Maui’s runway shudders as the plane lands. A bittersweet mix of emotions washes over me. It’s been four years since I’ve been back to the place I used to call home for more than 15 years before moving to the Keys.
A visit with friends planned for last October was thwarted by the devastating August fires that ravaged West Maui. The wildfires tore through Lahaina, the historic heart of the island, leaving thousands homeless. Though hurricanes and wildfires have their differences, it’s a level of devastation and tragedy to which both my past and present island communities can relate.
Once a bustling capital of the Hawaiian kingdom, Lahaina now bears the scars of the inferno. Many areas remain off-limits, a grim reminder of the destruction. Despite the loss, pockets of resilience emerge. The iconic Lahaina Banyan Tree, a beacon of hope, unfurls new leaves.
But amid this renewal is a pang of loss – King Kamehameha III Elementary, where I once taught right along the Lahaina Harbor, is no more. I simply cannot imagine that kind of devastation taking place at my current school – to the students, the teachers and to the community.
Flickers of life, though, are beginning to return. Waterfront staples like Mala restaurant and the recently reopened Old Lahaina Luau signal a comeback. Yet, a harsh reality still lingers. Tourist numbers are down a staggering 22%, according to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, with many visitors choosing alternate destinations such as other Hawaiian Islands or even the Caribbean.
In the days and months after the fires, many heroes worked tirelessly helping others in the community. But as survivors of the Keys’ hurricanes can attest, recovery is nowhere near complete when the news cameras fly home and headlines fade away.
As the media featured the devastation for a few short weeks, other community members did not forget. Maui Brewing Company’s Garrett Marrero, along with girlfriend Kami Irwin, worked day in and day out, handing out food and supplies to thousands of needy locals. The couple opened up the restaurant as a distribution center, collecting endless amounts of items from all over the country and even using personal connections to fly in needed supplies such as medicine to be distributed. These two single-handedly made an amazing difference in the lives of the people on Maui.
Visitors to the island can visit such establishments as a “thank you” for all the hard work they’ve done to help. Other establishments such as Papi’s Ohana not only make the best cinnamon rolls on Maui, but in the evening they are still donating pizzas to those in need. Other businesses like Fat Daddy’s BBQ Restaurant and Zensations Spa have also graciously donated to those in need with free food and massages to those who were hurting.
“It’s amazing how much of an impact these fires have had on the entire tourism industry of Maui,” said Marrero. “Please come to Maui and show your support. Buy local, support small businesses and please visit all areas of Maui and show your respect and Kokua (help) for Lahaina Town. We definitely welcome you here and need your love.”
Mākaukau Maui, meaning “Maui is Ready,” is a program helping to revitalize the island’s economy and welcome visitors once again. A return to tourism brings jobs, supports local businesses and helps to revive the community.
Despite recent challenges, Maui’s spirit is strong. The community has come together to rebuild, ensuring visitors can experience the island’s beauty responsibly. While some areas in Lahaina still remain closed, most of Maui is open for exploration, with a continued emphasis on respectful tourism.
Visitors across Hawaii are encouraged to be mindful, and Maui extends a warm welcome to those who want to experience its magic. Come visit, not just because it’s a paradise, but also to support their ongoing recovery.
For more information please visit makaukaumaui.com.
