1,090 thoughts on “Hawaii Visitors and Residents Whipsaw in 1,000 Comments”
Mark E
My wife and I were in Kauai for 8 nights in late October. Only rude treatment we saw was from other tourists towards both “locals” and other visiting travelers. We smile and thanked everyone who we came in contact with while visiting the islands and have always received great responses and service in return. The locals we have been lucky enough to spend extra time with have always pointed us to great local spots for sightseeing, relaxing and dining. Love the people and islands!
Tdbear
I’ve been to way more visitor hostile like atl,at and rome that hi. But if hi got that bad it would be an economic disaster. But other pac isl are way more friendlier like a car stopped to offer a ride e/o asking in Bora kinda felt like this most be like hi in the pre jet she. hi can’t compete with the you’re a royal visitor level at the high the high end resorts where the max tax rev comes.
Joan
I think that Whether you are a visitor or live in Hawaii – respect should be shown by all parties-I was brought up to treat people with respect abd you will be treated the same way- it’s unfortunate that this doesn’t always work but I live by this abd will not change-I love ❤️ Hawaii and make it a point to travel there every year. Aloha
Rick S.
When I visit Hawaii I know I am visiting someone’s home. I’m not going to impose my values on the residents, I must respect their values. Since it important to me to visit because of the connection I feel to the islands then the cost is worth it.
1
Tammy P.
Just returned from first BI visit. We have been to other islands. Car rental was back to normal prices. We paid reasonable rates for Airbnb in Volcano and Kailua-Kona. Overall we felt the service in restaurants and stores was good and locals welcoming. We felt more welcome on the Kona side and did feel a little irritation from younger locals in and near Hilo, especially lower Puna when driving around to see the sights. Mask use was required and enforced indoors. Look forward to a return visit.
Jw
We are second home owners in Kauai-16 years. We have definitely seen a rudeness develop around Covid. Standing outside to pick up a sandwich the woman behind the counter screamed at the top of her lungs where’s your mask and slammed the window. Same thing happened at another location. Has anyone looked at outside contagions and effectiveness of cotton masks? Where we live this isn’t required -A bit of kindness would better serve humanity and Covid ignorance – that requires educating yourself!
2
Diana
If you were violating local restrictions by not wearing your mask, then perhaps that reaction was on you. I went to the Palm Springs area for vacation in Nov. Restrictions literally changed from one town to the next. It was on me to make sure I knew and followed, not up to the local population to nicely ask me to follow the local mandates. If you are going to travel somewhere during a global pandemic, you own knowing and follow the rules in place – whether you agree w/them or not.
5
Jwitt
Yep I own her screaming , slamming the door outside – nice rationalization. She owns it. It’s rude, it’s mindless it Kauai these days. So the day before when we lined up at the golf cart food cart there was no requirement – can you tell me the obligation there? This has become insanity without logic.
1
Frank P.
You are correct that it was rude but the pandemic has put people like her, and me, in a very difficult position. We are given requirements that can be difficult to decipher, employer guidelines that range from strict adherence to I-don’t-care, and guests that fight the rules. My guess is that she had just had one or more people being unpleasant about a rule she didn’t make but is required to enforce. She shouldn’t have been rude, but know the rule and follow it and she won’t yell at you.
1
JohnW
Wearing a mask, getting vaccinated and just simple showing respect is the essence of Aloha…..being perceived as not respecting that
can bring out the worst in some during these trying times. However if you were flaunting the masking with your own interpretation then you got what you deserve. Yes cotton masks are not as good as N95’s but anything is better then nothing. A lot of people are not the recipients of rude behavior, perhaps ask yourself why?
2
Mike M
All things considered, from the completely absurd, constantly changing and inconsistent Covid rules, the crowding, to the debate about friction between “locals” and visitors, I just don’t want to go to Hawaii anymore.
PAMM
Mahalo Beat of Hawaii. This is an awesome yet scary thing for me to read. Our Island residents and visitors are as divided as the comments.
It’s like Pandora’s Box.
I honestly feel that our Government has had a big hand in pitting us against each other. Whether intentional or not.
My mainland Ohana are not coming to visit next month. The travel restrictions too much of a crapshoot.
My heat aches.
PLEASE PRACTICE ALOHA!!
Thank you Jeff and Rob for this forum. Blessings 🌺💕
1
Beat of Hawaii
Hi Pam.
Thanks. Great to hear from you. Happy holidays.
Aloha.
Andy
The natural beauty does not make up for:
– the antagony towards tourists (haole or not)
– the bad customer service everywhere you go
– rediculously high car rental prices because cars were sold off during covid
– indifference of government to deal with the ever increasing and bery prominent homeless problem everywhere
My family used to visit at least once a year foe the past 15 years and even considered buying property on Oahu. After a trip in May 2021, we have had enough. Hawaii no more.
12
YVONNE J.
Hawaii has a homeless problem. But so do many other states! The fact that the car companies sold off too many cars during the pandemic, thereby raising rental rates now, is not the “fault” of the citizens of Hawaii. Nor are the hotel prices up to the “locals.” Virtually all the hotels are owned by mainlanders or thosey from other countries. Food is expensive as it has to be imported, same as gas, sheets for your hotel bed, and the snorkel and fins you rent. Keep things in perspective please!
6
Diana J.
Yes, most of the local residents are working more than one job trying to survive here. It’s not us making money on that $800 a night condo, for the most part.
2
Jan N
In Maui July, 2021, We were accosted rudely by a local female at a grocery store simply because we were taking a few extra minutes at the cashier because my cash card was not working properly. Knowing we were tourists, she told us to go home.
We are regular travelers to Hawaii, and I live the culture and locals. I have never, ever encountered such hostility.
11
KarenM
Hawaii is too restrictive, they don’t really care about the tourists or how hard they make it on us to get there. I’ve been to Hawaii and the Caribbean and I can tell you they are both beautiful, but the Caribbean is much less expensive and much more welcoming. They actually want us there and make it as easy as possible to get us, and our money, there. No more Hawaii for our family until they change. A new governor would help.
19
Joe
Locals calling visitors ‘outsiders’ is terrible. All US citizens are ‘insiders’
Having ‘forbidden’ locations is not the US way except for government locations for security.
Love\Hate with tourists is not just in Hawaii, it is everywhere.
Have a nice day!
14
Kathy J.
Most National Parks, State parks, etc. have areas that are off-limits, whether on the Mainland or in the Island. It’s a matter of respect for the fragility of the environment, the plants, and the animals, and protecting it all for future generations. Remember when some guys were arrested for damage done to a balancing rock in Arches National Park.
4
GaryB
Our multiple visits over the years have always been wonderful. Of course the pandemic has put a kink in the program with inflated costs and restrictions. We’ll be making our 3rd trip in 24 months. We did find greats deal with Turo on multiple new vehicles, half that of airport agencies. Finding a 2 bedroom condo easily in Koloa was a nice bonus. We usually out on our own and cook most of our meals but for the most part excursion personnel have been very welcoming. Be nice, it will be returned
Jaine
I’m here right now and want to go home already. Couldn’t find the airbnb and can’t get a refund so we get to pay for that and the hotel we settled on after an 8 hour plane trip and two hour drive.
