Is It Safe To Go To Maui Right Now?

Maui has reopened on November 1, 2023, and the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) has issued evacuation orders due to the ongoing wildfires. The remaining West Maui is safe for visitors to visit, but they should avoid Haleakala National Park. Maui’s Governor, Richard Bissen, has also released new information about the island’s recovery efforts.

On August 8, 2023, wildfires led to the loss of lives, homes, cultural and historical sites, and businesses in Lahaina. Hawaii and Maui leaders urge tourists to act with empathy during this time of mourning and recovery. While it is currently not safe to travel to West Maui due to uncontained wildfires and evacuation orders, the governor has stated that Maui is open for tourism in certain areas.

The Hawaiian Islands are still recovering from the devastating fires, and it is important to follow all rules and regulations while visiting Maui. Flash floods, brush fires, and sudden road closures are common disturbances in Maui, so it is essential to stay updated.

From March 26, 2022, domestic travelers to Hawaii will no longer need to fill out online forms via Safe Travels or worry about QR codes. The West Maui communities of Kaanapali, Napili, Honokowai, and Kapalua are safe to visit, and local businesses are working to attract tourists back to help them survive.

In summary, Maui is open for tourists at this time, and while some fire-affected areas remain closed, the island and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands are open and encouraging mindful visitation.

Is now a good time to go to Maui?

Maui, a Hawaiian island that suffered devastating wildfires in August 2023, has rallied as a community and is welcoming visitors with open arms. The island is requesting respect and compassion as it rebuilds. A visitor, decked out in snorkel and flippers, spotted a honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle) surface just metres away. The turtle is on its way to the rainbow reef, an ancient lava tube stretching out from the shoreline into the perfect blue waters. The visitor gives a wide berth to the honu, giving it one last look before it glides into the kaleidoscope of coral and fish below.

Where not to swim in Maui?

Brown Water Events are becoming more frequent in the Hawaiian Islands due to various factors such as toxic storm runoff, forest fires, development waste, agricultural waste, contaminated wells, and watershed to reef drainage. These events pose significant threats to Maui’s coral reef systems, as they block sunlight, affecting the overall ecosystem and marine life environment. Swimming in brown water is unsafe due to unhealthy bacteria, poor water quality, and lack of clarity.

It is recommended to avoid the ocean during early and late hours, avoid swimming in the dark, and enter the water only when a lifeguard is on duty at a designated State Beach Park. If lifeguards leave for the day, it is best to exit the ocean.

Has Maui recovered yet?

The devastating wildfires in West Maui, which left 100 dead or missing, destroyed thousands of structures, and damaged the historic town of Lahaina, the former capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, have left a lasting impact on the community. The aftermath has led to housing crises and power struggles with the tourism industry, causing widespread damage and causing widespread destruction.

Is it safe to visit Maui right now?

Maui is open and offers numerous unique experiences, including regenerative and voluntourism activities. Visitors can explore various Things to Do on Maui and contribute to the community. Official channels like County of Maui’s mauinuistrong. info and Hawai‘i Tourism Authority provide the latest information and updates. The County of Maui’s website and the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s website provide the latest updates on Maui’s recovery efforts.

Is it safe to walk around Maui at night?

Tourist areas in Maui are generally safe, but visitors should stay alert, especially in resort and beach areas. Ask the island tourist office for recommendations on safe neighborhoods. Avoid deserted areas, especially at night, and city parks unless there’s a crowd-attracting event. Feel safe in open establishments and large crowds. Avoid carrying valuables, display expensive cameras or electronic equipment, and keep your belongings visible in public places like theaters and restaurants. Hotels are open to the public, and security may not be able to screen everyone entering. Always lock your room door and don’t assume safety once inside.

Is Maui back to normal?

Maui’s economy relies heavily on tourism, and the community has been working to diversify away from it during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, Maui is open for tourism in certain areas, but visitors are advised to stay on the south side, North Shore, and a few areas above the burn zone. West Maui area businesses need support, and visitors should be respectful, reverent, and helpful.

The community focused on reserving resources to help the 14, 000+ people without power, who were displaced and houseless. Grocery stores were depleted, gasoline and propane were low, and frantic drivers clogged routes to get help into West Maui. Since then, displaced residents have been housed in hotels, resorts, and AirBnBs.

FEMA and Disaster Relief have finally arrived, and the community has done a decent job collecting and supplying goods to West Maui residents. However, significant disaster relief is needed to ensure proper storage and distribution of goods to those in need. The community is now ready to welcome tourists back to Maui.

Can you fly into Maui right now?

Maui’s economy relies heavily on tourism, and the community has been working to diversify away from it during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, Maui is open for tourism in certain areas, but visitors are advised to stay on the south side, North Shore, and a few areas above the burn zone. West Maui area businesses need support, and visitors should be respectful, reverent, and helpful.

The community focused on reserving resources to help the 14, 000+ people without power, who were displaced and houseless. Grocery stores were depleted, gasoline and propane were low, and frantic drivers clogged routes to get help into West Maui. Since then, displaced residents have been housed in hotels, resorts, and AirBnBs.

FEMA and Disaster Relief have finally arrived, and the community has done a decent job collecting and supplying goods to West Maui residents. However, significant disaster relief is needed to ensure proper storage and distribution of goods to those in need. The community is now ready to welcome tourists back to Maui.

Is it okay to go to Hawaii right now?

Hawaii is welcoming domestic travelers back to its islands, with no COVID requirements. There is no 14-day quarantine for domestic travelers, but direct arrivals from international airports must follow US federal regulations. Passengers will be screened before flying to the United States, and there are no additional State of Hawaii requirements.

Is tourism down in Maui?

The Hawaii Tourism Authority reports a decline in visitor numbers and spending since the August 2023 wildfires. In June, the number of visitors to Maui was down 22 compared to June 2023, and visitor spending was down 27. The 216, 065 visitors in June were more than the 94, 221 in September, but 22 fewer than the 276, 136 in June 2023. The situation could worsen with the traditionally slow fall travel season on the horizon, with projections suggesting the softness could persist until March or April next year.

Where not to stay in Maui?

The Hawaii Tourism Authority advises tourists to avoid certain areas in West Maui, such as Lahaina, Napili, Kaanapali, and Kapalua, to stimulate the economy. However, Maui officials are encouraging tourism in other parts of the island, such as Kahului in Central Maui, to revive the economy. The authority urges tourists to be mindful and respectful in their home during this difficult time.