Devastation caused by the Maui fires will be on our minds and in our hearts for some time to come. However, as the island recovers, we want to keep our treasured guests in the loop, including help on upcoming vacation plans.
West Maui is slowly reopening to visitors, including our resort, Kuleana, which is now open. Lahaina town will be off limits for some time to come. The rest of the island is open, and welcomes your visit, including our resorts in Ma’alaea, Kihei and Wailea. While we value your patronage, and tourism is important to our economy, please keep in mind that many in our community have been touched by loss, and some businesses may be understaffed. Aloha and patience is very much appreciated.
West Maui Reservations
The Kuleana resort area is seven miles past Lahaina town, and not affected materially by the Lahaina fires. If you have questions about a future visit to Kuleana, please reach out.
As we welcome visitors back to Kuleana, we ask your compassion and respect for residents still grieving the loss of loved ones, homes, and workplaces from the August 8, 2023 wildfires.
– Please do not stop on the Lahaina Bypass to view or take photos of the burn zones. Lahaina Town is off-limits to anyone who is not a resident or essential worker authorized to be in those zones.
– Please do not ask people about their homes and families. If they want to share their stories, they will offer them. If not, please respect their privacy.
– Some businesses are not yet re-opened; others have modified hours and services.
Some condominium owners at Kuleana have offered their units for temporary long-term housing for employees of Kuleana and their families that lost their housing. If you would like to support this effort, Kuleana has set up this GoFundMe page. Meanwhile, you will temporarily see fewer Kuleana units available for booking on our website.
Ma’alaea and South Maui Reservations
Resort areas of Ma’alaea and South Maui (Kihei and Wailea) were not physically affected by the wildfires, and are open for business. For vacationers, you will find area restaurants, businesses and activities operational. There are less visitors on the island, making getting around less crowded. However, you may experience staffing shortages at some businesses, requiring extra patience.
Even though Central and South Maui are farther away from the devastating loss of Lahaina town, the entire community is affected. Please be compassionate when engaging with service personnel, resort staff and others, and be patient with any delays. We truly want you to have a wonderful time on your Maui vacation.
Questions about Reservations
Please direct questions about existing or new reservations to vacationrentals@destinationmaui.net
We are handling a high volume of communication, and your patience is appreciated.
How You Can Help
We encourage guests to donate to the Maui Food Bank. Most residents that lost their homes are now transitioning to new long-term housing. The food bank is stretched to the limit, and could use your help ongoing.
We look forward to your next Maui visit with much aloha.
Mahalo,
Your Destination Maui Vacations Team
