What readers are saying about the proposed new visitor fees in Hawaii.
76 thoughts on “Kauai Joins Maui On Visitor Fees: Backlash + Where’s The Money Going?”
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Home » Blog » Hawaii Travel Tips » Kauai Joins Maui On Visitor Fees: Backlash + Where’s The Money Going?
I really feel that the Mayors of Maui and Kauai are overreacting to what is most likely a problem now due to pent-up travel demands. Americans are anxious to travel in 2021 because they didn’t get to last year. Choices of places to go are limited; Europe, Canada, Mexico, cruises, etc all have traveling problems and so, “Let’s go to Hawaii!”. Now it’s a huge problem but the demand will diminish next year and beyond. Hawaii has always had the reputation of being an expensive destination, and the costs of travel there this year and with the threat of more fees, will only cement in that impression for future potential travelers.
Judy H.,
I agree that there’s definitely more than usual demand for Hawai’i due to the reasons you mention. However, the problems with overcrowding, lack of parking, and just general destruction of the natural beauty of Hawai’i due to the large numbers of tourists is something that’s been happening for a while now (i.e., pre-COVID) and needs to be addressed. Take, for example, the Haena State Park restrictions. Those were in the planning stage for YEARS before COVID and a flood there because of overcrowding, destruction of the area’s natural beauty due to huge numbers of tourists tramping all over the place, and parking in places they shouldn’t, etc. So, the problem is real. On the other hand, the solutions are difficult, and I suspect that whatever Hawai’i comes up with, it’s going to make someone/group mad as heck.
I’ve read most of these comments and one that sticks out is one that thinks he is a second class citizen because locals don’t pay all the fees tourists do…well..for one thing..we have to put up with you so we should get something for that. I guess I should feel like a second class citizen then when I go to mainland coastal areas that NO ONE can park without a local sticker on there car..like my old home Santa Cruz CA…or down in San Diego,San Francisco or any town by water…as far as I’m concerned..go elsewhere then if it’s a problem for you
It seems no matter how brutal the fees climb some tourists will just keep paying it. I am glad I went to visit when parts were still affordable and had local charm. Not much left in that department.
Mahalo to everyone that visits Hawaii. I am a (kamaaina) local resident of Kauai and don’t blame all tourist for the ills caused by a selected few that arrive to our beautiful islands unappreciative & with a selfish heart. Kauai & the Aloha State (as a majority) welcomes everyone with open hearts, a warm smile, and thanks for enjoying the island way of life. Many Hawaii residents embrace the kindness of tourist that makes Hawaii a destination for sun & fun. “E komo mai” “welcome.”
Bermuda solved the too many cars on the island problem decades ago by not allowing tourists to rent cars. They must use taxis or public buses. Smart!
Bermuda is 22 miles long and just over a mile wide. How about an apt comparison?
We have been to Maui several times, and have always found it friendly. Parking fees and such are a way of life, in Chicago parking is as much as 5 dollars an hour for everyone. My suggestion is if fees bother you buy a pool and stay home. Not all put may people who travel carry their rudeness with them and as a result never actually enjoy themselves. Relax and enjoy the time you have for it is actually very short.
John
The county is going to spend 30.000 to “study” non resident fees to visit Kauai’s parks and beaches. Are you serious? 30,000 DOLLARS!!!! For a study? Talk about a waste of money when there are numerous other things such as infrastructure and beach erosion that could use this money.
Pretty sure there is some nepotism as usual going on in this one. I mean seriously this would take anyone 20 minutes to do. I’m assuming they have an idea of how many people visit x parking fees minus percentage of locals. See I’m done mail the check to …. 🙂
In Washington state residents must pay for a Discover pass or a fee to park, because we should all pay to use these spaces and to keep them beautiful. In the end Mayors or a council can decide on which projects to allocate the monies each year. Maybe residents can nominate projects? I would sure like to see a road connecting Walia to the road up country. Thanks
Hello,
So sad what a mess. It’s true all the visitors will take a toll on the Island but I have to agree the problem is the governments mismanagement. People don’t just visit Hawaii to stay at a resort they also want to explore all the beauty so government should have planned on the impact it would have on the land. Toilets not working for two years??? How is this not fixable? If you can’t get some movable bathrooms up and running wow is there any hope? I am a respectful visitor, but I also don’t have a large income to pay fees I’m the “coupon clipper” but that doesn’t mean I’m going to disrespect anyone or any land. The government needs to set limits, not fees, to correct the impact on the island. Don’t forget your reef friendly sun screen! Keep Hawaii beautiful if we all do our part local or visitor.
Mahalo,
Erica
It’s frustrating to see fees added to areas that should be accessible to everyone. That’s just not right. The reality is that one HI figured out that people want to see and experience the natural wonders of HI it now wants to make money. There should not be fees to access public areas like parks and beaches. These were originally created to be used by everyone. HI dies receive federal money which also tourist continue too. I find this unacceptable. The truth is that people will stop going in larger numbers once they see how bad it is. My family and I just got back a week ago and I did not plan on returning for at least two years. If HI doesn’t get its act together I’ll vacation elsewhere. Given the price for everything it’s not worth it. Too expensive for the service you get and the congestion. It was obvious that HI was not ready for the tourism to return. It felt so disorganized and chaotic. That’s not an enjoyable vacation. Instead HI should be focusing on how to help its residents meet this demand so it’s not out of hand. Such as better translation and more roads. HI residents need the tourism. Don’t destroy it.
After rebooking three times we will finally visit the Big Island in November. I’m not too concerned with “user fees” as they are not uncommon. But I am concerned about the way tourists are being treated. Hawaii is on probation and our upcoming trip will make or break a decades long tradition of visiting. The examples of NYC and Paris of years ago is a lesson for Hawaii. Just sayin…