7
Bill
Airb is like that, I had the same problem visiting family, three separate visits. I went back to hotels so much better
7
Sue B
We have come to your beautiful islands every year for over 8 years. We have missed it. However, I am saddened to see the negative comments about tourists etc. I think for our family we may take our money elsewhere. The Carribean looks good. There are other islands.
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Paul P
Hi my name is Paul I am from Calgary Alberta my wife and I have been to Hawaii 10 times a week in Waikiki and a week in Maui each time .The last time we were there was 2019. We were planing to go next April and the rates were real High so for this time we thought we would try to save money so just spend the two weeks just in Maui when I checked out the rates they are double what we paid in 2019 If this is the way you trying to cut down on visiters well it worked for me. sorry to say goodbye .
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Sue B
I dare not look at their charges. But am disappointed to hear good folks mention that the prices are ridiculous. There will be a price to pay for that eventually. Caribbean is looking good.
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Tak N
We have family and friends in Hawaii. My father was born in Maui. My nephew lives in Honolulu, and owns a condo, so we stay at his place when we visit. My cousin and her nephew lives in Oahu, and we always try to meet with them when we visit Hawaii. We visit only about once every ten years or so. I love the different ambiance, geography, and feel of the different islands.
2
Jamie H
We first visited Oahu in 2002 and took an overnight trip to visit Kilauea. We fell in Love with the Big Island and have been back many times. It’ll take more than a few government regulations and hoops to jump through to keep us away. Even traveling after the shut-down, we found great enjoyment in visiting. Our interaction with everyone has been so welcoming and now we’ve arranged to bring all of our kids and grandchildren in January (14 of us). Aloha to you Hawaii forever!
8
Kate
I want to say – I love when visitors come and enjoy their time here. like the article mentions respect goes both ways. not just our culture but plain common decency. i am welcoming and am always more than willing to share. but many visitors feel that spending their money here means that we owe them somehow. which is ridiculous. so long as you come with an open mind, respect us and our culture – for the most part we will too. there are bad and good on both sides. just strive to be good.
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Lee E.
I agree. Respect is a two way street. All the other beautiful states have their own culture and traditions too. I wonder how some Hawaiians would feel if they were on vacation paying lots of money to have a nice vacation while being disrespected in North Carolina or Washington State? Respect by the visitors and locals will go a long way!
2
Chris
The unspoken truth is that the “local community” largely won’t get vaccinated. This is why politicians continue with the hand wringing about covid and why people still have to jump through all these ridiculous hoops to get there. Vote with your pocketbook;go to where these restrictions don’t exist. Just Got back from Los Cabos. The Mexicans are warm and friendly and they want tourists there. We crossed on foot and flew from TJ and back. No Covid test necessary.
6
Diana
That’s just not accurate. As of Nov. 30, 71% of us are fully vaccinated, and 77% have gotten at least one dose. Stop perpetuating inaccurate data about us. Yes, there are pockets of the population that have not gotten the shot, but it is far from the majority you make it appear to be, and we are among the states with higher vax rates, not lower.
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James B
A kernel of truth in both posts, but it’s laughable that Mexico is a safe travel destination just because they don’t care about infections. You can now search by county and zips for vax rates. Our rural location is ~40%. I tell folks to realize that about two out of three folks you hug or shake hands unmasked is another role of the dice
1
JohnW
Very true Diana and that percentage of unvaxed includes small keiki that are too young for a shot. The percentage of vaccinated among the eligible is even higher. That’s why we have fared so much better then most states. Misinformation has led a lot of people into making a choice they later regretted and paid for it with their life. Good you called it out.
4
Jack M.
Given virus mess, the locals will not ever have to worry about me troubling their island’s sustainability ever again. I was there and loved it in 12/06 but that seems 100 years ago and another country now. Believe me, there are lots like me, retired with discretionary cash and time, that have already written it off list. Sad.
13
Frank P.
When you say, “virus mess”, if you are referring to the Covid restrictions, please remember that our available resources are what we have on hand, and backup and additional capacity is 2500 miles away. If our hospitals are full we can’t just send people to the next state over. If you have a philosophical disagreement with how we’ve responded to the pandemic, that is fine, but there has been a very practical reason behind it.
1
Jack M
Masking doesn’t work and poses its own health risks (you’ll notice that none of us were born with fibrous sheet over our breathing apparatus); the more jabs we take, the more variants pop up.
With a .3% fatality rate, primarily among the most at-risk, the bulk of society should’ve just moved on through this disaster instead of creating medical police states via immune system and healthy living.
Bob C
As a long time visitor to the islands, (over 60 visits since 1958), I agree completely with the restrictive policies during COVID. Those who gripe about “No valet parking” and” slower than expected service in the hotels or restaurants!” Give me a break. Enjoy the gift of the islands, especially the Aloha Spirit and quit complaining. If you have the right attitude, every day there is a treasure.
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Jack
Enjoy your COVID zone. I’m going to enjoy America and look at people’s faces and not be quarantined like I flew in from Neptune or have sticks jammed into my cerebral cavity endlessly. Enough is enough.
4
James B
Whew! For a moment there, I thought that you were actually considering flying to Hawaii. Too many aboard the plane have your opinion and too many so far have acted on their impulses.
2
Jack
Pretty stupid if they have my “impulses” and are still on a plane for once great Hawaii.
Tom K
I have visited all of the Islands many times starting in the year 2000. I have settled on Kauai as my favorite place to visit and have time shares in Poipu and Princeville. During my many visits I have always felt welcome by both residents and guests. There is a definite feeling of Aloha on the Islands, if it could spread around the world the world would be a better place.
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Emily M
Wouldn’t it be a good idea if Visitors Bureau put together a pamphlet fir arriving visitors indicating what our goals as an island committee are
Regarding beaches, Monk Seals, etc?
6
Lee S
As a first time visitor to Kaua’i, I was blown away by the natural beauty, but as a white American (and a student of history) I admittedly felt uncomfortable and was anxious to stay in my lane and show proper respect. The locals with whom I was lucky enough to interact were universally kind and patient. Their generosity of spirit, however, was all too often taken advantage of by tourists. To put it bluntly, I was embarrassed by the callous and rude behavior of other American tourists with whom I feared I would be associated. The way the locals are treated by some (predominantly white) tourists is unforgivable and made me ashamed to be an American. The fact that local and native Hawaiians still welcome tourism is a testament to the Aloha Spirit! I applaud you, people of Hawaii! This visitor is greatly humbled by the hospitality you have shown me, and I hope one day to be lucky enough to visit your great state again in the better days ahead! Mahalo nui loa!!! ❤
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Loni S.
