156 thoughts on “Updated: Maui Travel Must Remain On Hold For Now”
Gina
Aloha. We are planning on coming to Maui for 2 days to explore the road to Hana August 24-25. We called The Hana Inn where we are staying and they say they are open. We canceled the rest of our trip and switched to Kauai. Do you think it’s ok for us to hike and explore the road to Hana during this difficult time? I’m hearing mixed reviews.
Thank you!
We just don’t know. We’re hopeful that the state will have a position that they express in the next day or two about travel to relatively unaffected areas of Maui. But please keep in mind that the infrastructure of the island is a shared one that covers all of Maui.
Aloha again! I’m just checking back in. We still have the 2 days in Hana booked for next week, August 24-25 to hike and explore. I’m just wondering if there’s any updates on visiting the east side. I don’t want to upset any locals if we come. If that’s the case we will head to Oahu instead. Any thoughts?
Thank you again for helping everyone with their plans at this somber time for Maui.
They’re absolutely no issues preventing you from going ahead with your travel plans for next week. That according to the latest advice from the state of Hawaii.
Thank you so much. We just don’t want to upset the people of Maui. I understand the government is ok with us coming to the east side but I’m just worried about how the locals would treat us. We don’t want to offend anyone.
Thank you.
Beat of Hawaii
Hi Gina.
That gets back to the personal matter issue. There isn’t a “they” exactly when it comes to Hawaii residents. Those who are happy to be working will welcome you. Others may feel differently.
Aloha.
Sheryl B
We are booked for a condo beginning September 10th in West Maui and CBIslandVacations will not offer us a refund after two inquiries. It is obvious it is unsafe and undesirable to travel to Maui during this horrific unfortunate disaster. I will not risk my health to go for the 11 day vacation we planned and under the circumstances, the Island cannot accommodate the West Maui tourists right now. I remain hopeful that the Governor will issue another announcement for those tourists arriving in September to not visit and then we can get a refund.
You should try contacting your credit card company and let them know you want to dispute the charge for the hotel payment. Given the circumstances, they may work with you.
I did contact MC and they said since his property was unaffected by fire and his place is still available for our dates there is nothing they can do. It is an ethical decision at this point not a legal one.
It is very important to the people of Maui that tourism return sooner than later. Since 80% of their economy depends on monies spent from visitors, returning to Maui will not only help the individuals impacted by this devastation, but will also help stimulate rebuilding efforts. Hoping that the airlines will respond with lower airfares to the island.
Much appreciation for all the information as my nonprofit organization has served for the young generation there in Maui. My heart goes out to all those that have been affected by this tragedy and prayers that recovery will come soon.
We feel deeply for the loss and grief of those on Maui (and the Big Island) affected by the horrific fires. We want yo be mindful and empathetic to those who are suffering. Half our town was leveled by a tornado 4 years ago. We understand what a shock it is to not recognize home.
However, we booked a trip to Maalaea the end of September- October, then flying to the Big Island for a few days. Neither our airline nor VRBO are currently allowing us to cancel or change any of our plans or allowing us to alter them to staying on other islands. When we checked with VRBO host, we were told “come on over. Everything is fine. They’re blowing this up to be a bigger issue than it really is!” Which leaves us scratching our heads. How can the pictures we are seeing and stories we are hearing and rising death counts possibly be not “that big of a problem”? We don’t know how to get a real answer or help, BOH seems to be our best avenue for real reporting.
The last thing we want to do is be a drain for resources or be in the way during this time. We are at a loss of what do do and our hands feel tied, even as we pray first and foremost for those who are suffering unimaginably in HI.
We’re sure hope to know more soon that we can share. Maalaea is different of course than Lahaina or Kaanapali. It will recover far sooner in every sense other than island-wide issues impacting all of Maui.
VRBO and its owners should be told under the emergency orders that they must refund all visitor reservations. So those about to come to a VRBO in Kaanapali where there is currently no power should just come anyway or lose their money??
The State and Maui county should revoke All short term rental licenses that do not provide refunds immediately.
