favorite hotel in Napili Bay for September 10th-September 15th. I wrote the hotel yesterday inquiring about still being able to come visit on those dates, the current situation, and if we could help in any way possible? This was the reply I received today from the hotel-

Aloha Shawn

Thank you for reaching out and asking those questions.

Our hotel is closed at this time and we will not be opening until the governor gives word publicly that the west side is open.

We would love to accommodate you at a later date if wish. We do not want our guests to get into any altercations with the residents here on the island if we open without approval.

We can cancel your reservation with a full refund and or push your reservations to after December 1st 2023?

Looks like we will have to reschedule or cancel. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected on the island, and hope those in West Maui will keep the strength they have shown the world so far.

It’s good to know they’ll refund or push to another date. Please don’t cancel! It’d be great if you could just come down south instead.

When we met my boyfriend lived in haiku and we have been coming and looking after our friends animals for over 15 years… We delayed our trip this month to help look after our friends animals but we are here and we would like to take you up on the days volunteering. I know this is a shifting target there are moving parts so as of today where would be the best place to go to volunteer.. we brought bags of the goods recommended for donation to give and I’ve been directed where to take them.

Take a look at Maui Rapid Response in Instagram. They’re sharing ways to donate and volunteer constantly.

I am an experienced lawyer retiring next month and a trip I scheduled months ago for October for Kaanapali. I would love to volunteer my services in helping residents with their insurance and FEMA claims.

As a previous visitor to Maui, I have absolutely loved the island and its people. We are so saddened by the loss to the community and we pray for healing for the families impacted. With an upcoming trip in early Sept, it has been challenging to understand how to support Maui during this time. There are many mixed messages as to whether to stay away or come to support the unaffected areas of the island. It would seem like a ‘no brainer’ to change plans from our reservations in West Maui (Kapalua), but we were surprised that there are property management companies or its owners that will not refund our money (reservation paid in full). In addition to keeping visitors informed and educated, is there anything that can be done to encourage VRBO rentals to allow penalty free cancellations to West Maui?

That’s a good question. Currently, people aren’t staying or encouraged to stay on West Maui. They’re still lacking a lot of what’s needed to offer a proper stay. Honestly, I don’t know the answer of how to get VRBO owners to let you cancel without fee. It’s an ugly situation. Especially with your visiting so soon.

Thank you for your response! There just seems to be a lot of media and online attention and anger towards tourists going to West Maui, with no one holding the property owners accountable for not letting the tourists out of their rental contracts. Hopefully, the locals can have the perspective that not all of us are being insensitive or disrespectful. Mahalo!

Im sure you have had a lot of these questions, so I’m sorry. We come every year to our timeshare in Ka’anapali, this year we are booked from Sept 23 to Oct 3 so less than a month out. One website is saying to please come and support our local businesses another is saying to come and stay at a different part of the island, but that’s not an option now. Is there any update, we want to be respectful.

I’m hoping services and utilities are all running by the time you get there. I also hope we’ve had enough time to get all of our displaced into long-term housing by then (and with jobs.) It’s hard to know what to do with the west side right now. We have people saying the people will need a lot of time to heal and find stability, but how do they find stability without jobs? It’s tough to weigh and there’s really no right answer that’s realistic.

First, my heart goes out to the people of Maui and Lahaina. Thank you for working so hard even during this difficult time to provide a forum for respectful questions and discussion.

In our case, we’re visiting Kihei in late October. Our Airbnb host reached out and begged us not to cancel, so we’re keeping our plans. I looked at their calendar and we are their only guests (and only income!) currently booked for the month. I hope we can find ways to be helpful and volunteer while we’re on the island.

During Covid, we supported our local businesses by buying gift cards that we waited and redeemed only after business came back. Maybe businesses in Lahaina could do something similar to help fund their comeback.

I wish this site would let me post pictures…

My wife and I were in Maui from 15JUL until 24JUL; we spent our last day on the island in Lahaina. It was heartbreaking to see places we had just seen destroyed.

My hope is that West Maui will be allowed to rebuild the way it SHOULD be…not the way the tourist wants it to be.

First, I am so sorry for what all the residents of West Maui are going through resulting from the wildfires that devastated Lahaina. My family has been visiting Lahaina and Ka’anapali for 20+ years, and we want to support with our tourism for a trip we have planned in November. However, we are very concerned that November is too soon – we don’t want to be a burden on a grieving community, so we are considering changing our location. That said, I follow the news closely and read articles daily and I am getting mixed messages. Based on what you are seeing today, what would you project for that timeframe? November seems far away and yet not far at all. We don’t want to cancel our plans and have a negative impact on your local economy if by that time, the tourism would be helpful for businesses.

It’s uncertain how long the upper west area of Maui will be closed. The rest of the island is open (other than Lahaina and most areas above it.) So you can change your stay to go south, or you can postpone, or wait and see.

To whom it may concern,

This is just my “two cents” on what Maui’s authorities, along with the State and the Federal Government should be considering.

Make an instructional video by the Hawai’i Visitors Bureau regarding the reasons why they cannot visit Lahaina town. You know, respect for the land, respect for the deceased, the homes and businesses that were lost. They can use the celebrities that live there to help with that video. Everyone supposedly wants to help, so let them help.

Make Lahaina town and the burned areas “Off Limits” to everyone not directly affected by the fires. Utilize road detours, put up portable traffic lights, etc.

Open up all of the non affected areas near Lahaina like Kaanapali, Honokawai, Napili, Kapalua along with all of the businesses there.

All the people who have made reservations from the middle of September on should be encouraged to honor those reservations by coming, spending their money and then leaving. Also, remind people that the rest of Maui is OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

COVID did a number on everyone. We must learn from our past and “IMUA!”

That’s my take on it.

Our reservation is at westin nanea for Sept 23, and they have not canceled it. We struggled with what to do, impossible to reschedule, and after reading about their need for tourism, decided to keep it, support local business, volunteer, and help where we can, with love, kindness and respect. Will we be able to drive to our resort?

So does that mean we don’t have to drive around the top? I just could not drive that road. Thanks for any information.

Yes, but don’t unless you have to.

Unfortunately you recommended to someone that is coming in February to stay on the south side when the businesses on west side that didn’t burn down also need business. We have a vacation rental in Kaanapali and are hurting greatly financially and aren’t getting any financial assistance.

We need tourism back asap while guests can still be respectful to the area. Responsible owners can send guests a reminder and information on how to be respectful of the devastation in Lahaina.

We need the governor to change his messaging.

That was likely a 2 week old comment.

Aloha my brothers and sisters of Maui. Please accept my sincere condolences for your losses. Can you advise where the fire damage begins to the south and ends to the north so that I might have a better read on what to do with a planned trip to Kahana Village in the Napili area. I haven’t heard from them and don’t even know if they were physically affected. I will call soon but I want to be respectful for those that are hurting right now. My trip isn’t until June of 2024 and the last thing I want to do his kick a family out of a condo for a personal vacation. Considering cancelling but if my tourism helps I will come. Please be safe. Respectfully, Vinny.

My heart.. I feel so so sorry for the people who live there. I think right now we need to donate to this place or do something like that to be able to get back this wonderful place. I wish a fast recovery of it. It always hurts so much reading about such things. So cool that people here in the comment section support others, it really feels like everyone is kind and can be there for each other. My heart melts of this, this is so sweet! Lets continue this, lets continue to be friends to each other and provide any kind of help we can!

Thank you so much for this information. Well be there in March and would like to know how we can volunteer for a day, so will be checking back for this information. Much love to the people of Maui!

Where can I find information on how to volunteer? I’m thinking about planning a family trip in December and my husband is a general contractor. While visiting, we would love to put his skills to work and help with rebuilding efforts. Any info on how to help/volunteer is greatly appreciated!

Here are some ways to volunteer for Maui .

We changed to a place in kihei now, last week of Sept. Will we be able to drive to whalers village and support businesses in that area?

You should be able to, I’m just not sure how much is open there. Definitely Leilani’s is open again.

We are wondering about visiting Kaanapali in December. Is this appropriate? We would be interested in volunteering as part of our vacation.

We have reservations at the Westin Nanea in Ka’napali for November 24th. Recognize to be respectful and staying away from Lahaina but want to know if we’re ok to still keep our trip. Hotel is paid for and other island locations are not an option. Any thoughts are appreciated.

Prayers & heartfelt love continue..🙏 My husband will be there for ten days in mid December through SamaritansPurse.org to help with the Relief Efforts. We Love You Maui.. Lahaina

My boyfriend and I are visiting Maui next week and would like to volunteer one day if we can. How do we find out about possible opportunities? Thanks!

we plan to be in Maui several weeks this winter. Is there a way to volunteer or provide help in some ways? Thank you

I plan on visiting west Maui on December 6th, 2024 for a week. Myself and a friend are staying in Kahana . We would love to help in any way we can for a few days while we are there. I live in upstate New York and have been to Lahaina several times. Of all the places I’ve been to, Lahaina is my favorite. From there we are going to Kauai for a week, then back to the mainland. Lahaina is in my heart and the people in west Maui are amazing.

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How can tourists help Maui recover? Here’s what locals say.

In the face of devastating economic losses, residents are asking visitors to return—but respectfully.

LiAnne Driessen had moved into her grandparents’ home in Lāhainā four years ago, a home destroyed in the August 8 wildfires that razed the historic coastal town and killed at least 115 people. Everything—except for a mango tree her kūpuna (grandparents) had planted from a seed 50 years ago—is gone.

Now the Native Hawaiian wife and mother of two faces losing the Maui-based sailboat tour company that her family started 50 years ago. It had been booking 80 to 90 snorkel and dinner sails a week. Overnight, she says, it lost 80 percent of its business. Her husband, a first mate and captain-in-training, had to be laid off. “We’re barely hanging in there,” says Driessen. “It’s scary. We barely survived COVID.”

Livelihoods across one of Hawaiʻi’s most popular islands are suffering as a result of one of the deadliest U.S. wildfires in a century. According to the Hawaiʻi Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, about three million tourists visit Maui each year, spending about $5.4 billion. Before the wildfires, about 8,000 people were arriving on Maui each day. Now, it’s around 2,000.

After advising travelers to stay away, lawmakers, tourism officials, businesses, and even residents are now urging them to visit—mindfully.

“We are definitely hoping visitors come back,” says Wisa Miller, who works at Aliʻi Kula Lavender , a 13.5-acre lavender farm that offers tours and runs a gift shop. “I know people on the outside are confused because some social media posts say to stay away and others saying to come. Our island is reliant upon tourism. We need resources to get back on our feet right now.”

But traveling currently to Maui is complicated. It may seem insensitive to sip a mai tai at a hotel pool in Wailea, but every dollar a visitor spends on the island helps its economy, explains Ilihia Gionson, public affairs officer for the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority.

“People have lost everything, and now they’re losing their jobs,” Gionson says. “Maui has an economy, for better or worse, that right now is very dependent on visitor spending. Shopping at local shops, eating at local restaurants that support local farmers, doing activities run by small local businesses—those dollars are directly supporting the residents; they are directly keeping local people employed.”

Twin disasters

In the days after the wildfire, Hawai‘i issued an advisory discouraging nonessential travel to West Maui—including Lāhainā—through October 17. Locals took to social media pleading to visitors to cancel their trips. Tourists have heeded the warning, canceling vacations and staying away. But the result is a dramatic economic downturn that’s crippling Maui’s ability to recover.

( Lāhainā was a   glittering jewel of the Hawaiian kingdom .)

“We also have to support all of Maui,” Hawai‘i Governor Josh Green said in an August 27 update on Facebook. “Because we know if it survives and thrives, all the people who have jobs there will also recover more quickly.”

Tourism revenue not only supports local businesses and their employees, it generates state and county taxes, funding roads, schools, and public spaces.

With the sudden collapse of tourism on Maui, businesses face a tough choice. Restaurants like Tin Roof in Kahului, about 22 miles east of Lāhainā, have reduced their hours. The popular Hāliʻimaile General Store , about 30 miles east of Lāhainā, decided to close temporarily. MauiWine , which has been cultivating grapes on the slopes of Haleakalā and crafting wine for more than 40 years, furloughed some of its staff.

“It runs the gamut across our entire island, from wedding companies to restaurants to mom-and-pop surf shops and stands serving shave ice,” explains Pamela Tumpap, president of the Maui Chamber of Commerce , which has about 650 members.

The economic loss for West Maui alone—both in business sales and visitor spending—is estimated at $9 million a day, according to the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority. In late August, the state reported 4,444 new unemployment claims were filed in Maui, a 3,603 percent increase from the average weekly claims before the fire.

( This bird survived Maui’s fires—but it could soon vanish .)

“You have this incredibly tragic and horrible event that we should all be focused on, where we should be putting all of our energy. But there’s a second tragedy coming and everyone is shifting to that,” says Graeme Swain, owner of the Gather Restaurant Group , which owns and operates two restaurants on Maui, including the Hāliʻimaile General Store. He’s had to lay off about 80 percent of his staff at his other restaurant, Gather on Maui , near Kīhei. “It was a painful and very, very depressing decision that I had to make. I’m very concerned that, with the island of Maui in particular, if we don’t get people back here, we can’t survive.”

Maui is open; Lāhainā is not

“The situation is dire,” says Markus Schale, the managing director of the Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux , which is providing housing for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) relief staff. The 72-suite boutique accommodation located about 28 miles south of Lāhainā saw its tourism occupancy drop to almost 10 percent after the wildfires. The hotel had to furlough some of its staff.

“We need to make sure visitors to Maui feel good about coming here because they are actually helping the community of Maui get back on its feet.”

One way is to heed the state’s plea to avoid West Maui. “Do not go into Lāhainā,” Tumpap says. “It’s going to be a long healing process. We’re asking people to do the right thing. We know it’s a beautiful spot, but let Lāhainā recover right now.”

While Lāhainā and other parts of West Maui—including the popular Kāʻanapali and Kapalua areas—are off limits to visitors, other areas are open, including Kīhei and Wailea on Maui’s sunny south shores, the artsy surf town of Pāiʻa on its north shore, and the charming and remote Hāna on the eastern shore.

( How to turn overtourism into sustainable global tourism .)

“Hawaiʻi is a very small town that happens to be spread across islands,” Gionson says. “When one community in the Hawaiian Islands is injured, we are all injured. We all jump in to support and uplift those of our family, friends, and neighborhoods who need it most. So traveling anywhere in Hawaiʻi right now is helping Maui. But traveling to Maui is directly helping Maui.”

Despite what has been circulating on social media, Maui residents assure visitors will be welcomed—as long as they’re respectful while they’re on the island.

“The magic of Maui and aloha spirit that people cherish worldwide is still here,” Tumpap says. “You can come, and you coming will make a difference.”

