Best Things to do in Maui since the Lahaina Wildfires (2024)

In August 2023, West Maui and Lahaina were devastated by wildfires that destroyed many cultural sites, businesses, and homes. It was the deadliest wildfire in the U.S. in the last century, claiming the lives of nearly 100 people and injuring countless others.

I am sure this leaves you wondering the following:

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Is Maui open, is it still a good place to visit, and do Maui residents want you to visit there?

While things are still a little complicated, the bottom line is that many Maui residents rely on tourism for their livelihood, and there are still so many places on this beautiful island to visit outside of West Maui, where considerate and respectful visits are generally still welcome.

Even though there are still a lot of unknowns, I have gathered the latest information about relief efforts, west Maui re-opening dates, and islander sentiment relating to Maui tourism. As of October 6^th, 2023, parts of Kaanapali are scheduled to re-open to the public in phases beginning October 8th, 2023. Additionally, Kihei, Wailea, Upcountry, and Central Maui are still open and want your patronage.

In this post, I will list the Best Things to do in Maui since the Lahaina Wildfires:

Catch the Sunrise at Haleakala:

Take a tour of Haleakala National Park by taking a guided vehicle tour of the summit, crater, and visitor center of this inactive island volcano. It’s a sunrise you will never forget.

Bike down Haleakala:

After you watch the sunrise at the summit of Haleakala National Park, you can opt to take your very own guided bike tour all the way down from 6,500 feet. Bike Maui will take you to the summit, where you will watch the sunrise and view the crater. Then, you get to experience beautiful island views as you cruise your way down from the top.

Snorkel Molokini Crater:

Molokini crater has a shallow side and a deep side. You can snorkel on the shallow side and see tons of amazing marine life. You will take a catamaran ride to get there, but it’s worth the ride to get there.

Scuba Dive:

Maui is known for some awesome marine life. When you aren’t whale watching, dive offshore or head to Lanai for some amazing volcanic cathedral dives.

The Road to Hana:

With places like Black Sand Beach, seven sacred pools, world-famous banana bread, and Chings’ Pond, you will surely find lots to explore.

Reppel down a Waterfall:

Take the Hana Highway into East Maui’s lush jungles to rappel down a waterfall with Rappel Maui. We went in a small group and had the best time. They start you out easy, and you work up to the larger falls throughout the tour. This must be done while in Maui. You can book a tour with Rappel Maui.

Iao Valley State Park:

Iao Valley State Park is home to the Iao Needle, which abruptly rises 1200 feet from the valley floor. It is lush and green, and you can take a short walk through a botanical garden and see the battle site of Kepaniwai, where Kamehameha conquered the Maui army back in 1790.

Mama’s Fish House:

Now that you have had many adventures, it’s time to refuel and get some excellent island cuisine at Mama’s Fish House. You may have heard of Mama’s, but this place deserves the hype. The cuisine is some of the freshest and best-tasting fish I have ever had. Not to mention, the location on the beach is just perfect for a relaxing and luxurious island dinner experience. , make sure you get reservations at least 60 days in advance.