Whale Trust's annual Whale Tales festival returns February 19-23, 2026, marking the organization's 25th anniversary of protecting Maui's marine life. The multi-day event offers visitors and residents educational programs and activities celebrating ocean conservation.

• Four-day festival runs February 19-23, 2026, featuring marine conservation education and activities
• Celebrates Whale Trust's 25-year milestone in protecting Maui's ocean ecosystems and marine wildlife
• Perfect opportunity for vacation rental guests to learn about local marine life during peak whale watching season
• Educational programming designed for both residents and visitors to engage with ocean conservation efforts
• Timing coincides with prime humpback whale season when these magnificent creatures are most visible in Maui waters

Source: Maui Now

The HoʻOkumu Hou reconstruction program has released detailed floor plans and architectural renderings to help wildfire survivors visualize and plan their new homes. These resources mark a significant step forward in Maui's ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating 2023 wildfires.

• Detailed floor plans and 3D renderings are now accessible to families participating in the HoʻOkumu Hou rebuilding program
• The visual resources help wildfire survivors make informed decisions about their new home designs and layouts
• This development represents concrete progress in Maui's reconstruction efforts, moving from planning to actual building phases
• The program continues to support families displaced by the 2023 wildfires with practical tools for rebuilding their lives
• Access to these materials streamlines the reconstruction process and helps families envision their future homes in affected areas

Source: Maui Now

The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset will spotlight the Lights For Lahaina recovery project during their February 3rd meeting, showcasing ongoing community rebuilding efforts.

• Lights For Lahaina recovery initiative will be the featured presentation at the Rotary meeting
• Event scheduled for February 3rd with the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset
• Highlights continued community-driven efforts in Lahaina's post-wildfire recovery process
• Provides opportunity for residents and community members to learn about local rebuilding initiatives
• Demonstrates ongoing collaboration between service organizations and recovery projects in West Maui

Source: Maui Now

February offers unique opportunities for Road to Hana travelers with cooler temperatures and potential rain showers creating lush landscapes. Visitors should prepare for variable weather conditions while enjoying fewer crowds and vibrant winter scenery.

• February weather brings cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, making waterfalls more spectacular but requiring rain gear and flexible planning
• Fewer tourist crowds during winter months mean better parking availability and more peaceful experiences at popular stops
• Road conditions may be more challenging due to wet weather, so allow extra travel time and drive cautiously on narrow, winding sections
• Pack layers and waterproof clothing as weather can change quickly from sunshine to rain showers throughout the day
• Popular activities include waterfall viewing at their peak flow, bamboo forest walks, and black sand beach visits with dramatic winter surf

Source: Maui Now

Maui's unemployment rate dropped to 2.4% in December, indicating a robust local job market that benefits both residents seeking employment and visitors who can expect well-staffed businesses and services.

• The 2.4% unemployment rate represents a healthy job market, suggesting most residents who want work can find it
• Low unemployment typically means better staffed hotels, restaurants, and tourist services for visitors
• A strong job market supports the local economy that vacation rental guests contribute to through their spending
• Employment stability helps ensure reliable services and amenities that enhance the visitor experience
• The positive employment trend reflects Maui's economic resilience and recovery in the tourism and hospitality sectors

Source: Maui Now

The Maui Beach Ballroom has been given the green light to reopen by state health officials, bringing back a beloved venue for events and celebrations on the island.

• State health officials have officially cleared the Maui Beach Ballroom to resume full operations
• The reopening restores access to a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings
• Visitors planning events during their Maui stay now have this established ballroom option available again
• The venue's return to service supports local event industry workers and related businesses
• Maui residents can once again book the space for special occasions and celebrations

Source: Maui News

Mayor Richard Bissen will participate in the annual gathering of Hawaii's county mayors to address state legislators on key issues affecting local communities. This collaborative meeting helps shape policies that directly impact Maui residents and the island's tourism industry.

• Annual mayors' meeting provides direct communication channel between county and state leadership on critical island issues
• Discussion topics likely to include infrastructure, housing, and tourism management - all key factors for vacation rental operations
• Collaborative approach between mayors and legislators helps ensure consistent policies across Hawaiian islands
• Meeting outcomes may influence upcoming legislation affecting local businesses and visitor accommodations
• Regular dialogue supports coordinated response to challenges facing Hawaii's communities and economy

Source: Maui Now

A free educational workshop will be held February 11th in Kahului to teach residents and property owners how to protect their homes and neighborhoods from wildfire threats.

• Free wildfire prevention workshop scheduled for February 11th in Kahului - open to all community members
• Learn practical strategies to make homes and properties more fire-resistant through landscaping and maintenance
• Discover community-based approaches to reduce wildfire risks in neighborhoods across Maui
• Essential information for vacation rental owners and residents looking to protect their properties
• Event comes as part of ongoing wildfire recovery and prevention efforts following recent incidents

Source: Maui Now

FEMA has announced a one-year extension of temporary housing assistance for Maui wildfire survivors, providing continued support through February 2027. This extension offers crucial stability for displaced families as the community continues its long-term recovery efforts.

• Federal housing assistance for wildfire survivors will now continue through February 2027, providing an additional year of support
• The extension ensures displaced families have stable housing while permanent rebuilding and recovery efforts continue across affected areas
• This federal support helps maintain community stability during the ongoing reconstruction phase, which is vital for Maui's tourism and local economy
• Visitors can expect continued recovery progress in affected areas as residents receive the housing stability needed for long-term planning
• The extended timeline reflects the significant scope of rebuilding required and the federal government's commitment to supporting Maui's full recovery

Source: Maui Now

Heavy rainfall continues across Maui with flood warnings in effect until 11 AM today, prompting safety concerns for both residents and visitors planning outdoor activities.

• Flood warning remains active until 11 AM - avoid low-lying areas and stream crossings
• Road conditions may be hazardous with potential closures on popular tourist routes
• Outdoor activities like hiking, beach visits, and scenic drives should be postponed until conditions improve
• Visitors should stay updated on weather conditions and have flexible indoor backup plans
• Emergency services recommend staying in safe, dry locations until the warning expires

Source: Maui Now