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 […]
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, 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 […]
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 […]
Lahaina Recovery Group to Present Wildfire Rebuilding Update at Rotary Event
The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset will host a June 2 presentation on wildfire recovery efforts by Ho’ōla LTRG, focusing on ongoing support for survivors rebuilding after the 2023 fire. Nestor Ugale Jr. and Ho’ōla LTRG Executive Director will present on long-term recovery coordination efforts. Ho’ōla LTRG works to identify and fill gaps in recovery […]
Weekend Surf Advisory Expected for South-Facing Shores Through Midweek
Large surf from a south-southwest swell will continue through the weekend and likely return to advisory levels Tuesday through midweek. North and east shores will see small surf conditions. South-facing shores will experience large surf through the weekend that may briefly drop below advisory levels Monday before returning to advisory conditions Tuesday-midweek. North shore surf […]
April Visitor Spending Rises 4.8% to $1.77B Despite Fewer Arrivals
Hawaii saw $1.77 billion in visitor spending in April 2026, up 4.8% from last year, even though total arrivals dropped slightly. Visitors spent an average of $278 per day, a 14.1% increase from the previous year. Total visitor arrivals fell 0.5% to 828,959, but higher daily spending of $278 per person drove revenue growth. US […]
Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Hosts Country-Pop Concert for July 4th Weekend
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua will host a Fourth of July concert featuring country-pop artist Dasha and local musicians at the Aloha Garden Pavilion. The event is part of the Maui Songwriters Festival and includes performances by Maui artists TJ Fevella, Tiara Gomes, and Akoni Palomino. Country-pop sensation Dasha will headline a July 4th concert at […]
Atlantis Submarines Maui Resumes Operations After Nearly 3-Year Shutdown
Atlantis Submarines Maui has returned to operations nearly three years after losing almost all equipment in the 2023 Lahaina fire. The company is bringing back furloughed employees and resuming tourist submarine tours from Lahaina Harbor. Atlantis Submarines Maui resumed operations after losing nearly all equipment in the 2023 Lahaina fire. The company’s shuttle boat was […]
Harbor Dredging Work Begins Monday as Part of Lahaina Restoration Efforts
State officials will begin routine dredging work at Lahaina Small Boat Harbor on Monday to remove accumulated sediment and restore safe vessel access, according to multiple reports. The project is part of ongoing restoration efforts following the 2023 wildfires and includes a rare opportunity to dredge the main harbor basin. Dredging work starts Monday, June […]