Christine Chung of The New York Times recommends Maui as one of the top travel destinations for 2024. Despite grappling with the aftermath of devastating wildfires that ravaged its western shores, claiming numerous lives and destroying the town of Lahaina, Maui continues to exude its tropical paradise charm.

Though Lahaina remains closed, the island is once again welcoming visitors and still brimming with an abundance of activities and lush landscapes to enjoy. In the community of Kihei, Kamaole State Beach Park is ideal for snorkeling and spotting sea turtles. Farther north, in Kapalua, a gentle walking trail meanders through lava fields and along the sea. Some of Maui’s most cherished natural attractions, like Haleakala National Park, are far removed from the fire zone.