Hawaii-Japan Partnership Summit Focuses on Economic and Tourism Collaboration
Over 350 officials from Hawaii and Japan met at a summit to strengthen partnerships and develop initiatives for economic development, tourism, and disaster preparedness. The gathering aimed to turn sister-city relationships into actionable collaboration benefiting both regions. More than 350 participants including 30 governors and mayors attended the Hawaii-Japan Sister Summit at Hilton Hawaiian Village. […]
Hawaii Tourism Brand Struggles to Retain Loyal Visitor Confidence
Long-time Hawaii visitors report declining brand loyalty and confidence in the destination, citing concerns beyond just high prices. International travelers are questioning whether Hawaii still wants tourists, particularly following the Lahaina fire. Repeat visitors say Hawaii’s brand loyalty has weakened, with the destination no longer feeling worth high costs and long flights. The issue goes […]
Hotel Association Provides $54K in Student Scholarships for Tourism Careers
The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association awarded $54,343 in scholarships and training programs to local students pursuing hospitality and tourism careers. Recipients include high school and college students in hospitality, tourism, and culinary arts programs. Thirty-two students received scholarships ranging from $500 to $3,500 for hospitality and tourism education. Training programs included a New York […]
Pā’ia’s Mama’s Fish House Named Among Top 50 US Restaurants
Mama’s Fish House in Pā’ia was featured on Only in Your State’s list of 50 Legendary Local Restaurants Across the U.S., recognized for its fresh local fish and unique practice of naming the fisherman who caught each dish. The family-owned restaurant has operated on Maui’s north shore since 1973. Only in Your State praised the […]
Ritz-Carlton Promotes Maui Resort with Summer Culinary Events
The Ritz-Carlton is marketing its three Hawaii properties including Kapalua on Maui, highlighting summer wine and food events. The resort is promoting weekly activities and culinary experiences to attract luxury travelers. Ritz-Carlton is actively promoting its Kapalua resort with 70+ weekly guest activities including dining and outdoor experiences. The property is hosting summer culinary events […]
Hawaii Tourism Authority Seeks New CEO to Lead State Tourism Strategy
The Hawaii Tourism Authority has begun accepting applications for a new president and CEO to guide the state’s tourism industry, as reported by multiple news outlets. The search comes as HTA looks for leadership to balance economic growth with community and cultural priorities. HTA launched search for president and CEO position to lead the state […]
State hosts business symposium with Philippines to explore trade partnerships
Hawaii’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism will host a trade symposium with the Philippines in May 2026, focusing on economic partnerships and workforce solutions. The event includes panel discussions on trade expansion and talent exchange between the two regions. The symposium will address workforce shortages and pathways for talent exchange between Hawaii and […]
Maui AgFest Cooking Competition Features 12 Local Chefs on May 30
The Grand Taste competition at Maui AgFest will showcase 12 chefs creating dishes with local ingredients on May 30. The event highlights Maui’s culinary scene and agricultural partnerships that support the island’s restaurant industry. Twelve Maui chefs will compete in four categories using locally-grown produce and island-sourced meat and fish. The event strengthens relationships between […]
Maui Visitor’s ‘Rich Enough’ Comment Highlights Tourism Strategy Concerns
A Washington visitor who harmed an endangered monk seal in Lahaina claimed he was wealthy enough to pay any fine, though records show modest means. The incident reflects how Hawaii’s push for higher-spending tourists may be sending unintended messages about money changing rules. Federal prosecutors charged a visitor who threw rocks at an endangered monk […]
Four Seasons Wailea Debuts Luxury Club Floor, More Upgrades Coming
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea has opened a new premium Club Floor with 26 redesigned rooms and exclusive amenities. The property plans additional major renovations and new facilities later this year. The new Club Floor offers 26 transformed rooms with private check-in and dedicated concierge services. Club guests receive exclusive access to a private […]