Revisiting Maui: How to Travel Responsibly After the Lahaina Wildfires

The devastating wildfires of August 2023 changed the island of Maui forever. While the historic town of Lahaina faces a long road to recovery, the rest of the island has reopened and is facing a secondary crisis: a severe economic downturn due to a drop in tourism. Officials from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority and local business owners are now asking visitors to return. However, visiting West Maui today requires a new level of sensitivity, respect, and awareness.

Understanding the Geography: What is Open?

To travel responsibly, you must understand the current layout of the island. The “Impact Zone” in historic Lahaina is strictly off-limits to the public. It is a hazardous area and a place of deep grief for residents.

However, the resort areas located north of Lahaina—including Kaanapali, Napili, Honokowai, and Kapalua—are fully open and operational. These areas were not physically damaged by the fires, but businesses there are struggling to stay afloat without visitors.

When driving to these northern areas, you will likely travel on the Honoapiʻilani Highway or the bypass road.

Do not stop to take photos of the destruction.
Do not pull over on the shoulder near the burn zone.
Keep your eyes on the road and traffic moving. Treating the site of a tragedy as a tourist attraction is deeply offensive to residents.

The Etiquette of Empathy

Interacting with locals requires emotional intelligence. Many workers in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Kaanapali and Kapalua lost their homes or loved ones in the fires.

Follow these guidelines for respectful interaction:

Avoid intrusive questions: Do not ask servers, drivers, or hotel staff, “Did you lose your house?” or “What was it like?” If they wish to share their story, let them lead the conversation.
Practice patience: Many businesses are operating with reduced staff. Service might be slower than you are used to. React with grace rather than frustration.
Tip generously: If you have the means, tip more than the standard 20%. Direct cash tips are one of the fastest ways to get money into the hands of local families rebuilding their lives.

Supporting Local Business: Where to Spend

The most effective way to help Maui is to spend money at locally owned businesses rather than large international chains. Your tourism dollars act as a direct form of economic aid.

Dining and Food: Look for establishments that source from local farmers.

Joey’s Kitchen: Located in Napili Plaza (and Whalers Village), Chef Joey Macadangdang serves Filipino-Asian fusion. It is a local favorite that needs support.
The Sea House Restaurant: Located at the Napili Kai Beach Resort, this open-air spot has supported its staff heavily through the recovery.
Merriman’s Kapalua: Chef Peter Merriman is a pioneer of Hawaii Regional Cuisine and a major advocate for local agriculture.
Maui Brewing Co: Their locations in Kahana and Kihei are gathering spots for the community and employ hundreds of residents.

Shopping: Skip the souvenirs made overseas. Visit the Napili Farmers Market (usually held on Wednesdays and Saturdays). Here you can buy fresh tropical fruit, jewelry, and crafts directly from the artisans. Buying hot sauce, honey, or coffee grown on Maui ensures the money stays on the island.

Voluntourism: How to Help Directly

Many visitors want to do more than just spend money. The concept of Mālama (to care for) is central to Hawaiian culture. Several organizations have adapted to allow visitors to help with recovery and sustainability efforts.

Hua Momona Farms: Located in Kapalua, this farm pivoted immediately after the fires to provide thousands of hot meals to displaced families. They often host volunteer days where you can help harvest produce or pack meal kits. Check their website for current schedules.
Maui Humane Society: The “Beach Buddies” program allows visitors to take a shelter dog out for a day of fun. This socializes the animals and relieves stress on the shelter staff. They also accept donations of pet supplies.
Kīpuka Olowalu: This organization focuses on cultural preservation and environmental restoration in the Olowalu valley. Volunteer days often involve removing invasive species or restoring taro patches (loʻi).

Exploring Beyond the West Side

While West Maui needs support, spreading your economic impact to other parts of the island is also helpful. This reduces congestion near the recovery zone while keeping the island-wide economy moving.

Upcountry Maui: Visit Makawao and Kula. Tour the Surfing Goat Dairy or have lunch at Grandma’s Coffee House. The views from the slopes of Haleakalā offer a different perspective of the island.
South Maui: Kihei and Wailea are completely unaffected physically. Beaches like Keawakapu and Makena are pristine.
North Shore: The town of Pāʻia is a hub for small boutiques and great food. A dinner at Mama’s Fish House (reservations required months in advance) supports local fishermen directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to visit West Maui now? Yes. Health officials have deemed the resort areas of Kaanapali and Kapalua safe for visitors. The air quality and water quality in these specific areas are monitored and clear.

Are hotels and condos open? Most hotels and vacation rentals in West Maui (north of Lahaina) have reopened to visitors. Some properties may still house relief workers or displaced residents, so it is best to check directly with your specific hotel regarding amenities.

Can I attend a Luau? Yes. Luaus are operating in Kaanapali, Wailea, and other parts of the island. Attending these events supports the musicians, dancers, and cultural practitioners who rely on them for income.

What if I have a reservation in Lahaina Town? If your accommodation was in the historic Lahaina district, it is likely no longer there or is inaccessible. You must contact the booking provider immediately to relocate to Kaanapali, Kihei, or Wailea.