25 Places to Go in 2025 Spotlight:  Maui

Hawai’i is a global leader in sustainable tourism, prioritizing environmental stewardship, Native Hawaiian culture, and community well-being alongside economic prosperity. The state’s Aloha+ Challenge tracks progress towards 2030 sustainability goals transparently. In 2024, a regenerative tourism plan (SB2659) became a state legislative bill, applying a regenerative approach to visitation through updates to the Tourism Functional Plan. The Hawai’i Tourism Authority also recently launched the Qurator certification program, guiding visitors to sustainable businesses.

Incredible restaurants that reflect the global influences on Maui abound, as well as some of the most stunning beaches anywhere. While there are, of course, stand-out resorts and hotels that are like a world in themselves that you never have to leave, take the initiative to get out in nature and the communities outside of the tourist hot spots (a multi-day road trip with plenty of stops on the scenic Road to Hana is one great way to do so).

When you go, follow the practice of mālama (“to care for Hawai’i”) by respecting coral reefs, culture, land, and wildlife. After all, voluntourism can lead to some of the most unforgettable trips.