Even Kiehi was affected by the fires and all resources are in short supply islandwide and to some degree statewide. Demand that VRBO and their mostly Mainland owners comply.
My heart goes out to the people of Maui. What a terrible tragedy for so many. I hate even asking this with what the people are going through right now.
We have a booking for 3 days (Sept 6 -9) in Kihei before meeting up with my family for a long overdue reunion. We were stuck in Australia during Covid and we haven’t see our family in 4 years. Our reunion has been moved as my family has changed their flights and accomodation to Kauai based on current recommendations and hotel/airline policies. I can also change my flights. However, we haven’t heard back from our VRBO rental and we are past the cancellation deadline.
My initial thought was to come with my two children (12 and 10) and volunteer for 2 days before flying to Kauai. But I’m getting mixed information about whether this will be helpful or just take away resources from locals that very much need them.
I also need to have a back up plan for those 3 days as things are getting booked up and we have a small budget. I also can’t afford to lose the money for our booking because I will need it for the new booking.
Is coming in early September advisable? Any thoughts or advice please?
Thank you for this update.We are all deeply saddened for the people ❤️ of Maui.Here in California we are all to familiar with fires.God speed.See you soon.
Good evening: I read your column on traveling to Maui in the coming months, and I know now is really not the time to ask, knowing that the devastation for the people of West Maui is beyond comprehensible. We do have a trip planned for mid-December and I’m sure there is no way of knowing if this is still a good idea or not. The last thing we’d want to do is make the situation more chaotic for those that live there. We are staying in the Kaanapali resort area at a VRBO. Do you think we should possibly make different arrangements? I respect and love the ohana that is Maui and would never want to intrude on their feelings. Any tips you could give would be helpful. Many blessings to you all, and my heart breaks for all of you. I’ve been there several times and my thoughts are with you during this most difficult time.
we are wondering the same but our trip is for arrival on September 28th. We would like to still come to Maui to help with anything we can and to spend our money there to help their economy, but will not come if they continue to discourage non essential travel. Praying for the island people and first responders.
Praying for everyone in Maui. I have a VRBO condo in Kihei paid with a no refund policy arriving Monday. The host / owner is not allowing me to cancel and get a refund. I can’t afford to just give them (lose) $5k. We saved and used credit. If they don’t refund me, we will have to go anyway. Hopefully contributing to the tourism economy will help and perhaps we can help in some way.
You’ll be totally fine staying in Kihei, and visiting most parts of Maui. Just stay away from Lahaina as everyone is obviously devastated and grieving, and will be for a very long time. They opened the road to Lahaina awhile today, but had to close it again, because some incredibly disrespectful people (both tourists and residents) drove out there to rubberneck and get their photos/videos and traffic was horrendous. Have a nice time visiting Maui and please consider donating to the Red Cross while you’re here. It will be much appreciated 🙂
Not sure about VRBO but AIR BNB has a cancellation policy for Extenuating Circumstances. See link below:
airbnb.com/help/article/1320/
If VRBO doesn’t have this then you need to book next time with AIR BNB
We have our honeymoon booked for Lahaina end of August. We are confused on what we should do…I tried to get a refund via VRBO host(she lives in Maui), and she told me that I don’t qualify for a refund anymore! I couldn’t believe it. We can’t be out 8k..I can’t afford to just throw that away. Host told me that they are 5 miles from the fires and that their property is fine. Please direct me as to what we should do.
Thank you for the update- our thoughts and prayers go out to all on Maui-
We will keep in touch and hope to be able to be back to Wailea and Kihei in November- a donation will be sent to assist those in need-
We are scheduled for Aug 19th in Kihei. Biggest issue is VRBO has no flexibility, we’d just be out almost $10k. The host is encouraging us to come still as that area is not impacted and will help their local economies that also will suffer. I feel stuck. We are trying to find ways to support if we go including volunteering, bringing things from mainland or donating supplies when we arrive. In a bit of wait and see but feel handcuffed by VRBO. 🙁
VRBO owners need to step up!! They make a lot of money off the island. I am trying to cancel and come back in Jan but no flexibility. They are saying come my place didn’t burn down. Kihei is not affected. All these rentals will sit empty while they pocket the money and residents that have lost everything will be sleeping in a car or on a floor. I would rather have the money donated back to Maui.
