New Wailuku Film Festival Launches with 100+ Films This June
The inaugural Wailuku Film Festival runs June 17-21, 2026, featuring over 100 films including 55+ from Hawaii filmmakers, with screenings in Wailuku and at MACC. Festival tickets go on sale today for $15 (Wailuku venues) and $20 (MACC finale). Event showcases 55+ films from Hawaii filmmakers plus international works from Pacific and global creators. Programming […]
Wailuku First Friday Community Event Returns June 5 with Local Music
Wailuku First Friday returns June 5 from 6-9 p.m. on Market Street featuring local Hawaiian musicians, food vendors, and shopping. The free family event includes performances by Grammy-nominated Gregory Juan and local group Kuikawa. Market Street will close to vehicle traffic at 5:30 p.m. with free parking available at Wailuku Municipal Garage after 6 p.m. […]
Maui Tourism Recovery Accelerates Despite Visitor Cost Concerns
Maui is seeing faster tourism recovery than other Hawaiian islands with 11.5% increase in arrivals and rising hotel occupancy, though visitors are becoming more cost-conscious and planning shorter stays. Maui arrivals increased 11.5% year-over-year by February 2026 with hotel occupancy rising from 71.5% to 78.0%. The Lahaina-Kaanapali-Kapalua corridor saw occupancy climb from 69.2% to 76.3% […]
Tourist Snorkeling Deaths on Maui Raise Safety Questions for Visitors
Health officials are investigating tourist snorkeling deaths in Hawaii, with some experts pointing to a rare condition called rapid-onset pulmonary edema as a possible cause. Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related deaths for tourists in Hawaii, with nearly half from snorkeling. A 68-year-old tourist died while snorkeling near Napili despite being a strong swimmer […]
Maui’s Japanese Cultural Festival Draws Hundreds to UH Campus Event
The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui held its 24th annual Matsuri festival at UH Maui College, attracting hundreds of attendees for cultural performances, food, and activities. The event featured performers from Japan and local groups, promoting Japanese culture and community connections. The festival took place May 23 at UH Maui College with the theme ‘tomo’ […]
State Parks Plans Bathroom and Shower Upgrades at Mākena Beach
The state will propose improvements to Mākena State Park in June, including permanent restrooms, outdoor showers, and expanded parking to replace portable toilets and address safety issues. New comfort stations will replace existing portable toilets at both north and south parking lots. Outdoor showers will be added as a new amenity for beach visitors. Parking […]
Travel Guide Highlights Seven Hawaii Long Weekend Destinations
A travel publication features seven Hawaii destinations for weekend getaways, including Makawao on Maui and Kapaa on Kauai, highlighting local attractions and accommodations. Makawao is featured for its paniolo heritage, art galleries, and attractions like Komoda Bakery and the annual Fourth of July rodeo. The guide highlights Makawao’s outdoor activities including forest reserve trails and […]
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 […]