304 thoughts on “New Hawaii Tourist Fees: Creative Hikes Set to Curb Tourism”
Richele D.
Do the powers that be in Hawaii not realize that tourism is the only thing that supports Hawaii?? I have been visiting since 1969 and the changes have been heartbreaking. What will residents do to support themselves without the tourist industry? Does the state have exports, etc. that I don’t know about? Me, and now for the past 30 years my family, have been respectful and joyful visitors! Hawaii is our happy place. We are going to Kauai in May and are now wondering what kind of situation we will be going into. Will it be the Aloha we have always been given and give in return, or will we face hostility and animosity? It is heartbreaking.
While significant, tourism accounts for 25% of GDP annually. That’s a lot, but over tourism reaps its own impacts on an already over stressed ecosystem. For example, dive off Maui. It is heartbreaking to see the amount of dead coral from toxic sunscreens, runoff and literally damaging coral from divers and boat operations.
Agree. When we dove off Kehea many of the turtles had major tumors, but this is not caused by tourists, rather pollution caused mostly by local farming runoff.
Regarding the non-mineral sunscreens, nobody will check it when you come in. In addition, the agricultural inspection is only when you “leave Hawaii”, not when you arrive. I have asked them why they protect the mainland instead of protecting the islands, but never received a clear response.
Eva, it goes a long way that because the sunscreen law was passed, not a single non-mineral sunscreen is sold on the entire island of Maui.
I agree that the agricultural inspection should go both ways.
1
sandi
while this is patially true, “dead coral from toxic sunscreens, runoff and literally damaging coral from divers and boat operations”. Everyone living on the islands, the past use of plastics, many many other factors and each individual is to blame. Any store owner, any farmer, any local, any visitor….the list goes on. Too Many People In The World Now.
I lived in Oahu from 84-87 and have since gone back more than 30 times, sometimes making more than one visit a year. My daughters, who are 13 and 15, have visited Hawaii seven times in their young lives. My entire family loves going there but I wonder if this next trip we have planned this year might not be our last.
I’m not here to tell the Hawaii state government or its residents what to do. At the same time, if they enact policies that are not to my interest, I’ll just take my tourism business elsewhere. It just seems to me that, even though tourism is the lifeblood of Hawaii, the issue is being politicized and tourists are being targeted as the main reasons for Hawaii’s myriad problems.
You all did read about the purpose of all of these new fees, right?
The purpose is to reduce tourism.
So you leave a post here saying “Fees and prices are getting too high, I’m not coming anymore”. Hundreds and hundreds of these posts.
Not saying there is something alternative to post, but it’s interesting to see how effective these high-fee strategies are working and having an immediate effect!
Dont believe everything you read., especially with greed, and politics being in full force. The officials who state this are not making an intellectual statement. The fees would not keep me away, it is the constant whining.
Did a comparison BVI 3 weeks. Flight & lodging $5022. A $10. Environmental Fee on arrival. $20 upon departure… $15 for locals. No sales tax. Same 3 weeks LIH $8167. + the two proposed fee increases $75. + hidden lodging fees in package 47.50 resort fee+ 47.50 imposed tax + 25 self park fee each per day. Total $10,762. Plus sales tax on purchases, beach fees, park fees.Well over double.
Higher taxes and additional fees will cut tourism numbers, but there are few places in the world that compare to Hawaii’s plethora of beautiful, natural wonders. I have visited French Polynesia, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Guinea as comparable, but each requires a long flight, passport and considerable planning. Each had their beauty, but try to pick a comparable, accessible mainland location that compares. Except for a few Caribbean islands, most are flat atolls. Pretty sand and water with little variation.
In the long run, those reduced numbers will reap visitors with the resources and respect for what Hawaii needs to retain.
This is getting ridiculous, tax the tourist so all they can afford when they’re hear is a Costco hotdog, we will see most of the tourism, which we are seeing now go to Mexico and Costa Rica so much for the greedy politicians did want to make more money on the back of the tourists, tourists have many other choices for destinations if all these taxes go through, you will see next to nail for tourists here, these politicians with these ideas need to go 😡
As far as higher taxes are concerned, I view that as just another biproduct of inflation caused by our own Federal Reserve Board authorizing the U.S. Treasury to print more and more paper dollars. It can all be traced back to inflationary monetary policy because it simply takes more paper dollars to acquire the same amount of anything, whether it’s a vacation in Hawaii, a dozen eggs from the grocery store, a pound of good coffee, or a meal out in a good restaurant. The only way to overcome that is to stay invested in assets that will do better than inflation. What better place to accomplish that than in Hawaii, where everybody wants to visit or live. The Kona Costco makes that even more possible with their $4.99 rotisserie chicken. 🙂
I have 4 weeks timeshare in Hawaii and I will no longer tip for anything! All tourists need to immediately stop tipping and spend as little as possible while in Hawaii
Please boycott Hawaii’s economy in any way possible.
well, that will hurt our poorest , least well paid workers and won’t hurt the big hotels or the restaurant owners or the politicians at all. But, yeah, thanks for coming, I guess
from a Hawaii resident tryingto surive with our cost of housing, food and car maintenance and taxes etc
Outrageous taxes! And rental cars are already so high priced. This won’t stop people from visiting; just an unconscionable taxing and feeing us to death! Vote out these legislators and Governor.