How tourists can help

Related topics.

• CULTURAL TOURISM
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• OVERTOURISM

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Maui Travel Updates

For Visitors

Know Before You Go

From people and businesses that rely on tourism to drive Maui’s economy, the call is clear: Maui needs the support of visitors now more than ever. That is why our call to action for visitors is Mālama Maui. Here are important ways that visitors can help mālama (care for) Maui.

As the phased reopening of West Maui continues, the County of Maui offers the following video featuring Maui community members and providing both instruction and a heartfelt message for visitors. Long-time Maui Kumu Hula and educator Hōkūlani Holt, Ph.D. anchors the video which also features Kumu Hula and proprietor of cultural retail boutique Native Intelligence Kapono‘ai Molitau, visitor industry cultural manager Oralani Koa and Hāloa Dudoit, a community organizer and youth baseball coach. 

While Lahaina will remain fully closed to the public until further notice out of respect to the town’s residents, West Maui accommodations have begun to reopen and visitation continues to be welcomed and encouraged throughout Maui and the islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island.

Visitors throughout the Hawaiian Islands are urged to be especially mindful and respectful in our island home. For more information and travel recommendations, visit GoHawaii.com/maui .

Questions and Answers

Q: Travel to w hich of the Hawaiian Islands have been affected by the August wildfires? A: Wildfires have mainly affected Lahaina in  West Maui. While Lahaina will remain fully closed to the public until further notice out of respect to the town’s residents, West Maui accommodations have begun to reopen and visitation throughout the island as well as the other islands of Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Lāna‘i, Moloka‘i, and Hawai‘i Island is welcomed and encouraged.

Q: If I have a scheduled trip to Maui in the next few weeks, should I postpone my vacation? A: The best way to support Maui in its recovery is for travelers to continue with their Maui vacation and don’t cancel those trips. While it may seem counterintuitive, Maui’s economy is dependent on a robust visitor industry and there is still plenty to see and do while here that is away from the Lahaina. While you’re on vacation here, buy local, eat at local restaurants and enjoy the many great activities and attractions located across Maui.

Q: Where can people find the latest information and updates on Maui recovery efforts? A: Official channels are the best sources for the latest updates, including the following:

• Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency:  MauiStrong.hawaii.gov
• County of Maui: https://www.mauinuistrong.info/

Anyone wanting to make donations to help communities and families recover on Maui can do so through the Maui Strong Fund established by the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation or the Kāko‘o Maui Fund established by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement.

Maui Strong Fund       Kāko‘o Maui Fund

'Some of us need work': Does Maui's recovery depend on tourism?

LAHAINA, Hawaii – Long before a wind-whipped wildfire blasted through the island of Maui, tension existed between Hawaii's kamaaina, or longtime residents, and the visitors some islanders resent for turning their beaches, mountains and communities into playgrounds.

It's a love-hate relationship that dates back generations. But now that tension is building in the aftermath of a blaze that killed over 100 people and scorched the historic town of Lahaina, making it the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century.

A week after the fire, a state flag blew upside down in the breeze along a road leading to a neighborhood designated for residents of Hawaiian descent, signifying that the community is in distress. Beneath the flag, a sign scrawled in blue paint ordered tourists to "KEEP OUT."

"Tourism has definitely been a hindrance at this point because we need to take care of our families – our ohana," said Kapali Keahi, who lives in the neighborhood. Keahi said those affected by the fire, himself included, are still "getting out of the survivor mode."

The Maui Economic Development Board says tourism is "irrefutably" the economic engine of Maui, which saw 1.4 million visitors in just the first half of 2023. About 70% of every dollar generated in Maui can be attributed to tourism, according to the board.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Yet as the island looks to rebuild, residents like Keahi wonder what role tourism should play in the long road ahead to recovery. Experts say there's no easy answer.

More: 'Help is pouring in': How to assist victims in the Maui wildfires in Hawaii

"You do have this time where you have to stop everything and focus on the disaster, but there does come a time when you have to start to rebuild, and that means keeping people employed," said Rafael Villanueva, a member of the Tourism Expert Network, which provides consulting services to businesses like hotels.

Villanueva said that's the general roadmap he and his then-colleagues at the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority followed in 2017 after the deadliest mass shooting in modern America unfolded at a country music festival on the Las Vegas Strip. Support the victims and the community first, then worry about the tourists.

Within an hour of the shooting that would leave 60 dead and hundreds more injured, the publicly funded body promoting Las Vegas had halted its advertising, promising "What Happens Here, Stays Here." Villanueva said they filled billboards with a message that the community instead could rally around: "Vegas Strong."

Then they opened up their convention center for recovery efforts, including victim notifications. But eventually, they shifted their messaging, inviting visitors back to a Strip that they promised was a safe tourist destination.

"You need to do what you can to not let the situation snowball into something much worse," Villanueva said.

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said in a statewide address Friday night that tourists should avoid fire-ravaged West Maui while emphasizing that the rest of the island and state were open and safe.

"We continue to welcome and encourage travel to our beautiful state," he said, "which will support the local economy and help speed the recovery of those who have already suffered so much."

Green also has said it would be "catastrophic" if Maui's tourism industry came to a halt right now, warning that it could lead to a "mass exodus" of residents.

It's a situation that Maui resident Julie Sumibtay said she wants to avoid, even if she understands how other locals want the space to grieve and deal with their profound pain without the prying eyes of outsiders.

"Some of us need work," said Sumibtay, who works at the front desk of a condominium complex in Kihei, where some of the units are used as vacation rentals. "So if they're saying Maui is closed, then there are no tourists coming in, and then we lose our jobs."

Already the deadly fire and its aftermath have prompted some would-be tourists to change their plans , opting to head to other islands instead.

Tom Bailey and his family from the Sacramento area of California arrived on Maui the week before the fire spread from hillsides and raced toward historic Lahaina.

They had seen the smoke in the distance from their hotel in Kaanapali, just up the road from Lahaina. At first, they were reassured that the blaze posed no immediate danger. But in the night, the glow of the fire intensified, prompting hotel officials to suggest guests voluntarily evacuate.

Bailey and his family packed up and left to spend the final five days of their vacation on Oahu.

"We just wanted to stay out of the way," Bailey said, adding that he understands the local residents "need time."

Yamat reported from Las Vegas.

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West Maui Is Reopening. Here’s What Travelers Should Know.

The island’s west side has reopened to visitors two months after the devastating wildfires. But the travel industry anticipates the return of much-needed tourism to be a slow drip.

By Christine Chung

Two months after wildfires on the western shores of Maui killed 97 people, destroyed the historic town of Lahaina and burned more than 2,100 acres, a state order discouraging travel to the area was lifted on Sunday. But whether local hotels and businesses plan to welcome visitors remains uncertain.

Maui, Hawaii’s second largest island, remains in the throes of recovery, with West Maui schools still shuttered, hundreds of businesses closed and thousands of people out of work and living in temporary housing at local hotels. The state government’s decision to reopen has encountered fierce pushback among some residents, who say the step is rushed , and a petition to delay the reopening has been signed by more than 15,000 people.

The mayor of Maui County, Richard Bissen, said tourism’s return will be measured, and in late September announced a voluntary, staggered approach to reopening , one that begins with only hotels in the northernmost portion of West Maui welcoming guests. In a statement issued on Thursday, Gov. Josh Green called the phased approach “a gentle reopening that will serve both the people and local businesses.”

The absence of tourism, the island’s main economic driver, has threatened a second crisis: Since the fires, Maui has lost more than $13 million per day in visitor spending, according to one analysis by the University of Hawaii.

Here’s what visitors need to know.

What areas are now open to travelers?

The West Maui communities of Kaanapali, Napili, Honokowai and Kapalua, north of the region hardest hit by the fires, are now open to tourists, according to the emergency proclamation , posted Sept. 9 by Governor Green. The town of Lahaina and its surrounding areas remain closed to tourists.

Travel to other areas of Maui that were not damaged by the fires, such as Wailea, has not been restricted, despite initial pushback from some residents about the propriety of visiting any part of Maui . And there were no prohibitions against travel to Hawaii’s other islands.

However, the reopening doesn’t mean all hotels, restaurants and other businesses in West Maui are operating — and some state and local officials for weekswere seemingly at odds on what shape and cadence West Maui’s reopening should take.

In his statement, Governor Green appeared to clear the air, by praising Mayor Bissen and indicating that the mayor should handle the reopening.

“The recovery can be a community-led, government-supported effort to help the people of Lahaina,” the governor said.

The first stage of Mayor Bissen’s voluntary plan — opening hotels and businesses in communities from Kapalua to Kahana — will be assessed before two subsequent phases, which focus on neighborhoods farther south, where a greater number of displaced residents are being housed, start. No dates for these latter stages have been shared.

Lisa Paulson, executive director of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association, called the competing directives from Mayor Bissen and Governor Green “mixed messages” that have confused hotel operators, residents and tourists alike.

“Everybody is hurting,” she said last week. “We’re still reeling from the devastation so these contradictory messages are not helping anything.”

Mufi Hannemann, president and chief executive of the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association, said that most hotels want to comply with the mayor’s phased reopening, but he also emphasized that this was a guideline that doesn’t come with any enforcement.

What hotels in West Maui are open now?

Hotels in West Maui will be opening in a piecemeal fashion. Under the mayor’s guidance , businesses on a three-mile stretch from the Ritz Carlton in Kapalua to Kahana Villa in Kahana were encouraged to open starting Sunday. Only several hotels in this area — including the Ritz Carlton — will actually welcome visitors by Oct. 8, Ms. Paulson said. According to its website , Kahana Villa is asking “any reservations through October 17th be rescheduled.”

What happens after that is very fluid, Mr. Hannemann said, with hotels evaluating daily whether and when they should open.

Farther south in Wailea and Kihei, all major hotels and resorts are already open, Mr. Hannemann said. In Wailea, the Fairmont Kea Lani is offering guests a fifth night free, a spokesperson said. They’re hoping to lure guests who previously canceled, with incentives including free breakfast and room upgrades.

Overall, hotels are continuing to waive cancellation fees until they reopen.

Over the last two months, hotels operated by local and major brands, including Outrigger, Marriott and Hyatt, have sheltered emergency responders and wildfire evacuees, as well as their own staff members who were displaced. The bulk of this housing effort is concentrated in the Kaanapali area, industry leaders said. Most hotels there will not be open in early October, Ms. Paulson said. Some, like the Westin Maui Resort and the Hyatt Regency , aren’t accepting new bookings until November.

What about Lahaina and its residents?

Lahaina residents have gradually been allowed back to visit their properties. Three schools are set to reopen on Oct. 16, despite concerns about air and water quality.

But permanent housing remains a crisis. As of this week, more than 6,800 people were staying at dozens of area hotels coordinated by the Red Cross, including the Hyatt Regency and the Royal Lahaina Resort in Kaanapali. About 545 others are staying at Airbnb rentals and roughly 100 people have acquired housing through a government program crowdsourcing available rooms and units from homeowners, a spokesperson for the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism said.

Officials have stressed that evacuees will not be displaced to accommodate anyone, including the tourists they seek to galvanize the island’s recovery.

“We don’t anticipate a large number of people coming, but we also didn’t want the many people who asked us to open up to have to relocate themselves,” Gov. Green said at a news conference on Sept. 21. “We are not pushing people out.”

What should travelers expect?

Recent visitors have commented online about how empty the island feels, with hundreds of hotel rooms vacant, once bustling restaurants closed and beaches deserted.

Owners of restaurants that are heavily reliant on tourism, such as Merriman’s in Kapalua , said they can’t open without more tourists to keep them afloat.

“What we’re going to do is wait and judge the market and open when we think demand can support our restaurants,” said Peter Merriman, the restaurant’s chef and owner. “It’s a bit of a chicken and egg. Tourists want restaurants before visiting, we want customers before we reopen our restaurants.”

In August, Maui reported the lowest visitor arrival and spending numbers in more than two years, according to the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Compared to August of last year, visitor arrivals dropped to 112,259 from 266,176, or nearly 58 percent, and spending fell by 49 percent, to $247 million from $484 million.

The tourism decline in Maui has reverberated statewide, with visitor arrivals decreasing by about 7 percent and spending plummeting by roughly 8 percent to $1.58 billion last August compared to the same month last year.

Travel industry leaders said they anticipated tourism’s return after Oct. 8 to be a slow drip.

Officials are requesting respectful tourism. What does that look like?

State and local officials, industry leaders and residents have described the kind of tourism they hope to cultivate after the fires as “conscious,” “mindful” and “respectful.”

But this is not a new sentiment in Hawaii. The state has long grappled with balancing tourism and its negative effects — soaring rents and home prices fueling a housing shortage — with its economic reliance on the industry.

Until recently, locals and officials signaled that respectful behavior wasn’t limited just to staying clear of Lahaina, but avoiding all of the neighborhoods in West Maui. Now, with West Maui’s return, the boundaries and norms are fuzzier. Some officials and residents suggest that visitors should prioritize local businesses and potentially include volunteering to aid relief efforts.

“The visitor experience will be different for a while, but we welcome people back to support us and our communities, and get people back to work,” said Jerry Gibson, president of the Hawaii Hotel Alliance.

But officials and residents alike repeat one thing. A stop at Lahaina shouldn’t be part of any traveler’s itinerary. And remember that the entire community in Maui has experienced trauma and is grieving.

“Knowing this, proper attitude and reverence should be applied toward the place, as well as the people who live and work in Maui,” Mr. Hannemann said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Christine Chung is a travel reporter for The Times. She previously covered breaking news. She joined The Times in November 2021. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

What to do if you have a trip planned for Hawaii

Maui was hit hard by devastating wildfires fueled by hurricane-force winds. The fires caused catastrophic damage. Heartbreakingly, they are the deadliest the U.S. has experienced in many years.

The worst fires occurred in West Maui, as the historic area of Lahaina was completely destroyed by flames that are still only 90% contained. According to the Maui Emergency Management Agency's most recent alert Monday, a fire in the Upcountry area of Kula is still only 85% contained.

President Joe Biden signed an emergency disaster declaration for the state of Hawaii, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency is coordinating recovery operations. On Monday, the president and Jill Biden traveled to Maui to survey the damage firsthand.

During the president's visit and joint press conference, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green again addressed the growing community concern about ensuring the economic well-being of Maui and the state, emphasizing the importance of travel.

"No one can travel to West Maui right now. We will share when that is possible again. Only returning residents and authorized emergency relief workers should come here now. But all of the other areas of Maui ... and the rest of Hawai'i are safe," Green said. "When you come, you will support our local economy and help speed the recovery of the people that are suffering right now."

