Maui rules
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Maui guide

Maui rules visitors miss: sunscreen, reservations and more

Five things that catch first-time Maui visitors off guard.

1. Mineral-only sunscreen

Maui County has allowed only mineral sunscreens, with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients, since October 1, 2022, under Ordinance 5306.

2. Sunrise needs a reservation

Entry to the Haleakalā summit from 3 to 7 a.m. needs a $1 vehicle reservation. See our sunrise guide.

3. Waiʻānapanapa and ʻĪao Valley need bookings

Both take non-resident reservations up to 30 days ahead. ʻĪao Valley is open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., per the Division of State Parks.

4. The lodging tax is 11%

Hawaiʻi's transient accommodations tax rose to 11% on January 1, 2026, per the Department of Taxation.

5. Molokini is tour-only

You can reach Molokini only by boat tour, departing from Māʻalaea, Kīhei or Lahaina. See Molokini tours

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Last checked November 5, 2026. Reviewed by our nurse editor for safety notes.