And I’m not the least bit surprised that the belief on behalf of the Hawaii legislature that you can actually tax your way into prosperity is something they still believe in while it has failed Everywhere else the concept has been applied. And Green has now become a complete embarrassment in any and all ways possible because of this and his role during the scamdemic!
Agree. When we dove off Kehea many of the turtles had major tumors, but this is not caused by tourists, rather pollution caused mostly by local farming runoff.
I totally agree with your reader Allan! We have skipped Hawaii for 2024 because the airfare was $2000…up from about $1300-1400 when we went in January2023! Car rentals for a month now top $2,000! I also question how much longer I will be able to visit Hawaii. I just hope the residents can make a living when we all stop coming.
Personally, I get the impression that the politicians in Hawaii are making a bet. And that bet entails that, no matter how much they raise taxes, people will still pay outrageous prices to vacation and possibly live in Hawaii and the goose will continue to lay golden eggs forevermore.
It’s a dangerous bet to make because Hawaii, without the massive funds that tourism injects into its coffers, can easily become another failed developing state. I mean, there’s nothing that Hawaii produces that the rest of the world can’t live without or isn’t better or cheaper elsewhere.
Not sure where you are coming from and I assume the $2K airfare you are mentioning is not per person? There might be certain days where the airfare is more expensive, but generally they haven’t gone up that much to and from Hawaii…that said, I am generally flexible with my dates.
If you live on the West Coast, then you can still get good deals on flights to Hawaii. If you don’t, then you can pretty much resign yourself to paying anywhere from $800-1200 per person on the low end. For our next, and more than likely last, trip to Hawaii, at least as a family, we decided to drive to LA from Salt Lake City because the fares were so much lower.
I can’t believe that we have another state that wants to cut their own throat. If tourists stop going to Hawaii, lets just see how they plan to maintain their way of living without the tourist dollars. Are tourists expected to pay for all their ineptitude? Now it looks like the runways on 4 of the islands need major maintenance, who’s going to pay for that, another tourist tax?
I doubt these new taxes will affect tourists coming to the islands. What it will do is affect the spending that is done in local businesses
Instead of shopping and taking tours they will hang out at beaches and hotel pools. They will have the same budget just spend it differently
What is the Hawaiian government thinking?? This sounds like gross mismanagement of collected funds and a desire to pander to locals perhaps in an effort to stay in office.
To the best of my knowledge no other state directly asks tourists to fund their fire and climate efforts.
Hawaii you are losing your core economic engine!
I do understand the attempt to balance tourism dollars (and face it, folks, they’re not generating revenue with semiconductor facilities or other internationally significant manufacturing facilities which, but the way would help the locals and the local governments) with environmentally friendly pressures from the locals, but I’ll bet if a substantial effort to reduce tourism to a trickle of what it has historically been (think 10%), they would be falling all over themselves to figure out how to get that back. That’s my solution. Send a message by not visiting. With family on Oahu and a regularly scheduled visit to Maui, I’ll suffer personally. Time to help the elected people understand. Don’t. Go. Back. Until. They. Get. It.
I guess it was my “resort fee” that was waived at the Outrigger in Honolulu. I do know that car rental fees are the same for residents than for tourists, but how often do local residents need to rent a car?
We are from Canada, the expense of the exchange rate is already a burden. Which is not in our control but increases the trip costs. we have been coming for 8 years now and love our trips.
we consider ourselves well aware of environmental issues and respect all of the Hawaiian cultural aspects.
Car rental and staying costs have increased enormously.
I dont mind fees for environmental and park uses.
There will reach and endpoint when we can’t afford to come anymore.
All respect to Hawaii .
As a Maui resident, I simply want to say hi and thank you for your appreciation of this special place and all your economic support of our tourist industry over the years. Some of my family work in tourism (as a second or third job cuz expensive here, yeah?). It is one big slice of our economy. I also wanted to say (and I’m a US citizen) that generally speaking, I find Canadian folk to be very responsible and mindful visitors (ah, all these modern buzzwords). You guys may still smoke but you don’t leave your butts on the beach. And you no whine like some Americans. You all seem to be real happy to be here. I would be too if it were January and I lived Alberta..
