Be Ocean Aware
The ocean is a powerful force and a key draw to any Maui vacation! However, the ocean is also a powerful force that can change conditions in a matter of minutes. In order to ensure that you and your family enjoy a safe visit to Maui*, we recommend adhering to the following practices:
“Never turn your back on the ocean”
Coined by Hawaii’s surf legend, Duke Kahanamoku, this phrase is one that reminds locals and visitors alike to always hold respect for the ocean. In practice, this means to be mindful of waves that may be rolling in behind you as you splash and play as well as strong tides that may be in motion.
“If In Doubt, Don’t Go Out”
If you are unsure of the conditions or your own swimming abilities, don’t go out! It is better to play it safe than to have a dangerous situation out in the water. Other conditions to consider are if the water is brown or murky at all. Brown water brings with it bad visibility and the increased possibility of sharks in the area.
Follow Safety Signage & Lifeguard Instructions
Be sure to swim at beaches manned by lifeguards. Adhere to their guidelines as well as any posted safety signage including warnings of strong tides, rogue waves, brown water events, and more. Lifeguards are posted at a variety of beaches, mostly including those within State Parks. Lifeguards are posted between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:45 PM. It is recommended to swim only when lifeguards are on duty and available to assist you if needed!
Use the Buddy System
When going out into the water to swim or snorkel, always take a friend! The buddy system is the best practice to ensure that you are not in the waters alone. Along with bringing a friend to ensure each other’s safety, be aware of currents, avoid snorkeling in strong winds, use a floatation device if needed, and dive under waves when entering or exiting the ocean.
Ensure that you also have all the proper equipment you need to have a successful snorkeling adventure including properly fitted masks and fins! Be prepared by researching snorkeling areas as well to understand what kind of conditions you can expect before entering the water!
View Current Maui Beach Conditions*
Respect Nature & Leave No Trace
Be a steward of nature when visiting Maui by leaving no trace! Leave No Trace refers to the principles of respecting and protecting nature when enjoying eco-tourism. In essence, visitors can leave no trace by following these principles:
Plan and Be Prepared
Know the routes you plan on traveling along with local restrictions, weather, and any updates that may affect your day out in nature.
Stay On Designated Trails
Hike single file and do not make your own path. Respect the environment by staying on designated trails and not altering them in any fashion.
Pack It In, Pack It Out
Properly dispose of any trash or waste that you create during your time on Maui. Use marked restroom locations and do not wander off-trail.
Leave What You Find
No matter how beautiful a seashell you find on the beach, it is best to leave the natural environment as you find it. Leave everything you find during your Maui adventures undisturbed and do not introduce or travel with any species non-native to the island.
Respect Wildlife & Others
Do not approach, feed, or follow wildlife. If driving by car, be mindful of speed limits and any passing wildlife you may encounter. Minimize your impact on the environment by avoiding popular visiting hours as well as limiting the noise you are putting out.
Wear Reef Safe Sunscreen
Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreen that contains harmful chemicals (octinoxate and oxybenzone). These chemicals lead to coral bleaching which puts the reefs under stress and may lead to reef mortality. With an estimated 14,000 tons of sunscreen being introduced to the coral reefs every year, it is essential that visitors are mindful of their impact and do their part to minimize it. Although these harmful sunscreens can no longer be purchased on the island, make sure that your sunscreen does not include harmful ingredients before you enter the ocean.
A Guide to Reef Safe Sunscreens*
Be Prepared for Maui’s Different Microclimates
You may consider the island of Maui to be one big tropical paradise. However, the island is home to a variety of microclimates which means that the conditions, temperature, and weather can vary drastically across the island.
Microclimates on Maui include:
- Tropical Moist Climates
- Dry Climates
- Moist Mid-latitude Climates with mild & cold winters
- Polar Climates
- Highland areas
Visitors should be aware of the different microclimates they may encounter during their adventures. For example, if you plan to summit the Haleakalā shield volcano during your visit, be aware of the cold temperatures you can expect. Temperatures within the national park can vary greatly and the summit ranges year-round between below freezing to 50-65°F. In other words, the summit may be a great deal colder than the beach located a seemingly short drive away!
Know When to Visit Maui
Maui’s high season typically falls between November and March. This is when you can expect the highest rates and largest crowds. If you decide to book during peak season, book your vacation rental accommodations early. If you plan on having a rental car, you should also book well in advance as car rentals can be limited.
Off-season is typically spring and fall, with lower fares and fewer crowds expected. Take your pick of accommodations and benefit from the less crowded time period on the island. Plus, the island’s rainy season is typically during the winter months so visitors in the spring and fall can benefit from sunnier weather.
Maui’s Whale Watching Season
If whale watching is a top priority for your Maui itinerary, book a trip during whale watching season. Peak whale watching* season lies between the months of mid-January and March. Visitors can view whales breaching from the ocean or even go out on a whale-watching excursion with a local company. If the whales are close enough, you may even be able to hear them sing as you dive under the water or snorkel! Whale watching season is truly a magical time to visit the island!
Hawaii Travel Requirements
The Covid-19 Pandemic has brought with it increased safety requirements for visiting the Hawaiian Islands. Some travel requirements may include providing proof of vaccination or a negative covid test. To be prepared for your Maui vacation, visit the official website to learn about current rules and regulations.
See Current Travel Restrictions & Protocols
*Bello Realty, Inc. is not responsible for any website that Bello does not own