What to know before visiting Maui, Hawaii — weather advisories, wildlife safety, and more tips from a local
- If you're planning a trip to Maui, be aware of weather-related advisories and local tips.
- Do not approach wildlife like turtles and monk seals, and use reef-safe sunscreen only.
The COVID-19 pandemic turned traveling to Hawaii on its head, but as the pandemic has evolved, so have the restrictions to fly into Hawaii.
In March 2022, after two years in effect, Hawaii ended all its COVID-19-related requirements for domestic visitors, and as of June, international travelers no longer have to show a negative COVID-19 test to enter the US. Those coming to Maui will no longer have to quarantine, or show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.
In March, Hawaii was the last state to drop its mask mandate, so it's no longer required to wear a mask indoors.
However, while the rules may in a way seem like pre-pandemic times, as a local I still want to remind visitors to take precautions and think of others' health when traveling to Maui. The state of Hawaii offers good recommendations that I stand behind, like being up to date with your vaccine and boosters and testing close to your departure date. You can also bring at-home test kits on your travels and test when you arrive.
Here are some tips for smooth travel from the US mainland to Hawaii and vice versa:
- Always pack a pen when you're heading to Hawaii. Each group of passengers must fill out an agricultural form, which is given to you on your flight. Airlines don't always have enough pens for passengers, so to avoid having to ask someone to borrow their pen, remember to keep one in your carry-on.
- The ecosystem is fragile, so there are certain items you can't bring into the state from the US mainland, particularly plants and produce (unless you bought it in the airport after TSA check-in). Read more about restricted items here.
- Bringing your pet to accompany you on your Hawaiian vacation is tricky, as the state has strict laws regarding animals. If you don't have the necessary vaccinations for your pet, they'll be held in quarantine at the airport. In my opinion, it's not worth it, but you can learn more here.
Local etiquette tips to follow
Many visitors participate in water activities on their vacations in Maui, and it's important to follow the laws that keep animals and the natural habitat safe. Part of the joy of snorkeling and diving is catching a glimpse of the wildlife, and it's also pretty likely you'll come across a graceful honu, or turtle. If you spot one when at the beach or in the water, keep at least 10 feet away and don't chase or follow them. Take in the majestic view and then go on DDyour way.
It's a federal offense to touch a turtle (they're considered endangered) and you could be fined upwards of $1,500 for doing so. Similar advice goes for monk seals, which are also endangered — for these powerful creatures, stay at least 50 feet away (and even farther if it's a nursing monk seal).
Also, be sure to use reef-safe sunscreen only. In 2018, Hawaii became the first state to ban the sale of sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs. It's easy to find local brands of reef-safe sunscreen like Kokua Sun Care in stores throughout Maui.
What's the best time to visit Maui?
Many people say we don't have seasons in Hawaii since it never gets that cold, but we do have two — summer and winter.
Our winter is mild, but the weather might impact your trip. The temperatures are typically chillier, going down to the mid- or low-60s Fahrenheit at night, and the days might be windy or rainy, meaning some hikes could be too muddy.
The winter also impacts ocean swells and currents, making some beaches, typically on the north shore, unsuitable for swimming and better for advanced surfing. For instance, Honolua Bay is calm in the summer and good for snorkeling; in the winter, it's dangerous for regular beachgoers but becomes a surfing hotspot.