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9mo ago

Maui Faces $1 Billion Tourism Deficit One Year After Wildfires

Despite efforts to rebuild, misinformation and housing shortages hinder recovery and tourism on the Hawaiian island.

In a sign of renewal and hope, fresh leaves grow on the beloved banyan tree in front of the remains of the Old Lahaina Courthouse, built in 1859.
Image
LAHAINA, HAWAII - AUGUST 04: An aerial view of vegetation regrowth amid areas destroyed or damaged by the Lahaina wildfire, including the iconic banyan tree (RIGHT C), on August 4, 2024 in Lahaina, Hawaii. August 8 marks the one-year anniversary of the Maui wildfires which killed 102 people and devastated the historic community of Lahaina in West Maui. Plaintiffs involved in the Lahaina wildfire lawsuits against the government and utilities have reached a $4 billion global settlement of claims. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
An aerial view on August 4, 2024, of Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, which was spared by the wildfire. How to rebuild Lahaina best is a question on the minds of many residents.

Overview

  • Tourist arrivals to Maui dropped by 25% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year.
  • Housing shortages have displaced thousands of residents, with many forced to relocate multiple times.
  • Local businesses, especially on the west side, are struggling due to decreased visitor spending and worker shortages.
  • Environmental recovery efforts are ongoing, with concerns about long-term impacts on marine ecosystems.
  • Mixed messaging has led to confusion about which areas of Maui are open for tourism, further affecting visitor numbers.