🏡 Airbnb Rules in Maui: What Real Estate Investors Should Know in 2025

🔥 The Opportunity Is Real — If You Know the Rules

Maui is one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the world. But if you’re looking to buy an investment property here in 2025, there’s one thing you absolutely need to understand: Airbnb rules and short-term rental regulations.

As a Maui-based real estate investor myself, I’ve navigated this complex landscape firsthand. The rules are strict—but they’re also manageable if you know where to look and how to play by the book.

Let’s break it all down so you can make smart, legal, and profitable decisions.

📌 What Is Considered a Short-Term Rental (STR) in Maui?

In Maui County, a short-term rental is defined as any rental of less than 180 days.

There are two main types of legal short-term rentals:

1. Hotel-zoned and apartment-zoned condos that have been granted short-term use by the county (like in Kihei, Wailea, Kaanapali, and Lahaina).

2. Permitted short-term rental homes (STRHs), which are single-family homes with a special license from the county.

⚠️ Important: Just owning a condo or home doesn’t mean it’s eligible for Airbnb. Zoning, association rules, and permits all play a role.

🏢 Where Is Airbnb Allowed in 2025?

Maui County has designated areas where short-term rentals are permitted by zoning:

✅ Legal STR Zones (as of 2025):

• Kihei (certain condos only)

• Wailea

• Kaanapali

• Napili & Honokowai

• Maalaea

These properties are typically in hotel-zoned or apartment-zoned buildings that allow transient vacation rentals (TVR). Many have on-site management and are known as "condotels."

🔍 Before buying, check:

• Zoning map (Maui County)

• Whether the condo is on the county’s approved short-term rental list

• HOA rules (some prohibit Airbnb even if zoning allows it)

🚫 Where Is Airbnb Not Allowed?

• Most residential neighborhoods

• Single-family homes without a permit

• Condos in non-resort areas like Wailuku, Haiku, or Upcountry

Maui County has been cracking down on illegal short-term rentals. Violations can result in hefty fines (up to $20,000/day) and forced closure.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t assume a property “used to be rented on Airbnb” means it’s legal now.

💸 Why It’s Still a Killer Buying Opportunity

Yes, Maui has tightened its short-term rental rules—but here’s the silver lining:

• Prices are down, especially in the condo market.

• Inventory is up, giving buyers more leverage.

• Vacation demand remains strong, especially for legal units in Kihei, Wailea, and West Maui.

👉 If you buy the right unit in the right area, you can still create incredible income and long-term appreciation.

🤝 Work with an Agent Who’s an Investor Too

I’m not just a Maui Realtor®—I’m a real estate investor myself.
I’ve purchased, managed, and helped clients build portfolios here on the island. I know:

• Which complexes allow Airbnb

• What properties make the best returns

• How to set up a property for long-term success

If you’re serious about investing in Maui, I can help you do it smart, legally, and profitably.

📲 Call to Action

Want a list of legal Airbnb properties on Maui?
I’ll send you a personalized list of current condos that qualify for short-term rentals—with price breakdowns, rental history, and ROI potential.

👉 Click here to request your custom Airbnb property list

👉 Click here to read more blogs on Maui Property rules and up to date info

Or reach out to me directly — I’m happy to help investors make the smartest moves on Maui.

Todd J Hudson RB-21913
REALTOR® | Investor | Maui Expert
📱 808-344-3584
📧 todd@the808team.com
🌐 www.The808Team.com
Keller Williams Realty Maui | RB-21851