Lāhainā remains in a long recovery phase almost three years after the 2023 wildfire. Rebuilding is underway, but far from complete. While more than 500 permits have been issued and a growing number of homes are now finished and ready for habitation, many neighborhoods still consist of cleared lots or houses in early stages of construction. A significant number of displaced residents have yet to return to permanent housing, underscoring the scale of the journey still ahead.
Photo: Mario Tama| Credit: Getty Images
In the wake of profound loss, the strength of community has become one of Lāhainā’s most defining forces. Across Maui, individuals, neighbors, and nonprofit organizations have come together with a shared commitment to rebuild. Among these efforts, Treecovery Hawai‘i stands out for its work restoring the island’s tree canopy in the fire impacted zone.
Beyond replanting, Treecovery Hawai‘i is nurturing the land by preserving surviving trees and improving soil health. In partnership with volunteers and local groups, thousands of new trees have already been cultivated for future planting. Residents impacted by the fires may also qualify to receive free trees and plants to support their own restoration efforts, with opportunities to request assistance directly through Treecovery’s outreach programs.
Recovery is not just about what is rebuilt, but how people come together to rebuild it. Through a shared commitment to caring for the land and one another, Lāhainā’s path forward continues to be shaped by the resilience and unity of its community.
Interested in learning more? Visit https://treecoveryhawaii.org/ to explore resources, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support ongoing recovery efforts.
* Lahaina Harbor Updates
Lahaina Harbor has not yet been repaired. The State of Hawaii is allowing some commercial large boats to resume loading and unloading passengers at the loading dock only during limited daylight hours.
Right now Hawai’i Ocean Rafting remains departing out of Mala Boat Ramp; the same temporary location we are grateful to be operating from since the wildfire in 2023. We hope to return to Lahaina Harbor in 2028. We’re ready to walk down Front Street with you all!
Learn more our current tours departing from Lahaina, Maui >> Click here to learn more