Latest tourism & hospitality news and updates
Southwest Airlines is set to launch a new nonstop route connecting Hilo, Hawaii, to Las Vegas, Nevada, starting in August 2026. This addition marks a significant development for the Big Island, potentially stimulating tourism and providing increased accessibility for both business and leisure travelers.
Southwest Airlines is set to launch a new nonstop service, connecting Hilo, Hawaii, with Las Vegas. This route, launching in August 2026, promises to boost tourism and offer new opportunities for both travelers and local businesses.
Southwest Airlines is set to launch a new, nonstop route connecting Hilo International Airport (ITO) and Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). This new service, commencing August 6th, 2026, promises to strengthen ties between the Big Island and the mainland, offering increased convenience for travelers and potential economic benefits for Hawaii.
Over 150 employees at the Royal Kona Resort, including various staff like housekeepers, maintenance personnel, and cooks, initiated a one-day strike, disrupting operations at the popular Big Island destination. This action highlights ongoing labor disputes within Hawaii's hotel industry, potentially impacting local tourism and business costs.
Lawmakers are calling on the Secretary of the Interior to address staffing shortages at National Parks. This initiative reflects growing concerns about the potential impacts on visitor safety, park operations, and the economic well-being of surrounding communities.
Waialua Bar & Café has opened its doors in Terminal 1 of Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, bringing a taste of local cuisine to travelers. The new establishment is a collaboration between the Hawai'i Department of Transportation and HMSHost, offering a variety of island-inspired food and beverages, potentially increasing revenue for local vendors.
The Honolulu Ocean Safety Commission has appointed Kurt Lager as the permanent chief of the city’s Ocean Safety Department, a move that analysts say brings stability to critical beach safety operations. This appointment comes after Lager served as interim chief, and his permanent role is expected to support ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of residents and visitors along Oahu's coastline.
Chef Kin Lui, celebrated for his plant-based sushi at Tane Vegan Izakaya in Honolulu and Shizen Vegan Izakaya in San Francisco (both Michelin Guide recommended), is offering a masterclass in sushi making. His emphasis on fresh, local ingredients provides a valuable lesson for Hawaii's hospitality businesses seeking to elevate their offerings and attract discerning diners.
Hilo is experiencing a tourism resurgence with the announcement of its first mainland nonstop flights in years, set to launch to Las Vegas in August 2026. This move comes as the ongoing eruptions of Kilauea continue to captivate global attention, presenting significant opportunities for Big Island entrepreneurs and investors.
Recent discoveries by the W. M. Keck Observatory and the Subaru Telescope on Maunakea have revealed a massive planet and a brown dwarf orbiting distant stars, showcasing Hawaii's continued leadership in astronomical research. These findings not only advance our understanding of the universe but also highlight the critical role of Maunakea in fostering scientific innovation and attracting global attention.
A recent survey reveals that Kona and Kahului airports in Hawaii have the highest car rental rates in the United States, with Lihue also ranking among the most expensive. This poses significant challenges for Hawaii's tourism industry, potentially impacting visitor spending and the profitability of related businesses.
A Hawaiian Airlines flight bound for Kauai was forced to return to San Diego shortly after takeoff due to an outbreak of illness among crew members and passengers, leaving travelers stranded just days before Christmas. The incident highlights the vulnerabilities within the airline industry and the potential for significant disruptions to Hawaii's tourism sector.
Blue Hawaiian Activities (BHA), a premier provider of concierge services and experiences in Hawaii, has announced a new partnership with Manifest to upgrade its point-of-sale (POS) system. This move signals BHA's commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and customer service for both guests and partners.
Jinya Ramen Bar, a popular ramen restaurant in Honolulu's Ward Village, is set to close its doors, leading to the layoff of 86 employees. This closure marks a significant shift in the local dining landscape, especially considering the location's history as a prominent food service establishment.
Hawaiʻi's airports are setting a new standard for air travel! A recent report confirms that Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) boasts the best on-time performance in the U.S., a boon for both travelers and the state's economy during the busy holiday season.
A recent stay at the new Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore revealed a stark contrast between the nightly rate and the actual guest experience, raising questions about value in Maui's evolving hospitality landscape. This analysis explores the implications for travelers, hotel operators, and investors navigating the island's high-priced market.
As the holiday season approaches, Hawaii is rolling out new technology to streamline airport travel. Initiatives include the fully implemented Akamai Arrival digital agriculture form and new airport wayfinding apps aimed at improving the experience for both residents and visitors.
Rain in Hawaiʻi doesn't mean your day is washed out! Embrace the spirit of aloha with these 25 engaging indoor activities, perfect for tourists and residents alike, ensuring that every rainy day is filled with fun, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories.
Cirque du Soleil's 'Auana,' the Hawaiian-themed show in Waikiki, is celebrating its first anniversary with impressive attendance figures, injecting a dose of optimism into the local tourism sector. This success story unfolds amidst concerns of a potential mild recession impacting Hawaii's visitor industry.
More than two years after the devastating Lahaina wildfire, a significant step towards recovery has been taken with the phased reopening of Lahaina Harbor. This move is expected to revitalize Maui's economy, offering a glimmer of hope for local businesses and the tourism sector while acknowledging the ongoing challenges of rebuilding.