Thank you for sharing
5
Judy H
JohnK – Hope you feel better soon. I used to live in beautiful, magical Northern California, and feel blessed for the experience. I am a longtime pilgrim to the islands. These have been difficult times for all of us. We have all seen too many people behaving badly, whether they have been local or visiting covidiots and maskholes. Look at the craziness on the airplanes. Can you imagine attacking the crew? Rage and intolerance found a voice – hopefully, when people feel in control of their lives again, calm will return. BTW, I had to ask my best pal and her family to cancel visiting me twice, because of COVID – this last time, I had to say ” if you got sick, there is no place to take you as the hospitals are full.” I am so happy she is able to come in December. Please reconsider, and come see us again when we are all feeling better. Aloha. Oh, if you have not seen “the White Lotus”, it is worthwhile.
2
Stephanie
I did not feel unwelcome or unwanted when I visited Hawaii last week for the first time. My husband and I followed all the requirements to avoid the 14 day quarantine: becoming fully vaccinated and showing proof of vaccination at the airport as well as filling out a symptom questionaire 24 hours before our flight. I got the sense that most of the locals knew of the strictness of the requirements. Most of them showed us hospitably and seemed excited that visitors were returning as it meant that their economic situation would soon be improving. There was one individual that shouted at us to “go home” but we didn’t pay him much mind as he was the only one who expressed any negativity towards us. Others seem to have had poor experiences. Maybe it has to do with the fact that we stayed in Kailua Kona, which seemed to be more rural and less impacted by COVID compared to the other cities and islands. Either way, we had a great time and I definitely don’t regret going.
5
John K.
We recently cancelled a trip. It’s clear we are not wanted. And telling us we can “come back later” won’t work – the way this has all gone down has made it impossible to return.
But we are fortunate to live in beautiful Northern California. I will do my best to spread the lessons I have just learned – do your best to dissuade visitors from coming to your area. I’d rather we keep Big Sur, Carmel, Napa, and Tahoe for ourselves.
Thanks for the lesson.
3
James B
It’s OK John. Even for people who choose to live in Hawaii, the islands have a way of knowing which ones stay and which ones they spit out.
I agree that Big Sur and the rest are beautiful. Perhaps that’s your happy place.
3
John K
“Spit out” – nice way to imply that we’re somehow defective. What I would suggest is defective is any population too selfish to follow simple guidelines to avoid the virus.
And if you’re from NorCal – fine. But if not…no matter how beautiful you find Big Sur you’re not welcome here. It’s not for you. See how it works?
3
JohnW
That’s a little different then “you are more then welcome here but please be respectful”. That’s the general consensus in Hawaii. These are unusual times and there has been a fair amount of attacks on here by covidiots and maskholes, those kind certainly do find Aloha in short supply.
But if you give Aloha you get it back in spades, that’s why you see so many on here saying what a great time they are having or had.
This holds true of anywhere, the experience you have when you travel is a pretty good indication of the type of person you are.
11
JohnW
and I should add your comment about following simple guidelines is spot on so my take is you would have a great time if you came, don’t let a few internet posts define a population of a million people.
5
John K.
That may be the case – we won’t be finding out. As requested we cancelled our trip. And we’re out about $12k. (That was WITH CFAR insurance. We had a suite at the FS and they only let you pre-pay those.)
But my observation, based on the news, is that the covidiots and maskholes are largely home grown and I’m not seeing that acknowledged at all. Instead they choose to throw tourists under the bus. That will come back to haunt them most likely.
And if I find that frustrating it is with cause. My state is the only state in the US that is no longer “red” on the CDC map. Somehow I figured the residents of Hawaii would do as we have done, and that’s why we booked a trip for October in July. Turns out we vastly misjudged them.
So in between the people blaming COVID on visitors (not locals going to Vegas and partying in clubs there) and the general “not welcome” vibe…it’s probably for the best. I’m thinking I should adopt the same attitude.
2
Joshua I
I feel so blessed to be here in Hawaii, I stumbled across this article as I was reading up on the history here after a beautiful dinner on the beach. I don’t fully understand Aloha but the respect I have given has definitely circled back. Trying to understand has taken me to beautiful places and created amazing memories. I am so glad I visited, properly and safely. The staff at FS are amazing and deserve the utmost respect along with the locals here and when given you will see beautiful smiles all over the island. When I got here I felt like I was doing something wrong, did not want to be disrespectful.. especially in Honolulu where there are tons of tourists coming in and out. I stopped by a few shops, one in Honolulu and one in Pearl City. I felt welcome instantly! You get what you give, that’s especially true here. 12,000 dollars is not going to get you anywhere. A smile and a positive attitude even when locals are rude will.
Beautiful place, so happy to be here. Thank You Hawaii!! And thank you for reading.
4
John K
So you went even after they asked you not to? How do you justify that?
1
Joshua I
My wife and I are welcome here, that is very clear. I understand why you would be asked to please stay home. This attitude would bother me if I was on a beautiful vacation 🙂 Thanks for reading.
6
John K
The Governor of Hawaii asked folks to postpone their trips due to the impact of COVID-19 on the health systems of the islands. Your selfishness in failing to honor that request is noted.
1
Brian M
Staying away until the islands get things under control. Our condo is in Princeville. Miss it, but staying away; 11 hours masked on a plane not all that appealing either.
2
Judy H
JohnK – Hope you feel better soon. I used to live in beautiful, magical Northern California, and feel blessed for the experience. I am a longtime pilgrim to the islands. These have been difficult times for all of us. We have all seen too many people behaving badly, whether they have been local or visiting covidiots and maskholes. Look at the craziness on the airplanes. Can you imagine attacking the crew? Rage and intolerance found a voice – hopefully, when people feel in control of their lives again, calm will return. BTW, I had to ask my best pal and her family to cancel visiting me twice, because of COVID – this last time, I had to say ” if you got sick, there is no place to take you as the hospitals are full.” I am so happy she is able to come in December. Please reconsider, and come see us again when we are all feeling better. Aloha. Oh, if you have not seen “the White Lotus”, it is worthwhile.
Paul G
We just got to see first hand how people on Kauai treat visitors.
People standi g in our resort parking lot just got called Haoles and yelled at to go home. I seriously beleventh there should be a complete embargo of all travel and supplies to Hawaii. Let’s see how self sustainable they really are.
10
Diana J
As announced last night in the Honolulu Star Advertiser, and I am happy they are finally going to address the negative effects of overtouristing and try for more regenerative tourism…
Hawaii Tourism Authority tourism plan for Oahu focuses on reducing visitors
The DMAP also focuses on several other key actions that the community, visitor industry and other sectors deem necessary over a three-year period. Establishing a regenerative tourism fee, creating reservation systems for natural and cultural sites, managing visitors’ use of cars and expanding and supporting “Buy Local” programs also were key actions.
The plan also hopes to attract more respectful visitors by implementing a pre- and post-arrivals communication program and developing marketing programs to attract “positive-impact travelers who prioritize the environment, culture and investing in our local community.”
“We appreciate the Oahu residents who participated in the DMAP process and passionately contributed their diverse viewpoints, discussed various tourism-related challenges in their neighborhoods and helped set forth an actionable plan that is necessary for the community’s well-being,” said John De Fries, HTA president and CEO. “It’s about continued collaboration and moving forward together to malama this cherished place and each other, as desired by the people of Oahu.”
2
Kim R
Aloha and Mahalo for your encouraging comment!
