Latest tourism & hospitality news and updates
The future participation of major professional golf events, like the Sony Open, in Hawaii remains undecided, potentially affecting $50-70 million in annual visitor spending and creating a variable…
Hawaiʻi restaurants recognized as James Beard Award semifinalists can expect a surge in customer interest and bookings over the next 90 days, requiring rapid adjustments to staffing and supply…
Alaska Airlines has projected a wider-than-expected first-quarter loss and a subdued full-year profit outlook, driven by volatile fuel prices and economic uncertainty. This suggests potential upward…
The abrupt closure of Wolfgang's Steakhouse on Maui highlights increasing economic pressures on Hawaii's food service industry, potentially impacting profitability for similar establishments.…
A recent airline attempt to reduce seat pitch was narrowly averted due to passenger backlash, but this signals potential future shifts that could impact visitor comfort and increase perceived travel…
The return of Ward Village's 'Veganuary' event immediately presents an opportunity for food and beverage businesses to increase sales through plant-based offerings. Small business operators and…
Dream Resorts has appointed a new Managing Director at its Maui Resort Rentals division, signaling potential changes in operational strategy and market focus. Competitors and partners should monitor…
Yelp's annual "Top 100 Places to Eat" list for 2026 has been released, potentially influencing diner choices and altering foot traffic for restaurants nationwide. Businesses should monitor local…
A new cafe concept blending a popular local coffee brand with a trendy pastry is set to open in Waikiki, potentially shifting consumer preferences and creating new competitive dynamics. Food and…
The return of the Lahaina Food & Wine Festival in February 2026 signals potential increased visitor demand, requiring tourism operators and local small businesses to prepare for a seasonal surge.…
A recent analysis suggests a significant departure of middle-class travelers from Hawaii, posing a potential revenue risk for the tourism sector over the next 3-6 months. Operators should monitor…
A new app, SetJetter, launched to direct tourists to famous film and TV filming locations across Hawaii. Businesses located near these sites should monitor potential shifts in visitor traffic and…
A recent feature on Downtown Honolulu eateries, including Poai by Pono Potions, highlights offerings that could drive local curiosity and boost patronage for small businesses and tourism operators.…
The Mardi Gras Feast at Dixie Grill Aiea, running from January 27 to February 17, presents a short-term opportunity for local restaurants to drive customer interest through themed specials. Small…
A recent editorial advocates for taxing cruise ship visitors like land-based tourists, raising the possibility of future operational cost increases or new revenue streams for Hawaii's tourism sector.…
A new weekly magic show, "Kuraya," launching January 27th at the Royal Lahaina Resort in Kāʻanapali, introduces a fresh entertainment option for visitors. Tourism operators should monitor its impact…
Island Vintage Coffee is actively promoting National Hot Chocolate Day, creating a time-limited marketing occasion that local food and beverage businesses can leverage. Small operators and tourism…
A significant northwest swell forecast for Maui starting January 20, 2026, will alter coastal conditions, requiring tourism operators and local businesses to adjust activity planning and staffing.…
Maui resorts are normalizing daily resort fees exceeding $100, pushing total accommodation costs up by at least 20% for typical week-long stays and impacting ancillary services. Tourism operators…
Anticipate record-high airfares for Summer 2026, making travel to Hawaii prohibitively expensive for many and threatening tourism-dependent sectors. Businesses must adjust revenue projections and…