We have been coming to Maui from the east coast for 17 years spending thousands of dollars. If taxes and fees start making it harder to visit, while we will be disappointed, there’s plenty of other destinations that will welcome our tourists dollars
If those taxes went to better roads, nicer bathrooms at parks and beaches, and supported the airports and functional runways maybe it would be less objectionable.
As much as we would love to see our grandson in Maui, we will not be going there or any island. The state of Hawaii has just banned visitors from all islands. They don’t want us there but all business owners need us..they won’t survive.
Fall of 2033, revisited Maui with our grown kids and families. Lots of hesitation before we went, mostly from things that we heard and read in the press. Sadly, most info was true. Still a special place, but pretty much priced out now. Lots of places and vacations priced better and just as remarkable. Can’t imagine when it will be affordable enough to revisit again.
I believe most visitors will adjust to a modest tourist-targeted fee, understanding the goal in mind. A Green Fee might actually make you feel good about “contributing.” Rental cars, well, there’s always a workaround – If you really Need a car, “carsharing” will serve that need (or just quit whining and pay the tax). The Accommodation Fees are part of the game, but upwards of 22% (I could easily see that number coming) will make potential travelers squirm, but not quit Hawaii because we will rationalize that the islands are a special place. Vacation Rental Tax of 33% is a killer. Game Over. If that comes to pass every corporate resort will be a White Lotus.
As much as I love Hawaii, if taxes continue to go up and up, I’ll stop going to Hawaii and discourage others from going as well. I guess Hawaii will become just like Bora Bora, Cannes, and St. Moritz, where only the rich need apply… 🙁
If the goal is to “reduce the number of days visitors spend”, I think they’re on the right track. After 30 days over two trips in the last 24 months, my future days spent will be zero. Good luck!
We have been traveling to Hawaii for 35 years. We go a minimum of twice a year and sometimes as many as 4 times. We feel that Hawaii has been very irresponsible with the tax dollars they collect. I believe we are going to be looking for a new place to vacation very soon. They do not appreciate the visitors and what they bring to the islands. It’s very sad that they are so greedy and don’t put the tax $$ where it would do them the most good. Typical government “let’s just raise taxes!” We’re done!
Rather not go down this path, but as a San Diego resident for 35+ years, it’s how one political party sees things. They say they’re out for the “little guy” but Always take care of the “big guys”. Always . They’ll squeeze out the little people so those with the means can have fun. Then they’ll complain that their “little people” need more to live on. Then they’ll raise the minimum wage and the little people will be happy. That will priced out more middle income folks. Until it’s only the wealthy visiting being served by the peasants. Hope I’m wrong. Let’s check back in 25 years.
My 1st visit to Hawaii was in 1989, arriving in Honolulu. We also visited Kauai, the Big Island and Molokai. Hawaii was a “special place” and when we returned almost 7 years later, arriving in Honolulu and visiting Maui a few days later, the Aloha spirit was still alive. The Sheraton in Honolulu had Hawaiian music and Hula that everyone could enjoy from the pool for free, the desk people were Hawaiians with flowers in their hair, always greeting you with a smile. When we arrived at the Kapalua airport, we were picked up by the driver from the resort and he was Hawaiian. I would not mind going back to that time. Mass tourism is never good. It doesn’t matter how much money they throw at you. As they say, money doesn’t buy love.
I would love to see some reliable polling from Hawaii residents (particularly those on Maui) that indicates the true sentiment regarding tourism. Is the anti-tourism faction a small, but overly vocal minority? Or is this attitude more popular than that? Given how much of the islands’ economy (and government treasuries) is dependent on tourism, I wonder how local folks really feel about this issue.
That’s a great question, Eric. After vacationing here for ten consecutive years we finally bought a condo on the Big Island 4 years ago and now spend winters here. In my opinion, the anti-tourist sentiment is mostly a small vocal collective composed of frustrated locals and local Kingdom advocates who see all tourists as colonial extensions of Captain Cook. On the one hand they advocate for self-determination, while gladly accepting their monthly EBT cards. The frustrated locals, OTOH, have a valid point in that they are finding it next to impossible to remain here due to the very high cost of living that is forcing many to seek a more reasonable standard on the mainland. For that reason, Hawaii is losing a lot of residents.
We appreciate and admire the beautiful isles and their rightful owners, the Hawaiian people, but perhaps this year will mark our last visit there as it appears only the wealthy can afford to visit and experience what’s left of the Aloha spirit. My wish is for the islands to return to those who respect the land and its peoples…Molokai seems to be doing it right. What a relief from the crass commercialism of some other islands.
This has all been covered before, but that state of Hawaii continues to shout ” Stay Away” at the top of their collective lungs. Of course, the local business owners don’t feel this way, but it is becoming cost prohibitive and offensive to book at The Fairmont or Four Seasons like we have for over 20 years. Corporate and government greed is not serving the general public. We are traveling to Europe and Napa. Yes, it is still expensive, but we feel welcomed.