My husband and I have been traveling to Maui now for about 10 years. We have made many Hawaiian friends and embrace the Hawaiian Aloha spirit! The Hawaiian culture of Ohana is wonderful, caring and loving. The world should take lessons from this. We’re scheduled to arrive back on island Sept. 25th. We’re being another couple with us that have never been to The Hawaiian islands. We can’t wait to introduce them to friends and share the Aloha spirit. Have a wonderful evening all!
Mahalo
2
dee
Have you considered that coming and bringing friends during a pandemic that is currently surging to new heights on Maui and Oahu may not be the best experience for you, your guests, or your island hosts, the residents of HI?
If you love HI as much as you say, please consider the impact of your plans and consider rescheduling.
4
Maria W.
My husband and I came back from Kauai yesterday and the locals were just soooo welcoming. We clearly looked out of place but we were always asked how our visit was and we’re given suggestions or where to eat, shop, etc. I almost hate coming back to California because the people in California are so mean to others, selfish, and always “looking out for themselves”…it’s almost as if people in California get excitement from another persons failure.
We were respectful to the locals, made conversation and showed interest in their culture and we were just so happy with the hospitality we received and how open locals were to share their culture with us.
We stayed in an area that is heavily populated with tourists and what we did see were tourists yelling at locals because of something that inconvenienced them, disobeying road laws and arguing with law enforcement, empty beer cans and alcohol bottles left on the private beaches and even parents laughing and watching their kids chase around a poor chicken and her chicks trying to capture the chicks (of course we intervened and told them to leave them alone).
I can see how locals may be fed up with how some tourists act like the Island is theirs to be treated how they want just because they are on vacation. It was very sad to see that but I hope Hawaiians do understand that not all tourists are like that.
15
Alexander
I saw undeserved discrimination and prejudice travelling with husband, who is mixed race and resembles a pacific islander but isn’t (he’s not even American) but coincidentally physically resembles a local. People were wonderful to him, friendly, helpful ect. I (white hispanic but white passing) got lots of rude stares and aggression. Even he commented on how disturbing it was. One incident stood out. We pulled into a beach away from Waikiki and he went off to park while I head to the beach first – some locals on the path told me “go home Haole” and were aggressive. When my husband appeared behind me, they assumed we weren’t together and started greeting him. We felt unsafe. As for not caring for the island, we saw locals leave trash over the beach and one dump contents from fast food on the road ahead of us. Its not tourists who are the issue; Hawaii has some real attitude problems and racism
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A L
This is 100% accurate. I just left Hawaii. Will never go back. Very racist people.
7
Jane W
My husband is Hawaiian from Honolulu & we have great respect and love for the Hawaiian people & the culture. We have never felt anything but great Aloha spirit from locals. Some of them are ohana. We love Hawaii & would love to be able to afford to live there🤙 The Aloha spirit is so very real🌈🌺🤙 Miss it already, Aloha🌈
1
Rebecca I
Upon my 1st visit to Oahu and Maui 20 yrs ago, I did not notice much – mainly because I was to amazed by the beauty of the islands, the people and the culture. I visited the Big Island 15 yrs ago and also had a lovely visit. I recently moved my daughter to Maui for a job relocation at one of the resorts on Maui in July 2021. From what I can tell, the island was not ready or prepared for the influx of tourists this summer. Tourists seem to have forgotten how to be kind and considerate to others – maybe too much social distancing? Let’s face there are a lot of entitled visitors who think the world belongs to them. That can be said for any tourist destination. I have met more rude tourists in NYC than anywhere else.
I will say that I was not prepared for the difficulty in finding a rental property and the discrimination property owners show toward mainlanders inquiring about rentals. My daughter is on a minimum 12 month contract, makes an good salary and has good credit – she has been there for over 6 wks and still has not found a place to rent. That is an issue. Seeing Maui outside of the tourist areas and dealing with the locals has been eye-opening. She loves her job and the island – has already volunteered on beach clean ups and wants to be a part of the community.
I understand the underlying animosity and I empathize with the native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. One local told us that it was so surreal having the island to themselves during covid – first time in his lifetime he has not had to share the beaches/ocean and he really enjoyed it. You have to be sympathetic to that.
9
April B
Local people can’t even find a place to live here.
At 53 years old, living in Hawaii for 40 years, I found myself homeless for 3 months before I found an old garage to rent. No kitchen, bathroom with shower and toilet, one sink around the back of the place. Im sorry but I hope that they do rent to local people first !!
2
Gabrielle C.
We had a beautiful time on Oahu, but twice I was verbally assaulted by local men. On both occasions, I was alone in the passenger seat waiting for husband (once parked outside our rental and the other at Foodland).One man used the f word, and another used the word nasty. Both occasions I answered with kindness. As a woman, it was particularly upsetting. I’ll probably come back, but I was /am sad for the world and pray for gentleness between us.
3
John C
While I have spent a week on the island I have seen slight to large tension. In the resort I have been staying two local men have been passive aggressive about assisting us. Although this could be from many other given reasons, I say this because most others at the resort have been open and helpful. Note these people are also paid to be friendly and helpful. While I have gone to the rural areas (north & south) parts of the island I have seen other natives 2 Caucasians and 2 true natives (bases on appearance) who have not been so nice one. Also on the road to Hana alongside the highway by a waterfal there is a sign saying that tourist are not welcome at the waterfall. That only locals are allowed to enjoy it. Being from California I am not as tempted to return to this beautiful state & well Maui to be specific.
3
Rich
I still maintain there is more hostility between Kama’ainas and Malahinis than between current residents and visitors.
1
Rich
My Hanai Ohana have far more issues with Malahinis who come to Hawaii and then want to turn it into another Southern California wasteland than with visitors. Malahinis have a sense of entitlement which gets under the skin of Kama’ainas. Yet you see so many Malahinis on this site insulting visitors.
2
Jerry B
“There is no place like Nebraska” is the slogan of my native state.
But my Heart is in Hawaii! Since taking my three children upon their
high school graduations to the Aloha State decades ago and more recent
since conducting tours to The Hawaiian Islands,I hold a strong reverance
and emotional connection to The Islands of Aloha.
“There is no place like Hawaii!”, Mahalo
3
Michael Z
As someone pointed out below, it’s not really “Hawaiin” anymore, because there are few full Hawaiians. It’s really Japan-China-Asian-Korean, etc and Caucasians already there as the dominant groups now.
From the web:
Asian: 37.79%
White: 24.95%
Two or more races: 23.89%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 10.06%
Black or African American: 1.83%
Other race: 1.23%
Native American: 0.26%
So I guess one should consider who the rude treatment is coming from, instead of just lumping it on 1 exact culture. Is it the 10% actual Hawaiian/Island people, or the other 90% of everyone else too? Its not that hard to tell the difference if you look, but I doubt many actually differentiate who its coming from, but then again I haven’t been there. But we do have the same groups in Las Vegas, and I can tell the difference, though Ive never felt any hostility.