A statement from the Hawaii Tourism Authority said that Green's sixth emergency proclamation , issued Aug. 19, remains in place, with all nonessential travel to West Maui being strongly discouraged for the duration of the proclamation (through Oct. 17).

Daily update videos on the disaster recovery are also being posted to the governor's Facebook page .

Given Maui's popularity as a vacation destination, numerous would-be tourists likely have upcoming trips scheduled. Given the scale of the disaster on the island, they now need to make some decisions about their upcoming plans to visit to allow the island to focus on recovery efforts.

Here's what to know if you have an upcoming trip to Maui.

Is it safe to travel to Maui right now?

It is currently not safe to travel to West Maui due to the multiple uncontained wildfires and evacuation orders that are in place.

Still, the governor has declared other areas of Maui safe and open for travel.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority released an updated travel advisory after Green's press conference, along with a map of the affected and restricted areas.

In alignment with Governor Green, the Hawai'i Tourism Authority urges visitors to refrain from going to West Maui (including Lahaina, Nāpili, Kāʻanapali, and Kapalua) as a means of respect to the people and places that have been lost in Lahaina during this devastating tragedy. The impacted area of Lahaina remains off limits to the public as the search and recovery efforts continue.

We encourage travelers to consider visiting other areas of Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia and Hāna), as well as the other Hawaiian Islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island.

Even when it is safe to travel to West Maui again, that part of the island will have limited resources and infrastructure.

Residents and visitors with upcoming travel bookings are encouraged to check with their airline for any flight changes and cancellations, or assistance with rebooking.

When might it be OK to travel to Maui?

At this time, it is unclear when West Maui will reopen, but the devastation to historic Lahaina is very substantial. As a result, disaster recovery operations will likely be very lengthy.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority released a statement last week that included a section devoted to common questions and answers and appears to be updated on a regular basis.

At this time, hotels in West Maui have temporarily stopped accepting bookings of future reservations and are housing their employees and families, evacuees, and first responders working on disaster recovery – well over 1,000 people so far with more to come.

Other areas on Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia and Hāna), as well as the other Hawaiian Islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island remain unaffected. We urge visitors to be especially mindful and respectful in our island home as our community continues through this tragedy.

Based on the updated information shared by the governor and the statement released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, they are encouraging travelers to consider visiting other areas of Maui. Such areas include Kahului, Wailuku, Kihei, Wailea, Makena, Paia and Hana.

Some hotels in other parts of the island, such as the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, have posted regularly updated statements on their websites.

It has been over a week now since wildfires decimated the historic town of Lahaina. Disaster recovery efforts are ongoing in West Maui, and supplies are flowing into the affected areas on a regular basis. And while the restoration of the land and community will take years, we know that Maui's tight-knit community will get through this together. We are grateful that the Wailea region of South Maui was not impacted and that all of our team members are safe and accounted for. Grand Wailea continues to welcome guests with aloha.

As we look toward the future of our island, it is more important now than ever that guests and groups continue to visit Maui. In a statement, the HLTA [Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association] noted, "Yes, we must be sensitive to the plight of those suffering from the wildfires. But bear in mind that so many of the victims and their families depend on the visitor industry for their jobs and futures. While they may have lost their homes and more, losing their incomes would only add to the pain and hardship of their situation. That's why it's important to keep tourism functioning to keep our economy alive and give our people hope and the ability to rebuild their lives." Governor Green shared in his daily briefing that, "what we're saying now is travel should not be to West Maui. But the other parts of Maui are safe."

Is it safe to travel to the other Hawaiian islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai and Hawaii?

Travel to the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai and Lanai and parts of the Big Island is not affected at this time in terms of safety. However, there may be some near-term capacity issues with so many tourists trying to relocate from Maui and even Maui residents seeking shelter on the other islands.

If you have a trip planned to another Hawaiian island, operations are likely currently unaffected. However, contact your hotel or check its website or social media channels for any updates should the situation change.

Additionally, be aware that while statements from officials say other Hawaiian islands are open and available for tourism, there is a sentiment among some Hawaiian residents that now may not be the time to vacation in the state. The area is grappling with this tragedy and working to support Maui with the resources and infrastructure that it needs.

Airlines allowing changes to Maui flights

A previous update from the Hawaii Tourism Authority stated that 46,000 residents and visitors have already been flown off the island since the fires began. If you have a flight to Maui booked in August or September that you wish to change, you are encouraged to contact your airline and revise your travel plans if needed. The airlines have all updated their travel waiver policies, with some extending dates into September or November.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines has instituted a flexible travel policy for guests who would like to change or cancel flights to or from Maui. Currently, it is processing changes if your ticket was purchased prior to Aug. 11 and your plans are between now and Sept. 16.

American Airlines

American Airlines passengers can change their origin or destination to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) or Lihue Airport (LIH) at no cost for tickets bought by Aug. 9 for travel originally scheduled through Sept. 16.

New flights must be booked for travel by Nov. 18 for the same cabin. Alternatively, passengers can cancel their originally scheduled trips and request a refund. This only applies to flight changes made by Sept. 16 for travel completed within one year of the original ticket date.

Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines has issued a change policy specific to flights in or out of OGG, HNL, KOA, LIH.

The fare difference will be waived when rebooked travel occurs on or before Nov. 18 in the same cabin of service as originally booked. A fare difference may apply when the waiver is class-to-class restrictive and the original booking class is not maintained in the rebooked itinerary. There are additional conditions and restrictions listed as well.

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines travelers can reschedule their flights at no cost for flights in and out of OGG between Aug. 9 and Dec. 15 to new dates. There will be no change fees or fare differences on the same city pair and the same cabin of service.

Tickets can be booked for new travel to or from the following airports: OGG, Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), Hilo International Airport (ITO), Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and Lihue Airport (LIH). However, tickets must be rebooked into the same compartment (Main Cabin or Business Cabin) by Sept. 1; travel must occur between Aug. 9 and Nov. 16 or between Nov. 29 and Dec. 15. The airline notes that itineraries with travel outside these periods would not be eligible for a waiver of a fare difference.

Alternatively, these travelers can cancel their flights in exchange for a future flight credit, expiring one year from the original date of purchase. Those with flights booked to or from OGG between Aug. 9 and Sept. 15 can also request a refund . The request must be submitted by Sept. 1.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines customers with reservations to, from or through OGG between Aug. 9 and Oct. 17 can rebook in the original class of service or travel standby for free; this is as long as the new travel falls within 14 days of the original date of travel between the original city pairs.

Additionally, these customers can change their original departure or arrival flight to any of the below Hawaii airports without charge:

United Airlines

United Airlines is allowing travelers to reschedule trips and will waive change fees and fare differences for trips originally scheduled into Maui through Sept. 16. You can then alter your plans to travel by Nov. 18 at no additional cost to one of these airports:

If your new trip is after August 10, 2024, or is to a different destination, United will still waive any change fees, but you might have to pay a fare difference depending on the flight. Alternatively, if you cancel or don't take your trip, you can request a full refund .

What to do if you have a hotel or an Airbnb booked in Maui

Most of West Maui is still without power and has limited phone service, so you may not be able to contact your hotel directly to cancel your reservation. It is recommended to call the central reservations number for your hotel company. If you are unable to reach the hotel, your next best option is to monitor your specific hotel's social media channels and websites for any updates.

According to the latest statement released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority , hotels in West Maui have temporarily stopped accepting bookings of future reservations. Hotels are being used to house their employees and families, evacuees and first responders working on disaster recovery — more than 1,000 people so far, with more to come.

Additionally, vacation rental owners and operators and anyone with available space are encouraged to make these accommodations available to temporarily house displaced West Maui residents. Since Aug. 14, the state has offered a referral program to make those connections possible to support West Maui residents in need of housing, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority statement.

Hotels in the Kaanapali area have now updated their websites with further guidance. The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa added an alert that the hotel is temporarily closed and that cancellation fees will be waived through Sept. 15. The Hyatt Vacation Club at Ka'anapali Beach posted that all reservations through Sept. 3 have been canceled, and the hotel is allowing guests beyond that date to cancel or reschedule by contacting them. Any deposits and prepayments for canceled stays between now and Sept. 30 will be refunded.

If you booked a chain hotel directly, you can work with the corporate 1-800 number to alter your plans. If you booked through a third-party online travel agency or aggregator like Expedia or Travelocity, it's important to understand the cancellation policy. The OTA still owns your reservation prior to your travel , so contacting the hotel directly will likely result in you being referred back to the OTA or travel portal for assistance.

For those travelers who booked accommodations with Airbnb, the company has activated its " Extenuating Circumstances Policy " for parts of Maui. Eligible guests with reservations will receive a full refund, and both hosts and guests can cancel bookings penalty-free, the company said on Wednesday.

Will your credit card or trip insurance cover changes?

Generally, trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance will cover nonrefundable expenses, such as airfare, accommodation and activities, if you need to cancel your trip (or the remainder of your trip) due to a natural disaster like the wildfires. However, credit card insurance policies can vary, so check the benefits guide for the card you used to book your airfare for specific exclusions.

Also, note that you must have booked your trip before the natural disaster starts in order to be covered. This means that if you booked a new trip today, it likely wouldn't be covered due to the wildfires already being labeled a declared emergency.

If you need to file a trip cancellation or interruption claim:

• Check your credit card's benefits guide to see if you are eligible for coverage and what the limits are.
• Call your credit card's benefits administrator, or start a claim online.
• Determine which documents you need to collect.
• Submit the documents within the required timeline.

"Many travel insurance policies can cover travelers who need to cancel or interrupt their trip due to a natural disaster, such as the Hawaii wildfires," Steven Benna, marketing manager for Squaremouth Travel Insurance, told TPG. "This can include cancellation coverage for travelers who are unable to travel because their destination is uninhabitable or under a mandatory evacuation due to the fires, as well as interruption coverage for travelers whose trips are cut short."

"However, travel insurance is designed to cover unforeseen events," he added. "In order for coverage to be available, the traveler must have bought their policy before the fires began."

Depending on the needs of your trip, sites like InsureMyTrip and Squaremouth allow you to shop for plans that may fit your travel needs and compare coverage and pricing for multiple policy options at once.

Various membership associations, such as USAA, AAA and Costco, also offer travel insurance policies for purchase. Typically, these organizations partner with a specific provider, so you may want to compare the policies offered through the organization with other policies to get the best coverage for any future trips.

There's also a type of coverage referred to as "cancel for any reason" coverage . You might only get 75% of the trip cost back, so depending on the trip, it might not be worth the hefty premium.

Related: 4 times your credit card's travel insurance can help with travel woes, and 7 times it won't

What to do if you have a cruise to Hawaii

For cruise passengers, it's important to understand the cancellation or rebooking policy for the specific cruise line you will be traveling on.

Cruise lines might reroute to avoid Maui and affected areas. Per the terms of the cruise contract to which you consent before sailing, cruise lines do not owe you compensation if they alter your itinerary. If changes are made, you will be refunded for any shore excursions you booked through the cruise line that were to take place in the ports you're skipping. (Check with your tour provider directly if you've booked a third-party excursion.)

TPG's guide on what happens if a cruise gets canceled is the next place to refer to for guidance if you receive notice that your cruise is canceled.

A spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Line shared this statement with TPG regarding Pride of America, its Hawaii-based cruise ship that sails weekly on a seven-night all-Hawaii cruise from Honolulu:

We are deeply saddened to hear about the wildfires currently impacting the town of Lahaina in Maui. We have a very special relationship with the people and islands of Hawaii as we sail to the beautiful state year-round. It is a magical destination and one that is highly sought out by our guests for its natural beauty, culture and unparalleled experiences. We are closely monitoring the situation in Maui, impacting the west side of the island, opposite the Kahului Harbor, where we call. At this time, there is no impact on our scheduled itineraries. As always, our top priority is the safety and security of our guests and crew. We will communicate further updates as appropriate.

Princess Cruises offered the following statement:

Given the severity of these fires and their significant strain on local resources, Emerald Princess will cancel her scheduled call to Maui (Lahaina) on Monday, August 14, and will instead call to Kona.

As we continue to monitor the situation, we are actively reviewing the itineraries of our upcoming voyages. If any adjustments need to be made to our published itineraries, we will advise guests and our Travel Advisor partners.

Related: What happens if my cruise line changes my itinerary or ship?

How to help support Maui's recovery efforts

In collaboration with the Hawaii Community Foundation, state leaders and nonprofits, the Maui Strong Fund is accepting donations to assist with recovery and relief efforts.

"The Maui Strong Fund was created to provide community resilience with resources for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery," according to the Hawaii Community Foundation. "The fund is currently being used to support communities affected by the wildfires on Maui," with 100% of funds being distributed for community needs.

TPG and Lonely Planet have teamed up to donate $25,000 to the Maui Strong Fund, and if you also want to help, you can learn more about the organization and donate here .

Aloha United Way has established a Maui Fire Relief Fund on its website , and 100% of the proceeds are directed to Maui United Way. The organization's partner agencies — such as the Maui Food Bank, the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army — are distributing relief funds according to the community's most urgent needs.

Donating miles or cash via airlines

Hawaiian Airlines has updated its website with a message allowing loyalty members to donate HawaiianMiles, which will be used to transport volunteers and staff to Maui. Up to 30 million miles in donations will be matched by the airline for the month of August. You must log in to your account to donate.

American Airlines is also supporting the American Red Cross' disaster relief efforts, and American Airlines AAdvantage members can earn 10 AAdvantage bonus miles for every dollar donated to the Red Cross via its microsite . (Note there's a minimum donation amount of $25.)

Alaska Airlines has contributed 5 million miles to Kanu Hawaii and Maui Rapid Response, which are leading the efforts to relocate displaced Maui residents while they work to rebuild. Alaska Airlines will match the first 1 million miles donated by Mileage Plan members through Aug. 31. Donate miles to Kanu Hawaii .

Bottom line

This is a devastating, life-altering event for the people of Maui. The most important things to consider right now are the safety of everyone on Maui and efforts to help those affected by the disaster, both by considering tangible donations and allowing space and time for relief and recovery efforts.

Now that local government officials have released updated travel guidance, only West Maui communities are off-limits. Other areas of Maui are open and accepting guests.

Based on the updated information shared by the Hawaiian governor and the statement released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the economy would suffer without tourism in the Hawaiian Islands. They are encouraging travelers to consider visiting other areas of Maui, including Kahului, Wailuku, Kihei, Wailea, Makena, Paia and Hana.

Related reading:

• Hawaii declares emergency due to wildfires, discourages all nonessential travel to Maui
• Your flight is delayed or canceled: Here's what to do next
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• The best credit cards that offer trip cancellation and interruption insurance

Additional reporting by Caroline Tanner, Matt Moffitt, Erica Silverstein and Meghna Maharishi.

