⚠️ Under Construction: This port guide is being refined and updated. Content may change as we improve the experience.

Quick Answer: Lahaina remains closed after the 2023 fires – ships now dock/tender at Kahului and visit the Road to Hana, Iao Valley, or Upcountry instead.

Maui: After the Fire

(Note: as of November 2025 Royal Caribbean is still using Kahului as the Maui port.)

We docked in Kahului's industrial harbor and rented a car – the drive to Iao Valley is only 15 minutes and the needle rising 1,200 ft straight up through the jungle is still jaw-dropping. We continued up to Makawao and Kula for protea farms and lavender fields, then down to Wailea for beach time at Big Beach – golden sand and real waves with almost no one there on a weekday.

Lunch was at Mama's Fish House (worth the 25-minute drive) – opah caught that morning with lilikoi butter that tasted like Maui in a bite. The absence of Lahaina is still heartbreaking, but Maui's natural beauty and aloha spirit are as strong as ever.

The Moment That Stays With Me: Standing in silence at the Iao Needle while mist rose off the valley floor and a Hawaiian woman quietly left a ho'okupu (offering) at the stream – the island healing in its own time.

Getting Around Maui

Kahului harbor – car rental onsite, essential for anywhere worthwhile.

Positively Worded Word of Warning

Maui traffic on the Hana side can slow – choosing West Maui or Upcountry keeps the day relaxed and beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Maui (Kahului) worth it?
A: Still absolutely – the island is bigger than one town.

Q: Best thing?
A: Iao Valley + Upcountry or partial Road to Hana.

Q: How long for Iao + beaches?
A: 6–7 hours easy.

Q: Walk from port?
A: Only to Costco; car required.