Latest tourism & hospitality news and updates
Hawaii is extending its digital agriculture form program, which streamlines the arrival process for visitors by allowing them to complete the Department of Agriculture’s declaration form online. The expansion is expected to benefit the tourism sector and improve biosecurity efforts.
A recent state audit criticized the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA) for ineffective destination management, particularly highlighting issues with its community-driven Destination Management Action Plan. This has significant implications for businesses in the tourism sector and highlights the need for improved strategies.
Hawaiian Airlines has launched a surprise 25% off airfare sale, presenting an opportunity for fall travel to Hawaii and a potential boost to the state's tourism sector, but the lack of widespread advertising may present a challenge.
Hawaii's tourism industry is banking on the live-action "Lilo & Stitch" remake to draw visitors and boost the economy. The film's premiere serves as a key opportunity to spotlight the state's culture and beauty, with the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau leading the promotional efforts.
A Canadian businessman is proposing a gondola and zip line project on Oahu's North Shore, presenting potential investment and business opportunities while raising environmental and community considerations.
The merger of Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines is underway, with assurances that current HawaiianMiles will be honored. This transition is impacting the tourism and hospitality sector in Hawaii, requiring businesses to adapt to the new loyalty program and potential changes in the airline industry.
The Pilikahakai Foundation recently hosted the Reef-Friendly Landscaping Summit in Kāʻanapali, emphasizing sustainable land care practices to protect the coastline. This initiative is crucial for the tourism and hospitality sectors and highlights the increasing importance of environmentally responsible business practices in Hawaii.
Crescent Hotels & Resorts has taken over management of the Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa, marking its first venture into Hawaii's hospitality market. This shift, from previous manager Highgate, reflects evolving dynamics within the tourism sector and may present new opportunities and challenges for local businesses.
Hawaii County is contemplating the implementation of admission fees for the Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens. This decision, which follows previous discussions, will influence the zoo's financial stability, local tourism, and accessibility for both residents and tourists.
The U.S. travel industry is experiencing uncertainty as airlines and hotel companies revise growth projections. This shift requires Hawaii's tourism sector to prepare for potential fluctuations and adapt to shifting market dynamics.
The weakening outlook for airline seats into Hawaii ahead of the peak summer travel season is raising concerns about the state's tourism-dependent economy, potentially impacting businesses and investors in the hospitality sector. This trend reflects broader anxieties about leisure travel demand amid global economic uncertainty.
Hawaii is facing a critical challenge with a rising number of visitor drownings, prompting a new safety plan to educate travelers and mitigate risks. This initiative is essential for protecting visitors and maintaining the state's reputation as a top travel destination.
The HawaiianMiles program is ending as it transitions to Alaska Airlines, which requires careful planning from travelers and businesses in Hawaii. The changes affect everything from how points are used to the competitive nature of Hawaii's airline industry, impacting various aspects of tourism and travel-related enterprises.
Hawaii is set to launch a digital tourism survey to better understand visitors and support the state's economic future, according to a report by KHON2. This initiative follows successful digital agricultural forms and aims to gather comprehensive insights to improve offerings and services for tourists.
The most recent rankings of the most-visited attractions in Hawaii for 2024 reveal key insights for tourism-related businesses. The report, published by Pacific Business News, highlights the continued dominance of key attractions and emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt to meet the needs of modern visitors.
The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) has restored passenger count data for both international and domestic travelers after a temporary disruption. The restoration of this crucial tourism data provides essential insights for businesses to support strategic planning and investment opportunities.
Hawaiian Airlines has introduced a new "no-show" policy, effective May 15, 2025, where passengers who miss their flights without canceling beforehand could lose the entire ticket value. This impacts both tourists and business travelers, highlighting the need for careful flight management.
Maui has launched a new speaker series called "Cultures and Coastlines," which is exploring the connection between Hawaiian culture and coastal resilience. Featuring prominent figures like activist Walter Ritte, the series offers vital discussion on sustainable tourism and conservation, providing timely knowledge for tourism and hospitality professionals.
Hawaiian Airlines is shifting its strategy away from its previous focus on innovation and island-centric branding, impacting Hawaii's tourism sector. This change can influence the customer experience and competitive dynamics within the industry.
The annual Ka‘u Coffee Festival, from May 25-31, presents a vital opportunity for businesses and entrepreneurs in Hawaii's tourism and hospitality sectors. The event highlights the region's award-winning coffee and culture, driving economic growth through agritourism and culinary experiences, as well as supporting local businesses.