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dee
In most cases you will find that people saying this mean “locals”. They have no understanding that we do not call ourselves “Hawaiians” unless we are descended from actual Native Hawaiian blood. It’s confusing to people who are used to calling people from a state by the state’s name as residents, but it goes to show that many more tourists who claim to love HI so much need to spend more time educating themselves on the local culture and history rather than lumping a no-majority population together as “Hawaiians” and having zero understanding of the history and overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy by white, male, New England missionary descendents who wanted the land for money. Always money. Correcting someone does not do it, they still refer to us as “Hawaiians” even though the NH population was devastated by Western disease such as the Plague, leading to a homeland with few NH left.
This lack of understanding definitely feeds into us viewing most tourists as entitled, along with many behaviors that say, “I’m paying money for this I will do what I want.”
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My wife and I were in Kauai for 8 nights in late October. Only rude treatment we saw was from other tourists towards both “locals” and other visiting travelers. We smile and thanked everyone who we came in contact with while visiting the islands and have always received great responses and service in return. The locals we have been lucky enough to spend extra time with have always pointed us to great local spots for sightseeing, relaxing and dining. Love the people and islands!
I’ve been to way more visitor hostile like atl,at and rome that hi. But if hi got that bad it would be an economic disaster. But other pac isl are way more friendlier like a car stopped to offer a ride e/o asking in Bora kinda felt like this most be like hi in the pre jet she. hi can’t compete with the you’re a royal visitor level at the high the high end resorts where the max tax rev comes.
I think that Whether you are a visitor or live in Hawaii – respect should be shown by all parties-I was brought up to treat people with respect abd you will be treated the same way- it’s unfortunate that this doesn’t always work but I live by this abd will not change-I love ❤️ Hawaii and make it a point to travel there every year. Aloha
When I visit Hawaii I know I am visiting someone’s home. I’m not going to impose my values on the residents, I must respect their values. Since it important to me to visit because of the connection I feel to the islands then the cost is worth it.
Just returned from first BI visit. We have been to other islands. Car rental was back to normal prices. We paid reasonable rates for Airbnb in Volcano and Kailua-Kona. Overall we felt the service in restaurants and stores was good and locals welcoming. We felt more welcome on the Kona side and did feel a little irritation from younger locals in and near Hilo, especially lower Puna when driving around to see the sights. Mask use was required and enforced indoors. Look forward to a return visit.
We are second home owners in Kauai-16 years. We have definitely seen a rudeness develop around Covid. Standing outside to pick up a sandwich the woman behind the counter screamed at the top of her lungs where’s your mask and slammed the window. Same thing happened at another location. Has anyone looked at outside contagions and effectiveness of cotton masks? Where we live this isn’t required -A bit of kindness would better serve humanity and Covid ignorance – that requires educating yourself!
If you were violating local restrictions by not wearing your mask, then perhaps that reaction was on you. I went to the Palm Springs area for vacation in Nov. Restrictions literally changed from one town to the next. It was on me to make sure I knew and followed, not up to the local population to nicely ask me to follow the local mandates. If you are going to travel somewhere during a global pandemic, you own knowing and follow the rules in place – whether you agree w/them or not.
Yep I own her screaming , slamming the door outside – nice rationalization. She owns it. It’s rude, it’s mindless it Kauai these days. So the day before when we lined up at the golf cart food cart there was no requirement – can you tell me the obligation there? This has become insanity without logic.
You are correct that it was rude but the pandemic has put people like her, and me, in a very difficult position. We are given requirements that can be difficult to decipher, employer guidelines that range from strict adherence to I-don’t-care, and guests that fight the rules. My guess is that she had just had one or more people being unpleasant about a rule she didn’t make but is required to enforce. She shouldn’t have been rude, but know the rule and follow it and she won’t yell at you.
Wearing a mask, getting vaccinated and just simple showing respect is the essence of Aloha…..being perceived as not respecting that
can bring out the worst in some during these trying times. However if you were flaunting the masking with your own interpretation then you got what you deserve. Yes cotton masks are not as good as N95’s but anything is better then nothing. A lot of people are not the recipients of rude behavior, perhaps ask yourself why?
All things considered, from the completely absurd, constantly changing and inconsistent Covid rules, the crowding, to the debate about friction between “locals” and visitors, I just don’t want to go to Hawaii anymore.
Mahalo Beat of Hawaii. This is an awesome yet scary thing for me to read. Our Island residents and visitors are as divided as the comments.
It’s like Pandora’s Box.
I honestly feel that our Government has had a big hand in pitting us against each other. Whether intentional or not.
My mainland Ohana are not coming to visit next month. The travel restrictions too much of a crapshoot.
My heat aches.
PLEASE PRACTICE ALOHA!!
Thank you Jeff and Rob for this forum. Blessings 🌺💕
Hi Pam.
Thanks. Great to hear from you. Happy holidays.
Aloha.
The natural beauty does not make up for:
– the antagony towards tourists (haole or not)
– the bad customer service everywhere you go
– rediculously high car rental prices because cars were sold off during covid
– indifference of government to deal with the ever increasing and bery prominent homeless problem everywhere
My family used to visit at least once a year foe the past 15 years and even considered buying property on Oahu. After a trip in May 2021, we have had enough. Hawaii no more.
Hawaii has a homeless problem. But so do many other states! The fact that the car companies sold off too many cars during the pandemic, thereby raising rental rates now, is not the “fault” of the citizens of Hawaii. Nor are the hotel prices up to the “locals.” Virtually all the hotels are owned by mainlanders or thosey from other countries. Food is expensive as it has to be imported, same as gas, sheets for your hotel bed, and the snorkel and fins you rent. Keep things in perspective please!
Yes, most of the local residents are working more than one job trying to survive here. It’s not us making money on that $800 a night condo, for the most part.
In Maui July, 2021, We were accosted rudely by a local female at a grocery store simply because we were taking a few extra minutes at the cashier because my cash card was not working properly. Knowing we were tourists, she told us to go home.
We are regular travelers to Hawaii, and I live the culture and locals. I have never, ever encountered such hostility.
Hawaii is too restrictive, they don’t really care about the tourists or how hard they make it on us to get there. I’ve been to Hawaii and the Caribbean and I can tell you they are both beautiful, but the Caribbean is much less expensive and much more welcoming. They actually want us there and make it as easy as possible to get us, and our money, there. No more Hawaii for our family until they change. A new governor would help.
Locals calling visitors ‘outsiders’ is terrible. All US citizens are ‘insiders’
Having ‘forbidden’ locations is not the US way except for government locations for security.
Love\Hate with tourists is not just in Hawaii, it is everywhere.
Have a nice day!
Most National Parks, State parks, etc. have areas that are off-limits, whether on the Mainland or in the Island. It’s a matter of respect for the fragility of the environment, the plants, and the animals, and protecting it all for future generations. Remember when some guys were arrested for damage done to a balancing rock in Arches National Park.
