Maui – Health and safety tips for Hawaii visitors

Staying Healthy and Safe During Your Maui Adventure

Planning a trip to Maui is exciting and unforgettable, especially for families looking to enjoy Hawaii’s stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich culture. While Maui is a beautiful paradise, taking a few health and safety precautions can help ensure your visit is enjoyable and worry-free. Whether you’re hiking the trails of Haleakalā or snorkeling in Molokini Crater, here are some of the most important tips to keep you and your loved ones safe, healthy, and ready to make the most of your island vacation.

Sun Protection and Skin Health

Maui has year-round sunshine with UV rays that can be far stronger than what many visitors are used to, especially near the equator. Sunburns happen quickly here, even on cloudy days.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemicals known to harm coral reefs. Make sure to use a reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen that protects your skin and protects marine life. Products from Coco Botanicals are a great example: made with natural ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide, they are gentle on your skin and the ocean ecosystem.

Apply and Reapply Often

Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget commonly missed spots like ears, feet, and the back of the neck.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

The warm tropical climate and outdoor activities can lead to faster dehydration, even if you’re lounging on the beach.

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day — more than you think you need.
  • If you’re hiking or doing water activities, bring a refillable water bottle with you. Many locations have filtered water stations.
  • Eat balanced meals and enjoy the fresh local produce. Pineapples, bananas, and papayas are both delicious and hydrating.

Beach Safety for Families

With over 30 miles of beaches, Maui offers everything from kid-friendly swimming spots to world-class surf. But ocean safety should never be overlooked.

Know the Conditions

Always check the local beach conditions before entering the water. Pay attention to surf advisories and warning flags. When in doubt, ask a lifeguard — many popular beaches like Ka‘anapali and Wailea have staffed lifeguard towers.

Swim Where It’s Safe

  • Choose beaches with calm waters and gentle slopes for young children.
  • Never turn your back on the ocean — unexpected waves (also called sneaker waves) can happen even in calm areas.
  • Wearing water shoes can protect feet from sharp coral or lava rock, especially in tidepools or rocky areas.

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

Maui’s landscapes invite exploration, from cascading waterfalls on the Road to Hāna to scenic hikes in ʻĪao Valley and Haleakalā National Park. Proper preparation is key to a safe and memorable adventure.

  • Start early: Morning hikes offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Wear proper footwear: Trails may be muddy or rugged; good shoes help prevent injuries.
  • Use bug repellent: Mosquitoes can be common in shady, wet areas.
  • Respect the land: Stay on marked trails and pack out all trash to help protect Maui’s delicate ecosystems.

Driving and Road Etiquette

You may find yourself driving along winding coastal highways or up steep volcanic slopes. Maui’s roads require caution, and Hawaiian driving culture prioritizes patience and respect.

  • Drive slowly, especially on the Road to Hāna or in rural areas where sharp turns and single-lane bridges are common.
  • Use designated pullouts to let locals or faster traffic pass.
  • Don’t rely solely on GPS; download offline maps where reception is limited.

Local Laws and Etiquette

Understanding and respecting Hawaiian culture enriches your travel experience while keeping you and your surroundings safe.

  • Leave no trace: Littering or removing rocks, sand, or coral is harmful and illegal.
  • Respect sacred places: Some areas, such as heiau (Hawaiian temples) or burial grounds, are sacred and should be approached with reverence.
  • Illegal substances such as recreational marijuana are prohibited in Hawaii, despite their status elsewhere.

Family Wellness Essentials

  • Pack a basic first-aid kit for minor cuts, scrapes, or blisters.
  • If anyone in your party suffers from allergies or asthma, keep medications handy, as pollen and volcanic ash can be triggers.
  • If you have a serious health condition, locate the nearest urgent care or hospital to your accommodations — just in case.

Visiting Maui is a treasured experience for many families. By being proactive about health and safety — from using reef-safe sunscreen like Coco Botanicals to respecting local customs — you can help protect both your loved ones and this incredible island paradise for future generations to enjoy. With a little preparation, Maui will offer you warm memories, sweeping views, and healthy adventures that will last a lifetime.