If you and your family are thinking about vacationing on Maui, there’s no shortage of information on where to go or what to do here. You’ll find plenty of recommendations for the best beaches, nature hikes, scenic drives, and activities. What you might not find are some basic tips that can go an incredibly long way towards making your trip a happier and safer one.
I think after having lived here for twenty years, first and foremost to note is driving. Maui is an undeniably beautiful place, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed and distracted by the scenery. While driving, don’t forget the island is also home to over 150,000 residents who travel the roads every day and expect others to drive responsibly as well. As unbelievable as it sounds, I see people stop their cars or slow to a crawl on very busy roads every day, looking at the sights while trying to find their destination, oftentimes allowing their occupants to disembark the vehicle with their beach gear while traffic begins to pile up. Needless to say, this is not only seen as inconsiderate, but it’s also extremely dangerous. Traffic accidents and even road rage happen here just like on the mainland. With most rental cars having satellite navigation these days, not knowing where you’re going should be a thing of the past. You’ll have a much more relaxing visit if you map out your destination ahead of time, follow the traffic laws, and show some aloha for your fellow drivers.
The second thing I don’t see enough focus on is ocean and water safety. ALWAYS read every warning sign at every beach, stream, or shoreline sight. It’s also a good idea to go online before you head out for the day and check the local weather and surf forecasts. These will let you know if conditions are dangerous where you’re headed. If there’s any question at all about safety, you should always consult either the hotel’s information desk before leaving or a lifeguard wherever available once you arrive at your destination. I see tourists disregard signs and warnings from concerned locals every time we get waves, and almost every time they end up getting smashed on the beach by the surf. Remember, waves come in sets and it can be a long time in between the sets so DO NOT get lulled into thinking it’s a “calm” day. This is what most folks say they “thought it was” until they got hurt.
Another thing to remember is that water flows downhill, so even though it may not be raining where you are, there may be rain further up the mountain. Best to be aware and not put yourself at risk. We are highly subject to flash flooding and have several rescues every month of tourists who went into a situation without the proper information, and unfortunately folks have drowned trying to cross rain swollen streams. I’ve seen people stranded on the other side of raging streams and have even seen a person swept off of rocks into the sea. Be safe and have fun, but please know that the water can be unforgiving at times. Nature is not an amusement park ride.
Last, but certainly not least, is attitude. Maui still has plenty of aloha and all it takes to tap into it is a similar frame of mind. Be willing to share and be respectful of those who call this place home and you will always feel invited back. I have met the most wonderful, caring folks in the world here, and you can too. Maui has a laid back and unhurried style about it, and rushing around only means you’re missing out on what makes this place so great. Don’t try to do several different activities each day you’re here. Believe me, if you pick one thing to do every day, you are then free to really enjoy the experience without feeling rushed by your next activity and timeline. Your vacation should not be a race. Relax and live in the moment.
Just a few things to think about from my daily observations. Keep safety and aloha in mind when you’re visiting the island, enjoy the beauty of Maui and have the best time of your life!
