Reopening of Tourism in West Maui near Lahaina Met with Mixed Responses as Hotels and Timeshare Properties Open Doors to Guests

Two months after a devastating wildfire razed the area surrounding the town of Maui, local authorities and the Governor of Hawaii are pushing forward with plans to resume tourism in a bid to revitalize the economy. This move has been met with resistance from some residents of Lahaina who remain in a state of grief and loss.

According to official statements from five hotels in West Maui and the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association, these establishments have reopened for reservations. Additionally, eight timeshare properties, some situated only miles away from the burned areas, have also begun to open their doors earlier this month.

This development coincides with the two-month anniversary of the catastrophic wildfire that resulted in at least 98 fatalities and obliterated over 2,000 structures, many of which were residential buildings.

A considerable number of local inhabitants have protested the resumption of tourism activities in the region, which comprises the town of Lahaina and an adjoining northern coastline. Critics argue that the presence of tourists would be a painful reminder of their recent traumas, including the loss of loved ones and the destruction of their homes.

A petition to postpone the reopening garnered the signatures of more than 3,500 residents in the Lahaina area, urging Governor Josh Green to reconsider the timing. However, Governor Green has maintained that resuming tourism is essential for the recovery of Maui’s economy, which is largely dependent on tourism.

Laura Paulson, the Executive Director of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association, revealed that early indications suggest a modest number of tourists are currently utilizing the available accommodations. She anticipates a gradual increase in visitor numbers over time.

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen addressed the contentious issue in a video message, acknowledging the emotional toll but emphasizing the financial necessities faced by many in the community.

In the aftermath of the wildfire, thousands of tourists vacated their beachfront lodgings located to the north of the affected zone. Approximately 11,000 hotel rooms in West Maui have remained unoccupied or have been used to shelter displaced Lahaina residents through programs coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Red Cross.

Mayor Bissen stated that efforts are ongoing to ensure that those impacted by the wildfire can remain in their temporary housing arrangements without being displaced by incoming tourists.

To guide visitors on how to behave respectfully during their stay, the county has released a video highlighting alternative tourist destinations on the island, such as the town of Paia and the scenic route to Hana. Additionally, the Governor’s Office of Wellness and Resilience has prepared informational flyers, to be distributed at various visitor touchpoints, advising tourists on respectful behavior.

Most of the hotels that have reopened are located in the northernmost region of West Maui, notably including the Ritz-Carlton at Kapalua, a considerable distance from the areas most affected by the fire.

Despite initial statements from Governor Green suggesting a smaller number of hotel reopenings, the actual count appears to be higher than initially estimated.

The Mauian, one of the hotels now open for business, has urged prospective visitors to display sensitivity and respect for the local community, many members of which have suffered significant losses due to the disaster.

Laura Paulson further added that timeshare properties, which occasionally rent to non-owners, have presently abstained from doing so in West Maui as a gesture of respect towards the community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Reopening of Tourism in West Maui

More about Reopening of Tourism in West Maui

• Maui County Official Statement
• Statement from the Governor of Hawaii
• Maui Hotel and Lodging Association Report
• Petition from Lahaina-area Residents
• Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Red Cross Programs
• Maui’s Alternative Tourist Destinations
• Governor’s Office of Wellness and Resilience Guidelines
• Interview with Laura Paulson, Executive Director of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association
• The Mauian Hotel’s Official Website