How are you qualified to make any judgements? Just how, do you think, they could have got to any hydrants in that inferno? Perhaps you should have a better look at the videos of the fire as it raged unrelenting sucking up everything in its path.
Agreed. I host an Air BNB on the Big Island, but it barely helps me pay my mortgage. Look for hosted rentals. Money stays on the island and helps the local economy.
I had some people coming on 8/10, and they had questioned the Big Island. I would have let them out had we had any real damage here. Carma baby!
The only structure here was an overly priced hotel that limits public access to 10 to 15 cars at a time. This building damage wasn’t even part of where people stay.
Disappointed to read so many comments about “greedy/unethical” VRBO/AirBnB owners. First, we are owners who are refunding, so stop the broad generalizations, accusations, and implications – it’s not healthy, nor respectful, particular at this time. Second our investments in Hawaii employ cleaning staff, maintenance staff, resort staff, and everyone that serves you when you are on the island. There are also going to be significant numbers of hard working people who can’t earn a living in West Maui, outside Lahaina. These people have become our friends so we would like to try and support them, where appropriate, by keeping our businesses going. Third, we have mortgages, AOAO fees, homeowners insurance, hurricane insurance, fire insurance, property taxes (rates of which are significantly higher than locals as a way to support the infrastructure) and have to pay to maintain our property from the damage tourists cause (and fail to admit to). This disaster is impacting many people. A suggestion for those complaining about us… Next time, buy trip cancellation insurance… It is designed for this exact purpose. Stop dumping your risk on small business people who have plenty of their own obligations to support in order to provide you a comfortable and enjoyable vacation. We’re invested in Maui and trying to do our part to support a devastated community.
Thanks for sharing this perspective and prudent advice. So many unknowns can provoke anxiety. We must be flexible and patient. This is a crisis, and there is nothing we can do to get answers about tourism more quickly. Meanwhile, our thoughts are with the people of Maui.
Our VRBO will not let us out of our booking in West Maui 09/02. $50K rental for 30 ppl to celebrate my grandma turning 89. Mind Blowing. At a loss for what to do, the excitement of our trip is gone and we are devastated for Lahaina. Mahalo and lots of love.
You host/hosts shjould be ashamed of themselves! I’m so sorry that this is happening with your family in what was clearly to be a very special occassion. Sending Aloha…
I am in mourning with the horrible devastating loss of Lahaina. We spend two weeks in Dec each year at our timeshare on Kaanapali Beach. Lahaina has been my happy place for over 20 years. My heart is broken for it’s loss. Please feel my hugs for the loss and to the people of Maui who a suffering 😢
Judi P
Our hearts 💕 go out to the people of Lahani and the lovely island of Maui. We pray that the island will recover quickly and the Hawaiian peoples recover from the devastation and heart break of loosing lives’, homes, businesses and their traditional ceremonial artifacts.
Wencan not believe the selfishness of people worrying about reservations and vacations when the friendly people’s of Maui lands are devastated.
Again, our love of the Island of Maui and it’s peoples are in our hearts 💕 and forth coming in our minds. We send very positive thoughts and love to you all.
Praying over Maui, communities, residents, and families. I was sched to fly yesterday for time with classmate and friend of 40+years with her family on Aug 10. Saddened about all that has devastated Maui. I am supporting those in need. It is the right gesture to do. We are not promised tomorrow… so helping where possible. I still have my tix and waiting for when is best to visit Maui. Mahalo!
Aloha. We are planning on coming to Maui for 2 days to explore the road to Hana August 24-25. We called The Hana Inn where we are staying and they say they are open. We canceled the rest of our trip and switched to Kauai. Do you think it’s ok for us to hike and explore the road to Hana during this difficult time? I’m hearing mixed reviews.
Thank you!
Hi Gina.