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I’ve Got a Trip to Maui Planned. Should I Still Go?

While the west side and parts of the interior of the Hawaiian island struggle to recover from devastating wildfires, other areas are unaffected. Our Maui-based writer asked locals and business owners if they still want tourists.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Any number of concerns are on our radar as we plan our next trip, from serious issues like how destinations are working to mitigate tourists’ environmental impact to inconveniences like months-long passport wait times. In this column, our travel expert addresses your questions about how to navigate the world. 

I’m supposed to go to Maui in a couple of weeks for a long-planned vacation. I love the island and don’t want to add to the suffering or be disrespectful by showing up after the fires. But I also know that businesses probably need tourism dollars more than ever right now. Should I still go? —A Concerned Traveler

I understand how you feel. I’ve lived between Maui’s North Shore and the upcountry town of Haiku off and on for ten years. I flew out the day before the wildfires took place for a work trip. Sadly, many of my friends were gravely affected, losing homes and businesses.

I asked some of my local acquaintances for their thoughts on traveling to Maui at this time.

Dustin Tester, the owner of Maui Surfer Girls , did a roll call of her employees last week to make sure they had all survived the island’s catastrophic wildfires. Her surf school and the majority of her 12 instructors are based out of Lahaina, the historic town on the west coast that was turned to ashes. While seven of her employees lost their homes, they’re all safe, albeit coping with serious trauma. The surf’s schools cabins where they hold camps, located outside of Lahaina at Olowalu Point, survived. The company’s Toyota Tundra and the dozen boards it transports were incinerated.

One employee barely escaped the flames on Lahaina’s Front Street with their ten-month-old and six-year-old. Another hunkered down in a car for 17 hours in a cement parking structure in a local outlet mall. “Every instructor has a harrowing story,” says Tester, who created a GoFundMe page for her staff.

The blaze that destroyed Lahaina, once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, is now the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century. It has thus far claimed more than 100 lives, a number that is expected to rise with 1,300 people still missing, warned Hawaii governor Josh Green.

Survivors are just beginning to feel the effects of the disaster, the cause of which is still being determined. Upcountry Maui, an area on the western slopes of Haleakala that includes the towns of Makawao and Kula, is still battling fires; 19 homes there have already been reported destroyed.

While saving lives and recovery efforts in the Lahaina area are still of the utmost importance at this time, some tourists with plans to travel to Maui are asking if it’s okay to visit other parts of the island right now. I also know from reporting a story that disastrous events like this can result in many local companies going out of business because of the huge drop in tourism dollars from canceled trips.

Tester acknowledges that it’s still a fluid situation on the west side of the island at this time but told me: “We want and need tourists going forward. By coming, you’d be providing a livelihood for my instructors and other local businesses, and I’m thinking of ways that visitors can give back when they come to a surf camp in the future.”

Should You Travel to Maui Right Now? It Depends on Who You Talk To.

And also where you want to go. In his latest emergency proclamation, Governor Green urged travelers to postpone all nonessential travel to West Maui, which includes the popular resort spots of Napili, Kaanapali, Kapalua, and Lahaina, so that resources there can be used to help residents recover. As for other parts of the island, messaging has been mixed.

On August 12, the Hawaii Tourism Authority suggested that tourists should only refrain from visiting West Maui. “Maui is not closed,” Maui County mayor Richard Bissen said at a press conference over the weekend. “Many of our residents make their living off of tourism.”

The airport has remained open the entire time and major airlines are still flying to the island.

Other native Hawaiians, like musician Paula Fuga and actor Jason Momoa, feel differently and have used social media to urge tourists to cancel their trips. “Our community needs time to heal, drive, and restore,” posted Momoa.

Cole Millington, a Lahaina resident who lost his home and business, has been gobsmacked seeing tour boats holding snorkel tours on the island’s west side days after bodies burned in those waters. “It’s not the tourists’ fault,” he told me. “But it underscores a pathetic divide between people who live here and tourists who think Maui is Disneyland. We ask that people give us time before we have to put on an aloha smile and be at your service.”

Tester understands both points of view. Most surf schools on West Maui were destroyed, and surf breaks like Breakwall in Lahaina won’t be accessible for a long time. Authorities are also still evaluating the extent of environmental damage. Maui Surfer Girls typically operates just south of Lahaina, at Ukumehame Beach Park. This area isn’t considered a disaster zone, yet the beach can’t be reached due to road blocks.

“Right now we’ve decided to close,” Tester says. “If the roads reopen, we could technically hold lessons, but there’s a lot of politics around that.” She also noted that instructors have told her they’d rather be helping with recovery efforts than working. She doesn’t foresee reopening until Thanksgiving.

Tester surfed in Kihei, on the island’s south side, a few days ago, where she says it felt like business as usual. “So many tourists were taking surf lessons two days after the fires,” she says. “It felt greedy and insensitive, but I get it. Surf schools have families and need to survive. This is high season.”

How Is Tourism Being Affected on Maui After the Fires?

The repercussions of the fires on the island’s tourism industry have already started to be felt, leaving many local business owners reeling from flashbacks reminiscent of the  pandemic shutdown. More than 11,000 people—most of them visitors—have flown off the island since the fires began. Airlines like Southwest and American, have issued travel vouchers and waived change fees for flights to Maui through August 31. The number of airline passengers to Maui on Sunday was down nearly 81 percent compared to this time last year, according to the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.

Hotels in West Maui have temporarily stopped accepting bookings on future reservations so they can house employees, evacuees, and first responders. Vacation rental owners in west-side towns have also been encouraged to make accommodations available to the displaced. Hotel operator Hilton Worldwide Holdings, which has 23 hotels throughout Hawaii, said it was waiving cancellation penalties for those traveling to, from, or through all of the islands until the end of the month.

Airbnb owners across Maui have reported receiving cancellations through March 2024. Amy Varain, who owns an Airbnb in the upcountry town of Haiku, which was not affected by the fires, says guests booked to stay at her property even as late as December have called to cancel based on the destruction they’re seeing on the news.

“I completely understand that reaction,” Varain says. “All you see if you search online is everything about the fires, and no one talks about how this is concentrated on one part of the island. Our island is 100 percent tourism driven. Without visitors our whole island will suffer. The rest of the island still needs their kind support and visits.” She has been trying to educate guests by posting on social media to remind them how much of Maui has been unaffected by the fires.

Brett Sheerin, owner of Maui True North, a kitesurf and surf school, says people who have lost their jobs are desperately calling him to see if he needs instructors. Like Tester, he typically teaches surf lessons in West Maui and worries that the water is now toxic. He doesn’t have enough business to bring on new hires though, and currently can only operate kitesurfing lessons on another side of the island.

“Everyone here already works two or three jobs,” he says. “I call it the Maui hustle. I have money saved, my house did not burn, and I could last six months to a year if I don’t make another dime, but a lot of people are going to have to leave the island if we don’t have tourism jobs.”

How to Be a Conscientious Visitor if You Go to Maui Right Now

If you are planning to visit Maui in the coming months, do so with compassion and aloha. Many residents have lost loved ones, homes, and businesses. Be sensitive to what they are going through. “I’m telling friends to think of this as our 9/11,” says Sheerin.

West Maui is off limits and will likely remain so until the end of the year, according to officials. But other parts of the island, including Hana, Wailea, and Paia, depend on tourism dollars.

If you’re inclined to volunteer, several organizations, like Maui Humane Society and Maui Food Bank , welcome visitors’ time and energy. Caitlin Carroll, who works for the Pacific Whale Foundation and lost her Lahaina home, says: “Anyone who comes should be prepared to put their boots on and help.”

Maui Rapid Response , a citizen disaster response team, is looking to assign volunteers to appropriate work that matches their skill sets. Jobs include food distribution, tree cutting and clearing, and clean-up efforts.

And it almost goes without saying that if and when you visit Maui, put your tourism dollars toward local businesses wherever you are.

Jen Murphy is an Outside correspondent who has lived part-time on Maui’s North Shore and upcountry for over a decade. Among other stories, she writes a travel advice column for Outside . She has been deeply saddened to see so many parts of the island suffer but inspired by the community’s resiliency and islanders’ unwavering support for each other.

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Traveling to Maui? Here's What You Need to Know

October 09, 2023

Shaka Guide

On October 8, 2023, parts of West Maui have reopened following the devasting Lahaina fires. Visitors can now travel to Kaanapali, Napilii, Honokowai, and Kapalua in West Maui. The town of Lahaina, which was severely impacted by the fires, and the surrounding area are still closed to tourists. 

Other parts of Maui - such as the Road to Hana, Haleakala, Kahului, and Wailua - have been open to travelers and will remain open.

Although Maui has reopened, please be aware that the community is still struggling. There are a number of ways that you can support Maui both during your visit and from afar. If you do have plans to visit Maui, we ask that you patronize local businesses that desperately need support. We at Shaka Guide have teamed up with a number of local businesses to offer exclusive deals for your Maui vacation. Download the free Maui Coupon Book here and #shoplocal ! 

If you're not visiting Maui, but would still like to support the ongoing relief effort, below is a list of organizations that are accepting donations. 

Council For Native Hawaiian Advancement 

CNHA is matching donations up to $1.5 million in donations.

American Red Cross of Hawaii

Offering shelter and assistance to those impacted by the fires.

Maui Food Bank 

Working with various organizations to provide relief throughout Maui.

Maui United Way

All donations provide direct relief to families and nonprofits.

The Salvation Army Hawaii

Providing food and other essential items to evacuees.

Maui Humane Society

Supporting animals that have been displaced at this time. 

Hawaii Community Foundation

Providing resources for disaster response and recovery through the Maui Strong Fund.

Thank you for visiting Maui responsibly at this time. Again, the community is still in mourning and asking that anyone who visits Maui does so with aloha. 

REVERSE ROAD TO HANA

Loop road to hana, related articles.

Which Maui Tour is Right For You?

Hawaii's Best Podcast: Top Five Things to Do in Maui

Hawaii's Best Podcast: Maui Travel Guide

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How to adjust your travel plans for Hawaii during the wildfires

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The Hawaiian island of Maui is asking visitors to stay away as it tries to recover from devastating wildfires.

Officials said Thursday morning that two of the three fires on Maui were largely contained. But the damage to portions of the island is extensive, particularly in the tourism-heavy region of West Maui, where fire appears to have incinerated much of the historic town of Lahaina .

The Kahului Airport on Maui remains open, at least in part because of all the people being evacuated (officials have asked all visitors on “non-essential” trips to leave). With the wildfires causing more than 50 deaths and an estimated $8 billion to $10 billion in damage and economic losses, the Hawaiian government is strongly discouraging tourists from coming to the island.

If you had a vacation planned, this is what you need to know.

World & Nation

Mapping how the Maui fires destroyed Lahaina

The Lahaina fire in West Maui ignited as firefighters focused on the Upcountry fire. What happened next — the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century — left the historic town in ashes.

Aug. 14, 2023

Should I cancel my trip to Hawaii?

The state tourism authority emphasized that most parts of Hawaii continue to welcome visitors. “Travel to Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi” and parts of Hawaiʻi Island other than the Mauna Kea resort area “are not affected at this time,” the authority said on its website Wednesday. By Thursday, the Mauna Kea Resort on the big island was open again after three fires in the area were brought under control, the authority said.

Maui, and particularly West Maui, is a different story. The tourism authority said Wednesday night that visitors bound for West Maui in the coming weeks “are encouraged to consider rescheduling their travel plans for a later time.”

“In the days and weeks ahead, our collective resources and attention must be focused on the recovery of residents and communities that were forced to evacuate their homes and businesses,” the authority said.

Death toll in Maui fires rises to 67: ‘We have not yet searched’ buildings

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green says the fires are probably the state’s deadliest natural disaster in decades.

Aug. 11, 2023

What can I do about my flight to Hawaii?

Some major airlines offer customers the ability to obtain refunds for travel to Maui in the coming weeks, as well as the option to reschedule their flights. The exact terms depend on the airline.

At United Airlines , if you had paid for a flight to Kahului Airport between Aug. 11 and Aug. 31, you can cancel and get a refund, according to the United website. You can also reschedule your trip and the change fees and fare differences will be waived under certain circumstances.

If your new trip is after Aug. 31 or is to a destination outside Hawaii, United will still waive any change fees, but you may have to pay a fare difference, depending on the flight.

At Delta Air Lines , customers who can’t reschedule their trips to Maui may cancel their reservations and apply the ticket cost to the purchase of new flight — but that flight has to be booked no more than a year after the Maui ticket was purchased, the airline’s website says.

If you schedule a new flight on or before Aug. 18 at the same level of service as the Maui flight, Delta’s website says it will waive the change fee and any difference in fare. After that, only the change fee will be waived.

The American Airlines site suggests that refunds are possible for flights to or through Maui if you cancel by Aug. 13. You can apply for one on the airline’s website .

If you want to reschedule your flight, American will waive the change fee if you rebook by Aug. 13, but you may have to pay any difference in the fare. To see if your flight is eligible for a refund or fee waiver, use the “ Find your trip ” tool on the airline’s website. If you can’t change your trip online, call Reservations for help.

At Alaska Airlines , if you’d purchased a ticket to or from Maui by Aug. 9, you can obtain a refund as long as you cancel before the original flight’s departure date, the airline’s website says. You can also reschedule onto a new flight to or from Maui or three other Hawaiian airports through Aug. 31 at the same fare if you stay in the same cabin. But you have to exchange their tickets prior to the departure of their original flight.

Hawaiian Airlines is allowing customers to cancel their flights in exchange for a refund or a credit for future flights, or to change their flights to a different island, its website says. To change or cancel your flight, call the airline’s reservations line at 800-367-5320.

A spokesperson for the airline said, “We ask guests with non-urgent inquiries to please call back later so that we can assist travelers with immediate needs. Guests traveling through Kahului should continue to check their flight status on our website or app before coming to the airport.”

How to help Maui residents displaced by the devastating wildfires

Wildfires on the Hawaiian island of Maui have killed at least 36 people, displaced thousands of residents and destroyed hundreds of structures, including homes, businesses and a school, prompting President Biden to declare a “major disaster.”

Aug. 10, 2023

Will my hotel charge me a fee to cancel my stay in Maui?

Under normal circumstances, many hotels penalize last-minute cancellations by charging fees that can be considerable. Some in West Maui are waiving those fees at the moment, but figuring out the policy at the hotel you’ve booked can be a challenge — the closer it is to the fire, the more likely that its power and phone lines are down.

The Hyatt family of hotels is waiving cancellation fees for arrivals “in the coming days,” the company said in a statement. It suggested that guests with reservations call its customer support line at 800-233-1234 “for additional details and assistance in alternate accommodations.” It also noted, however, that canceled reservations made through online booking sites and other third parties may be governed by those sites’ policies.

