The cost of a Hawaii vacation has gotten out of reach for more than mid-range U.S. visitors. We just learned what is also happening with some of Hawaii’s coveted international visitors too. For example, Hawaii tourists from Australia are feeling that same pinch.
We know that because Qantas announced it will need to up-guage to far more premium, a prior low-cost route, starting next May. This switch from its Jetstar (economy) to Qantas (full-service) brands on the route comes with a significant change in cost. As a side note, Hawaiian Airlines once flew this route as well. They started it a decade ago, cancelled it during Covid, and never reinstated it.
Hawaii now a more exclusive destination for international tourists too.
While Qantas staying on the route does at least represent that Hawaii still has strong international appeal, it clearly signals that the draw of Hawaii, whether domestic or international, is fast shifting to much more affluent rather than mid-range travelers.
The decision to shift from budget to premium speaks to the changing demographic in global Hawaii travel amid economic challenges. For Australians, their issues include a soft Australian Dollar and rising cost-of-living pressures. Qantas realizes that when it comes to Hawaii, it must cater to a demographic willing and able to pay more.
Governor Green courts Japanese visitors again.
At the same time, Governor Green is in Japan this week, for a third business trip, to strengthen ties with Hawaiian’s most important source of international tourists. And that comes as Japanese tourism to Hawaii is starting to see a trickling recovery, that is hoped may return Japanese visitors to normal over the next two years.
This move underscores the growing challenge for all budget-conscious visitors to Hawaii.
The Hawaiian Islands, already seen as a premium domestic destination due to high accommodation and dining costs. This move just helps to further cement that perception with international visitors too.
As Hawaii continues to grapple with its positioning as a luxury destination, the implications of this shift extend beyond just airfare and accommodations. Visitors may need to reassess their budgets and plans to align with the new reality, potentially prioritizing fewer but more meaningful experiences and even less time in Hawaii. For Hawaii’s tourism-dependent economy, the challenge remains balancing attracting high-spending, “more desirable” visitors with maintaining accessibility for a diverse range of travelers. As this evolves, it remains to be seen how Hawaii will navigate these changes successfully.
For those still looking to enjoy the incredible natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands without breaking the bank, staying flexible with your travel dates, exploring alternative lodging options, and looking for off-season deals, remain the key strategies.
Is there anything that Hawaii can do to bring back mid-range visitors both domestically and internationally?
Have been to Hawaii dozens of times, but when all the anti-tourism hit the media before Covid (locals destroying rental cars) we pivoted and go to Mexico and South America now. It isn’t about the money. It is about an enjoyable time.
I want to travel to somewhere I feel welcomed. It costs a lot of money to travel. Sounds like everything is getting way to expensive there. I’m looking for places that welcomes tourists, and a bang for my buck.
We’ve been to Hawaii numerous times over the years. Usually staying in Ko-Olina near the golf course. Although it has been a bit expensive renting a condo for a couple of weeks every year it was a pleasant respite from the Seattle weather. But alas the constant price increases and the attitude towards tourists has kind of soured the experience for us and our friends. We now are extending our southern California time to make up for the annual Oahu stay. It’s sad that the local folks are so put off by visitors and the obvious greed of the hotel industry is sickening.
As a resident, I love our state, but I do not support the price gouging that has taken place since COVID. Hawaii and also Las Vegas need a wake-up call. The prices are absolutely outrageous.