Maui's tourism sector experienced a strong April, with the second-highest visitor count for 2025 so far, signaling continued recovery and offering opportunities for local businesses and investors. This positive trend in visitor arrivals and spending surpasses pre-pandemic levels, despite facing challenges such as the implementation of vacation rental restrictions.
A new $6 million marketing campaign is launched to revitalize Maui's tourism, aiming to restore visitor confidence and drive travel demand. This initiative, funded by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, comes as the island's tourism sector shows signs of recovery, including increased visitor spending and a strengthened focus on showcasing Maui's readiness to receive visitors.
Maui's tourism sector is set to receive a significant boost with a $6 million marketing investment aimed at revitalizing visitor numbers and supporting local businesses in the wake of recent challenges.
An interview with Elliot Mills and Jerry Gibson of Hawaii Hospitality Group hints at strategic initiatives timed to align with the current market, emphasizing the importance of adaptability within the state's tourism landscape.
Hawaiʻi's economy is currently ranked among the worst in the U.S., presenting challenges for local businesses, investors, and the overall economic landscape. Declining tourism and potential economic downturns are key drivers, though segments like Maui's construction sector offer some hope.
Side Street Inn is expanding to West Oahu, taking over the former Kitchen Door location, which signifies confidence in the local restaurant scene and opens opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.
Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) has appointed a new executive director, bringing diverse experience to foster innovation and economic growth in Hawaii's tech sector, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals.
Maui Economic Opportunity's Head Start program secured $2.7 million in federal funding for 2025-26, supporting no-cost preschool for income-qualifying families and contributing to local economic stability.
Park Hotels & Resorts is exploring the addition of a new tower to the Hilton Waikoloa Village, indicating continued investment and development in Hawaii's hospitality sector. This move is part of a broader trend of upgrading offerings and accommodations to sustain tourism growth, impacting local businesses and real estate.
A robust construction industry is becoming a cornerstone of Hawaiʻi's economic recovery, particularly for Maui, where significant rebuilding efforts are underway following the 2023 wildfires. This surge presents opportunities and challenges for the state's real estate, investment, and construction sectors.
Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co. Inc. tops the list of Hawaii's largest general contractors, showcasing a robust construction market with significant implications for local entrepreneurs and investors.
Alexander & Baldwin (A&B) is expanding its industrial footprint in Kapolei, Oahu, with a new warehouse development designed to meet the growing demand in Hawaii's industrial and retail sectors. This project aligns with A&B's strategy of optimizing existing industrial-zoned land to accommodate modern business needs.
One Rock Capital Partners is selling its majority stake in Island Energy Services to a joint venture between First Reserve and Fortress Investment Group. This deal highlights a shift in Hawaii's energy sector, impacting businesses dependent on fuel supply and potentially creating new investment opportunities.
Hawaii's Fairmont Orchid resort has secured a $136 million refinancing deal, a strategic move by owner Mirae Asset Global Investments amidst ongoing renovations, demonstrating confidence in the island's thriving tourism sector and its appeal to investors.
A $10 million investment by Northern Trust and Hawaiʻi Community Lending will enable zero-down mortgages for Native Hawaiians on Hawaiian Home Lands, providing an opportunity for financial stability and homeownership within the community.
American Savings Bank’s grand opening of its new Lahaina branch marks a pivotal moment in West Maui's recovery, providing essential financial services and signaling economic resilience after the devastating wildfires. This investment supports the community's rebuilding efforts, despite ongoing challenges.
Maui County is grappling with a contentious debate over a proposed bill to phase out short-term vacation rentals, with key amendments slated for discussion. This legislation aims to address the severe housing shortage by potentially converting vacation rentals into long-term housing, stirring both strong support and opposition across the island.
Maui County is debating a bill to phase out short-term vacation rentals, sparking heated discussions about its impact on the local economy, tourism, and housing. Key amendments are expected to be discussed at an upcoming council hearing, which could have a significant impact on the future of the tourism industry.
The Honolulu City Council is currently reviewing Mayor Rick Blangiardi's proposed $5.14 billion budget for fiscal year 2026, a crucial process that directly affects Oahu's business environment and presents both opportunities and challenges for local entrepreneurs and investors.
The Maui County Council is set to discuss key amendments to a vacation rental phase-out bill, sparking intense debate about the balance between housing affordability, tourism, and the economy. The upcoming hearing will address the future of short-term rentals, with significant implications for investors, property owners, and the broader tourism industry.
Hawaiian Electric is investing $350 million in a comprehensive wildfire safety strategy, with a strong emphasis on Maui County, including a pilot project for undergrounding power lines in Lahaina. This initiative aims to harden the grid, protect communities, and leverage advanced technology to prevent future tragedies.
Alaska Airlines’ mainland flight cancellations are creating ripple effects, posing challenges for Hawaii’s tourism sector and businesses reliant on air travel. The airline's fleet decisions and broader industry scrutiny will significantly shape Hawaii's economic landscape.
The Honolulu City Council is set to review Mayor Blangiardi's proposal for $11 million in general obligation bonds to support the over-budget rail project. This decision is a critical step in addressing the financial sustainability of the project and it impacts local businesses.
Hawaii County is implementing a 90-day trial of a one-way system on Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona, alongside the implementation of free parking, potentially reshaping the area's business landscape, impacting tourism, and affecting local accessibility.
The University of Hawaiʻi Maui College and Hawaiʻi Community College are launching certificate programs to train specialists in onsite wastewater treatment. This initiative is essential for supporting the state's cesspool conversion efforts, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors in sustainable infrastructure and resource management.
Maui County is developing an Urban Forest Management Plan, seeking community input to sustainably manage its urban forests, which has implications for local businesses and residents. The plan aims to reduce urban heat, manage stormwater, and support biodiversity, potentially influencing future landscaping and construction practices.
Hawaiʻi has renewed its pioneering coral reef insurance policy, offering up to $2 million for rapid repairs after storm damage, reflecting its commitment to environmental stewardship and tourism. This proactive measure is crucial for protecting the state's marine ecosystems and the economy dependent on them.
The Hawaiʻi Energy Conference, scheduled for May 21-22 on Maui, will bring together key stakeholders to address the state's energy challenges and explore sustainable solutions, offering significant opportunities for businesses and investors in the renewable energy sector.
