Major Solar Project for Central Maui Clears Key Approval Hurdle
A $241 million solar energy project that would power about 18,400 homes received county planning approval and is rushing to complete permitting before federal tax credits expire in 2028. The Kūihelani Solar Phase 2 project received 7-0 approval from Maui Planning Commission for a special use permit. The project would generate 40 megawatts of solar […]
Hawaiian Airlines Ends Free Meals, Introduces Paid Maui Chef Menu July 1
Hawaiian Airlines will eliminate free economy class meals on most mainland flights starting July 1, replacing them with a paid pre-order menu created by Maui chef Sheldon Simeon. Multiple sources reported this marks the end of an era, as Hawaiian was the last major U.S. airline offering complimentary meals on all mainland routes. Free meals […]
Maui Visitor Spending Up Despite April Drop in Tourist Arrivals
Hawaii saw higher visitor spending in April 2026 even though fewer tourists arrived compared to previous periods. April 2026 visitor spending increased despite a decrease in overall visitor arrivals to Hawaii. The spending increase suggests tourists may be staying longer or spending more per visit. This trend could indicate higher-value visitors are choosing Hawaii destinations. […]
Hawaiian Airlines Ends Free Meals, Launches Chef Sheldon Simeon Menu July 1
Hawaiian Airlines will stop serving complimentary meals on domestic long-haul flights starting July 1, replacing them with a pre-order menu featuring dishes by Maui chef Sheldon Simeon priced at $10.99-$16.99. Free meals in main cabin on domestic long-haul flights will end July 1, 2024. New pre-order menu features dishes by James Beard-recognized Maui chef Sheldon […]
March Flooding Creates Federal Aid Centers Amid Record Wet Season
Multiple sources report that Maui County experienced its second wettest season in 30 years, with March flooding prompting federal disaster assistance. FEMA and SBA are operating recovery centers through mid-June to help flood-affected residents and businesses. Maui County recorded its second wettest season in 30 years from October 2025 through April 2026, with rainfall 100-250% […]
High Surf Advisory Issued for South-Facing Shores Through Weekend
A High Surf Advisory is in effect for Maui’s south-facing shores through Sunday afternoon due to a building south-southwest swell. Large surf could cause wave runup issues on exposed beaches during peak tide cycles. High Surf Advisory remains active through Sunday afternoon for south-facing shores. Wave runup may sweep across typically dry exposed beaches during […]
Atlantis Submarines Maui Resumes Operations After Wildfire Shutdown
Atlantis Submarines Maui has returned to operation nearly three years after the Lahaina wildfire destroyed most of their fleet, with employees now taking visitors on underwater tours again. Atlantis Submarines lost nearly all equipment in the 2023 Lahaina fire but has now resumed tourist operations. The company’s shuttle boat is the only vessel that survived […]
Hawaii Emergency Sirens Testing Monday June 1 at 11:45 AM
The state will test emergency warning sirens statewide on Monday, June 1 at 11:45 AM for one minute. Property owners should expect to hear the alert signal as part of the monthly safety system test. Emergency sirens will sound for one minute at 11:45 AM on June 1 as part of monthly testing. The test […]
Kula Nonprofit Hosts Community History Event June 1
Mālama Kula will hold a community potluck on June 1 featuring a talk on local history. The nonprofit formed after the 2023 Kula fire and has completed over 35,000 hours of community recovery work. The event features Rose Medeiros speaking about Holy Ghost Church and Waiakoa history from 5-7 p.m. at 40 Kualono Place. Mālama […]
Hawaii Launches New Tourism Campaign to Rebuild Visitor Numbers
Hawaii is launching a new tourism campaign to attract visitors back after decreased demand following the 2023 Lahaina fires and recent spring weather disruptions. Officials say the islands are ready for tourists despite lingering perception issues. Hawaii tourism demand has declined due to the 2023 Maui fires and March 2024 Kona Low storms that caused […]