West Maui Soon to Reopen for Tourism After Wildfires

A new emergency proclamation announced this week brings welcome news for Hawaii’s second largest island. After devastating wildfires ransacked West Maui for two months, most of the popular visitor destination will finally reopen to tourism in October 2023. The fires consumed over 45,000 acres, forced thousands to evacuate, and cost millions in economic losses from travel restrictions. But thanks to the valiant efforts of firefighters and first responders, one of Maui’s most breathtaking and sacred areas can start healing soon.

As a resident of Lahaina, I’ve witnessed the fires’ terrible toll firsthand. The usually verdant valleys and slopes turned desolate as flames engulfed watershed forests. Our beautiful island we call home resembled a war zone choking under dense smoke. But we also felt incredible gratitude for the sacrifices made to save lives and property. Now comes the opportunity to rebuild and reconnect with the lands we treasure.

Most parts of West Maui will welcome tourists back starting October 15 under the recovery plan. The proclamation permits commercial activity to resume across around 37,000 acres, including popular spots like Kaanapali, Kapalua and parts of the world-famous Road to Hana. Some restricted rugged wilderness zones will stay closed longer to complete safety work.

“We are tremendously relieved to be able to reopen so much of West Maui as we shift focus to restoration,” said Mayor Mike Victorino. He praised the community’s resilience through an extremely traumatic event. “Now we start a new chapter focused on healing both the land and our people.”

Forestry teams continue uprooting damaged vegetation and took proactive flood control measures before winter rains arrive. Air quality has returned to healthy levels across most of West Maui. The Hawaii Tourism Authority will closely monitor conditions to ensure visitor safety.

Parts of West Maui like Lahaina town stayed open these past months, although smoky skies and canceled activities significantly reduced visitor numbers. Tourism economists estimate losses of around $312 million. Hospitality workers endured furloughs or job losses, underscoring tourism’s immense value to Maui.

As a local tour guide, I’m overjoyed West Maui will soon bustle with travelers again. Our community depends on tourism and we can’t wait to share the legends and landscapes we’re so proud of. But we also hope visitors recognize what was narrowly saved and help protect this place we all love.

Hawaii constantly balances tourism, nature and culture. This emergency was an urgent reminder that their fates are interlinked. Hotter droughts fueled by climate change may spark more wildfires. So sustainable tourism focused on regenerating the land will be Hawaii’s future, from curbing crowds on the Hana Highway to respecting sacred sites. 

The Hawaiian proverb Ili’ahi ke kukini ‘ala i ka lepo means “The lehua blossoms scent the dirt.” Just as our famous lehua flowers bloom from soil nurtured by mountain mists, Hawaii’s people and voyagers both depend on the health of our earth and waters. I hope travelers help replant the forests ravaged by sharing aloha for this special place.

After great hardship, West Maui now sees light and life returning. As the valley mists gradually give way to rainbows, so too will this community reawaken from a devastating dream through the power of human hands and hearts united. The doors will soon reopen to one of the world’s most magical destinations.