We just don’t know. We’re hopeful that the state will have a position that they express in the next day or two about travel to relatively unaffected areas of Maui. But please keep in mind that the infrastructure of the island is a shared one that covers all of Maui.
Aloha.
Aloha.
Aloha again! I’m just checking back in. We still have the 2 days in Hana booked for next week, August 24-25 to hike and explore. I’m just wondering if there’s any updates on visiting the east side. I don’t want to upset any locals if we come. If that’s the case we will head to Oahu instead. Any thoughts?
Thank you again for helping everyone with their plans at this somber time for Maui.
Hi Gina.
They’re absolutely no issues preventing you from going ahead with your travel plans for next week. That according to the latest advice from the state of Hawaii.
Aloha.
Thank you so much. We just don’t want to upset the people of Maui. I understand the government is ok with us coming to the east side but I’m just worried about how the locals would treat us. We don’t want to offend anyone.
Thank you.
Hi Gina.
That gets back to the personal matter issue. There isn’t a “they” exactly when it comes to Hawaii residents. Those who are happy to be working will welcome you. Others may feel differently.
Aloha.
We are booked for a condo beginning September 10th in West Maui and CBIslandVacations will not offer us a refund after two inquiries. It is obvious it is unsafe and undesirable to travel to Maui during this horrific unfortunate disaster. I will not risk my health to go for the 11 day vacation we planned and under the circumstances, the Island cannot accommodate the West Maui tourists right now. I remain hopeful that the Governor will issue another announcement for those tourists arriving in September to not visit and then we can get a refund.
You should try contacting your credit card company and let them know you want to dispute the charge for the hotel payment. Given the circumstances, they may work with you.
I did contact MC and they said since his property was unaffected by fire and his place is still available for our dates there is nothing they can do. It is an ethical decision at this point not a legal one.
I will be coming to Maui on the first of November and staying at the Marriott Vacation Club. Is that advisable and what about restaurants?
Hi Carole.
The honest answer is that no one knows at this time.
Aloha.
It is very important to the people of Maui that tourism return sooner than later. Since 80% of their economy depends on monies spent from visitors, returning to Maui will not only help the individuals impacted by this devastation, but will also help stimulate rebuilding efforts. Hoping that the airlines will respond with lower airfares to the island.
Much appreciation for all the information as my nonprofit organization has served for the young generation there in Maui. My heart goes out to all those that have been affected by this tragedy and prayers that recovery will come soon.
We feel deeply for the loss and grief of those on Maui (and the Big Island) affected by the horrific fires. We want yo be mindful and empathetic to those who are suffering. Half our town was leveled by a tornado 4 years ago. We understand what a shock it is to not recognize home.
However, we booked a trip to Maalaea the end of September- October, then flying to the Big Island for a few days. Neither our airline nor VRBO are currently allowing us to cancel or change any of our plans or allowing us to alter them to staying on other islands. When we checked with VRBO host, we were told “come on over. Everything is fine. They’re blowing this up to be a bigger issue than it really is!” Which leaves us scratching our heads. How can the pictures we are seeing and stories we are hearing and rising death counts possibly be not “that big of a problem”? We don’t know how to get a real answer or help, BOH seems to be our best avenue for real reporting.
The last thing we want to do is be a drain for resources or be in the way during this time. We are at a loss of what do do and our hands feel tied, even as we pray first and foremost for those who are suffering unimaginably in HI.
Walohia..
Hi Robyn.
We’re sure hope to know more soon that we can share. Maalaea is different of course than Lahaina or Kaanapali. It will recover far sooner in every sense other than island-wide issues impacting all of Maui.
Aloha.
Thank you BOH for being a real voice for us to count on! We appreciate your love and concern for your state
Hi Robyn.
Thanks very much! Your words mean a lot.
Aloha.
VRBO and its owners should be told under the emergency orders that they must refund all visitor reservations. So those about to come to a VRBO in Kaanapali where there is currently no power should just come anyway or lose their money??
The State and Maui county should revoke All short term rental licenses that do not provide refunds immediately.
