Author: Thomas

Maui Police Honor Fallen Officer During National Police Week Observance

The Maui Police Department is participating in National Police Week events in Washington D.C. and illuminating the Wailuku Police Station in blue throughout May to honor fallen officers. MPD delegation attending memorial events in Washington D.C. to honor Officer Suzanne O at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Wailuku Police Station will display blue lighting […]

Maui County Seeks Input on New Lahaina Community Center and Field House

Maui County is hosting a public meeting May 19 to gather community input on plans for a new multipurpose community center and field house near the Lahaina Recreation Center. The facilities will serve as gathering spaces and emergency resources for West Maui residents. Public meeting scheduled for May 19, 5:30-7 p.m. at Lahaina Civic Center […]

HTA Launches Maui-Focused Tourism Programs with $10K Awards for Local Groups

Multiple sources report that the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority has opened applications for its 2026 Community Tourism Collaboratives, exclusively targeting Maui-based organizations. The programs aim to support community-centered tourism while advancing the island’s recovery efforts. Applications are open until June 8, 2026 at noon HST for two cohort-based programs exclusively for Maui organizations Community Stewardship program […]

Washington Tourist Faces Federal Charges for Attacking Maui Monk Seal

Multiple news outlets report that federal authorities charged a Washington state tourist with harassing an endangered Hawaiian monk seal after video captured him throwing a coconut-sized rock at the animal near Lahaina. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and highlights ongoing challenges protecting Hawaii’s critically endangered monk seals. Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, 38, of Covington, Washington […]

Four Seasons Wailea Completes First Phase of Major Resort Renovation

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea has opened its renovated Club Floor with 26 redesigned rooms and upgraded amenities. The renovation is part of a comprehensive property transformation continuing through 2026. The resort completed renovations of 26 guest rooms and suites plus a new Club Lounge with concierge services. A multi-phase renovation will continue through […]

Pleasant Conditions Expected Across Maui Through Thursday

Mostly sunny and breezy weather continues with scattered light showers in some areas. Good conditions for outdoor activities and guest experiences through Thursday. West and South sides will see mostly sunny skies with minimal rain chances. North Shore and East Maui expect scattered showers with 50% rain probability. Breezy northeast winds of 10-25 mph across […]

Tourist Entry Fees and Higher Taxes Roll Out Globally in 2026

Major destinations including Kyoto, Venice, and France are implementing new tourist taxes and entry fees in 2026, ranging from modest daily charges to significant accommodation surcharges. These fees aim to manage overtourism and generate revenue from visitors. Kyoto raised tourist taxes significantly with nightly charges from $1-66 depending on accommodation cost, hitting luxury properties hardest. […]

Maui County Offers $150K Grants for Local Financial Education Programs

The County’s Office of Economic Development is accepting applications for $150,000 in grants to fund financial literacy programs for Maui residents. Applications are due by June 15, 2026. Grant funding targets financial education programs covering budgeting, credit, banking, and small business management. Programs integrating workforce development and entrepreneurship for local economy sectors are prioritized. Applications […]

Flight Sponsorship Program Brings Displaced Lahaina Residents Home in July

A new competition will provide free round-trip flights for up to 80 displaced Lahaina residents to return for a July healing and community event. Applications are now open for families affected by the 2023 fires or economic displacement. Hawaiian Airlines partnership provides free flights from mainland US for up to 80 people to attend July […]

Guam’s $2M Tourism Program Shows Need to Address Pacific Air Travel Costs

Guam launched a $2 million program to offset rising airfare costs as fuel prices drive up travel expenses to Pacific destinations. The territory faces 20% reduced airline capacity and tripled fuel surcharges threatening tourism recovery. Airline seat capacity to Guam has dropped 20% due to jet fuel prices reaching $150-200 per barrel. Fuel surcharges have […]