Your Questions Answered

Q: Is it truly safe to travel to Maui right now?

A: Yes, it is absolutely safe. The areas of the island that are open to tourism were not physically affected by the fires and are operating normally. The safety considerations for your trip are the same as they would be for any vacation in Hawaiʻi: be mindful of ocean conditions, protect yourself from the sun, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Q: I'm worried my vacation will take away housing or resources from fire survivors. Is this true?

A: This is a very thoughtful and important question, and I'm glad you're asking it. The answer is a clear no. In the immediate aftermath of the fires, some hotels were used for temporary emergency shelter. However, all displaced residents have since been moved into more stable, long-term housing solutions.

All West Maui hotels and resorts outside of the immediate Lahaina burn zone are fully open to visitors. Your stay in visitor accommodations does not displace a resident.

Q: I've seen mixed messages online, with some people saying not to come. What is the official and local consensus now?

A: The initial "stay away" message was a necessary part of the immediate emergency response. However, that message has officially and definitively shifted. The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, Maui County officials, and local business owners are now unified in asking for a respectful return of visitors.

The economic reality is that a sustained lack of tourism creates a second, devastating disaster for the many residents whose livelihoods depend on it. The consensus is clear: please come, but come with aloha and mālama.

Q: What parts of West Maui can I visit? I'm confused about what's open.

A: This is a key point of confusion that I want to clarify. While historic Lahaina Town is completely closed to the public for the foreseeable future, the surrounding West Maui resort areas are open and welcoming guests.

Q: Are there any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions for Maui or Hawaiʻi?

A: No. All COVID-19 related entry requirements, pre-travel testing, proof of vaccination, and quarantine rules for both domestic and international travelers have been lifted. In this regard, travel to Maui and all of Hawaiʻi has returned to pre-pandemic norms.

Q: What is the best way to show support without being intrusive?

A: The best ways to show support are through your mindful actions:

• Spend your money at locally owned businesses (use MauiNuiFirst.com as your guide)
• If you have the time and inclination, dedicate a half-day to one of the vetted volunteer opportunities
• Be patient, kind, and generous with your tips in all your interactions
• Give our community the space it needs to heal by staying out of Lahaina and not asking personal questions about the fire

Q: Should I bring donations like clothes or supplies with me?

A: No, please do not bring physical donations. In the aftermath of the fires, our community was overwhelmed with material goods and simply lacks the facilities and manpower to sort and distribute them effectively. The most impactful way to help is through financial support to trusted local organizations like the Maui Food Bank or, just as importantly, by supporting our local economy with your visit.

Q: How can I learn more about Hawaiian culture during my visit?

A: The best way to learn about Hawaiian culture is through respectful engagement with cultural practitioners and educational institutions:

• Visit the Bailey House Museum in Wailuku for insights into missionary period history
• Attend a traditional luau that emphasizes cultural education over entertainment
• Take a Hawaiian language class at Maui Community College
• Read books by local Hawaiian authors
• Most importantly, listen when Hawaiian people share their stories and perspectives

Q: What's the best time of year to visit Maui?

A: Maui's climate is remarkably consistent year-round, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s. The main differences are in rainfall patterns and tourist crowds:

Q: How do I prepare for outdoor activities safely?

A: Hawaiian sun is intense year-round due to our proximity to the equator. Follow these safety guidelines:

• Always wear reef-safe mineral sunscreen, reapplying every two hours
• Bring more water than you think you'll need for hiking
• Check ocean conditions before entering the water, and never turn your back on the ocean
• Be aware that flash floods can occur even when it's not raining where you are
• Always let someone know your plans and expected return time for backcountry activities