A new Mahalo Rewards Program is launching on Maui that allows tourists to contribute directly to helping local residents offset the high cost of living. The visitor-funded initiative creates a bridge between tourism revenue and community support for island families.

• Tourists can voluntarily participate in the program to contribute funds that go directly toward reducing local residents' living expenses
• The initiative addresses Maui's ongoing affordability crisis by creating a direct connection between tourism dollars and local community support
• Local families will benefit from reduced costs for essentials, helping them stay in their community despite rising prices
• The program represents an innovative approach to ensuring tourism benefits extend meaningfully to year-round island residents
• Visitors gain an opportunity to give back to the local community while experiencing the island's hospitality and culture

Source: Maui Now

The 2026 Maui Marathon Health & Fitness Expo is now accepting vendor applications from local businesses looking to participate in this major fitness event. This expo provides an excellent opportunity for health, wellness, and fitness-related businesses to connect with marathon participants and spectators from around the world.

• Vendor applications are now open for the 2026 Maui Marathon Health & Fitness Expo (Maui Now)
• The expo welcomes businesses in health, fitness, wellness, and related industries to apply for booth space (Maui News)
• Local businesses have the opportunity to showcase products and services to marathon participants and visitors (Maui Now)
• The expo coincides with the annual Maui Marathon, attracting participants from around the globe (Maui News)
• Applications are being processed on a rolling basis for interested vendors (Maui News)

Sources

• Maui Now
• Maui News

The Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea has earned a prestigious sustainability award for its innovative dune restoration and reforestation efforts that are helping preserve Maui's fragile coastal environment.

• Resort's reforestation and dune restoration project recognized with top-tier sustainability award
• Environmental initiatives help protect Maui's coastal areas from erosion and preserve native ecosystems
• Project demonstrates how tourism businesses can positively contribute to island conservation efforts
• Restoration work benefits both hotel guests and the broader Wailea community through improved coastal resilience
• Award highlights Maui's growing reputation as a destination committed to sustainable tourism practices

Source: Maui Now

The Hyatt Regency Maui has unveiled its 2026 Nashville Nights concert series featuring country music performances. This entertainment lineup offers visitors and locals new musical experiences at one of West Maui's premier resort destinations.

• Nashville Nights concert series brings country music entertainment to the Hyatt Regency Maui resort
• The 2026 lineup provides additional entertainment options for both hotel guests and the broader Maui community
• Concert series adds to West Maui's growing roster of live music and cultural events
• Events are scheduled throughout 2026, giving visitors multiple opportunities to experience live country music in a tropical setting

Source: Maui Now

The Shops At Wailea is hosting Valentine's Day dining specials with romantic atmospheres and seasonal menu offerings for couples celebrating the holiday. Multiple restaurants in the shopping center are participating with unique Valentine's themed experiences.

• Several restaurants at The Shops At Wailea are offering special Valentine's Day menus and romantic dining atmospheres
• Seasonal menu items and special dishes are being featured specifically for the Valentine's holiday period
• The shopping center is positioning itself as a romantic destination for couples celebrating Valentine's Day
• Visitors can combine Valentine's dining with shopping and other activities at the Wailea location
• Reservations are likely recommended given the special nature of the Valentine's Day offerings

Source: Maui Now

Haleakala National Park will temporarily shut down its visitor centers while keeping trails and summit areas open for tourists and locals. The closures are expected to affect visitor services but won't prevent access to the park's main attractions.

• Visitor centers at Haleakala National Park will be temporarily closed, but the park itself remains open to guests
• Summit access for sunrise and sunset viewing will continue as normal during the closure period
• Hiking trails throughout the park will remain accessible to visitors and residents
• Travelers should plan ahead for reduced services including restrooms, gift shops, and ranger programs
• The temporary closure may impact guided tours and educational programs typically offered at the visitor centers

Source: Maui News

Recent marine surveys indicate that humpback whale populations in Maui's waters are holding steady, offering continued excellent opportunities for whale watching during the peak season. The stable numbers provide positive news for both marine conservation efforts and Maui's tourism industry.

• Humpback whale populations around Maui remain consistent with previous years, ensuring reliable whale watching opportunities through April
• Peak whale watching season continues with optimal viewing from Maui's shores and boat tours throughout February and March
• Stable whale numbers support both marine ecosystem health and Maui's important whale watching tourism industry
• Visitors can expect excellent chances of spotting whales during boat tours, snorkeling trips, and even from popular beach locations
• Conservation efforts appear to be maintaining healthy humpback populations in Hawaiian waters

Source: Maui News

A new initiative is promoting slower boat speeds around Maui waters during peak humpback whale season to protect both marine life and ensure boater safety. The campaign comes as winter brings the highest concentration of kohola (humpback whales) to Hawaiian waters.

• Peak humpback whale season is currently underway in Maui waters, bringing increased risk of boat-whale encounters
• The 'Go Slow Whales Below' campaign encourages boaters to reduce speeds to protect whales and prevent dangerous collisions
• Winter months see the highest concentration of kohola around Maui as they migrate to Hawaiian waters for breeding and calving
• Both recreational boaters and commercial operators are being urged to participate in the safety initiative
• Slower boat speeds give both whales and boaters more time to react and avoid potentially fatal encounters

Source: Maui Now

The upcoming Maui Songwriters Festival will showcase renowned country artists Gavin Adcock and Hudson Westbrook as headliners. This exciting musical event promises to bring world-class entertainment to the island for both locals and tourists to enjoy.

• Country music stars Gavin Adcock and Hudson Westbrook confirmed as festival headliners
• The Maui Songwriters Festival offers a unique opportunity to see Nashville talent perform in an intimate island setting
• Event provides excellent entertainment option for vacation rental guests looking for local cultural experiences
• Festival showcases both established artists and emerging songwriting talent in a beautiful Maui venue
• Perfect timing for visitors planning their Maui vacation around live music and cultural events

Source: Maui News

The popular World Whale Film Festival is making its return to Wailuku's historic Iao Theater, offering locals and visitors a unique cultural experience celebrating ocean conservation and marine wildlife through cinema.

• Festival showcases documentary and narrative films focused on whale conservation and marine ecosystems
• Event takes place at the historic Iao Theater in Wailuku, providing an intimate cultural venue experience
• Perfect timing coincides with Maui's peak whale watching season when humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters
• Offers educational entertainment option for families and ocean enthusiasts visiting the island
• Supports local arts community while promoting environmental awareness and marine conservation efforts

Source: Maui News