There’s no way this will be anything but fuel for the fire of Hawaii tourism’s makeover.
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380 thoughts on “Hawaii “Does Not Encourage Visiting:” Waikiki, Diamond Head, Volcanoes, Poipu, Etc.”
There’s no way this will be anything but fuel for the fire of Hawaii tourism’s makeover.
The more I read about all the restrictions HTA and the state in general are instituting or planning on instituting, the less inclined I am about ever returning to the islands. The last time I was there, several places that for years were free, now have fees attached. My late wife and I were planning on coming to the islands but then covid hit with its restrictions.
Yes, any way to get a dollar from a visitor. Even if you pay for a spot they complain that four rental car is taking a spot away from a resident. Sounds like they want you to stay in your accommodation.
Rod, the implications are certainly apparent. The HTA in conjunction with the Hoteliers and Politicians next collaboration will undoubtedly be finding a better solution to the Tourism. Possibly they could market VR headsets with sound bundled with destination appropriate scenery to interact with. Maybe the bundle can include Authentic grains of sand and some Purified ocean water in a mister to improve the experience. $4,895.99 per or a family 4 pack for $14,499.95 and no long flights or TSA Lines! If you order now we will send you a 2nd island to “preview” at no extra cost. No unruly, immature, entitled tourists to deal with or destroy Hawaii either! A Win/Win for the Environment and the people of Hawaii that don’t want you to visit!
Interesting that all the “Maui” places are actually located on the island of Lanai, Not on Maui. Huh?
I started visiting the Hawaiin islands back in the mid 80’s. Sadly I am seeing many changes. So much overcrowding, locals’ frustration and added fees to visit some of the “hot spots”. I respect the locals and love the feeling of the islands. Unfortunately, when I think about returning, I don’t feel a welcome atmosphere. I have always tried to be kind and respectful of the places I visit on the islands. After reading the “lists” I think I will make one more visit to the islands to see my cousin and make a visit to Maui, the only island I haven’t visited. After that I think I will go other places. I will then always cherish the time I have spent there on the beautiful islands of Hawaii.
Reverse psychology! Now everyone will want to go where they say don’t go!
So, if these are the places we are not supposed to visit, give us a list of places that are ok to visit. Oh, that’s right, no where :(.
Exactly! This article should just say “Hawaii doesn’t encourage visitors.” They hate tourists but depend on them. It’s disgusting how rude some people are. A huge turn off but it’s so beautiful, I’ll be back.
Hawaii is not a friendly place to visit anymore. We will pass on Hawaii in future after 47 annual visits and go elsewhere. Hawaii is overpriced anyway so good riddance.
I can bet you that the Bank MAC Machines are on the “OK to go” list.
Trip planned for April to visit ohana and
This is akin to Paris city saying come to Paris but do not visit the Eiffel Tower!
Was just there and certainly noted the anti tourist sentiment this time. Very disappointed.
Simple solution. Stop going and watch the tourism based economy collapse upon itself. Pretty sure the attitude will change when they loose the main source of income for the destination.
I live in a tourist hot spot. And yes, it gets old but unfortunately it’s a necessary evil.
Can’t help but wonder how much this is influenced by transplants who now consider the islands their own?
They might as well say don’t come to the islands. We rather not have to put up with anyone other than people who live here.
Not very welcoming to non-locals it seems. Guess, I’ve had my last trip a few years ago. Since I’m not suppose to go see any of the sites or show them online. Kauia is a beautiful state, we’ve always done our best to keep it that way & honor the locals.
We have a timeshare in Kauai and come every year. With so many beaches listed on the do not visit list, I would not know where to go… Tunnels? Pakala? I don’t think the locals really want us at those beaches instead of Salt Ponds.
I was just thinking . . . this has officially turned the corner to absolute ridiculousness. This country is about to cross the point of no return. And President Lincoln (and Henry Kissinger) were right – we’ve brought it on ourselves.
The one state that contributes more to the Treasury than it takes – is now basically telling people not to come(!)
Have they lost their minds? (“Thanks but no thanks . . . we don’t want your tourist $ in the biggest tourist draw on earth)???
What is that?
Our place is close to Poipu on Kauai. You can actually see the torches at the entrance of the Grand Hyatt from our stables (one of my daughters got married there).
Honestly, I’m beginning to think we should be concerned (very concerned) for this country.
At least there’s 49 other States! What if, hypothetical, we were to cut off access to all of the area’s where Hawaiians have moved to on the mainland, only to Hawaiians, and not allow the Hawaiian mainlanders access to Hawaii? Then prepare a list of Mainland attractions that Hawaiians cannot go to, restricting them basically to their hotel room. Kind of resembles the restrictions in Hawaii. We could charge 4 times the “Rack Rate” for the room plus TAX, Fees, and other 1 time usage appropriations like $65 per night self parking in the lot out back under the security cameras that don’t work! I have way too much time on my hands.
My husband and I were going to move to Oahu for employment reasons before Covid hit. We did our research, got in touch with a realtor and got advice from friends who had lived there. Our friends said Hawaiians hate when anyone from another state relocates to Hawaii. We are the minority there. So we are cancelling our plans, we don’t want to be treated like outcasts.
