Hawaii Travel News

As airlines focus on massive new
growth, what does that mean for Hawaii visitors.

As Alaska Airlines integrates Hawaiian Airlines into its operations, significant changes are afoot for Hawaii travelers, and we know know about more of them.

We lost a true legend today. Mitzi Gaynor, the iconic star of South Pacific—a film forever tied to Kauai—has died at 93. She charmed Beat of Hawaii editors in 2009 while celebrating the film’s 50th anniversary. Her warmth will continue to light up the island, just as it did during South Pacific’s 1957 filming at Haena Beach, Lumahai Beach, and Hanalei Bay. Today, we reflect on her extraordinary life and deep connection to Kauai.

Hawaiian Airlines is preparing to fly a new route between Papeete, Tahiti, and Los Angeles, via Honolulu this November. This raises questions about whether it’s a hint at something more for Alaska/Hawaiian or simply a unique event.

Higher airfares and fewer options are all but certain with high-stakes Dallas battle to determine which Hawaii routes Southwest Airlines will keep—or cut.

A battle in Hawaii could lead to new and unexpected changes in airfare and travel costs.

On four occasions, BOH editors found themselves stranded without checked luggage. Each time has left us a bit wiser from the school of hard knocks. Whether caused by short layovers, interlining bags between airlines, or just plain bad luck, the risk of lost luggage is always present. Here’s what we discovered that has continued to work.

Even Hawaii-bound business class travelers are soon to find their premium experiences slip away. As Delta Air Lines leads this next charge, as it did with premium economy, other airlines flying to the islands are likely to follow. Once luxurious, all-inclusive travel to Hawaii may soon come with a new list of added fees.

With its closure, many wonder if this marks the end of accessible cultural experiences for budget-conscious travelers in Hawaii. Visitors flocked to Waikiki’s only low-cost luau for an authentic yet affordable “luau-lite” experience. For a fraction of the price, it became a popular alternative to pricier luaus like Germaine’s, which start at five times the cost.