In an ongoing crackdown since July of this past summer, Maui officials are breaking down the alternative world of unregistered and unlicensed B&B’s and condos on the island. And now these crackdowns have turned into mandatory shutdowns, wiping out the underground hotel culture that has carved a lucrative space for itself in hidden local crevices all over Maui.
Scattered between and off the path of the luxurious beach resorts, many tourists have opted for the more economical and more private options of staying at a rented condo or Bed and Breakfast during their stay in Maui. These bungalows, villas and condos offer amazing views, relaxation, and the chance to feel more like a local, which is exactly why Maui officials are cracking down.
Because these buildings are unlicensed, they do not follow zoning rules and regulations that other hotels do, and they are invading local communities not equipped for the traffic and demands of tourism. The B&B owners insist they don’t hear complaints from the community and tourists are unhappy at their being forced into what they view as a cookie cutter, in-authentic resort atmosphere.
But with the threat to the lush local agriculture and atmosphere that makes Maui so beautiful, there’s clearly a reason for the rules. Those who have previously rejected resort culture may have to open their eyes to the splendor luxury resorts can offer and the creative ways which one can ensure authenticity and fun without posing as a local. This includes special seasonal packages that can reduce costs, the endless activities and options to customize a trip, and the pristine beach-front locations that maintain the beauty and sense of escape Maui visitors lust for.
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January 8th, 2008 at 7:48 am
The rules do not only affect ‘unlicensed’ rentals, but many of those that have been shut down were prefectly legal and had followed all the rules set by the county and paid the required taxes and met zoning requirements. Now their legitimate source of income has been closed down despite their compliance.
This policy has been pushed through by the resort chains to justify the absurd rates they want to charge visitors while sucking up vast local resources to fuel their ‘luxury’ lifestyles. This limits the type of guests we can expect on Maui…in other words, they want only the uber-rich visiting our island. Get your facts straight, this is all about the money. There are no alturistic forces at work here, no one is trying to ‘protect’ Maui, they just want to shut down the competition and limit choices.
This article takes a much to rosy view of the situation. Shame on you!
January 9th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
there are some licensed B and B’s and Vacation Rentals on Maui and they will continue to renew their licenses on an annual basis. The properties that do not advertise their exact addresses are very likely the nonpermited rentals that have not been able to secure permits. Some vacation rentals have not had a negative impact on their neighbors but others have gotten into major fights. “Nonconforming” structures have not been inspected and may not be built to the codes that were set to protect you. There is an abundance of timeshare properties that rent out for well below the posted rack rate and more are being built.