Where does the money from tourism in Hawaii go?

In 2019, the visitor industry supported 216,000 jobs statewide, yielded nearly $17.8 billion in visitor spending, and contributed more than $2 billion in tax revenue to state coffers. Without this influx of cash, a distressing number of local businesses will certainly close for good.



People Also Ask

Visitor spending was $236.9 million in March 2023, compared to $217.3 million (+9.1%) in March 2022, and $200.7 million (+18.0%) in March 2019. The average daily census on Hawaii Island was 39,862 visitors in March 2023, compared to 37,725 visitors (+5.7%) in March 2022, and 37,520 visitors (+6.2%) in March 2019.

MORE DETAILS

Relaxation and natural beauty are the top draws Known for its active volcanoes, wildlife refuges, and tall active peaks, it's little wonder that 88% of our respondents cite natural beauty as a reason for visiting Hawaii. Relaxing by the beach is the second most popular reason for visiting.

MORE DETAILS

Moving to Hawaii ethically is something that is difficult to accomplish. Taking up housing and driving up prices leaves natives struggling. While many realize stopping people from moving to Hawaii all together is impossible, there are still ways to be respectful and try to help the community.

MORE DETAILS

By late 2020, 57% of residents who responded to a Hawaii Tourism Authority survey in September and October completely or strongly agreed that Hawaii was too dependent on tourism, up from 37% in 2019. Almost a third completely or strongly disagreed that their “island is run for tourists at expense of local people.”

MORE DETAILS

As the tourism industry continues to recover following the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, communities in Hawaii are weighing measures aimed at curbing so-called overtourism. Currently, the U.S. state's tourist numbers for 2023 are on pace to match its all-time high.

MORE DETAILS

The truth is, Hawaii is consistently ranked as the most expensive state in the United States due to high housing, energy, transportation and food costs. Don't be discouraged—that doesn't mean it's completely out of reach for a buyer looking for their slice of paradise.

MORE DETAILS

The Hawai'i Tourism Authority (HTA) provides comprehensive management of tourism for the State of Hawai'i . We are the state's official source for information on tourism market research, partnership opportunities, industry news and timely updates during emergency situations.

MORE DETAILS

Here's why. Fodor's Travel named Maui one of 10 destinations on its 2023 “No List” that tourists should reconsider visiting this year. The travel publication outlined 10 regions ranging from Antarctica to Italy that are threatened by environmental damage caused by overtourism and climate change.

MORE DETAILS