Latest tourism & hospitality news and updates
Holiday travel to Hawaii is experiencing a surge in demand, leading to record-high airfares and limited seat availability. This trend presents both challenges and opportunities for Hawaii's tourism industry, impacting businesses and travelers alike.
Travelers to Hawaii are facing significantly higher costs for hotel stays, with loyalty programs seeing massive point inflation and soaring cash rates. This shift forces visitors to prioritize value over brand loyalty, impacting both consumers and the hospitality industry.
The Hawaii Restaurant Association is preparing to celebrate the achievements of five outstanding figures in the state's culinary world at its annual Hall of Fame gala. This event not only honors industry pioneers but also supports the future of culinary education.
The Lahaina Restoration Foundation is offering a last-minute opportunity to experience the powerful 360-degree film, "E Hoʻi Ka Nani I Mokuʻula" (Let the Glory Return to Mokuʻula) at The Sphere in the Maui Ocean Center this Friday. Advance reservations are recommended for this unique cultural experience.
Tropical Storm Kiko, though weakening, is generating dangerous surf and rip currents as it passes north of the Hawaiian Islands, prompting a high surf warning. This weather event poses challenges for coastal businesses and impacts tourism-related activities.
Despite evolving challenges, Hawaii continues to resonate with visitors seeking a world-class experience. The islands maintain a unique appeal by offering both exotic allure and familiar comforts, essential for the tourism sector's health and for entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry.
Airline loyalty programs, a boon for the industry's bottom line, are losing their luster for Hawaii travelers. Scarcity of award seats and high redemption costs are driving a shift towards prioritizing value over brand allegiance.
Hurricane Kiko has weakened and is now expected to pass north of the Hawaiian Islands, averting a direct hit. While the islands are spared from strong winds and heavy rain, businesses and residents should remain vigilant due to potential life-threatening surf and rip currents.
Hurricane Kiko, though downgraded to a Category 1 storm, continues to pose a threat to Hawaii as it approaches, bringing with it the potential for dangerous surf conditions and increased humidity. This has significant implications for the tourism industry and other local businesses reliant on favorable weather.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters' proposal to fly at lower altitudes across multiple Hawaiian islands has ignited a wave of community pushback, raising questions about noise pollution, environmental impact, and the potential disruption to local communities and tourist experiences. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval is needed for implementation
Southwest Airlines' impending shift to assigned seating, starting January 27, 2026, is set to alter the travel experience for those flying to and from Hawaii. This change offers new opportunities, including the ability to purchase extra seats in advance; however, it also introduces potential drawbacks, impacting businesses and travelers alike.
Kauai is holding in-person community input sessions to shape the future of its tourism industry. The island aims to avoid the pitfalls faced by Maui and the Big Island by developing a Destination Management Action Plan rooted in community needs.
A growing Canadian boycott of U.S. travel, fueled by political tensions and economic policies, presents both challenges and opportunities for Hawai‘i's tourism sector. While some Canadians view Hawai‘i as a distinct destination, the overall impact could be significant and requires strategic planning.
As Hawaii grapples with rising costs and shifting tourist demographics, Japanese companies are innovating to attract first-time and younger visitors. These efforts focus on responsible tourism and unique experiences, offering a potential solution to overtourism concerns and a boost for local businesses.
Hawaii's tourism industry, long reliant on international visitors, particularly from Japan, faces a pivotal moment. Tour operators are adapting strategies, emphasizing environmental and socially responsible activities to attract first-time Japanese travelers and retain existing clientele.
Habitat for Humanity Maui has partnered with Apogee Travel, a hotel booking platform, to generate donations from hotel stays. This innovative collaboration provides travelers with a way to support affordable housing initiatives on Maui while booking their accommodations.
A growing number of Canadians are boycotting travel to the U.S. due to political tensions and policies. This development poses a potential challenge to Hawaii's tourism sector, which historically benefits from Canadian visitors. However, there's a possibility that Hawaii could be viewed as an exception by some Canadian travelers.
Hawai'i's tourism sector, traditionally reliant on foreign visitors, particularly from Japan, is undergoing a shift. Tour operators are adapting their strategies to attract first-time Japanese tourists by focusing on environmentally and socially responsible activities, reflecting evolving travel preferences.
With rising costs impacting tourism, Hawaii is exploring innovative strategies to attract Japanese travelers, particularly first-time and younger visitors. Initiatives like the 'Genki Ball' project, focused on environmental sustainability, highlight a shift towards responsible tourism.
The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Honolulu is advising those in the maritime industry to stay informed on Hurricane Kiko's path and to take necessary precautions. This includes monitoring weather updates and adhering to safety guidelines to mitigate potential risks to vessels and personnel.