Latest tourism & hospitality news and updates
The PGA Tour has canceled the 2026 Sentry Tournament of Champions at Kapalua Resort on Maui due to severe water restrictions and damage to the Plantation Course. This decision has significant economic implications for the island, impacting tourism, local businesses, and charitable organizations.
The PGA Tour's season kickoff event on Maui has been canceled due to severe drought conditions, dealing a blow to the island's tourism-dependent economy. This unexpected development presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses and investors in Hawaii's hospitality sector.
The prestigious Sentry golf tournament, a key event for the PGA Tour, will leave Maui's Kapalua Resort in 2026 because of ongoing drought conditions impacting the Plantation Course's ability to provide a quality playing surface. This departure signifies a significant economic blow to the island's tourism sector.
The PGA Tour has canceled The Sentry tournament on Maui for 2026, citing drought conditions and logistical challenges. This decision is poised to deliver a significant economic setback to the island, impacting local businesses and the tourism sector.
Airlines serving Hawaii are rolling out new cabin features, from premium economy options to fully lie-flat suites and environmentally conscious designs. This evolution in air travel presents both opportunities and challenges for Hawaii's tourism industry, as well as for local businesses and consumers.
Recent discussions in the *Honolulu Star-Advertiser* highlight the strategic challenges facing Hawaiian Airlines, particularly in the wake of route cancellations and evolving market dynamics. These changes, driven by factors like profitability and the slow recovery of Far East tourism, have significant implications for Hawaii's tourism sector and the businesses that depend on it.
Margotto Hawaii, a luxury restaurant in Honolulu's Ala Moana area, has announced a temporary closure until 2026. This decision follows a recent court case in which a former sous chef was awarded $3.15 million due to allegations of violent abuse by the executive chef, raising significant concerns within Hawaii's hospitality sector.
Kapalua Golf has made the tough decision to indefinitely close its Bay Course to conserve water, ensuring the prestigious PGA Tour's Sentry Tournament at the Plantation Course can proceed as scheduled. This move highlights the challenges of water management on Maui, particularly in the context of major tourism events.
The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) has announced the leadership of its newly formed advisory board committees, signaling a shift in strategy for the state's crucial tourism sector. The appointments aim to guide the HTA's focus on destination stewardship, Hawaiian culture, and workforce development.
The owner of the "Hula Girl" catamaran has been fined over $30,000 for damages caused by its grounding at Honolua Bay on Maui, as reported by the Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources. This incident highlights growing environmental concerns and increased regulatory oversight within Hawaii's tourism sector, prompting businesses to re-evaluate operational practices.
Southwest Airlines is once again shaking up the Hawaii air travel market. With rising vacation costs already a concern, Southwest's moves are putting pressure on Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines, potentially impacting both travelers and businesses.
A recent report reveals Kauai residents are expressing growing concerns about the impact of tourism on their daily lives, highlighting a disconnect between official narratives and local experiences. This situation presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses and investors in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters has requested an exemption from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fly at lower altitudes in certain areas of Hawaii, which may impact the tourism industry. While the company cites safety benefits, concerns over noise pollution from residents and environmental impact have begun to surface.
A recent study indicates a surge in interest in cannabis tourism among travelers to Hawaii, potentially opening up new avenues for businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors. This trend could reshape the industry, creating opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs and investors alike.
Samantha Citrawireja, a graduate of H.P. Baldwin High School, has been awarded the Ho‘oilina Scholarship, providing significant financial support for her bachelor's degree in Travel Industry Management. This scholarship underscores the commitment to nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals in Hawaii.
The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association (MHLA) recently inducted its new 2025-2026 Board of Directors, signaling a continued focus on navigating the evolving landscape of Maui's tourism sector. Executive Director John Pele expressed optimism about the new leadership's ability to guide the industry forward.
A $30,000 settlement has been approved for Kapalua Kai Sailing after one of its vessels ran aground in a Maui marine conservation area. The settlement reflects the commitment to protect Hawaii's natural resources and underscores the financial implications of environmental damage.
Outrigger Hospitality Group has appointed Jason Pirock as Vice President of Global Brand Marketing and Alexandra “Alex” Ivanova as Vice President of Finance. These strategic hires highlight Outrigger's focus on brand development and financial leadership within the evolving Hawaii hospitality market.
Travelers arriving at Kona and Kahului airports in Hawaii are experiencing baggage delays, the cause of which remains unspecified. This situation raises concerns for the tourism industry and businesses that rely on smooth travel operations within the islands.
The inaugural Lights for Lahaina event, held on September 6th, 2025, drew a crowd of over 870 people to Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, fostering healing and remembrance in the wake of the Lahaina wildfires. This community-driven initiative offers a hopeful outlook for the area's recovery and revitalization, impacting local businesses and investment strategies.