Hawaii’s volcanic origins in the middle of a vast ocean created the beautiful Eden that it is, and also brings with it a unique set of risks that could put you in a dangerous encounter with the raw power of its nature.
You still need to practice caution against pedestrian hazards and threats to personal and property security as you would in any new place, but for the most part, in Hawaii, you have to flow with the rhythms and respect the might of its natural wonders.
To safely enjoy your well-deserved Hawaiian vacation while staying in one of our South Maui vacation rentals, keep in mind the following tips when you arrive on the islands.
Strictly follow health protocols
Hawaii is slowly reopening to tourism amidst the health crisis brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, and it will remain a safe destination if everyone follows health and safety guidelines laid out by the authorities. Here is the current Rentals Maui Covid-19 information.
To make the most of your time in Hawaii, you need to present a negative test result before leaving for your trip. Otherwise, you will have to go through the mandatory 14-day quarantine on arrival. Take an FDA-notarized test at one of the state’s designated testing partners no more than 72 hours before boarding the last leg of your flight to Hawaii.
Upload your negative test result to the state’s online tracking system, then complete the travel health questionnaire 24 hours prior to departure. Bring masks/facial coverings in your carry-on luggage as they must be worn in public in Hawaii at all times.
Never turn your back to the ocean
With the Pacific Ocean surrounding it on all sides, it only makes sense that the foremost safety tip to keep in mind is to always face the ocean so you can see incoming waves that may pose a hazard. The many ‘Dangerous Shorebreak’ warning signs in Hawaii emphasize the importance of this reminder.
Even though you’re here to relax on your Maui vacation, make sure you’re not complacent when you see the calm water surface as it may hide sneaky rip currents and other unpredictable waves. Wave heights may also increase without obvious indication to the unsuspecting visitor, so the ground you thought was safe to stand on onshore might quickly become dangerous.
Swim with a partner
Given the unpredictability of the ocean’s power, it’s crucial to enter the water with someone else. Never go out swimming, surfing, or diving alone as you might need rescue or someone to call for rescue.
It’s always best to swim on a beach with a lifeguard or a local experienced waterman as a companion. Hidden rocks, rip currents and shore breaks may just lie below the calm water surface which you as a vacationing visitor will not be able to detect.
Keep an eye out for tsunami or tropical storm warning
Hawaii’s location in the middle of the Pacific without any major landmass around it to diffuse the ocean’s force makes it prone to tsunamis and tropical storms. When distant or underwater earthquakes have occurred, a tsunami watch is issued as huge waves are probable. All our Maui vacation rentals come with phones and TV to help keep you in the know.
The situation becomes more urgent after a local earthquake has occurred as damaging waves may start arriving in as short as 10-20 minutes.
Similarly, if storm conditions are expected to occur in 36 to 48 hours, a hurricane warning or hurricane watch is issued so you can evacuate further inland, to higher ground or emergency shelter as necessary. Stock on food, water, clothing, medicines, blankets, and other emergency necessities prior to evacuation as you may not find these items in the shelters you’re heading to.
Regularly reapply sun protection even under overcast skies
Hawaii’s tropical climate is one of its major draws but it’s also a potential health risk. Before heading out to sun-drenched beaches, or even when the sun is hidden by clouds, liberally apply sunscreen, and again after swimming.
Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor rating of at least 30, and choose ones that are reef-safe to also protect the fragile corals and marine environment. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts are essential attire when heading outdoors.
Prevent mosquito bites
Summer means endless sunshine, and also peak season for biting mosquitoes that may carry diseases such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya. While these mosquito-borne infections are not native to Hawaii, they are still a health hazard that could ruin your travel plans.
Mosquitoes are most active at sunrise and sunset (also ideal times for starting a trek or enjoying a walk on the beach) so protect yourself with insect repellent containing 20-30% DEET (EPA approved). When going outdoors, wear clothing that provides maximum coverage.
Stick to established trails
Hawaii is hiking heaven, but the dense vegetation, isolated beach trails, volcanic nature, and shifting weather conditions also make it necessary to keep to the trails not only to minimize human impact but also to avoid preventable injuries that could be brought on by weather unpreparedness or falls off steep precipices.
Here at Rentals Maui Vacation Rental Management, we want you to enjoy all that our island has to offer and get back home relaxed, rejuvenated, and safe!
