Reopening Maui hotels focus on supporting locals
11.10.2023 - 15:17
/ travelweekly.com
/ Red Cross
/ Richard Bissen
/ Ilihia Gionson
Spurring controversy locally but undoubtedly a necessary step for the economy, the reopening of iconic hotels in West Maui is underway, with different dates set for each hotel.
Many locals displaced from their homes by the August fires have been in hotel rooms while they await next steps. Some have not been back to their homes to retrieve personal effects, and they worry that the arrival of tourists may hinder progress.
But balance is key for tourism officials. Tourism is integral for Maui, and the state government supports the return of visitors. To that end, they have invested in a $2.6 million tourism campaign, with a heavy focus on supporting local businesses all over the state while encouraging responsible and respectful travel.
Ilihia Gionson, public affairs officer with the Hawaii Tourism Authority, noted that the return of visitors will not displace disaster survivors who are staying in hotels and that they will maintain their existing support from FEMA and the Red Cross.
"The best way to support Maui in its recovery is for travelers to continue with their Maui vacation this fall and don't cancel those trips," said Gionson, who also emphasized buying local as much as possible when in the state. "Maui's economy is dependent on a robust visitor industry, and there is still plenty to see and do away from the Lahaina area."
What's reopening and when
Hotels in the Kaanapali resort area were not affected by the fires. Hotels including the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort and the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort are all open.
It's important to remember opening dates are shifting quickly; readers should be sure to check with the hotels before making travel plans.
According to the latest information from Maui mayor Richard Bissen on Sept. 27, the county will be implementing a phased approach to reopening West Maui to visitors.
As part of Phase 1, the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua will open Oct. 8 with on-site activities coming in phases. Room service will begin Oct. 15, and its weekly Tales of the Kapa Moe luau begins Oct. 17. The Montage Kapalua Bay and the Napili Kai Beach Club also reopen Oct. 8 with pool and restaurant facilities available.
Phase 2 includes most Kaanapali hotels, including the Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas and the Westin Nanea Ocean Villas. Reopening dates for Phase 2 hotels will be based on the success of the Phase 1 reopening, with dates determined after Oct. 8.
Since the majority of displaced residents are sheltering in the lower Kaanapali area, this will be the last phase to allow for more time to address housing options. That is why hotels have had to push their opening date so as not to displace anyone.
These properties include the