An Expedia spokesperson told The Times in an email that it is working with hotels that book through Expedia and Hotels.com to institute a “flex policy” for reservations on the full island of Maui through Aug. 31. “This means that travelers with upcoming bookings in the impacted area can change or cancel their hotel booking without penalty,” she said. “The flex policy can be accessed when you engage with a virtual agent once you log into your account or provide your itinerary number to the virtual agent.”

Expedia and Hotels.com ’s customer service agents are available 24 hours a day by phone or online to help with travel arrangements.

According to a spokesperson for Marriott hotels, the Westin Maui Resort & Spa in Ka’anapali, the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa and the Ritz-Carlton Maui in Kapalua have been evacuated and will close temporarily due to extended power outages. Cancellation fees at the three hotels have been waived through Aug. 31. She advised travelers to the area to follow the news and MauiCounty.gov for local situation updates. To adjust reservations, guests should visit Marriott.com or the Marriott app.

If you’re headed for other parts of Maui or the Mauna Kea resort area on the island of Hawaii, the state tourism authority says, you should talk to the hotel you booked for updates about how you might be affected.

Hotels in Maui may still be taking reservations, and some are providing refunds up to the date of travel. For example, you could book a room for next week at the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort on Thursday afternoon, even though the power and phone lines at the resort were out, according to a reservation agent.

‘Gone forever’: Fire devastates historic Lahaina, former capital of the Hawaiian kingdom

The wildfire that ripped through Maui devastated Lahaina, a town boasting centuries of history and that was once the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom.

Can I cancel my Vrbo or Airbnb?

Expedia Group, which owns Vrbo, said in a statement that it is “applying an extenuating circumstances exception for eligible Vrbo reservations in Maui where travelers will be able to get a full refund.” It added, “We will continue to work with our Vrbo hosts who have upcoming bookings in impacted areas to make sure all of our travelers are treated fairly.”

Airbnb customer service says that they will provide penalty-free cancellations in parts of Maui for hosts and guests who request them. However, people need to call the site’s customer service line at (844) 234-2500 to make sure that they are eligible.

Travelers whose accommodations aren’t directly affected by the fires may have a harder time obtaining a refund.

One reader told The Times that he and his wife wanted to heed the government’s request and cancel their trip to Maui, but their Airbnb host declined to give them even a partial refund on their $2,000 stay. According to Airbnb’s site, cancellations and refunds are up to the hosts , not Airbnb.

Will travel insurance cover me?

According to the insurance comparison site Insuremytrip.com , “If a wildfire that affects your trip is known before you purchase a plan, your coverage may be extremely limited.” So if you are thinking of purchasing travel insurance now for a trip in the coming weeks, don’t bother.

What you can do is see if wildfires fall under the definition of “natural disaster” on your travel insurance policy. You may also be eligible for coverage under “trip delay” if your flight is canceled, “trip interruption” if your accommodations or primary residence are damaged, or “trip cancellation” if your destination has been evacuated, Insuremytrip says.

About The Times Utility Journalism Team

This article is from The Times’ Utility Journalism Team. Our mission is to be essential to the lives of Southern Californians by publishing information that solves problems, answers questions and helps with decision making . We serve audiences in and around Los Angeles — including current Times subscribers and diverse communities that haven’t historically had their needs met by our coverage. How can we be useful to you and your community? Email utility (at) latimes.com or one of our journalists: Jon Healey , Ada Tseng , Jessica Roy and Karen Garcia .

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Jan. 21, 2024

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Emma Fox was a 2023 summer intern on the Utility Journalism team at the Los Angeles Times. A student at Loyola Marymount University, she majors in journalism with a Chicano/Latino studies minor and was the arts and culture editor at the on-campus publication, the Lion. Fox is the president of her school’s chapters of the National Assn. of Hispanic Journalists and the Society of Professional Journalists and previously was an intern for the San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

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Maui’s economy needs tourists. Can they visit without compounding wildfire trauma?

Tourists get off of a Trilogy Excursions boat arriving on Kaanapali Beach in front of a flag of Hawaii planted in the sand, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

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People walk by a tent with a “Lahaina strong” flag, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at Whalers Village on Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

A tourist family sit on the beach next to the Lahaina Strong “Fish-in” on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism. (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

Katie Austin walking around the “Fish-in” on, Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism.” (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

Tourists pass by the “Fish-in” camp on the popular beach of Kaanapali Beach, Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism.” (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

The state of Hawaii flag hung upside down outside of a beach side resort on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism.” (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

Carlos Lamas looks out to the sea from his spot at the “Fish-in” protest on, Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism.” (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

Jordan Ruidas holds her daughter as she speaks with visitors on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism.” (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

A resort looks over tents set up by Lahaina Strong for their “Fish-in” on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism.” (AP Photo/Ty O"Neil)

Lahaina Strong members speak together on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism. (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

A fishing pole and the Hawaiian state flag are posted on the popular tourist beach of Kaanapali on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism.” (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

Jordan Ruidas sits with her daughter, Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism.” (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

A tourist stops to read signs at the Lahaina Strong “Fish-in” on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism. (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

Tourists visit at a outdoor restaurant next to the Lahaina Strong “Fish-in” on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than four months after the fire, tensions are growing between those who want to welcome tourists back to provide jobs and those who feel the town isn’t ready for a return to tourism. (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil)

Signs asking people to respect locals and that “Lahaina is not for sale” are seen on the side of the Lahaina Bypass, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

A boy waits for a shuttle as a man golfs at the Ka’anapali Golf Courses, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in the beach resort community of Kaanapali in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

A couple walks by a sign acknowledging the August wildfires at Whalers Village, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, on Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

People sit on Kaanapali Beach in front of a flag of Hawaii planted in the sand, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Tourists walk on Kaanapali Beach in front of a flag of Hawaii planted in the sand, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

A tent sits in front of the Hula Grill Kaanapali, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Tourists visit Kaanapali Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

A man sets up an umbrella in front of a Lahaina Strong informational sign, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

People drive golf carts through the Ka’anapali Golf Courses, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

A family takes a photo at the Whalers Village shopping mall, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

People walk by shops at the Whalers Village shopping mall, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Tourists visit the Hula Grill on Kaanapali Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

People pose for a photo in front of a Christmas tree at Whalers Village shopping mall on Kaanapali Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

A child sits atop a person’s shoulders next to a flag of Hawaii and a tent on Kaanapali Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Visitors walk by a Christmas tree at Whalers Village, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

People stand by a “defend the land” sign, at a “Fishing for Housing” protest, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Displaced Lahaina wildfire survivor Lily Nguyen, who says she and her daughter fled into the ocean water for five hours to escape the fire, prepares pho at a Fishing for Housing protest Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. “Almost four months now and we live day by day, we don’t know what to do,” Nguyen said. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Blake Ramelb, left, talks with De Andre Makakoa, right, in Makakoa’s tent at a housing protest on Kaanapali Beach Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Naldo Valentine, who lost his home to the Lahaina wildfire, puts up a light as darkness falls at a housing protest on Kaanapali Beach Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Tourists dine in restaurants at Whalers Village shopping mall in front of a “Lahaina Strong” flag from a housing protest on Kaanapali Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

De Andre Makakoa, who lost his home to the Lahaina wildfire, poses for a portrait inside his tent at a housing protest on Kaanapali Beach Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors is camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui, staying in hotels still housing some displaced residents. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Visitors eat at the Honoapiilani Food Truck Park, Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023, in the beach resort community of Kaanapali in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Visitors order from a truck at the Honoapiilani Food Truck Park, Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023, in the beach resort community of Kaanapali in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) — The restaurant where Katie Austin was a server burned in the wildfire that devastated Hawaii’s historic town of Lahaina this summer.

Two months later, as travelers began to trickle back to nearby beach resorts, she went to work at a different eatery. But she soon quit, worn down by constant questions from diners: Was she affected by the fire? Did she know anyone who died?

“You’re at work for eight hours and every 15 minutes you have a new stranger ask you about the most traumatic day of your life,” Austin said. “It was soul-sucking.”

Hawaii’s governor and mayor invited tourists back to the west side of Maui months after the Aug. 8 fire killed at least 100 people and destroyed more than 2,000 buildings. They wanted the economic boost tourists would bring, particularly heading into the year-end holidays.

But some residents are struggling with the return of an industry requiring workers to be attentive and hospitable even though they are trying to care for themselves after losing their loved ones, friends, homes and community.

Maui is a large island. Many parts, like the ritzy resorts in Wailea, 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of Lahaina — where the first season of the HBO hit “The White Lotus” was filmed — are eagerly welcoming travelers and their dollars .

Things are more complicated in west Maui. Lahaina is still a mess of charred rubble. Efforts to clean up toxic debris are painstakingly slow . It’s off-limits to everyone except residents.

Tensions are peaking over the lack of long-term, affordable housing for wildfire evacuees, many of whom work in tourism. Dozens have been camping out in protest around the clock on a popular tourist beach at Kaanapali, a few miles north of Lahaina. Last week, hundreds marched between two large hotels waving signs reading, “We need housing now!” and “Short-term rentals gotta go!”

Hotels at Kaanapali are still housing about 6,000 fire evacuees unable to find long-term shelter in Maui’s tight and expensive housing market. But some have started to bring back tourists, and owners of timeshare condos have returned. At a shopping mall, visitors stroll past shops and dine at at open-air oceanfront restaurants.

Austin took a job at a restaurant in Kaanapali after the fire, but quit after five weeks. It was a strain to serve mai tais to people staying in a hotel or vacation rental while her friends were leaving the island because they lacked housing, she said.

Servers and many others in the tourism industry often work for tips, which puts them in a difficult position when a customer prods them with questions they don’t want to answer. Even after Austin’s restaurant posted a sign asking customers to respect employees’ privacy, the queries continued.

“I started telling people, ‘Unless you’re a therapist, I don’t want to talk to you about it,’” she said.

Austin now plans to work for a nonprofit organization that advocates for housing.

Erin Kelley didn’t lose her home or workplace but has been laid off as a bartender at Sheraton Maui Resort since the fire. The hotel reopened to visitors in late December, but she doesn’t expect to get called back to work until business picks up.

She has mixed feelings. Workers should have a place to live before tourists are welcome in west Maui, she said, but residents are so dependent on the industry that many will remain jobless without those same visitors.

“I’m really sad for friends and empathetic towards their situation,” she said. “But we also need to make money,”

Displaced Lahaina wildfire survivor Lily Nguyen, who says she and her daughter fled into the ocean water for five hours to escape the fire, prepares pho at a Fishing for Housing protest Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

When she does return to work, Kelley said she won’t want to “talk about anything that happened for the past few months.”

More travel destinations will likely have to navigate these dilemmas as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of natural disasters.

There is no manual for doing so, said Chekitan Dev, a tourism professor at Cornell University. Handling disasters — natural and manmade — will have to be part of their business planning.

Andreas Neef, a development professor and tourism researcher at the University of Auckland in New Zealand, suggested one solution might be to promote organized “voluntourism.” Instead of sunbathing, tourists could visit part of west Maui that didn’t burn and enlist in an effort to help the community.

“Bringing tourists for relaxation back is just at this time a little bit unrealistic,” Neef said. “I couldn’t imagine relaxing in a place where you still feel the trauma that has affected the place overall.”

Many travelers have been canceling holiday trips to Maui out of respect, said Lisa Paulson, the executive director of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association. Visitation is down about 20% from December of 2022, according to state data .

Cancellations are affecting hotels all over the island, not just in west Maui.

Paulson attributes some of this to confusing messages in national and social media about whether visitors should come. Many people don’t understand the island’s geography or that there are places people can visit outside west Maui, she said.

A child sits atop a person’s shoulders next to a flag of Hawaii and a tent on Kaanapali Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

One way visitors can help is to remember they’re traveling to a place that recently experienced significant trauma, said Amory Mowrey, the executive director of Maui Recovery, a mental health and substance abuse residential treatment center.

“Am I being driven by compassion and empathy or am I just here to take, take, take?” he said.

That’s the approach honeymooners Jordan and Carter Prechel of Phoenix adopted. They kept their reservations in Kihei, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Lahaina, vowing to be respectful and to support local businesses.

“Don’t bombard them with questions,” Jordan said recently while eating an afternoon snack in Kaanapali with her husband. “Be conscious of what they’ve gone through.”

This story has been corrected to fix the spelling of the first name of Cornell University Professor Chekitan Dev.

Maui Arrival Requirements Revealed for Visitors In 2024

In endless pronouncements even in the past few days, from the hanging-from-a-thread Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) and its marketing partners, the word is out, and the messaging is clear on just how they see Maui visitors in 2024. We’re calling it “arrival requirements,” inasmuch as here’s what HTA requests of Maui-bound travelers. This is part of the HTA approved “immediate six-month action plan for 2024 to help address major challenges” associated with Maui.

Maui walks a fine line between necessary tourism, long-suffering fire victims, overall housing shortages and irate anti-tourism advocates.

Using cloaked and potentially offensive terms, HTA says it only wants to attract “respectful” tourists to Maui. This comes as an element of their outreach campaign to both US and Canadian visitors. Canadian visitors typically make up just under 10% of Maui’s visitors and spend just under $1 billion annually. Meanwhile, massive US tourism has an annual estimated value of $16 billion.

Maui is welcoming visitors who are compassionate, who can come respectfully, who can really abide by some of the sensitivities and restrictions in place to protect the community at this time… So long as you do it mindfully. And so, for the time being, tourism’s role in helping Maui’s overall recovery is to ensure that the right kind of respectful visitor returns .” Ilihia Gionson, Hawaii Tourism Authority public information officer

Hawaii Tourism Authority wants to “encourage pono, mindful travel” to Maui.

Laura, a Beat of Hawaii reader responded, “We’ve been traveling “pono” to Maui for over 25 years. What can I expect when we arrive for our annual 3 week stay on January 12? An interrogation before being allowed to leave the airport??

We find the messaging strange and potentially offensive as, for many people, coming to Maui is to vacation in paradise and simply a step away from everyday life. It involves a long flight, expensive accommodations, and airfare. The money they spend contributes to the Maui economy to keep it strong, help locals have employment and provide social welfare benefits to many in need. When visitors are asked to change or confirm their vacation habits because of “sensitivities and restrictions,” this could backfire and send tourists elsewhere.

While HTA still does want to promote tourism, putting seemingly meaningless restrictions in these terms on which visitors it wants could simply turn people away. Visitors might also get the idea, based on this kind of messaging once again, that Maui isn’t really ready for visitors at this time. And that there is simply more that needs to be done before people can have the kind of vacation that they are used to having on Maui.

Hawaii Tourism Authority and HVCB still on the verge of being dismantled.