Our multiple visits over the years have always been wonderful. Of course the pandemic has put a kink in the program with inflated costs and restrictions. We’ll be making our 3rd trip in 24 months. We did find greats deal with Turo on multiple new vehicles, half that of airport agencies. Finding a 2 bedroom condo easily in Koloa was a nice bonus. We usually out on our own and cook most of our meals but for the most part excursion personnel have been very welcoming. Be nice, it will be returned
I’m here right now and want to go home already. Couldn’t find the airbnb and can’t get a refund so we get to pay for that and the hotel we settled on after an 8 hour plane trip and two hour drive.
Airb is like that, I had the same problem visiting family, three separate visits. I went back to hotels so much better
We have come to your beautiful islands every year for over 8 years. We have missed it. However, I am saddened to see the negative comments about tourists etc. I think for our family we may take our money elsewhere. The Carribean looks good. There are other islands.
Hi my name is Paul I am from Calgary Alberta my wife and I have been to Hawaii 10 times a week in Waikiki and a week in Maui each time .The last time we were there was 2019. We were planing to go next April and the rates were real High so for this time we thought we would try to save money so just spend the two weeks just in Maui when I checked out the rates they are double what we paid in 2019 If this is the way you trying to cut down on visiters well it worked for me. sorry to say goodbye .
I dare not look at their charges. But am disappointed to hear good folks mention that the prices are ridiculous. There will be a price to pay for that eventually. Caribbean is looking good.
We have family and friends in Hawaii. My father was born in Maui. My nephew lives in Honolulu, and owns a condo, so we stay at his place when we visit. My cousin and her nephew lives in Oahu, and we always try to meet with them when we visit Hawaii. We visit only about once every ten years or so. I love the different ambiance, geography, and feel of the different islands.
We first visited Oahu in 2002 and took an overnight trip to visit Kilauea. We fell in Love with the Big Island and have been back many times. It’ll take more than a few government regulations and hoops to jump through to keep us away. Even traveling after the shut-down, we found great enjoyment in visiting. Our interaction with everyone has been so welcoming and now we’ve arranged to bring all of our kids and grandchildren in January (14 of us). Aloha to you Hawaii forever!
I want to say – I love when visitors come and enjoy their time here. like the article mentions respect goes both ways. not just our culture but plain common decency. i am welcoming and am always more than willing to share. but many visitors feel that spending their money here means that we owe them somehow. which is ridiculous. so long as you come with an open mind, respect us and our culture – for the most part we will too. there are bad and good on both sides. just strive to be good.
I agree. Respect is a two way street. All the other beautiful states have their own culture and traditions too. I wonder how some Hawaiians would feel if they were on vacation paying lots of money to have a nice vacation while being disrespected in North Carolina or Washington State? Respect by the visitors and locals will go a long way!
The unspoken truth is that the “local community” largely won’t get vaccinated. This is why politicians continue with the hand wringing about covid and why people still have to jump through all these ridiculous hoops to get there. Vote with your pocketbook;go to where these restrictions don’t exist. Just Got back from Los Cabos. The Mexicans are warm and friendly and they want tourists there. We crossed on foot and flew from TJ and back. No Covid test necessary.
That’s just not accurate. As of Nov. 30, 71% of us are fully vaccinated, and 77% have gotten at least one dose. Stop perpetuating inaccurate data about us. Yes, there are pockets of the population that have not gotten the shot, but it is far from the majority you make it appear to be, and we are among the states with higher vax rates, not lower.
A kernel of truth in both posts, but it’s laughable that Mexico is a safe travel destination just because they don’t care about infections. You can now search by county and zips for vax rates. Our rural location is ~40%. I tell folks to realize that about two out of three folks you hug or shake hands unmasked is another role of the dice
Very true Diana and that percentage of unvaxed includes small keiki that are too young for a shot. The percentage of vaccinated among the eligible is even higher. That’s why we have fared so much better then most states. Misinformation has led a lot of people into making a choice they later regretted and paid for it with their life. Good you called it out.
Given virus mess, the locals will not ever have to worry about me troubling their island’s sustainability ever again. I was there and loved it in 12/06 but that seems 100 years ago and another country now. Believe me, there are lots like me, retired with discretionary cash and time, that have already written it off list. Sad.
When you say, “virus mess”, if you are referring to the Covid restrictions, please remember that our available resources are what we have on hand, and backup and additional capacity is 2500 miles away. If our hospitals are full we can’t just send people to the next state over. If you have a philosophical disagreement with how we’ve responded to the pandemic, that is fine, but there has been a very practical reason behind it.
Masking doesn’t work and poses its own health risks (you’ll notice that none of us were born with fibrous sheet over our breathing apparatus); the more jabs we take, the more variants pop up.
With a .3% fatality rate, primarily among the most at-risk, the bulk of society should’ve just moved on through this disaster instead of creating medical police states via immune system and healthy living.
As a long time visitor to the islands, (over 60 visits since 1958), I agree completely with the restrictive policies during COVID. Those who gripe about “No valet parking” and” slower than expected service in the hotels or restaurants!” Give me a break. Enjoy the gift of the islands, especially the Aloha Spirit and quit complaining. If you have the right attitude, every day there is a treasure.
Enjoy your COVID zone. I’m going to enjoy America and look at people’s faces and not be quarantined like I flew in from Neptune or have sticks jammed into my cerebral cavity endlessly. Enough is enough.
Whew! For a moment there, I thought that you were actually considering flying to Hawaii. Too many aboard the plane have your opinion and too many so far have acted on their impulses.
Pretty stupid if they have my “impulses” and are still on a plane for once great Hawaii.
I have visited all of the Islands many times starting in the year 2000. I have settled on Kauai as my favorite place to visit and have time shares in Poipu and Princeville. During my many visits I have always felt welcome by both residents and guests. There is a definite feeling of Aloha on the Islands, if it could spread around the world the world would be a better place.
Wouldn’t it be a good idea if Visitors Bureau put together a pamphlet fir arriving visitors indicating what our goals as an island committee are
Regarding beaches, Monk Seals, etc?
As a first time visitor to Kaua’i, I was blown away by the natural beauty, but as a white American (and a student of history) I admittedly felt uncomfortable and was anxious to stay in my lane and show proper respect. The locals with whom I was lucky enough to interact were universally kind and patient. Their generosity of spirit, however, was all too often taken advantage of by tourists. To put it bluntly, I was embarrassed by the callous and rude behavior of other American tourists with whom I feared I would be associated. The way the locals are treated by some (predominantly white) tourists is unforgivable and made me ashamed to be an American. The fact that local and native Hawaiians still welcome tourism is a testament to the Aloha Spirit! I applaud you, people of Hawaii! This visitor is greatly humbled by the hospitality you have shown me, and I hope one day to be lucky enough to visit your great state again in the better days ahead! Mahalo nui loa!!! ❤
Thank you for sharing
JohnK – Hope you feel better soon. I used to live in beautiful, magical Northern California, and feel blessed for the experience. I am a longtime pilgrim to the islands. These have been difficult times for all of us. We have all seen too many people behaving badly, whether they have been local or visiting covidiots and maskholes. Look at the craziness on the airplanes. Can you imagine attacking the crew? Rage and intolerance found a voice – hopefully, when people feel in control of their lives again, calm will return. BTW, I had to ask my best pal and her family to cancel visiting me twice, because of COVID – this last time, I had to say ” if you got sick, there is no place to take you as the hospitals are full.” I am so happy she is able to come in December. Please reconsider, and come see us again when we are all feeling better. Aloha. Oh, if you have not seen “the White Lotus”, it is worthwhile.