Even Kiehi was affected by the fires and all resources are in short supply islandwide and to some degree statewide. Demand that VRBO and their mostly Mainland owners comply.
My heart goes out to the people of Maui. What a terrible tragedy for so many. I hate even asking this with what the people are going through right now.
We have a booking for 3 days (Sept 6 -9) in Kihei before meeting up with my family for a long overdue reunion. We were stuck in Australia during Covid and we haven’t see our family in 4 years. Our reunion has been moved as my family has changed their flights and accomodation to Kauai based on current recommendations and hotel/airline policies. I can also change my flights. However, we haven’t heard back from our VRBO rental and we are past the cancellation deadline.
My initial thought was to come with my two children (12 and 10) and volunteer for 2 days before flying to Kauai. But I’m getting mixed information about whether this will be helpful or just take away resources from locals that very much need them.
I also need to have a back up plan for those 3 days as things are getting booked up and we have a small budget. I also can’t afford to lose the money for our booking because I will need it for the new booking.
Is coming in early September advisable? Any thoughts or advice please?
Hi Christie.
After 3 days, we’d say it is still too early to know what the situation will be like in a couple more weeks.
Aloha.
Thank you for this update.We are all deeply saddened for the people ❤️ of Maui.Here in California we are all to familiar with fires.God speed.See you soon.
Good evening: I read your column on traveling to Maui in the coming months, and I know now is really not the time to ask, knowing that the devastation for the people of West Maui is beyond comprehensible. We do have a trip planned for mid-December and I’m sure there is no way of knowing if this is still a good idea or not. The last thing we’d want to do is make the situation more chaotic for those that live there. We are staying in the Kaanapali resort area at a VRBO. Do you think we should possibly make different arrangements? I respect and love the ohana that is Maui and would never want to intrude on their feelings. Any tips you could give would be helpful. Many blessings to you all, and my heart breaks for all of you. I’ve been there several times and my thoughts are with you during this most difficult time.
we are wondering the same but our trip is for arrival on September 28th. We would like to still come to Maui to help with anything we can and to spend our money there to help their economy, but will not come if they continue to discourage non essential travel. Praying for the island people and first responders.
Praying for everyone in Maui. I have a VRBO condo in Kihei paid with a no refund policy arriving Monday. The host / owner is not allowing me to cancel and get a refund. I can’t afford to just give them (lose) $5k. We saved and used credit. If they don’t refund me, we will have to go anyway. Hopefully contributing to the tourism economy will help and perhaps we can help in some way.
You’ll be totally fine staying in Kihei, and visiting most parts of Maui. Just stay away from Lahaina as everyone is obviously devastated and grieving, and will be for a very long time. They opened the road to Lahaina awhile today, but had to close it again, because some incredibly disrespectful people (both tourists and residents) drove out there to rubberneck and get their photos/videos and traffic was horrendous. Have a nice time visiting Maui and please consider donating to the Red Cross while you’re here. It will be much appreciated 🙂
Not sure about VRBO but AIR BNB has a cancellation policy for Extenuating Circumstances. See link below:
airbnb.com/help/article/1320/
If VRBO doesn’t have this then you need to book next time with AIR BNB
We have our honeymoon booked for Lahaina end of August. We are confused on what we should do…I tried to get a refund via VRBO host(she lives in Maui), and she told me that I don’t qualify for a refund anymore! I couldn’t believe it. We can’t be out 8k..I can’t afford to just throw that away. Host told me that they are 5 miles from the fires and that their property is fine. Please direct me as to what we should do.
Hi Denise.
The state is clearly advising that you should not come to West Maui now.
Aloha.
Thank you for the update- our thoughts and prayers go out to all on Maui-
We will keep in touch and hope to be able to be back to Wailea and Kihei in November- a donation will be sent to assist those in need-
We are scheduled for Aug 19th in Kihei. Biggest issue is VRBO has no flexibility, we’d just be out almost $10k. The host is encouraging us to come still as that area is not impacted and will help their local economies that also will suffer. I feel stuck. We are trying to find ways to support if we go including volunteering, bringing things from mainland or donating supplies when we arrive. In a bit of wait and see but feel handcuffed by VRBO. 🙁
VRBO owners need to step up!! They make a lot of money off the island. I am trying to cancel and come back in Jan but no flexibility. They are saying come my place didn’t burn down. Kihei is not affected. All these rentals will sit empty while they pocket the money and residents that have lost everything will be sleeping in a car or on a floor. I would rather have the money donated back to Maui.
