Does Maui want tourists to stay away?

Does Maui want tourists to stay away? Despite what has been circulating on social media, Maui residents assure visitors will be welcomed—as long as they're respectful while they're on the island.

Have tourists returned to Maui?

Tourists were officially welcomed back to West Maui on Sunday, exactly two months after devastating wildfires displaced thousands of residents, killed 98 people and destroyed hundreds of buildings. Historic Lahaina Town – once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom – was, and is still, unrecognizable.

Is it safe to walk in Maui?

General Safety Although tourist areas are generally safe, visitors should always stay alert, even in laid-back Maui (and especially in resort and beach areas). It's wise to ask the island tourist office if you're in doubt about which neighborhoods are safe. Avoid deserted areas, especially at night.

How can I be a respectful tourist in Maui?

Be respectful of sacred sites. There are many sacred sites on Maui, such as the Haleakala crater and the Iao Needle. When you're visiting these places, make sure to be respectful of the Hawaiian culture and traditions. For example, don't leave anything behind at the crater or take any rocks from the Iao Needle.

Does Hawaii rely on tourists?

Tourism comprises 21% of the state's economy, with many of Hawaii's largest industries revolving around the constant flow of tourists.

Does Hawaii want tourists after fire?

Hawaii public officials want tourists back after the horrible wildfire as soon as possible, but airlines and tour operators know that it takes time for local communities to heal. Maui's tourism recovery has been moving at a sluggish pace since the wildfires devastated the island's western region in early August.

Is it safe to walk around Maui at night?

General Safety Don't go into any city park at night unless there's an event that attracts a crowd. Generally speaking, you can feel safe in areas where there are many people and open establishments. Avoid carrying valuables with you on the street, and don't display expensive cameras or electronic equipment.

Are people friendly in Maui?

We were in Maui in July and found the people we met to be very friendly. But we always take the time to talk to them and ask them question about their lives and the things they like to do on the island. Everyone was very out going and friendly. Just make sure you are the same and you should meet alot of nice people.

Do Hawaiian locals ask tourists to stop coming?

Some locals, many of them of Native Hawaiian descent, have gone so far as to argue that travelers should cross Hawaii off of their future itineraries for good. Tourism is seen as one of several factors that allowed the Maui fire to become so deadly.

Do Maui residents want tourists to stay away?

Maui residents have remained consistent that visitors should avoid all of West Maui, which continues to be a hub for displaced families. Hotels there are housing more than 5,000 people who are not tourists, including families who lost homes, government relief officials, aid organizations and cleanup crews.

Is there crime against tourists in Maui?

Maui is generally safe, but you can expect accounts of petty crime as with any tourist destination. Some visitors make the mistake of leaving valuables like cameras and purses visible in their car, only to come back from shopping or hiking to find their windows smashed.

What happened to Maui island?

Deadly wildfires in Hawaii, which killed over 100 people and forced thousands to evacuate, were fueled by a mix of land and atmospheric conditions that can create fire weather. A massive blaze destroyed much of the historic town of Lahaina, on Maui, and the search for victims continued as hundreds remained missing.

Does Maui want tourists after fire?

In the days following the deadly wildfires, many Hawaiians told tourists to stay away. But a month later, officials are asking people to return responsibly.

How many tourists visit Maui daily?

Traveler numbers historically dip in September — Maui saw between 5,000 and 7,000 visitors a day that month in 2022. So far in September 2023, however, the number of passengers headed to Maui is averaging between 2,000 and 3,000 a day.

Is homelessness a problem on Maui?

A 2023 point-in-time report shows Lahaina as the region with the second most homeless people on the island at 113, after Central Maui.

What do Hawaiians think of tourists?

Generally, most locals are happy to see the tourists come and see what life means for them, especially those activities that depict a life many have never seen, learned, or experienced.

Is it ethical to move to Hawaii?

Moving to Hawaii ethically is something that is difficult to accomplish. Taking up housing and driving up prices leaves natives struggling. While many realize stopping people from moving to Hawaii all together is impossible, there are still ways to be respectful and try to help the community.

Is Maui losing its beaches?

Out of all the Hawaiian islands, Maui is facing the most erosion – data indicates that 85% of Maui's beaches are experiencing long-term erosion. West Maui, where the Kahana Sunset resides, has been heavily impacted by high waves and erosion, according to Owens.

Is it ethical to travel to Hawaii 2023?

Here's why. Fodor's Travel named Maui one of 10 destinations on its 2023 “No List” that tourists should reconsider visiting this year. The travel publication outlined 10 regions ranging from Antarctica to Italy that are threatened by environmental damage caused by overtourism and climate change.