With more and more islands objecting to tourists in the Mediterranean and Canaries. One island is saying ‘Aloha’!
After dealing with devastating forest fires a year ago the Island of Maui in Hawaii is welcoming back visitors. In a big and new way.
Hawaiian-greeting so Island tourists welcome. Credit Hawai Tourism Authority Image Mathieu-Duchier.
Embracing the ‘Malama spirit’ of the islands or to ‘care for and give back’ by visiting with:
1. Compassion and empathy.
2. Supporting local businesses (www.mauinuifirst.com)
3. Care for Maui through ‘Voluntourism’ experiences.
Back in August 2023 the wild fires destroyed and area of Lāhainā.
While some blaze hit areas still remain closed to the public. Several restaurants, businesses and activities in Lāhainā are now open and welcoming visitors.
A year ago fires raged around the island.
A chance to embrace the historical and cultural significance of Lāhainā. And yet stay away from fire-affected areas thus showing a means of respect for the people and places that have been lost.
“The best way to support Maui’s recovery is for travellers to visit” says Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA). “Maui’s economy depends on a robust visitor industry and there is still plenty to see and do that is away from the fire-affected areas of Lāhainā Town. Maui is ready to welcome travellers, however, they are urged to be especially respectful and mindful.”
Guide with volunteers Maui. Credit Hawaii-Tourism-Authority-HTA Image: Mathieu-Duchier
Islanders request that you do not take photos of the area, even from afar.
There are many unique ways to not only visit one of the most beautiful tropical islands in the world. But also experience a whole range of volunteer projects through: https://www.goHawaii.com/islands/maui/Malama-maui/voluntourism
There are some 50 plus inspiring ideas for visitors to volunteer with whilst there.
Kiai Collier of Hawaii Land Trust Reforestation. Credit:Hawaii Tourism Authority Image: Heather-Goodman
Each of the Hawaiian Islands provide unique ways to connect with the land and culture and embrace the spirit of Mālama. If travellers book a designated volunteer activity through the Mālama program they can claim special offers or even a free hotel night.
Example Malama activities on Maui include:
Sign up for ‘Nest Watch’ with the Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund. May to November is green sea & hawksbill turtle nesting season on Maui and you can volunteer for Dawn Patrol nest watch.
Night Patrol monitoring for turtle tracks, nests and taking the role of security guard for females and their hatchlings.
Love dogs or miss your fur baby while on holiday? Beach Buddies, run by Maui Humane Society. This provides a fun day out for shelter dogs. Improving their socialisation ready for adoption. And gives you a furry friend to play with at the beach.
Surfing and boat experiences. Maui welcomes back tourists. Image © Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA).
Redline Rafting is an adventure company on a waste reduction mission. Stop by the Kīhei Boat Ramp and grab a reusable bag and litter pick from their ‘Mālama truck’.
Or do the same on one of the many hiking trails or parks of your choice. Pick up rubbish as you go, returning your bag to be disposed of safely by Redline following the fires.
Other projects such as volunteer maintenance work projects. Dedicated to preserving the Honokowai Valley project this takes place every Saturday at 9am. To learn how to get involved, please visit: https://mauiculturallands.org/projects/honokowai
Island Tourists Welcome. Guide with volunteers Maui. Credit Hawaii-Tourism-Authority Image: Mathieu-Duchier
Hua Momona Farms has been supplying Maui and Oahu with freshregenerative-grown microgreens since 2019 from their elevated oasis in Kapalua. The farm activated their foundation to aid in the Maui recovery efforts following the devastating Lahaina fire.
By volunteering you can participate in farming activities. Assist in preparing nutritious meals for those affected by the Lahaina fire, or be involved in helping with the efficient distribution of meals: https://www.huamomonafarms.com/
Maui-plantation Island tourists welcome. Credit Hawaii-Tourism-Authority-HTA Image Ben-Ono
Volunteer organisations and travel partners statewide are offering a range of experiences for visitors to engage in mindful travel. Visitors can experience mālama and respect this unique island home by giving back. Thus enjoying the “get back” through experiences that are sure to stay with them for a lifetime.
Maui welcomes back tourists. Image © Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA).
In terms of what’s new on Maui. Then these experiences are well worth looking at too.
Adventure Park Maui if you you’re looking for a fun family activity. An outing for the kids. Or maybe an active date night for the two of you?
The Adventure Park Maui Hawaii! comprises of both low-ropes courses and high-ropes courses plus exciting ziplines and is ideal for all ages.
Guests ages 7+ can enjoy our 6 elevated trails with 60+ elements. https://myadventurepark.com/location/maui-hi/
The Hotel Wailea Unveils the Land, Sea and Air Experience. Hawai‘i’s only Relais and Châteaux property. Has now unveiled a Land, Sea, Air Experience. Which captures the best of Maui in three unique ways.
Designed for just couples, this exclusive experience allows for the ultimate romantic getaway. And to celebrate the beauty of Maui plus connect deeper with each other.
Land – Explore the island at leisure during an exquisite ride in a ’57 Porsche 356 Speedster. Drive this along with a picnic basket with snacks and beverages curated by Hotel Wailea Executive Chef Ryan Cruz.
Sea – Discover the true spirit of Maui aboard a classic Columbia 57’ Sailing Yacht. A private, two-hour sunset sail. This intimate and exclusive voyage, reserved solely for Hotel Wailea guests. It promises pristine coastlines, panoramic sunset views, and elevated bites and sips.
Air Maur can offer such trips https://airmaui.com/complete-island-helicopter-tour/
Lastly Air – Experience a helicopter flight along the north coast of Maui. Featuring bird’s-eye views of the coastline waterfalls and jagged cliffs. Guests will land in the Hana Rainforest. Plus, explore Maui’s lush vegetation. Followed by a hotel prepared picnic accompanied by a selection of champagne and wine.
https://www.hotelwailea.com/exclusive-offers/land-sea-air/
. www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnmmc-wailea-beach-resort-marriott-maui/experiences/
Just reopened is the Kai Tower Hotel, Kīhei in South Maui since 1992. Unveiling its new 162-room facility on June 1st. In addition to the sleek and modern rooms and suites. This cherished hotel will be simultaneously unveiling a new pool deck with a lavish infinity pool. Plus private cabanas. With Pickleball courts coming soon too!
https://www.mauicoasthotel.com/
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