How are you qualified to make any judgements? Just how, do you think, they could have got to any hydrants in that inferno? Perhaps you should have a better look at the videos of the fire as it raged unrelenting sucking up everything in its path.
People may want to rethink if they really want to book Airbnb/VRBO stays with “hosts” who live off island.
Off island ownership of Hawaii real estate is highly problematic even at the best of times.
Agreed. I host an Air BNB on the Big Island, but it barely helps me pay my mortgage. Look for hosted rentals. Money stays on the island and helps the local economy.
I had some people coming on 8/10, and they had questioned the Big Island. I would have let them out had we had any real damage here. Carma baby!
The only structure here was an overly priced hotel that limits public access to 10 to 15 cars at a time. This building damage wasn’t even part of where people stay.
Disappointed to read so many comments about “greedy/unethical” VRBO/AirBnB owners. First, we are owners who are refunding, so stop the broad generalizations, accusations, and implications – it’s not healthy, nor respectful, particular at this time. Second our investments in Hawaii employ cleaning staff, maintenance staff, resort staff, and everyone that serves you when you are on the island. There are also going to be significant numbers of hard working people who can’t earn a living in West Maui, outside Lahaina. These people have become our friends so we would like to try and support them, where appropriate, by keeping our businesses going. Third, we have mortgages, AOAO fees, homeowners insurance, hurricane insurance, fire insurance, property taxes (rates of which are significantly higher than locals as a way to support the infrastructure) and have to pay to maintain our property from the damage tourists cause (and fail to admit to). This disaster is impacting many people. A suggestion for those complaining about us… Next time, buy trip cancellation insurance… It is designed for this exact purpose. Stop dumping your risk on small business people who have plenty of their own obligations to support in order to provide you a comfortable and enjoyable vacation. We’re invested in Maui and trying to do our part to support a devastated community.
Thanks for sharing this perspective and prudent advice. So many unknowns can provoke anxiety. We must be flexible and patient. This is a crisis, and there is nothing we can do to get answers about tourism more quickly. Meanwhile, our thoughts are with the people of Maui.
Our VRBO will not let us out of our booking in West Maui 09/02. $50K rental for 30 ppl to celebrate my grandma turning 89. Mind Blowing. At a loss for what to do, the excitement of our trip is gone and we are devastated for Lahaina. Mahalo and lots of love.
You host/hosts shjould be ashamed of themselves! I’m so sorry that this is happening with your family in what was clearly to be a very special occassion. Sending Aloha…
I am in mourning with the horrible devastating loss of Lahaina. We spend two weeks in Dec each year at our timeshare on Kaanapali Beach. Lahaina has been my happy place for over 20 years. My heart is broken for it’s loss. Please feel my hugs for the loss and to the people of Maui who a suffering 😢
Judi P
Our hearts 💕 go out to the people of Lahani and the lovely island of Maui. We pray that the island will recover quickly and the Hawaiian peoples recover from the devastation and heart break of loosing lives’, homes, businesses and their traditional ceremonial artifacts.
Wencan not believe the selfishness of people worrying about reservations and vacations when the friendly people’s of Maui lands are devastated.
Again, our love of the Island of Maui and it’s peoples are in our hearts 💕 and forth coming in our minds. We send very positive thoughts and love to you all.
Praying over Maui, communities, residents, and families. I was sched to fly yesterday for time with classmate and friend of 40+years with her family on Aug 10. Saddened about all that has devastated Maui. I am supporting those in need. It is the right gesture to do. We are not promised tomorrow… so helping where possible. I still have my tix and waiting for when is best to visit Maui. Mahalo!