As the state prepares for the 2024 legislative year, there’s no doubt that HTA and HVCB could be heading to the chopping block once again. After nearly being terminated last year, the state’s tourism arm finds itself without a dedicated budget, and some legislators prefer that the job be handled under the state’s DBEDT (Dept. of Business, Economic Development and Tourism).

After HTA’s prior CEO, John De Fries, left unexpectedly, when he announced he would not renew his contract earlier this year, the new chair, ex-Honolulu mayor Mufi Hanne­mann, hopes to be able to convince legislators to keep the long-embattled agency.

HTA holds hope that Maui’s problems could become its salvation.

Mufi recently said regarding the Maui situation, “I think we have an opportunity to use this crisis to demonstrate that there is a need for an HTA. This economic recovery plan that we came out with for Maui is a great example of how we went out there and listened. Even the group of protesters, we addressed one of their major concerns, which was a post-arrival educational program.”

Look for more news about Hawaii tourism, which will be in the news again in early January following a year of uncertainty about the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s future . And, as is always the case, the endless and often abrupt changes in both HTA and HVCB leadership positions are ongoing, and the HVCB long-term and highly paid President is also departing this week with an unknown replacement being sought.

Maui fire exacerbated pre-existing Maui tourism conflict.

For years before the fire, Maui tourism has been a mixed bag. While it is the sole economic driver both on Maui and in Hawaii statewide, tourism isn’t widely accepted by all residents. That’s been even more true with the post-Covid feverish pitch. Problems include primarily lower-paying jobs, the negative impact of tourism on the housing market, bad traffic, crowded beaches, and more. Maui has been challenged for years by the ever-increasing number of flights and visitors that the iconic island attracts. It is similar to other intensely in-demand visitor destinations globally, which have been overrun with visitors.

Maui’s tourism concerns were previously raised but never addressed.

Efforts have been made previously to limit visitors to around 33% of the island’s population, but tourism, other than post-fire, generally exceeds 45%. Additionally, there have been demands for halting the construction of new hotels.

At the same time, even Maui County council members are afraid of further damaging tourism. One said that visitors “are our #1 economic driver. They create jobs. So they’re very important to us. But people are saying we want to have a balance.”

Maui visitor arrivals are finally trending up.

At long last, the trend of fewer visitors on Maui is changing. As can be seen in the Hawaii DBEDT image above, they are much improved in the past month. After the Lahaina fire, the visitor count dropped to less than half of normal, before very slowly creeping back. It looks as if the return of visitors on Maui is finally in sight, although it will still take time for Maui tourism to be fully recovered.

Are you returning to Maui in 2024, and do you have any concerns?

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216 thoughts on “Maui Arrival Requirements Revealed for Visitors In 2024”

I love Hawaii. We typically dont go to Maui though. I will be going on a cruise that will be there for only 2 days. Such a shame. I prefer travel that is more immersive than the typical tourist. Perhaps thr islands can create 2 options, large resorts where guests pretty much that there and dont impact the community and favor immersive trips that focus on culture, the environment and a less harmful way of transportation than the rental car. I dont mean tour busues, but really good public transportation that delive people more evenly accoss the island. Also good information and guides at the key locations to steer people to good behavior. Punative and or threatening signage will likely not work.

Some of the comments here that smack of entitlement are exactly why folks are asking for “respectful” guests right now. We own a condo that we live in part-time and vacation rent part-time. Prior to COVID, the majority of our guests were lovely & considerate. During peak COVID and post reopening folks were downright rude and treated Maui like it was Disneyland-Hawai’i. That attitude has made it difficult for many to continue to practice aloha towards guests. Deal-seekers post-fire have really been some of the lowest scum. Maui is a special place and should be treated as such.

Hi, I lived in Maui in the 70’s and even back then could see the surge of growth and now it is so sad to see.

What types of bad behavior do you encounter?

We’re coming “home” in early 2025. After reading the comment made by a woman fearing she’ll be interrogated upon arrival I wonder the same. We understand the problems Maui is facing. We also respect Maui and we visit to enjoy it’s beauty and love.

First and foremost, I pray for the families, the land, the sea and the soul of Maui and mostly Lahina. God bless you all. As first time visitors to Maui, my wife and I chose to go there for our anniversary. We wanted to give back and bring love. We met some amazing people, and felt nothing but welcome. We stayed at a local vacation rental owned locally. We shopped locally at Times/ABC/the local Fish Market and such. We were treated with nothing but love and respect. We could feel the devastating effects of the loss, and we talked and prayed with locals. I believe that you get what you give, and we gave love. Maui and everyone on the island gave love back to us. We are thankful and will return.

We just returned from Maui on January 26th, as we had a condo behind Walgreen’s in Lahaina that was destroyed. We had a nice time, but some stores and restaurants on the Lahaina side had modified hours and menus. We found all people we interacted with to be very friendly and accommodating. We won’t be back for at least a year or so until we see more progress happening on that side of the island. While we did visit Kihei and Wailea, we prefer the Ka’anapali side of the island. Maui will always have a special place in our hearts and it is the reason we bought our retirement home.

If the native Hawaiians don’t want us they are doing a great job. We try to be polite, and respectful and too often get ignored in stores or disgusting stares from natives. Also the absolute non caring attitude towards the beach and potentially of property north of Kannapaly is a turn off. To know th,ere are possible solutions but that a few withtoobig a voice can stop the fixing is just wrong. When there is no tourism and people leave because of high taxes, good luck.

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Maui Travel Updates: Maui is Welcoming Visitors

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Maui Travel Updates: April 16th, 2024

Our family visited Maui for seven days in September and returned in early November to visit West Maui. We came with aloha and were greeted with aloha. Visiting Maui feels like a vacation to Maui, except Lahaina is closed.

The crews on the snorkeling boats were thankful to have us visit, and so were the waiters at all the restaurants. People were happy to have us on the island.

How to donate to the Lahaina community. The Lahaina community needs your help. Hawai’i Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund is currently being used to support communities affected by the wildfires. More charities are listed below. Housing for Survivors: If you know someone with a home or condo on Maui then they can list their rental on Helping Maui.org . This is a direct way to put a fire survivor into a long-term home.

Read our 8 Takeaways on Visiting Maui After the Fires for more information on planning your Maui trip.

There are Maui Strong signs all over the island. The community across the island continues to support those who are grieving and displaced in Lahaina. That is clear from talking to locals and listening to the radio. As the recovery effort continues, workers want to work and businesses are eager to have you wait in line for shave ice.

Maui’s long-term health depends on visitors returning.

“How do you prevent the secondary disaster, which is the economic one later?” Kalani Kaanaana, chief brand officer for the Hawaii Tourism Authority

A great way to support Maui is to visit.

Maui and the other major Hawaiian Islands (Kauai, Oahu, and Hawaii Island) are welcoming visitors.

Visit Maui to support local workers, have a wonderful vacation, and see the beautiful island.

• 14 Best Things to Do in Wailea
• 14 Things to Do in Kihei
• The 15 Best Things to Do in Napili and Kapalua
• Don’t Miss These 15 Wailea and Kihei Restaurants
• 12 Best Maui Beach Hotels

Old Lahaina Luau and Mala Tavern are Open Again!

The best luau in Hawaii is open again! The Old Lahaina Luau was spared from destruction but was damaged by smoke. Plus, half of its staff lost their homes in the Lahaina Fire. Their sister luau, Feast of Lele, was destroyed. The community and workers felt it was time to open this iconic luau again.

Old Lahaina Luau is located on the water with amazing sunset views. We always loved this luau as it is 100% Hawaiian in tradition, stories, and hula. You can find all our Maui Luau reviews here .

Restaurants near the luau along the ocean and shielded by the Cannery Mall have also reopened. Like the great happy hour spot Mala Tavern.

West Maui is Open (Lahaina is Closed)

Our family visited West Maui in early November once the area was officially opened to visitors on November 1st. We stayed at the Ka’anapali Beach Resort by Outrigger (formerly the Kaanapali Beach Hotel).

If you’re debating on staying in Kaanapali or Wailea (West Maui or South Maui), here are some things to know when staying in Ka’anapali.

• Many hotels in Ka’anapali are housing displaced survivors. They are in allotted hotel wings or floors but you will see them during your vacation. We hung out with some at the pool and heard their stories. The survivors may be at hotels for the foreseeable future as the county has not decided on long-term housing options.
• We experienced long lines at popular restaurants in Kaanapali’s Whalers Village shopping center. With Lahaina’s restaurants gone, there are fewer dining options in West Maui, resulting in less seating.
• You may find restaurants in your hotel to be closed or have limited hours due to staffing shortages.
• We heard this often from residents. Refrain from asking your servers, bellmen, or anyone you interact with about the fires, if they lost a home, or a loved one. Assume everyone you interact with on West Maui, and all of Maui, were affected.

We enjoyed visiting our favorite coffee shops and happy hour spots in West Maui during our stay. It was great to visit and support local businesses that are welcoming visitors.

If the above drawbacks do not sound favorable to you, consider staying in South Maui and exploring West Maui things to do on a day out to support the local economy.

Things to Consider When Booking an Airbnb or Vrbo (Short-Term Rental)

Staying in a vacation rental may be contentious at this time . Displaced survivors, the Red Cross, and Fishing for Housing are some of the groups asking for a moratorium on short-term rentals to free up homes for long-term rentals. There are about 12,000 short-term rentals on Maui and 12,000 second homes that are not occupied. Governor Green is enticing landlords to turn their properties into long-term housing with tax dollar relief.

On January 5th, Governor Green announced a $500 million plan to have all displaced households in long-term housing by March 1st. This was not achieved.

A big part of the plan is second homeowners and landlords to convert their vacation rentals into long-term rentals.

Due to this enticement, some landlords are converting their condos and single-family homes to long-term rentals. Therefore, you may have your vacation rental canceled if you have one booked.

Aid to the Survivors of the Lahaina Fire

We are looking forward to sharing the rebuilding of the town over the years to come on this web page. Local restaurants, shops, and tour companies in Lahaina and across Maui will return and need our support.

Many survivors are living in hotel rooms across Maui. The latest figures (12-December) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which provides the bulk of funding for the program, show 6,297 participants comprising 2,623 households spread across 33 hotels and condos.

If you want to help those devastated by the Maui fires , here is a list of Hawaii-registered charities. On August 10th, we donated to the Hawai’i Salvation Army, Maui Food Bank, Hawai’i Community Foundation, and Maui Humane Society.

Hawai’i Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund is currently being used to support communities affected by the wildfires. We hear that this organization is doing a great job at getting the money where it needs to go .

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, Alakaina Foundation Family, and Kakoo Haleakala will match up to $1,000,000 in donations for Kakoo Maui. Learn more and donate here: Kako’o Maui .

Hawaii Salvation Army will start providing meals for thousands displaced in Maui emergency shelters. 1,400 are still in shelters as of August 11th. You can donate here – Hawai’i Salvation Army.

The Maui Food Bank was a lifeline for many during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are now seeking monetary donations to help displaced families. They also list supplies they need on their homepage. If you plan to visit Maui, consider packing some of these supplies!

Maui United Way is accepting donations to its Maui Fire and Disaster Relief Fund .

The Maui Humane Society is also in desperate need of support.

The state Attorney General’s office is urging residents to use caution when choosing where to send their money and donations. Verify that the charity is legitimate .  Any charity that solicits donations in Hawaii must be registered with the Department of the Attorney General, and its status can be verified  here .

Volunteer on Maui

As the emergency response turns into a marathon, Maui needs help with food distribution, land reclamation, mental health support, and so much more.

If you are interested in volunteering when on vacation, see our list of Maui Volunteer on Vacation Signups . We volunteered with Hungry Heroes Hawaii one day during our stay. Sign-up was simple and the event was well organized. They are a terrific group of people providing meals on Maui!

While many look at Lahaina as a tourist destination, the town has a strong community. One could feel the civic pride at the annual Lahaina Halloween Parade, Christmas under the Banyan Tree, or school pick-up outside Kamehameha III Elementary School.

Hawaii Travel Update

Travel to Maui is no longer contentious. The messaging from locals, government officials, and even celebrities are endorsing a visit to the Aloha State.

Discussions with hotels and short-term rental owners continue to address long-term housing needs, as hotels cannot house the survivors indefinitely.

“People are not going to be displaced from hotels into a homeless state,” Governor Green said while stressing that tourism and recovery “go hand in hand.”

If we don’t have enough tourism, we don’t have enough services for people to have school or food sources. Governor Green on September 21st, 2023

For more information, including what you can do if you decide to visit Maui, see our Can You Visit Maui Right Now? article.

To help support local businesses on Maui, see our video below to help with your Maui Trip Planning .

Can You Travel to the Other Hawaiian Islands?

Yes, travel to the other islands has not been impacted. Due to the fires on Maui and the resulting news coverage, many have canceled their trips to the other Hawaiian Islands.

If you have a trip planned to Oahu, Kauai, or the Island of Hawaii, we recommend you keep your plans.

Join Our Newsletter for Hawaii Travel Updates

Join our Hawaii travel newsletter for ongoing updates on traveling to Maui, the recovery effort in Lahaina, and travel to the other major Hawaiian Islands.

We were a steady resource on factual Hawaii COVID Travel Restrictions during the pandemic. We plan to support Maui and Hawaii in the same way during this tragedy.

Travel information is rapidly changing and we want to do our best to support workers on the Hawaiian Islands and the survivors. Our newsletter is the best way to stay informed.

Lahaina Fire

Lahaina was our home but as we shared in our newsletter and on our site, we recently relocated to the mainland for a family need. We are devastated by the loss our friends and neighbors on Maui are experiencing. We can see where their houses stood in satellite images from August 9th.

Related : Satellite Images of Lahaina Town (before and after)

We are remembering Lahaina for the town and the community that it always will be. Below is our tribute video to them.

Erica’s grandparent’s townhome burned down in the fire. We moved there in the fall of 2019 to remodel the home and make a new life on Maui. We are so glad we had the opportunity. Erica has been visiting Maui and that home since she was a little girl. We are glad to have so many memories of time well spent there. We are grateful our friends and family are safe.

From Puamana on the south end of Front Street to past the Cannery Mall on the north end of Front Street, makai (ocean side) of the highway has burned down or is heavily damaged.

The helicopter video below was the first image we got at daybreak of the extent of the damage. One can see the clubhouse in Puamana has burned down, with many of the homes. Puamana Nui, Shark Pit, Lahaina Shores, and 505 Shopping Center are burning or gone.

The Old Lahaina Courthouse, the Pioneer Inn, and all the way down historic Front Street are destroyed. The fire came so fast that many people jumped into Lahaina Harbor to escape the flames. The Coast Guard pulled many from the water.

