Maui Travel Alert: ACE Rent A Car Shuts Down — What Visitors Need to Know

If you’re planning a trip to Maui, here’s an important update that could impact your travel plans.

Both Maui News and Beat of Hawaii have issued a consumer alertACE Rent A Car Maui has ceased operations and is no longer honoring existing bookings.

This means travelers who reserved vehicles through ACE may arrive on island without a car — a serious issue given Maui’s limited transportation options and high demand, especially in resort areas like Wailea, Kaanapali, and Kapalua.

What You Should Do Now

  • Confirm your reservation immediately if you booked with ACE
  • Secure a backup rental with a reputable provider (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, etc.)
  • Check your credit card for refund eligibility or travel protection
  • If inventory is tight, consider:
    • Turo
    • Hotel shuttle services
    • Private transportation options

Why This Matters

Maui isn’t a walkable destination in most areas, and rental cars are often essential for:

  • Beach access
  • Dining and shopping
  • Exploring the island

A last-minute disruption like this can quickly derail an otherwise seamless vacation.

March Maui Update

 Aloha All, 

We find ourselves with the first quarter of 2026 already nearing its close. The year has unfolded with a distinct and compelling energy as we consider last year’s changes and what we will face this coming year. While every new year carries a sense of optimism, 2026 feels uniquely significant to many who welcomed the Chinese New Year referred to as The Year of the Fire Horse, an event that occurs only once every 60 years. This event is often associated with transformation where new opportunities begin to take shape for those ready to make changes. 

That energy is already unfolding. March, known for “coming in like a lion,” delivered exactly that on Maui, and the shifts extend beyond weather. Climate patterns have moved from El Niño into La Niña signaling a transition from drier conditions to a more tropical, dynamic environment. 

In real estate, these broader cycles often mirror market behavior. Change introduces movement and movement creates opportunity for some yet not for others. What we are seeing locally reflects exactly that, a market adjusting, recalibrating, and presenting new entry points for both buyers and sellers who are prepared to act strategically. 

One large change may be the South Maui Master Plan which is presently being considered by the Maui County Council. The full report is approximately 67 pages. We have the full report as well as an overview of it and if you would like us to email either to you, please let us know. Some big changes deal with the three Wailea Golf Course developments with changes regarding the land and tennis courts. This is the time to pay attention should it be of importance to you. 

If you own property on Maui, please note that the new property assessments have been published. Please be aware that if you wish to challenge your property’s assessment, you have very little time to complete the paperwork. Here’s the link: https://qpublic.schneidercorp.com/Application.aspx?AppID=1029&LayerID=21689&PageTypeID=2&PageID=9249&KeyValue=390040820058&fbclid=IwZnRzaAQkOyNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeHJ069b-eMXdvEIFo58ycTXiUgT6RZWh-qhWlCWbesBJtQSbrYKlwmQZrdOY_aem_iXuFzUNMgrqyYxkrsZJk7A 

STATISTICS: 

On Maui, the numbers tell the story. New listings declined 20.0% for single-family homes and 7.6% for condominiums, while pending sales surged 22.8% for single-family homes and an impressive 63.0% for condominiums, clear indicators of renewed buyer activity. Median sales prices softened, down 10.4% to $1,250,000 for single-family homes and 11.7% to $847,500 for condominiums, creating opportunities for buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines. At the same time, days on market increased and inventory expanded, giving buyers more leverage and choice than we’ve seen in recent years. 

In a market like this, timing, pricing, and positioning matter more than ever. Whether you’re considering selling, searching for the right opportunity, or simply trying to understand what these shifts mean for your property, having clear, current insight can make all the difference. If you need assistance with the property assessment link or you’d like to discuss your specific situation or explore what opportunities may exist for you in today’s market, we are always here as a resource. 

Please know that your entrusting us with your own business and those of friends and family mean so much to us. Thank you for your loyalty and referrals. 

If you would like a copy of our newsletter to share let us know at dad@mauirealestate.net 

Bob Hansen PB R(B) 808-283-9456 RB-17532

Clint Hansen BIC R(B) 808-280-2764 RB-21616

Donna D. Hansen R(S) 808-280-1650 RS-49765 

MAUI LUXURY REAL ESTATE LLC, The Hansen Ohana ~ Maui’s Real Estate Family over 30 year 

MauiRealEstate.net 

Spring Showers

After the spring showers come the flowers.

Spring Forward: Time Change Reminder

Reminder! Set your clocks ahead one hour tonight!

Chinese New Year on Maui 2026: Where to Celebrate the Year of the Horse

Chinese New Year is almost here, and Maui is ready to welcome the Year of the Horse with cultural celebrations, lion dances, family activities, and plenty of festive energy.

In 2026, Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, February 17, and while Maui’s events aren’t as large as Honolulu’s Chinatown festivities, there are still meaningful and fun celebrations happening across the island.

Here’s your guide to what’s happening.


🐎 Chinese New Year – Official Start

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

This marks the first day of the Lunar New Year and the beginning of the Year of the Horse. Traditionally, this is a time focused on renewal, prosperity, family gatherings, and welcoming good fortune.

You may see smaller celebrations, lion dance appearances, or restaurant specials around the island during this week.


🎉 Maui Chinese New Year Festival

Saturday, February 21, 2026
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Maui Mall Village, Kahului

This is Maui’s largest Chinese New Year celebration and a must-attend event for families.

The festival typically includes:

  • Lion dance performances (often multiple showings)
  • Martial arts demonstrations including Tai Chi
  • Dragon and ribbon dance performances
  • Keiki crafts and cultural activities
  • Chinese calligraphy and heritage displays
  • Local food vendors and festival booths

It’s free, family-friendly, and filled with color, music, and cultural tradition.


What to Expect at a Maui Lunar New Year Celebration

Lion dances are often the highlight. The lion symbolizes strength and good fortune, and performances traditionally “chase away” bad luck while inviting prosperity for the year ahead.

If you see the lion dancers, you can participate in the tradition of offering a small red envelope donation to “feed the lion” — a fun and symbolic gesture.