As Maui grapples with the devastation of recent fires, the Maui Strong Foundation is helping those in need. Click here (Maui Strong) for ways to donate and for information on how funds are being used.
In addition, the Maui Visitors Bureau is providing this information as of Friday, August 18:
In West Maui, recent wildfires have resulted in the devastating loss of loved ones, homes, cultural and historical sites, and businesses in Lahaina. We are grateful for the outpouring of support for Maui from around the world, from sharing memories and offering their assistance, to asking questions about travel to Maui and the rest of the state.
While vacation travel to West Maui (including Lahaina, Nāpili, Kāʻanapali and Kapalua) is strongly discouraged until further notice, travel to all other parts of Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia and Hāna) and other Hawaiian Islands are welcomed to keep residents employed and our economy alive.
Governor Green's Reassurance of Safe Travel Outside West Maui
In addressing a community concern about ensuring the economic well-being of Maui and the state, Governor Josh Green emphasized the importance of travel. “Like we saw in the pandemic, decisions we made can affect everyone across the islands. So what we’re saying now is travel should not be to West Maui. But the other parts of Maui are safe,” said Governor Green. “And the rest of the state, of course, is also safe.” the Governor said.
West Maui Hotels Supporting Evacuees and Recovery Efforts
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.
Access Restrictions in West Maui
The devastation in Lahaina is immense and unprecedented. The extent of the damage affecting residents, families and area businesses has yet to be fully understood. Experts have warned that hazardous materials are likely present. The area most affected by the wildfires is off limits to the general public, and we urge visitors to refrain from traveling to West Maui at this time.
Airline Cancellation and Change Policies
Due to the wildfires and their impact on people’s travel plans, the major U.S. airlines serving Kahului Airport have implemented flexible travel policies for changing or canceling flights. For specific information check with your airline. The U.S. Department of Transportation has posted a page with links to the major carriers serving Kahului Airport.
How you can Help
Mahalo for the overwhelming display of aloha from around the globe. In the spirit of mālama for the people that call Maui home, please consider donating to the Maui Strong Fund established by the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation.
Q&A
Q: Which of the Hawaiian Islands are affected by the wildfires?
A: Wildfires have mainly affected Lahaina in West Maui. All vacation travel to West Maui (including Lahaina, Nāpili, Kā‘anapali, and Kapalua) is strongly discouraged until further notice. Hotels in West Maui have temporarily stopped accepting bookings of future reservations as they are housing their employees and families, evacuees, and first responders.
Other areas on Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pā‘ia, and Hāna) and the islands of Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Lāna‘i, Moloka‘i, and Hawai‘i Island remain unaffected. We urge visitors to be especially mindful and respectful in our island home as our community continues through this tragedy.
Q: If I have a scheduled trip to Maui in the next few weeks, should I postpone my vacation?
A: Beyond West Maui, other areas on the island (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pā‘ia, and Hāna), as well as the other Hawaiian Islands of Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Lānaʻi, Moloka‘i, and Hawai‘i Island remain open and welcome visitors. Vacation travel to West Maui (including Lahaina, Nāpili, Kā‘anapali, and Kapalua) is strongly discouraged until further notice.
Q: Where can visitors find the latest information and updates on the situation?
A: Official channels are the best sources for the latest updates, including the following:
Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency: www.mauistrong.hawaii.gov
Hawai‘i Tourism Authority: www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/news/alerts
Related Stories
Tropical Storm Franklin to Hit Dominican Republic, Haiti
Hawaii Tourism Authority Provides Full View of Situation on Maui
FSA Travel Expands StarHub Travel Opportunities to New Agencies