The latest rankings of Hawaii's most-visited attractions for 2024 offer crucial insights for businesses across the state, particularly those in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The report, published by Pacific Business News, highlights the continued dominance of key attractions and underscores evolving trends in visitor preferences. Understanding these shifts is critical for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals looking to capitalize on Hawaii's robust tourism market.
The Dole Plantation in Wahiawa maintains its stronghold as the number one most-visited attraction, drawing a substantial 1,640,938 visitors in 2024, an increase from 1,578,689 visitors in 2023. According to Kealakai by BYU, the Dole Plantation was founded by James Dole, also known as the “Pineapple King,” in 1899. This long-standing popularity underscores the enduring appeal of attractions that offer a blend of history, cultural experience, and family-friendly activities. The success of the Dole Plantation, led by President Garret Matsunami, offers valuable lessons for other businesses: a focus on consistent quality, effective marketing, and adapting to evolving visitor interests are paramount for sustained success.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial remains a significant draw, securing the second spot with 1,588,798 visitors in 2024. Although slightly down from 1,692,719 in 2023, the site continues to be a must-see destination for tourists. The leadership of Superintendent Tom Leatherman and Interpretation & Education Lead David Kilton plays a key role in its ongoing appeal. This underscores the significance of historical and cultural sites in attracting visitors, and highlights the potential for businesses that offer related services, such as guided tours, educational programs, and themed accommodations.
For businesses, these rankings can inform strategic decisions regarding investments and partnerships. Those considering new ventures in the tourism sector should consider the popularity of established attractions as a benchmark, while also looking for opportunities to differentiate themselves. As visitors become more sophisticated travelers, as Hawaii Business Magazine notes, businesses must adapt to attract repeat visitors with a greater variety of offerings. This could involve collaborations with other attractions, incorporating sustainable practices, or offering unique experiences that go beyond the traditional tourist fare. For example, instead of purely focusing on the “pineapple maze,” businesses can emphasize other facets such as food offerings or garden tours, as Business Insider suggests.
Overall, the 2024 rankings provide a snapshot of a dynamic tourism landscape in Hawaii. Success in this sector demands a keen understanding of visitor preferences, a commitment to quality, and a willingness to innovate.
