RESERVATIONSIt seems like Maui is just made for great photos for social media. Just about anywhere you go, you’re surrounded by incredible scenery that just begs for a selfie. But beware: there are some places that you should avoid. While we always welcome visitors to the Valley Isle, there are many places that you may not be. As a visitor, Maui no-go zones are there for several reasons, and we ask that you please respect them. Always heed Maui travel warnings. If someplace doesn’t feel comfortable, just leave. There are plenty of great places you can go and take a fantastic picture, just ask.
Lahaina
It’s been a year since the fires that swept through Lahaina and neighboring areas, displacing thousands of our Maui ohana (family.) Please do not plan on going to Lahaina, including Lahaina Town, Lahaina Harbor, Front Street, and parts of Kula in the UpCountry. Access here is prohibited to all outsiders because of the continuing recovery work, so please observe and obey all signs.
However, you can visit other West Maui areas, including:
- Kapalua
- Ka’anapali
- Kahana
- Honokowai
- Napili
We also ask that you do not take selfies with burned-out structures, and be respectful to people who are there. You may come in contact with people in these areas who are still in hotels or Airbnb. Also, it’s best not to ask questions. If they want to tell their story, they will.
Up Close And Personal With Animals
Sea lions and Hawaiian Monk Seals are both adorable and photogenic. They’re also wild animals as well as protected species, so give them their space. Don’t feed fish, either, for several reasons. You can take pictures of these and other animals but from a respectable distance. Getting too close and taking selfies with our animals can land you in trouble as well as get you injured. Those giant sea turtles and many fish have nasty bites.
Kahekili Highway
Known as “the most dangerous highway in Maui,” Kahekili is situated on the northwest side of the island and opposite Lahaina. Formally known as Hawaii State Highway 340, this 21-mile stretch of road runs north and south from Kahului through the small town of Waihee-Waiehu. Despite being repaved in the 90s, the speed limit is about 5 mph because of the tight hairpin turns and one-lane width.
Many rental car companies notify customers that the road is off-limits, partly because of falling rocks. There is also a lack of guardrails and other safety equipment, increasing the danger of this precarious drive. While the Road to Hana is challenging, the Kahekili Highway is dangerous in some spots.
While the view is picturesque, the area is also treacherous. This is one place where you should never consider stopping for a selfie. In addition to blocking traffic and causing an accident, falling from a high cliff is a very real possibility.
These are just some of the Maui no-go zones you may find when you visit. We’ll be happy to let you know if there are any current Maui travel warnings when you visit.
The Weather Is Always Beautiful At Hana Kai Maui
When it’s time for you to experience Maui, call to book your next reservations at 1-800-346-2772, or book directly online. We’re open 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Hawaii time to answer all of your questions. Get in touch today to begin reserving your visit to Hana Kai Maui.
