Stunning West Maui coastline with mountains and pristine beaches

31 Best Things to Do in West Maui

Mindful Travel Adventures Supporting Lahaina's Recovery

Jade Kawanui, local West Maui expert and guide

Written by a Local Expert

Aloha Mai Kākou: A Personal Welcome to West Maui

Aloha mai kākou. My name is Jade Kawanui, and West Maui is more than just a place I live, it's in my bones. I grew up with the scent of salt and plumeria on the breeze, with the silhouette of the West Maui Mountains watching over me, and with the rhythm of the waves at Ka'anapali shaping my days. This land, this ʻāina, is a part of my story, and the spirit of its people, our ʻohana, is the strongest force I know.

The world watched in August 2023 as our community faced an unimaginable tragedy. The fires took so much, and the Lahaina that lives in our memories is now a sacred space of healing and reflection. Yet, through the sorrow, the spirit of aloha has not just survived; it has burned brighter than ever. It's in the hands that volunteers, the businesses that are bravely reopening, and the deep, unwavering commitment we have to each other and to this place. It's the spirit of #LahainaStrong.

Many have asked if it's okay to visit. The answer, from the bottom of our hearts, is yes. As Hawaiʻi State Governor, Dr. Joshua Green, shared, "When you come, you will support our local economy and help speed the recovery of the people that are suffering right now". Your presence here is a form of support, a way to help our community get back on its feet.

West Maui Mountains and coastline during golden hour showing the natural beauty of the region

This is my invitation to you. It's a way to share the West Maui I love—its world-famous beaches, its hidden gems, its incredible food—while also showing you how to be a part of our recovery. It's about understanding the meaning of mālama (to care for) and how to travel with aloha, ensuring your visit is a blessing to the land and its people. Let's explore West Maui together, in a way that is respectful, supportive, and truly unforgettable.