West Maui is still restricted after large wildfires ravaged the region and caused at least 99 deaths.
West Maui is closed to tourists until at least the end of August, according to the Hawai’i Tourism Authority. Lahaina Napili Kaanapali Kapalua are some of the areas closed to tourists.
The Tourism Authority’s update states that “in the weeks to come, all resources and attention from the federal, state, county, community of West Maui, as well as the travel industry, must be focused on helping residents who have lost their loved ones, their homes, belongings and businesses.”
Crews continue to search the charred remains of the buildings that were decimated in the fire. They hope to finish the task by the weekend. Many residents may still be missing because they left behind their phones and other communication equipment as they fled quickly.
Hawai’i Gov. Josh Green issued a revised emergency proclamation to officially activate the Hawai’i National Guard for disaster relief. He also discouraged non-essential travel in the West Maui region.
Green’s proclamation says that “Visitors to West Maui have mostly heeded Green’s call to leave the Island.” Hotels and other accommodations are required for displaced residents as well as emergency workers.
Many hotels on West Maui do not have electricity or water. The accommodations that remain open are housing employees and locals who lost their homes to the fire. Owners of rental properties are encouraged to make their homes available to other community members who have been displaced by the fire through the Hawai’i Fire Relief Housing Program. Airbnb.org announced plans to provide housing for 1,000 more people, in collaboration with its host network.
The majority of major airlines flying into Kahului Airport, Maui, allow tourists to cancel or change their flights without charge. Officials suggest that if you plan to visit a different area of Maui and want to confirm whether your accommodation or hotel is still open, call them.
Please visit for the latest information on the Maui wildfire of August. This resource was created by the Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency. Donations to the Maui Strong Fund are managed by the Hawai’i Community Foundation.
