Beat of Hawaii Blog

Behind the curve for years, Hawaiian stunned the industry by leaping to the front of the pack with free, blazing Starlink WiFi. But now, with Alaska Airlines in charge, questions loom.

Only in Waikiki. What started with two carry-on bags and a joke about taking the ocean route to the airport ended with laughs, a quirky encounter, and travel wisdom from a Canadian visitor. Marika shared her thoughts on airline carry-on fees, calling them outrageous, but said there’s one fee on Hawaii flights that is worth every penny.

The new $395 Alaska/Hawaiian credit card promises big perks for Hawaii travelers, including a first-of-its-kind companion award for business/first class. But will mileage caps and hefty fees limit its value? Here’s what to consider before deciding if it’s worth the price.

Nostalgia is reshaping world travel in 2025, and Hawaii is leading the way. As visitors return to celebrate life’s milestones and relive treasured memories, this “New Heydays” trend highlights why Hawaii’s magic is not fading.

The ripple effects could redefine Hawaii travel in ways travelers and airlines will soon feel. Fare wars, service upgrades, or new offerings—this first key battleground for Hawaii-bound travelers is only the beginning.

The NTSB’s final report on Hawaiian Airlines Flight 35 turbulence is out. Injuries to dozens of passengers and crew were preventable and caused by a split-second decision. Pilots admitted they should have “gone around” the storm, but didn’t. This report highlights critical lessons, especially for passengers.

After getting hit with a surprise speeding ticket abroad, BOH editors explore Hawaii’s expanding traffic camera program. Are these cameras a step toward safer roads or just another way to complicate visitors’ trips? Here’s what you need to know before hitting the road.

Will Southwest double down on Hawaii in the face of new fierce competition?

Surfbreak, Waikiki’s quirky budget traveler community, has been a favorite for those seeking unique accommodations. But now, it finds itself mixed up in recent headlines involving Luigi Mangione. With its blend of affordability, creativity, and community, Surfbreak aligns with Hawaii’s push for deeper visitor experiences—while navigating the complexities of the unexpected.