I did not feel unwelcome or unwanted when I visited Hawaii last week for the first time. My husband and I followed all the requirements to avoid the 14 day quarantine: becoming fully vaccinated and showing proof of vaccination at the airport as well as filling out a symptom questionaire 24 hours before our flight. I got the sense that most of the locals knew of the strictness of the requirements. Most of them showed us hospitably and seemed excited that visitors were returning as it meant that their economic situation would soon be improving. There was one individual that shouted at us to “go home” but we didn’t pay him much mind as he was the only one who expressed any negativity towards us. Others seem to have had poor experiences. Maybe it has to do with the fact that we stayed in Kailua Kona, which seemed to be more rural and less impacted by COVID compared to the other cities and islands. Either way, we had a great time and I definitely don’t regret going.
We recently cancelled a trip. It’s clear we are not wanted. And telling us we can “come back later” won’t work – the way this has all gone down has made it impossible to return.
But we are fortunate to live in beautiful Northern California. I will do my best to spread the lessons I have just learned – do your best to dissuade visitors from coming to your area. I’d rather we keep Big Sur, Carmel, Napa, and Tahoe for ourselves.
Thanks for the lesson.
It’s OK John. Even for people who choose to live in Hawaii, the islands have a way of knowing which ones stay and which ones they spit out.
I agree that Big Sur and the rest are beautiful. Perhaps that’s your happy place.
“Spit out” – nice way to imply that we’re somehow defective. What I would suggest is defective is any population too selfish to follow simple guidelines to avoid the virus.
And if you’re from NorCal – fine. But if not…no matter how beautiful you find Big Sur you’re not welcome here. It’s not for you. See how it works?
That’s a little different then “you are more then welcome here but please be respectful”. That’s the general consensus in Hawaii. These are unusual times and there has been a fair amount of attacks on here by covidiots and maskholes, those kind certainly do find Aloha in short supply.
But if you give Aloha you get it back in spades, that’s why you see so many on here saying what a great time they are having or had.
This holds true of anywhere, the experience you have when you travel is a pretty good indication of the type of person you are.
and I should add your comment about following simple guidelines is spot on so my take is you would have a great time if you came, don’t let a few internet posts define a population of a million people.
That may be the case – we won’t be finding out. As requested we cancelled our trip. And we’re out about $12k. (That was WITH CFAR insurance. We had a suite at the FS and they only let you pre-pay those.)
But my observation, based on the news, is that the covidiots and maskholes are largely home grown and I’m not seeing that acknowledged at all. Instead they choose to throw tourists under the bus. That will come back to haunt them most likely.
And if I find that frustrating it is with cause. My state is the only state in the US that is no longer “red” on the CDC map. Somehow I figured the residents of Hawaii would do as we have done, and that’s why we booked a trip for October in July. Turns out we vastly misjudged them.
So in between the people blaming COVID on visitors (not locals going to Vegas and partying in clubs there) and the general “not welcome” vibe…it’s probably for the best. I’m thinking I should adopt the same attitude.
I feel so blessed to be here in Hawaii, I stumbled across this article as I was reading up on the history here after a beautiful dinner on the beach. I don’t fully understand Aloha but the respect I have given has definitely circled back. Trying to understand has taken me to beautiful places and created amazing memories. I am so glad I visited, properly and safely. The staff at FS are amazing and deserve the utmost respect along with the locals here and when given you will see beautiful smiles all over the island. When I got here I felt like I was doing something wrong, did not want to be disrespectful.. especially in Honolulu where there are tons of tourists coming in and out. I stopped by a few shops, one in Honolulu and one in Pearl City. I felt welcome instantly! You get what you give, that’s especially true here. 12,000 dollars is not going to get you anywhere. A smile and a positive attitude even when locals are rude will.
Beautiful place, so happy to be here. Thank You Hawaii!! And thank you for reading.
So you went even after they asked you not to? How do you justify that?
My wife and I are welcome here, that is very clear. I understand why you would be asked to please stay home. This attitude would bother me if I was on a beautiful vacation 🙂 Thanks for reading.
The Governor of Hawaii asked folks to postpone their trips due to the impact of COVID-19 on the health systems of the islands. Your selfishness in failing to honor that request is noted.
Staying away until the islands get things under control. Our condo is in Princeville. Miss it, but staying away; 11 hours masked on a plane not all that appealing either.
JohnK – Hope you feel better soon. I used to live in beautiful, magical Northern California, and feel blessed for the experience. I am a longtime pilgrim to the islands. These have been difficult times for all of us. We have all seen too many people behaving badly, whether they have been local or visiting covidiots and maskholes. Look at the craziness on the airplanes. Can you imagine attacking the crew? Rage and intolerance found a voice – hopefully, when people feel in control of their lives again, calm will return. BTW, I had to ask my best pal and her family to cancel visiting me twice, because of COVID – this last time, I had to say ” if you got sick, there is no place to take you as the hospitals are full.” I am so happy she is able to come in December. Please reconsider, and come see us again when we are all feeling better. Aloha. Oh, if you have not seen “the White Lotus”, it is worthwhile.
We just got to see first hand how people on Kauai treat visitors.
People standi g in our resort parking lot just got called Haoles and yelled at to go home. I seriously beleventh there should be a complete embargo of all travel and supplies to Hawaii. Let’s see how self sustainable they really are.
As announced last night in the Honolulu Star Advertiser, and I am happy they are finally going to address the negative effects of overtouristing and try for more regenerative tourism…
Hawaii Tourism Authority tourism plan for Oahu focuses on reducing visitors
The DMAP also focuses on several other key actions that the community, visitor industry and other sectors deem necessary over a three-year period. Establishing a regenerative tourism fee, creating reservation systems for natural and cultural sites, managing visitors’ use of cars and expanding and supporting “Buy Local” programs also were key actions.
The plan also hopes to attract more respectful visitors by implementing a pre- and post-arrivals communication program and developing marketing programs to attract “positive-impact travelers who prioritize the environment, culture and investing in our local community.”
“We appreciate the Oahu residents who participated in the DMAP process and passionately contributed their diverse viewpoints, discussed various tourism-related challenges in their neighborhoods and helped set forth an actionable plan that is necessary for the community’s well-being,” said John De Fries, HTA president and CEO. “It’s about continued collaboration and moving forward together to malama this cherished place and each other, as desired by the people of Oahu.”
Aloha and Mahalo for your encouraging comment!
My husband and I have been traveling to Maui now for about 10 years. We have made many Hawaiian friends and embrace the Hawaiian Aloha spirit! The Hawaiian culture of Ohana is wonderful, caring and loving. The world should take lessons from this. We’re scheduled to arrive back on island Sept. 25th. We’re being another couple with us that have never been to The Hawaiian islands. We can’t wait to introduce them to friends and share the Aloha spirit. Have a wonderful evening all!