Front Street is on the National Register of Historic Places. The town center dates to the 1700s and was the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

It looks like the 1.9-acre Banyan Tree survived, albeit heavily damaged. 

We will continue to update this page on the Lahaina Fire as updates are made available. As our website is a guide on vacationing in Hawaii, we will focus on traveling to Maui, traveling with thought to those who live there, and supporting local businesses.

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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Tips for Sustainable Travel to Maui and Around the World

S ustainable travel was already having a moment in the spotlight before the fires swept through west Maui. As the island reopens to visitors, the idea of tourists returning is a double-edged sword. The local people depend upon the dollars tourists bring to Maui. But they have been through an unfathomable loss — of their homes, their businesses and their loved ones — and they are hoping the tourists who return will understand and respect that.

You can read more about what Maui locals hope for as tourists return . But the fragile state of Maui is just one example of a place where tourists can support the local economy, local people and local customs. Choosing to travel sustainably is not that hard. Read on for some simple and cheerful tips, ready to be embraced by travelers of all ages visiting places around the world.

How to Travel Sustainably

Sure, I could quit flying to alleviate climate change. Or at least believe I was doing my part. But then how would I meet the women worshiping in a town square in Nepal? Or the children attending school in India? Or the healers preserving ancient traditions in Peru’s Amazon?

Could sustainable tourism allow me those experiences?

Thank goodness, the answer for world tourism is yes. Organizations digging deeply into responsible tourism are certifying trips and destinations with sustainable development goals. They’re researching the impact of hikes on natural resources. They examine shopping jaunts and culinary experiences for environmental impacts and influence on the local economy.

Tourism Activities Can Support Local Culture

Local communities mean everything in sustainable tourism.

“Who gets the money?” is a great question. Is the economic growth local?

Paying a proper price to the artisan selling handcrafted textiles – that’s sustainable tourism. When I respect the people of local communities, I support socio-cultural heritage. Confessing my old style of feeling clever just trying to get a bargain might help me change my habits.

Keys to Sustainable Tourism

“Sustainable travel” might seem a little stuffy, but the organizations and institutes passionate about people and places create friendly resources.

For instance, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council offers a straightforward guide to finding Certified Sustainable Destinations.

At the core: Never harm or overlook the essence of a place.

Just paying a little attention, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council says, can make a big difference. They share broad brushstrokes such as:

• Sustainable management
• Socioeconomic impacts
• Cultural impacts
• Environmental impacts

An added bonus to admiring ancient sites in India – meeting local school children. Photo credit: Christine Tibbetts

Seeing Sustainable Tourism Up Close

Visitors are an important source of income for many communities located in biodiverse and fragile areas like Maui.

In India, my guide on a hike was a former poacher. Thanks to sustainable tourism practices, he could now support his family without poaching; tourism to the forest supports the local economy.

In Mexico’s Yucatan, near the ancient Mayan site called Coba, I met a pottery teacher. He was helping a little community that had been clear-cutting their forests to sell the wood and earn a meager living. Instead, they were becoming artisans, selling lovely works to tourists. The forests can grow again. Sustainable development can be supported.

In Nepal, I spent the afternoon with multigenerational families, each age with a painting specialty to create ancient-tradition thangkas. Mine calls me daily to stare and contemplate the many Buddhas created with the tiniest of brushes by an abundance of relatives.

Create A Positive Circle Of Impact

Over-tourism gets a lot of negative buzz – too many visitors to the famous places. Impact Tourism is getting a new buzz throughout the tourism industry.

The World Tourism Day conference in Washington, D.C. in 2022 talked about “moving from tourist-centric marketing that aims to get more heads and beds and towards community-centered storytelling that aims to capture a destination’s sense of place and benefit the community in ways requested by the community.”

focused on volunteerism and impact on local communities. CREST is the resource to watch. That’s the Center for Responsible Travel. The focus of the conference was to highlight and promote collaboration and community-focused engagement. “Tourism done well can help protect these places. Done badly, it can help destroy them” the organization wrote in a summary of the conference.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Keep an eye out for impact becoming a good thing in sustainable tourism. Giving back to host communities is one concept.

Giving Back to the Kids

I love the idea of giving back to the kids whose lands I am fortunate enough to visit. But it’s hard to figure out how.

Buy A Trip, Give A Trip is the grand idea of Elevate Destinations , a luxury eco-tour company that asks its clients to “Travel to find greater meaning in the world.”

The company designs customized trips that support local conservation initiatives that rely on tourism funds. And then Elevate Destinations puts together trips for local kids who can’t afford such a thing. My sustainable travel will help underwrite travel for children in their own country.

Reducing Our Footprints Traveling With The Kids

Seems like a good match to me when families can make travel decisions with family-owned businesses.

That’s where Journeys International comes in. Robin Weber Pollak is chief adventure officer; her parents founded the company four decades ago. Their goal was and is to interact directly and respectfully with local people and natural environments.

Today, the Earth Preservation Fund shares the Journeys vision as their non-profit arm supporting small-scale, community-initiated travel experiences. Sustainability means everything and Executive Director (and husband) Joe Pollak shares simple tips as well as big pictures.

Struggling to limit single-use plastic? Pollak says eat ice cream in a cone. No plastic cups or spoons in his world. Easy sell for kids.

“In developing countries with questionable water sources, we take along a travel water purifier . I think our kids stay better hydrated when they use their familiar, take-to-school refillable water bottles.”

The Pollack family also chooses public transit as an eco way to travel. They pick up litter, too, and stay on trails when they hike.

“All kids can understand that different plants and animals live in different places,” says Joe Pollak. “I think developing an appreciation for different places and cultures helps them understand the potential impacts of the  choices they make at home.”

Read More: How to Do Voluntourism Right with Kids

Certification Means Putting Change In Place

As you plan your sustainable travel, look for hotels, destinations and tours that have been certified. Responsible travel operations receiving certification hone in on details such as:

• Reducing negative impacts on the environment
• Calculating carbon emissions and find ways to compensate
• Rationally using water and energy
• Promoting local ways of life
• Preventing situations of damage like child labor, prostitution, sexual exploitation
• Respecting human and labor rights
• Protecting and respecting natural resources

Sustainable Tourism Questions To Ask

Do you have a sustainable tourism policy?

Don’t settle for a simple yes. If it’s really true, expect details and leads to resources and websites.

Do you have a special project supporting local communities and economic benefits?

And ask directly how you could support that project — before, during and after your trip — if it interests you.

Simple But Effective Ways to Travel Sustainably

So what’s a traveling family to ask? Rainforest Alliance embraces The Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s criteria and offers this list of ideas:

• At the hotel : Ask about environmental policies and practices. Is the hotel enthusiastic and specific about sustainable tourism development? Does the hotel support community development or conservation projects?
• Language : Learn some local language and use it. Developing countries offer opportunities to experience dialects outside of most travelers’ language studies.
• Dress : Learn local manners and dress appropriately. Modest dress may be important. Local culture is a fashion experience.
• Behavior : Be respectful of the locals’ privacy. Ask permission before entering sacred places, homes, or private lands. Social responsibility involves noticing how people do things in their places.
• Photographs : Be sensitive to when and where you take photos/video of people. Always ask first. Local culture might have very different concepts about photography.
• Environment : Never touch or harass wildlife. Always follow designated trails. Support conservation by paying entrance fees to parks and protected sites or making a donation.
• Wildlife or forest products : Never purchase anything derived from protected or endangered wildlife or plant species. Think about the indigenous peoples living in or near that land.
• Pay a fair price : Don’t engage in overly aggressive bargaining for souvenirs. Consider the well-being of those selling. You can affect their quality of life.
• Tip generously:  Don’t short-change on tips for services. People working in the tourism business have had a rough few years thanks to the pandemic.
• Buy local : Choose locally-owned lodges and hotels. Use local buses, car rental agencies, and airlines. Eat in local restaurants, shop in local markets, and attend local events. Notice the social impacts.
• Hire local guides: Enrich your experience and support the local economy. Ask guides and tour operators if they are licensed and live nearby. Are they recommended by tour operators?

Read More: 6 Tips for Planning an African Safari with Kids

National News | Hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals…

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National news | off-duty chicago police officer fatally shot in gage park, national news, national news | hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals after lahaina wildfire amplifies maui housing crisis.

This 2023 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows where her home used to stand after a wildfire in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

Amy Chadwick, stands by map of Hawaii at her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

This July 2023 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows the backyard of her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The home was destroyed in the Lahaina wildfire. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

Amy Chadwick poses at her current home with her pets, Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Amy Chadwick poses outside her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Amy Chadwick poses her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

This 2021 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The home was destroyed in the Lahaina wildfire. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

This image provided by Amy Chadwick shows her neighborhood after a wildfire destroyed her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

FILE – Burned cars and propane tanks with markings on them sit outside a house destroyed by wildfire, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE -A man sets up an umbrella in front of a Lahaina Strong informational sign, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE – Naldo Valentine, who lost his home to the Lahaina wildfire, puts up a light as darkness falls at a housing protest on Kaanapali Beach Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors were camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE – Signs asking people to respect locals and that “Lahaina is not for sale” are seen on the side of the Lahaina Bypass, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE – People walk by a tent with a “Lahaina Strong” flag, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at Whalers Village on Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii, as a group of wildfire survivors camps on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE – Carlos Lamas looks out to the sea from his spot at the “Fish-in” protest on, Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil, File)

FILE – Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, center, points to damage as he speaks with Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell during a tour of wildfire damage, Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File)

FILE – The Rev. Ai Hironaka, resident minister of the Lahaina Hongwanji Mission, walks in the parking lot as he visits his temple and residence destroyed by wildfire, Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

HONOLULU — A single mother of two, Amy Chadwick spent years scrimping and saving to buy a house in the town of Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui. But after a devastating fire leveled Lahaina in August and reduced Chadwick’s home to white dust, the cheapest rental she could find for her family and dogs cost $10,000 a month.

Chadwick, a fine-dining server, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, driven in part by vacation rentals that hog a limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town.

Most people in Lahaina work for hotels, restaurants and tour companies and can’t afford $5,000 to $10,000 a month in rent, she said.

“You’re pushing out an entire community of service industry people. So no one’s going to be able to support the tourism that you’re putting ahead of your community,” Chadwick said by phone from her new home in Satellite Beach on Florida’s Space Coast. “Nothing good is going to come of it unless they take a serious stance, putting their foot down and really regulating these short-term rentals.”

The Aug. 8 wildfire killed 101 people and destroyed housing for 6,200 families, amplifying Maui’s already acute housing shortage and laying bare the enormous presence of vacation rentals in Lahaina. It reminded lawmakers that short-term rentals are an issue across Hawaii, prompting them to consider bills that would give counties the authority to phase them out.

Gov. Josh Green got so frustrated he blurted an expletive during a recent news conference.

“This fire uncovered a clear truth, which is we have too many short-term rentals owned by too many individuals on the mainland and it is b———t,” Green said. “And our people deserve housing, here.”

Vacation rentals are a popular alternative to hotels for those seeking kitchens, lower costs and opportunities to sample everyday island life. Supporters say they boost tourism, the state’s biggest employer. Critics revile them for inflating housing costs, upending neighborhoods and contributing to the forces pushing locals and Native Hawaiians to leave Hawaii for less expensive states.

This migration has become a major concern in Lahaina. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, a nonprofit, estimates at least 1,500 households — or a quarter of those who lost their homes — have left since the August wildfire.

The blaze burned single family homes and apartments in and around downtown, which is the core of Lahaina’s residential housing. An analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found a relatively low 7.5% of units there were vacation rentals as of February 2023.

Lahaina neighborhoods spared by the fire have a much higher ratio of vacation rentals: About half the housing in Napili, about 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of the burn zone, is short-term rentals.

Napili is where Chadwick thought she found a place to buy when she first went house hunting in 2016. But a Canadian woman secured it with a cash offer and turned it into a vacation rental.

Also outside the burn zone are dozens of short-term rental condominium buildings erected decades ago on land zoned for apartments.

In 1992, Maui County explicitly allowed owners in these buildings to rent units for less than 180 days at a time even without short-term rental permits. Since November, activists have occupied the beach in front of Lahaina’s biggest hotels to push the mayor or governor to use their emergency powers to revoke this exemption.

Money is a powerful incentive for owners to rent to travelers: a 2016 report prepared for the state found a Honolulu vacation rental generates 3.5 times the revenue of a long-term rental.

State Rep. Luke Evslin, the Housing Committee chair, said Maui and Kauai counties have suffered net losses of residential housing in recent years thanks to a paucity of new construction and the conversion of so many homes to short-term rentals.

“Every alarm bell we have should be ringing when we’re literally going backwards in our goal to provide more housing in Hawaii,” he said.

In his own Kauai district, Evslin sees people leaving, becoming homeless or working three jobs to stay afloat.

The Democrat was one of 47 House members who co-sponsored one version of legislation that would allow short-term rentals to be phased out. One objective is to give counties more power after a U.S. judge in 2022 ruled Honolulu violated state law when it attempted to prohibit rentals for less than 90 days. Evslin said that decision left Hawaii’s counties with limited tools, such as property taxes, to control vacation rentals.

Lawmakers also considered trying to boost Hawaii’s housing supply by forcing counties to allow more houses to be built on individual lots. But they watered down the measure after local officials said they were already exploring the idea.

Short-term rental owners said a phase-out would violate their property rights and take their property without compensation, potentially pushing them into foreclosure. Some predicted legal challenges.

Alicia Humiston, president of the Rentals by Owner Awareness Association, said some areas in West Maui were designed for travelers and therefore lack schools and other infrastructure families need.

“This area in West Maui that is sort of like this resort apartment zone — that’s all north of Lahaina — it was never built to be local living,” Humiston said.

One housing advocate argues that just because a community allowed vacation rentals decades ago doesn’t mean it still needs to now.

“We are not living in the 1990s or in the 1970s,” said Sterling Higa, executive director of Housing Hawaii’s Future. Counties “should have the authority to look at existing laws and reform them as necessary to provide for the public good.”

Courtney Lazo, a real estate agent who is part of Lahaina Strong, the group occupying Kaanapali Beach, said tourists can stay in her hometown now but many locals can’t.

“How do you expect a community to recover and heal and move forward when the people who make Lahaina, Lahaina, aren’t even there anymore?” she said at a recent news conference as her voice quivered. “They’re moving away.”

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• Sunday, April 21, 2024
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Hawaii News

Hawaii tourism impact fee appears dead, expected to be retooled.

• By Dan Nakaso [email protected]
• Updated 12:21 a.m.

GEORGE F. LEE / 2023

Visitors take in the view of Honolulu at the summit of the Diamond Head State Monument. Out-of-state visitors must pay an entry fee of $5. It is free for Hawaii residents.

CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / 2022

Visitors queue at the entrance of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve where they pay a fee to enter.

