Is Maui open for Tourism? 5 locally owned hotels to consider for a responsible visit
As the second-largest in the Hawaiian Islands chain, Maui has something for every kind of traveler.
Hike to the heavens at Haleakala or laze along Maui’s pristine South and West shores. Travel up in elevation to Upcountry, which offers a look into the agricultural lifestyle of Hawaii. Then there’s the remote and wild Hana in East Maui, where waterfalls are tucked into jungles and black sand beaches.
Travelers heading to Maui have as many hotels to choose from as adventures await. The Valley Isle is home to over 40 properties, allowing visitors to pick the ideal home base for their vacation.
Now more than ever, responsible visitors are welcomed to Maui following August’s devastating wildfires. With the island’s reopening, people are encouraged to spend their money at local businesses that support Maui’s community.
'We need responsible tourism': Maui businesses plead tourists to help economy after fires
Enjoying Maui to its fullest doesn’t mean you have to stay at the most sprawling or big-name hotel properties. Locally owned lodging you can’t find anywhere else provides a unique and intimate experience. Here is a rundown of some of USA TODAY’s favorite hotels on the island:
1. Inn at Mama’s Fish House
The family behind one of Hawaii’s most iconic restaurants also owns a charming inn comprising 12 cottages and luxury studios. All units at the Inn at Mama’s Fish House (the latter half of the name being the famous restaurant opened 50 years ago) are situated on Maui’s quiet North Shore and just a few steps from Hookipa Beach, a must-visit beach in the area. The accommodations are spacious and airy and cottages are equipped with full kitchens.
2. Hana Inn
While most accommodations are located on the sunnier shores of Maui, the Hana Inn takes travelers to the lush landscapes of undeveloped and rainy Hana. Imagine waterfalls, black sand beaches, sea caves, swimming pools, and more, all just a few minutes drive away. The inn was originally built in 1923 but was purchased by new owners and renovated in 2020. Rooms are simple yet affordable, with Hawaiian decor and Hana Bay or Haleakala views.
3. Kula Lodge
The historic Kula Lodge perfectly captures the rustic warmth of rural Upcountry Maui. The longstanding accommodations were built as someone’s home in 1948 and spared by the August wildfires that destroyed Lahaina and many buildings in Kula. Its five lodges are tucked into the mountains at an elevation of 3,200 feet, meaning there are endless sweeping views of Maui. On a clear day, you may see Kahoolawe or Molokai in the distance.
4. Hooilo House Bed and Breakfast
If you truly want to relax, why not opt for a quiet bed and breakfast? The Hooilo House Bed and Breakfast is tucked into the mountains of West Maui but just minutes from the beaches on Kaanapali and reopened to guests on Oct. 19. There are five rooms to book at the bed and breakfast, each with gorgeous island touches like an outdoor shower with black lava stone walls. Breakfast includes local favorites like papaya, mango, coffee, and granola.
5. Paia Inn
Paia is the central hub of Maui’s North Shore, home to some of the area’s best restaurants and shops. Staying at the Paia Inn puts you at the center of the action – while still being just steps from the beach. This boutique hotel is set in a historic Japanese Inn built in 1927 but offers contemporary chic guest rooms and a private outdoor beach lounge. Its Japanese izakaya-style restaurant, Vana, has been called one of Maui’s best new restaurants, so be sure to try there too.
Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Visit locally owned Maui hotels as Hawaii promotes responsible tourism
