In a recent statewide announcement, Governor Josh Green, M.D. has revealed that the West Maui regions of Kā‘anapali, Nāpili, Honokōwai, and Kapalua are slated to reopen on Sunday, October 8. This comes two months post the devastating wildfires of August 8 that wreaked havoc in Lahaina.
The people of Hawai‘i and visitors are urged to make travel plans to Maui to bolster the local businesses, including restaurants, retail shops, attractions, and lodging places. With the lifting of the travel restrictions to West Maui’s northern communities beyond Lahaina starting October 8, everyone is encouraged to support the hardworking local businesses and employees whose livelihoods are deeply intertwined with West Maui’s tourism.
West Maui re-opening
Governor Green said, “From October 8 onwards, West Maui will be welcoming visitors again, allowing both Hawaiʻi’s residents and international travelers to return to this unique destination and aid in its economic revival. This challenging decision aims to instill hope and pave the way to recovery for the Maui communities deeply scarred by this catastrophe.”
Lahaina Remains Closed
However, Lahaina will continue to be off-limits for the general public until further updates, in consideration of the town’s inhabitants. Ongoing efforts by county, state, and federal emergency teams are centered on locating victims and the missing, clearing the debris and addressing environmental hazards from the wildfires.
Daniel Nāho‘opi‘i, Chief Administrative Officer of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, remarked, “The heart-wrenching ordeal Lahaina has undergone will forever remain etched in Hawai‘i’s memory. The solidarity demonstrated by locals and the global community in support of Maui’s rehabilitation journey has been genuinely uplifting. Now, we beckon people worldwide to express their support for Maui by planning trips, reserving dining experiences, and visiting the myriad retail outlets and attractions that sustain its workforce and their families.”