Visitors at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve pay a fee to enter.

The concept of charging a new fee for tourists to help offset their impact drew overwhelming support as the amended version of HB 2406 moved through the House before crossing over to the Senate. Read more

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An effort to increase the state hotel tax by $25 to offset the impact of visitors on the environment and climate change has stalled this legislative session but the concept of a “green fee” remains alive and will likely return with a new funding plan next session.

House Speaker Scott Saiki introduced House Bill 2406 on behalf of Gov. Josh Green that would have added another $25 to the state’s transient accommodations tax that would go into a new Climate Health and Environmental Action Special Fund, “to minimize the impacts of, and respond to, climate crises,” the administration wrote in support of the bill.

The fund would be available for a wide range of uses including, “wildfire prevention and response strategies, flood prevention, emergency drinking water supplies, shoreline restoration and coastal management, and preparation of climate crises prevention and response strategies and plans,” according to testimony from the administration.

Tourism arrivals peaked at over 10 million before the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, which led to wide-spread calls among island residents to limit visitors.

As arrivals continue to climb toward pre-COVID-19 levels, Green has said publicly that imposing another fee on tourists to help the environment and reduce climate change could help limit their numbers.

The concept of charging a new fee for tourists to help offset their impact drew overwhelming support as the amended version of HB 2406 moved through the House before crossing over to the Senate.

Support came from several state agencies and organizations and businesses concerned about protecting Hawaii’s fragile ecosystem and the effects of climate change.

Arwen Revere, a Le Jardin Academy high school senior representing the environmental organization Wild Kids, wrote in support that HB 2406 represents a “crucial step toward addressing the pressing issues posed by climate change in Hawaii. Hawaii’s natural environment is facing unprecedented challenges, including wildfires, coastal erosion, loss of reefs, and pollution of air and water supplies. The recent Lahaina wildfire tragedy on Maui serves as a stark reminder of the urgency to take significant action to prevent and mitigate climate crises. As a young person born and raised in Hawaii, I have witnessed the increasing impact of climate change on our natural resources and cultural landscapes.”

He urged passage of HB 2406 to “prioritize the well-being of Hawaii’s natural environment, cultural heritage, and the future of its residents. By taking decisive action now, we can work towards building a more resilient and sustainable future for Hawaii.”

The Nature Conservancy wrote in support that conservation efforts are needed “to maintain Hawaii as a healthy, sustainable home for future generations, as well as a world class visitor destination. Our natural resources sustain our way of life, feed our families, and drive our local economy. Although Hawaii’s natural beauty is a top tourist attraction, conservation efforts receive less than 1% of the state’s annual budget. The $25 tax on transient accommodations could help close Hawaii’s conservation funding gap, which has been estimated at $360 million annually. Hawaii’s people and natural resources are being directly affected by climate change. We are experiencing increased flooding, coastal erosion, sea level rise, coral bleaching, loss of native forest, rising temperatures, increased threats of extinction for endangered species, and other impacts from the changing climate. … By investing in our environment today and into the future, we can ensure that residents and visitors are able to enjoy our incomparable natural environment and island lifestyle for generations to come.”

But HB 2406 failed to get a hearing in any of the four Senate committees that were assigned to hear it. The bill all but died last month.

Another bill that also appeared to die last month — the latest version of Senate Bill 304 — would have required the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to collect a visitor fee for a “license” to visit “a state park, forest, hiking trail, or other state natural area” to go into a special fund for a “visitor impact fee program.”

In the legislation and among the public, “There’s a lot of support in principle,” said Colin Moore, who teaches public policy at the University of Hawaii and is an associate professor at the University of Hawaii Economic Resource Organization.

“It may just be an idea that the (Legislature) wanted to hear another time to understand the details,” Moore said. “They want to figure out the right model. … This is a hard thing to get right. It’s very important to the visitor industry and there are potential legal challenges.”

An increase in the TAT also theoretically could apply to residents staying in lodging while visiting friends and family on other islands, Moore said.

He predicted that, “we will eventually get something like this but the details are difficult. This is an instance where the Legislature’s caution is understandable because it’s yet another tax.”

Push back to raising the TAT came from some segments of Hawaii’s tourism and lodging sectors.

Jerry Gibson, president of the Hawai‘i Hotel Alliance, wrote in opposition to HB 2406, that it “will further burden the tourism industry, which is still recovering from the impacts of COVID-19 and the Lahaina wildfire.”

Gibson wrote that increasing the TAT would only apply to hotels and resorts and not illegal short-term vacation rentals or cruise ships.

Instead, Gibson suggested fees for the special fund could be levied “at tourists’ point of entry,” such as airports and cruise ship ports.

Mufi Hannemann chairs the board of the Hawaii Tourism Authority and also serves as chief executive officer and president of the Hawaii Lodging &Tourism Association.

He said he believes Hawaii already has one of the highest TAT rates in the country, if not the highest, and opposes increasing it even more.

Hannemann does not oppose the idea of tourists paying extra to offset their impacts and cited a handful of a la carte state and city models, such as at Hanelei Beach Park on the north shore of Kauai that was rebuilt into a pay-as-you go model following the devastating 2018 floods; Diamond Head State Monument and the city’s Hanauma Bay nature preserve, which Hannemann championed as a member of the Honolulu City Council before being elected mayor.

Each exempts residents from having to pay to access the parks and fees go specifically to care for each attraction and “not into the general fund” where they can be spent “on every environmental concept under the sun,” Hannemann told the Honolulu Star-­Advertiser.

Or, visitors could pay specific fees to access both state and county parks and trails, for example, through an app that the HTA would have to develop under the latest version of HB 2563.

The app would allow visitors to make reservations and could be used to collect any fees, according to the bill.

In 2016, HTA launched its GoHawaii app that provides travel and other information on ocean activities, hiking, weather conditions, activities and cultural events on each of the major islands, along with web sites and contact information to get tourists “reliable information.”

When it comes to tourists paying to offset their effects on the environment, Hannemann said, “I’m not opposed to the concept. It’s the details. But increasing the TAT absolutely has to be off the table.”

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What is a tourist tax? Fees for foreign tourists at hot summer destinations

Many countries across Europe have implemented fees for foreign visitors.

Barcelona is among the top 20 summer destinations of 2024, and for anyone planning to visit the bustling Mediterranean metropolis known for its art and architecture, or other tourist-filled hotspots during high-season, there may be some additional costs to consider.

Many countries across Europe including Spain, Greece, and Germany have implemented fees for foreign visitors to help support local costs of doing business, especially during the busy summer months. It's similar to that of a hotel occupancy tax that American travelers may be more familiar with for domestic stays.

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What is a tourist tax.

"Tourist taxes are a rapidly growing trend," Clint Henderson, Managing Editor at The Points Guy, told "Good Morning America," adding that the fee system is increasingly popular "because it’s an easy way for cities to raise revenues without taxing local citizens. It’s also more politically palatable and it has the added benefit of helping to deal with over-tourism."

Henderson also pointed out that "Crowding at especially popular spots made famous by Instagram are simply out of control."

"Locals in places like Venice, [Italy] and Maui are also getting more vocal about problematic tourists," he said. "We think you’ll only see this trend of tourist taxes spread. Look for action from places like Hawaii in the future, which has been considering some kind of tax for a few years now."

The rural town of La Salut, located just outside Barcelona and best known for Park Güell mosaic-covered buildings, tapas bars and seafood restaurants, was recently removed from Google and Apple maps, Yahoo first reported , after being inundated with tourists taking over the locals' main bus route.

What to know about tourist fees abroad this summer

Henderson said tourism taxes "are not yet that widespread," with the caveat that "local taxes and fees are very common and often hidden in your hotel bill."

His tip? "Google your destination to see about potential fees before you go."

"Many hotels are now listing local taxes and fees in their online pricing, but you can always call ahead of time to make sure you won’t be facing additional 'destination' or 'resort' fees," he suggested.

Summer vacation destinations with a tourist tax

There are some newcomers adding a tourist tax for the first time this summer, and other nations increasing percentages that people will be expected to pay.

"Galapagos National Park is charging $200 as of August 1 to visit. Bhutan charges $100 per day. Wales and Hawaii are among the locations now considering tourist taxes," Henderson listed.

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The Barcelona municipality recently increased its tourist tax from 2.75 euros to 3.25 euros on April 1.

The tourist tax for the Olympics host nation is based on a municipal rate. Typically the cost has been under $6 per night, but starting in January officials increased the visitor fee up to $17, depending on the hotel type.

Earlier this year Mayor of Seville, José Luis Sanz, announced on X plans to "close the Plaza de España and charge tourists to finance its conservation and guarantee its safety."

Sanz shared a video along with his post that showed missing tiles, damaged facades and street vendors occupying alcoves and stairs.

The southern Spanish city will now charge visitors to enter the historic area that has been at risk of irreversible damage to its famed tile floors, bridges and towers.

Earlier this year, coastal city known for it's canals, blown glass and close proximity to the heart of Italy's Prosecco region implemented a fee of 5 euro per day tripper through a new reservation system.

Travelers can download an app to pay and attain a QR code which will be shown to enter the city as a visitor.

"It is not a revolution, but the first step of a path that regulates the access of daily visitors. An experiment that aims to improve the liveability of the city, who lives there and who works there. We will carry it forward with great humility and with the awareness that there may be problems," the Mayor of Venice Luigi Brugnaro stated on X in the announcement.

"The margins of error are wide, but we are ready, with humility and courage, to make all the changes that will serve to improve the procedure. Venice is the first city in the world to implement this path, which can be an example for other fragile and delicate cities that must be safeguarded," he continued.

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Hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals after Lahaina wildfire amplifies Maui housing crisis

Burned cars and propane tanks with markings on them sit outside a house destroyed by wildfire, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

HONOLULU — A single mother of two, Amy Chadwick spent years scrimping and saving to buy a house in the town of Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui. But after a devastating fire leveled Lahaina in August and reduced Chadwick’s home to white dust, the cheapest rental she could find for her family and dogs cost $10,000 a month.

Chadwick, a fine-dining server, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, driven in part by vacation rentals that hog a limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town.

Most people in Lahaina work for hotels, restaurants and tour companies and can’t afford $5,000 to $10,000 a month in rent, she said.

“You’re pushing out an entire community of service industry people. So no one’s going to be able to support the tourism that you’re putting ahead of your community,” Chadwick said by phone from her new home in Satellite Beach on Florida’s Space Coast. “Nothing good is going to come of it unless they take a serious stance, putting their foot down and really regulating these short-term rentals.”

The Aug. 8 wildfire killed 101 people and destroyed housing for 6,200 families, amplifying Maui’s already acute housing shortage and laying bare the enormous presence of vacation rentals in Lahaina. It reminded lawmakers that short-term rentals are an issue across Hawaii, prompting them to consider bills that would give counties the authority to phase them out.

Gov. Josh Green got so frustrated he blurted an expletive during a recent news conference.

“This fire uncovered a clear truth, which is we have too many short-term rentals owned by too many individuals on the mainland and it is b———t,” Green said. “And our people deserve housing, here.”

FILE - Signs asking people to respect locals and that "Lahaina is not for sale" are seen on the side of the Lahaina Bypass, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

Vacation rentals are a popular alternative to hotels for those seeking kitchens, lower costs and opportunities to sample everyday island life. Supporters say they boost tourism, the state’s biggest employer. Critics revile them for inflating housing costs, upending neighborhoods and contributing to the forces pushing locals and Native Hawaiians to leave Hawaii for less expensive states.

This migration has become a major concern in Lahaina. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, a nonprofit, estimates at least 1,500 households — or a quarter of those who lost their homes — have left since the August wildfire.

The blaze burned single family homes and apartments in and around downtown, which is the core of Lahaina’s residential housing. An analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found a relatively low 7.5% of units there were vacation rentals as of February 2023.

Lahaina neighborhoods spared by the fire have a much higher ratio of vacation rentals: About half the housing in Napili, about 7 miles north of the burn zone, is short-term rentals.

Napili is where Chadwick thought she found a place to buy when she first went house hunting in 2016. But a Canadian woman secured it with a cash offer and turned it into a vacation rental.

Amy Chadwick, stands by map of Hawaii at her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Also outside the burn zone are dozens of short-term rental condominium buildings erected decades ago on land zoned for apartments.

In 1992, Maui County explicitly allowed owners in these buildings to rent units for less than 180 days at a time even without short-term rental permits. Since November, activists have occupied the beach in front of Lahaina’s biggest hotels to push the mayor or governor to use their emergency powers to revoke this exemption.

Money is a powerful incentive for owners to rent to travelers: a 2016 report prepared for the state found a Honolulu vacation rental generates 3.5 times the revenue of a long-term rental.

State Rep. Luke Evslin, the Housing Committee chair, said Maui and Kauai counties have suffered net losses of residential housing in recent years thanks to a paucity of new construction and the conversion of so many homes to short-term rentals.

“Every alarm bell we have should be ringing when we’re literally going backwards in our goal to provide more housing in Hawaii,” he said.

In his own Kauai district, Evslin sees people leaving, becoming homeless or working three jobs to stay afloat.

The Democrat was one of 47 House members who co-sponsored one version of legislation that would allow short-term rentals to be phased out. One objective is to give counties more power after a U.S. judge in 2022 ruled Honolulu violated state law when it attempted to prohibit rentals for less than 90 days. Evslin said that decision left Hawaii’s counties with limited tools, such as property taxes, to control vacation rentals.

Lawmakers also considered trying to boost Hawaii’s housing supply by forcing counties to allow more houses to be built on individual lots. But they watered down the measure after local officials said they were already exploring the idea.

Short-term rental owners said a phase-out would violate their property rights and take their property without compensation, potentially pushing them into foreclosure. Some predicted legal challenges.

Alicia Humiston, president of the Rentals by Owner Awareness Association, said some areas in West Maui were designed for travelers and therefore lack schools and other infrastructure families need.

“This area in West Maui that is sort of like this resort apartment zone — that’s all north of Lahaina — it was never built to be local living,” Humiston said.

One housing advocate argues that just because a community allowed vacation rentals decades ago doesn’t mean it still needs to now.

“We are not living in the 1990s or in the 1970s,” said Sterling Higa, executive director of Housing Hawaii’s Future. Counties “should have the authority to look at existing laws and reform them as necessary to provide for the public good.”

Courtney Lazo, a real estate agent who is part of Lahaina Strong, the group occupying Kaanapali Beach, said tourists can stay in her hometown now but many locals can’t.

“How do you expect a community to recover and heal and move forward when the people who make Lahaina, Lahaina, aren’t even there anymore?” she said at a recent news conference as her voice quivered. “They’re moving away.”

Hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals after Lahaina wildfire amplifies Maui housing crisis

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