Why Sustainable Travel Matters in Maui

Maui is a breathtaking island paradise that calls travelers from all over the world. But as tourism increases, so does the pressure on the island’s delicate ecosystems. Sustainable travel ensures that you and your family can enjoy the beauty of Maui while protecting it for future generations. From its coral reefs to its native wildlife, every choice you make on vacation can have a meaningful impact.

Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Opt for hotels or vacation rentals that are committed to sustainability. Look for properties that have certifications like Hawaii Green Business Program or LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). These accommodations usually have energy-saving programs, water conservation systems, and waste reduction efforts in place, offering you comfortable stays with a lighter footprint.

Support Local and Sustainable Businesses

Shopping and dining locally is one of the best ways to contribute to Maui’s community. Visit farmers markets like the Upcountry Farmers Market in Pukalani for fresh, island-grown produce and handmade goods. When dining out, look for restaurants that use locally sourced, organic ingredients and participate in sustainable fishing practices.

Respect Wildlife and Natural Spaces

It’s essential to admire Hawaiian wildlife from a respectful distance. Turtles, monk seals, and native birds are protected, and interacting with them can cause stress or endanger their well-being. Keep a respectful distance and always stay on marked trails when hiking to avoid disrupting native plants and habitats.

Opt for Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Maui’s coral reefs are some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, but they are suffering from chemicals found in conventional sunscreens. When you swim, snorkel, or surf, your sunscreen can wash off and contribute to coral bleaching.

Choose a mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen like the kind offered by Coco Botanicals. Made with all-natural ingredients and no harmful chemicals like oxybenzone or octinoxate, it’s better for both your skin and the ocean. Plus, mineral sunscreens provide effective UV protection without compromising the environment.

Use Sustainable Transportation

Car Rentals vs. Public Transport

While renting a car may be convenient, it’s not always necessary. Consider exploring by shuttle services, public transportation, or even bicycles, depending on your itinerary. Maui offers the Maui Bus public transit system, which is budget-friendly and reduces your carbon footprint.

Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Options

If you do rent a vehicle, consider choosing an electric or hybrid model. Charging stations are becoming more widespread around Maui, especially in central hubs like Lahaina and Kihei.

Limit Plastic and Waste

Single-use plastics are a serious problem for island ecosystems. Bring a reusable water bottle, shopping bags, and cutlery to reduce waste during your trip. Many places in Maui have banned plastic bags and straws, making sustainability easier for visitors and locals alike.

Respect Hawaiian Culture and Customs

Understanding the cultural significance of the land, language, and local practices is an important aspect of sustainable travel. Take time to learn a few Hawaiian words, understand the concept of aloha ʻāina (love of the land), and be mindful when visiting sacred sites. Your respect contributes to the preservation of a culture that is deeply connected to the land and environment.

Participate in Eco-Tours and Volunteering

Choose tours that prioritize education, conservation, and responsible recreation. Whether you’re snorkeling, whale watching, or hiking, seek out guides and companies with eco-certifications and strong environmental ethics.

Families can also participate in volunteer activities like beach cleanups or native tree planting, often organized by local nonprofits and tour groups. Not only does it help Maui, but it also teaches children the value of giving back to the places they visit.

Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Consider visiting Maui during shoulder seasons (April–May or September–November) when crowds are smaller and the impact on resources is lower. Prices are often more affordable and the environment feels more relaxed, giving you an authentic, less touristy experience.

Pack Light and Thoughtful

Bringing only what you need lightens the load on airlines (reducing fuel emissions) and helps avoid unnecessary waste. Pack sunscreen (reef-safe, of course), reusable containers, sandals with good tread, and light layers appropriate for both beach and forest settings. Remember, packing sustainably starts before your plane even takes off.

Leaving the Island Better Than You Found It

By making mindful decisions—whether it’s choosing reef-friendly sunscreen, supporting local artisans, or respecting marine life—you extend your aloha to Maui and its people. These small actions add up to big benefits, ensuring that Maui continues to thrive for generations to come.

At Coco Botanicals, we believe that beautiful vacations should leave only memories, not impact. Our 100% mineral, reef-safe sunscreen is made with love for your skin and the planet—perfect for families who want radiant skin and a radiant future for Hawaii’s coastlines.