As a local I sure hope they don’t intend tourist to visit other parts of the island instead. Keep the tourists in tourist areas. Start charging more.
You know, you might have a great idea. I’ve sometimes thought that some areas are already “destroyed” with overcrowding and strip malls and high prices – so why not try to channel all the tourists in those areas? But I don’t agree with charging more — there are already plenty of people who are rich and would be glad to pay more, while everyone else doesn’t get access to nice things. I’ve see that play out too many times in my life. That just reinforces the idea that the rich “deserve” whatever they want to buy.
So you would put Costco, Walmart and malls on the please visit list.
The “Former” HTA didn’t come up with this idea (scheme) of Restrictions, it was the wonderful minds of the Native Council no doubt. It seems that a lot of residents are going to see more visitors to their areas of the Islands. This should help by readjusting where the damages, wear and tear, effect. Sort of like rotating your tires they have devised this, aren’t you Proud of them? Imagine all of the traffic, droves of nosey tourists looking for the Touristy portion of your neighborhood, but they will be buying Slurpies at 7/11! It should be a terrifying thought that NHHA would think this stunt up, what will they endorse next! Ever consider eliminating the HTA? This plan will bring plenty of Exhaust Fumes from cars!
My husband and I understand and respect the wishes and frustrations of the people of Hawaii regarding the constant pressure from visitors. We have always considered the Big Island to be our heart’s home, and long looked forward to the trip we have planned for May, although we have been horrified by the astronomical prices to which we are committed. After reading this article, and many other tourist hating blogs, however, we wish we could cancel our trip.
There seems to be such a strong anti-aloha sentiment that we are now embarrassed to be visiting. This will be our last intrusion into this place we have so greatly loved.
I lived on Oahu in 1960. Until 6 grade. I loved the Hawaiian culture. I went to Lincoln Elementary. It shaped my life greatly. I totally understand the Hawaiian people. As a kid we did go to Hanauma Bay. We would have picnics in the early evening. And we would be the only people there. The most peaceful beautiful place. Later I went back. You couldn’t even get near the area. It was free when I went in it was gorgeous. I respect all the locals. I am coming back in a few weeks. I am so excited. The Hawaiians did really get gypped. I feel like I am coming home. It really is all about respect. Respect the people. And you will love it there.
Why would people even come to the Hawaiian Islands if they can’t go to areas listed? Foolish people! Hawaii depends on tourism!
We have visited the Big Island and Maui a few times and this is our first time visiting Oahu. I had no idea the effect or affect visitors were having on the island. I feel bad and will try and follow the rules mentioned in this article. Since this our first time on this island I would welcome any suggestions or tips for our visit. The 3 of us are wanting to sail on a catamaran. Thanks for any support.
I went to UH years ago. I absolutely loved my time there. I have returned every year since then. I’ve been fortunate to travel around the world and been to some beautiful beaches that were less costly with less crowds but they didn’t have the special aloha spirit. Unfortunately welcoming aloha spirit is long gone from hawaii. Without it, Hawaii is an overpriced mediocre tropical destination. All i hear is locals complain. Fine. I’ll spend my money elsewhere.
Hawaii is the one place that I have always wanted to see some of the places that are on this list are some of the amazing things drew me to it I do not think it’s fair to say that these places should not be seen places like the Akaka falls park and Hawaiian Volcanos national park. It’s very sad
Please Respect the Hawaiian wishes and their Culture.
There are other places in the Island that you can Explore. Remember where ever you go the ” beauty of Island will be with you to enjoy.
Let the Aloha” be with you and enjoy the Experience.
Mahalo to the visitors…
Respect the Authority’s of the Island??
And take nothing but great memories…
I believe the locals will allow you to go to ABC Stores. I think. There you will find calendars and post cards of all the beautiful places you are not allowed to go. This is considered aloha now.
For some clarity please- so what I am hearing, do not visit Waikiki at all and all the areas within? This is quite disappointing, as our family has always respected the traditions of Hawaiian people and culture when we visit. We love to learn from them. Thank you 😊.
So, basically don’t visit or photograph any of the places that tourists would possibly was want to visit Hawaii to see. Pretty lame….
What if on each island there was established a mega tourist compound, enclosed and self sustaining with no need for travel outside of the compound. Everything that the tourist could want would be there including golf, swimming pools, tennis, hiking, a small Walmart, restaurants and beach access. Tours to strategic locations on each island would originate and end there. No need for unsavory interactions between tourists of locals. It’s a win-win!
Then why go? Your compound could be in any state.
I go to the islands to enjoy it’s natural beauty. Revile in what God created & am inspired by every sunrise & sunset. The low lying clouds in the earlier evening on Kauia are awesome to watch as they come lower & lower to the mountain tops. Watching the waves roll into Hanalei Bay & the sounds they make are so relaxing.
This article makes me feel like I’m not allowed to enjoy just sitting & watching time & waves pass by.