FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

It depends. Are you interested in exploring the island? If so, renting a car is highly recommended as Maui’s beaches, golf courses, shopping centers and cultural attractions are scattered along more than 100 miles of coastal highway. Serious surfers and water enthusiasts also appreciate the convenience of a rental car. It allows them the freedom to haul their equipment wherever the waves are best. However, if you’re planning to spend the majority of your time at a resort, then renting a car isn’t necessary and can be a burden. From shops to restaurants, most of the major resorts provide everything a visitor could need or desire. If you do want to go on an excursion, the resorts are situated along busy shuttle/bus routes. In addition, most tour companies will gladly make arrangements to pick you up. So in this scenario, having a rental car would be a hassle, and it would also accrue overnight fees for parking in the garage.

---

Most car rental agencies are located at the Kahului Airport. One major benefit to getting your car here is that you won’t need to pay for airport transfer to your accommodations. Of course, there are other places on the island where you can pick up a rental car. Several resorts have rental car desks in their lobbies. However, you’ll get the best deal on a rental car by making your reservation in advance. In fact, flight and car packages tend to be less expensive than purchasing each item separately. For a splurge, consider renting a convertible. It will help you make the most of Maui’s fresh air and its wonderful island atmosphere.

---

You’ll find that taxis are readily available all over Maui. There are more than 20 different taxi companies that provide basic transportation as well as tours. The fares are metered by the distance traveled, which can get expensive if you are going far. For a bit of fun, try a company called Classy Taxi. It boasts a fleet of renovated cars from the 1920s and ’30s to ride in.

---

First of all, if you are staying at a resort, ask if it offers a shuttle service. Many of them do provide free airport transfer to guests as well as transportation to and from nearby beaches and other tourist-oriented attractions. There’s also a bus system on the island that offers daily service in and between the various South, Central, West, Haiku and upcountry Maui communities. Fees are only $1 per boarding, which makes it a very affordable mode of transportation. Finally, water transportation is available to nearby islands. You can catch a ferry to Molokai and Lanai.

---

It’s pleasant on Maui year round. Average daytime temperatures range from 75° to 85° F. Summer is the peak season for visitors, as these months tend to be the warmest and driest of the year. But the winter months are also popular, and daytime temperatures rarely dip below 70° F. More dramatic than seasonal climate on Maui is locational climate. For example, it’s wetter and cooler in the eastern and northern parts of the island. Upcountry is also cooler due to the higher elevation.

---

Humpback whale season runs from December 15 through April 15. You can often see the whales from shore, but you’ll get a better look at these magnificent mammals on a boat or catamaran tour. Plus, on board guides will provide you with a lot of interesting information.

---

Yes, almost everyone speaks English. Since Hawaii is part of the United States, English is the official language. Some locals do speak Hawaiian and you’ll notice it used in street and place names, as well as in everyday greetings. Some other languages you may hear spoken are pidgin, local Creole, Japanese, Spanish, Chinese, Filipino and Portuguese.

---

When it comes to clothing, think cool and casual. Indeed, Maui is a place where visitors simply slip on jeans, shorts, T-shirts, flip-flops and a variety of beachwear. Hikers who explore areas at higher elevations should add warm layers and carry rain gear. Even the dress code in fancier restaurants and nightclubs is fairly relaxed. For men, a polo or a Hawaiian shirt with khakis is perfectly fine, while women are likely to wear a sundress and sandals.

---

No, there isn’t much crime on Maui. However, it’s still a good idea to lock anything valuable in your hotel’s safe deposit boxes – either in your room or at the front desk. Most locals and visitors are friendly and embody the “aloha” spirit. But if you ever feel threatened or uncomfortable, call the local authorities or 911.

---

There are a few things to keep in mind that are unique to the island. Although you can enjoy most forms of recreation at any time, offshore winds and currents are powerful and change without notice. Rainstorms can also occur unexpectedly, and they frequently cause flash floods. If you notice the water level suddenly rising in a river, head for higher ground. Plus, you should never dive into waterfalls, lagoons or other bodies of water. They could be shallow, and rocks are difficult to see. Finally, always remember to drink a lot of water when hiking or spending time outdoors. Both the altitude and sun are hard on your body.

---

If you’re not an expert swimmer, stick to beaches that have lifeguards. Also, never swim alone. On beaches you should always keep an eye out for warning signs – like red flags, which mean that it’s unsafe to enter the water. And be careful when standing near the shoreline or by breaking surf because the waves can drag you in. If you are swimming in the ocean and get caught in a rip current, try not to panic. Focus on swimming parallel to the current. It will eventually release you, and then you can make your way safely to shore. Watch out for sharp coral beneath the surface of the water, and never touch or harass any form of sea life. Lastly, be sure to wear sunscreen because the tropical sun is intense!

---

Yes, most resorts offer dial-up, high-speed or wireless Internet access in the rooms, business center or public areas like the lobby. In some resorts, the service is complimentary, while others charge a daily usage fee. You can also find Internet cafés in Kihei, Wailea, Lahaina and Makawao.

---

Hawaii doesn’t have a sales tax, but it does have a general excise tax, which applies to most gross sales and service transactions. It’s 4.16% and technically charged to the business rather than the consumer. However businesses usually pass it on in a similar fashion to a sales tax. There’s also a transient accommodation tax (TAT), known as a hotel room tax, of 9.25%.

---

Yes, many people who work in the hospitality industry in Maui don’t receive a salary and rely on gratuities to make a living. As a rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to tip every person who provides you with a service. You’ll find that 15% is the norm in restaurants and beauty salons. Bellhops, porters and cab drivers should receive at least $1 per bag handled. Similarly, bartenders should get $1 to $2 per drink served. Maids should be tipped a couple of dollars per day or cumulatively at the end of your stay. And don’t forget concierge, tour guides, shuttle drivers, boat crew and dive instructors. Although the amount given to these professionals varies greatly, it typically falls within the range of $5 to $100.

---

Strict regulations prohibit the movement of fruits, flowers, vegetables, meat and fish between Maui and the mainland U.S. If you want to bring something back with you, check with the vendor to see if it has been “agriculturally approved” to be shipped.

---

Yes, just be aware that a breathtaking sunrise on the beloved volcano is not guaranteed. In order to view it, you’ll have to get up before dawn and drive in the dark on strange roads for two hours. And don’t be discouraged if you see a blanket of fog halfway up, as it may still be clear on top.
Temperatures are cold on Haleakala, so be sure to dress warmly. If you’re not an early riser or this sounds like too much of hassle, try going in the late afternoon instead. Haleakala is just as beautiful then. With the sun low in the sky, it really brings out the colors in the crater. Regardless of when you go, it’s wise to check ahead to make sure the weather is good.

---