Mahalo
Have you considered that coming and bringing friends during a pandemic that is currently surging to new heights on Maui and Oahu may not be the best experience for you, your guests, or your island hosts, the residents of HI?
If you love HI as much as you say, please consider the impact of your plans and consider rescheduling.
My husband and I came back from Kauai yesterday and the locals were just soooo welcoming. We clearly looked out of place but we were always asked how our visit was and we’re given suggestions or where to eat, shop, etc. I almost hate coming back to California because the people in California are so mean to others, selfish, and always “looking out for themselves”…it’s almost as if people in California get excitement from another persons failure.
We were respectful to the locals, made conversation and showed interest in their culture and we were just so happy with the hospitality we received and how open locals were to share their culture with us.
We stayed in an area that is heavily populated with tourists and what we did see were tourists yelling at locals because of something that inconvenienced them, disobeying road laws and arguing with law enforcement, empty beer cans and alcohol bottles left on the private beaches and even parents laughing and watching their kids chase around a poor chicken and her chicks trying to capture the chicks (of course we intervened and told them to leave them alone).
I can see how locals may be fed up with how some tourists act like the Island is theirs to be treated how they want just because they are on vacation. It was very sad to see that but I hope Hawaiians do understand that not all tourists are like that.
I saw undeserved discrimination and prejudice travelling with husband, who is mixed race and resembles a pacific islander but isn’t (he’s not even American) but coincidentally physically resembles a local. People were wonderful to him, friendly, helpful ect. I (white hispanic but white passing) got lots of rude stares and aggression. Even he commented on how disturbing it was. One incident stood out. We pulled into a beach away from Waikiki and he went off to park while I head to the beach first – some locals on the path told me “go home Haole” and were aggressive. When my husband appeared behind me, they assumed we weren’t together and started greeting him. We felt unsafe. As for not caring for the island, we saw locals leave trash over the beach and one dump contents from fast food on the road ahead of us. Its not tourists who are the issue; Hawaii has some real attitude problems and racism
This is 100% accurate. I just left Hawaii. Will never go back. Very racist people.
My husband is Hawaiian from Honolulu & we have great respect and love for the Hawaiian people & the culture. We have never felt anything but great Aloha spirit from locals. Some of them are ohana. We love Hawaii & would love to be able to afford to live there🤙 The Aloha spirit is so very real🌈🌺🤙 Miss it already, Aloha🌈
Upon my 1st visit to Oahu and Maui 20 yrs ago, I did not notice much – mainly because I was to amazed by the beauty of the islands, the people and the culture. I visited the Big Island 15 yrs ago and also had a lovely visit. I recently moved my daughter to Maui for a job relocation at one of the resorts on Maui in July 2021. From what I can tell, the island was not ready or prepared for the influx of tourists this summer. Tourists seem to have forgotten how to be kind and considerate to others – maybe too much social distancing? Let’s face there are a lot of entitled visitors who think the world belongs to them. That can be said for any tourist destination. I have met more rude tourists in NYC than anywhere else.
I will say that I was not prepared for the difficulty in finding a rental property and the discrimination property owners show toward mainlanders inquiring about rentals. My daughter is on a minimum 12 month contract, makes an good salary and has good credit – she has been there for over 6 wks and still has not found a place to rent. That is an issue. Seeing Maui outside of the tourist areas and dealing with the locals has been eye-opening. She loves her job and the island – has already volunteered on beach clean ups and wants to be a part of the community.
I understand the underlying animosity and I empathize with the native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. One local told us that it was so surreal having the island to themselves during covid – first time in his lifetime he has not had to share the beaches/ocean and he really enjoyed it. You have to be sympathetic to that.
Local people can’t even find a place to live here.
At 53 years old, living in Hawaii for 40 years, I found myself homeless for 3 months before I found an old garage to rent. No kitchen, bathroom with shower and toilet, one sink around the back of the place. Im sorry but I hope that they do rent to local people first !!
We had a beautiful time on Oahu, but twice I was verbally assaulted by local men. On both occasions, I was alone in the passenger seat waiting for husband (once parked outside our rental and the other at Foodland).One man used the f word, and another used the word nasty. Both occasions I answered with kindness. As a woman, it was particularly upsetting. I’ll probably come back, but I was /am sad for the world and pray for gentleness between us.
While I have spent a week on the island I have seen slight to large tension. In the resort I have been staying two local men have been passive aggressive about assisting us. Although this could be from many other given reasons, I say this because most others at the resort have been open and helpful. Note these people are also paid to be friendly and helpful. While I have gone to the rural areas (north & south) parts of the island I have seen other natives 2 Caucasians and 2 true natives (bases on appearance) who have not been so nice one. Also on the road to Hana alongside the highway by a waterfal there is a sign saying that tourist are not welcome at the waterfall. That only locals are allowed to enjoy it. Being from California I am not as tempted to return to this beautiful state & well Maui to be specific.
I still maintain there is more hostility between Kama’ainas and Malahinis than between current residents and visitors.
My Hanai Ohana have far more issues with Malahinis who come to Hawaii and then want to turn it into another Southern California wasteland than with visitors. Malahinis have a sense of entitlement which gets under the skin of Kama’ainas. Yet you see so many Malahinis on this site insulting visitors.
“There is no place like Nebraska” is the slogan of my native state.
But my Heart is in Hawaii! Since taking my three children upon their
high school graduations to the Aloha State decades ago and more recent
since conducting tours to The Hawaiian Islands,I hold a strong reverance
and emotional connection to The Islands of Aloha.
“There is no place like Hawaii!”, Mahalo
As someone pointed out below, it’s not really “Hawaiin” anymore, because there are few full Hawaiians. It’s really Japan-China-Asian-Korean, etc and Caucasians already there as the dominant groups now.
From the web:
Asian: 37.79%
White: 24.95%
Two or more races: 23.89%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 10.06%
Black or African American: 1.83%
Other race: 1.23%
Native American: 0.26%
So I guess one should consider who the rude treatment is coming from, instead of just lumping it on 1 exact culture. Is it the 10% actual Hawaiian/Island people, or the other 90% of everyone else too? Its not that hard to tell the difference if you look, but I doubt many actually differentiate who its coming from, but then again I haven’t been there. But we do have the same groups in Las Vegas, and I can tell the difference, though Ive never felt any hostility.
In most cases you will find that people saying this mean “locals”. They have no understanding that we do not call ourselves “Hawaiians” unless we are descended from actual Native Hawaiian blood. It’s confusing to people who are used to calling people from a state by the state’s name as residents, but it goes to show that many more tourists who claim to love HI so much need to spend more time educating themselves on the local culture and history rather than lumping a no-majority population together as “Hawaiians” and having zero understanding of the history and overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy by white, male, New England missionary descendents who wanted the land for money. Always money. Correcting someone does not do it, they still refer to us as “Hawaiians” even though the NH population was devastated by Western disease such as the Plague, leading to a homeland with few NH left.
This lack of understanding definitely feeds into us viewing most tourists as entitled, along with many behaviors that say, “I’m paying money for this I will do what I want.”