Unfortunately, there are not many “local” businesses and obviously, the Fairmont isn’t either. Neither is the Westin in Kaanapali which is now mostly timeshares. People buy at Costco (not local), Safeway (not local) and mostly spend their money in that resort. Local businesses are in Makawao, Kula, Paia etc. Most of those destinations are not advertised to tourists, since they don’t have mega resorts. One thing that tourists don’t seem to realize is that the money they spend (although complaining about the cost) also increases the prices for locals.
P.S.
What will happen to Hawaii Residents & their local families who book tickets to or from the mainland? So these new taxes will hit them too, at the same time that Hawaii Residents are already taxed to the hilt. This is truly “highway robbery”! Perhaps these expected millions of new tax dollars from out-of-State “tourists” [how does the State know that these mere “tourists” aren’t coming here to work?!] can flow back to Hawaii Residents in the form of State tax relief. I doubt it. This State has found more ways to waste money than I can count over my 40+ years here.
Hawaii residents don’t pay those taxes, at least not at the Outrigger in Honolulu and they are other resorts that have Kamaaina discounts. Also, Hawaiians who live on the mainland and come visit Hawaii, usually stay with their friends and relatives.
Just wondering what Hawaii does with all the current tax revenue. It isn’t being used for any infracture that I can see. Roads, powerlines, sewer. Almost no improvements that are visible. Hawaii must be making millions and millions a year on tourist tax money. So where does it go?
The fact that the state is unwilling to listen to the advice of the World Travel and Tourism Council, which is based on common sense, tells me that Gov. Green and the people making these tax proposals are not only on a power high but are completely ignorant as to what their policies are doing not only to tourists but to their own citizens. Unfortunately by the time the locals decide they have had enough, it may be too late to save the state from self destruction. So sad.
Aloha BOH, and Mahalo for keeping us all in-the-loop on all things Hawaii. My 2 cents worth is that the proposed fees and tax structure will alter the nature of Hawaiian tourism profile, favoring “one-and-done”, “trip of a lifetime, bucket-list” visitors, and discouraging regular or periodic return visitors who have “been-there, seen-that” for thou high profile tourist spots and experiences, but return over-and-over again for the love of the land and culture.
That, of course, is Hawaii’s business and Hawaii’s choice to make!
Best wishes for us all, and for a sustainable future.
I love Hawaii. Would move there if it wasn’t for the job and housing costs. Unfortunately with inflation and increased taxes I can no longer go to Hawaii. Sad that the average person can afford to travel anymore.
Hawaii was just crying to bring tourist back to Maui, since the fire, they already seen the impact on how no tourism affects their own lifestyle. So making it so tourist don’t want to come is not going to solve their problem but just create more.
how do they think all the hotels and condo managment people are going to react if their occupancy is only half. They need to rethink this before the outcome isn’t what they envision.
Who works at the hotels and resorts on Maui? I’m pretty certain it is people who live on Maui (aka “locals”) and need a job to support themselves and families. But, maybe you are right, and the locals won’t care.
Check the average hourly rate for hotel workers (~$23/hour) or ~$46,000/year. With the average long-term housing rental costs at ~$3,000/month, that leaves ~$10K for those who work at these mostly mainland-based owners hotels and resorts.
Unfortunately, that is not the case (but should be). Many resorts and restaurants hire people from California and elsewhere. Hawaiians are the minority.
Hawaiians are the minority, but that’s only because only 10% of the population of the islands are Hawaiian. The rest of the workers are residents of Maui, but their ancestors hail from elsewhere, like from other Pacific Islands, the Philippines, Japan, and elsewhere in the United States.
That doesn’t make them any less deserving of a job.
Rich
I have been going to Maui since 2008 and evee year the taxes go up and every year I don’t see any change at all.
I was there in December and that’s the last time I will go. Taxes are going to drive all the tourists away including the ones who like to spend money because they can go elsewhere and get better accommodations for cheaper.
The people who live there will eventually have to cover the money that comes from tourists. That is when you will see a mass migration out of the islands because nobody will be able to afford to live there.
The government there is crooked or inept yet people keep voting for them.
You reap what you sow, be careful what you wish for
Bad Idea. #Taxation Without Representation. Tourists have options, while the wealthy won’t care. Doesn’t Hawaii State Government know that Hawaii Residents also book other-island hotels & rental cars ?! So if one goal is to not hurt the locals, then there should be Zero accommodation taxes and Zero rental car taxes for anyone presenting a Hawaii State photo I.D. or a Hawaii driver’s license.
One morning these legislators will awake to island after island of empty hotel rooms and won’t have a clue as to why. They are the “why.”
In November, my best buddy from the Marines will be interred at Punchbowl. It will be my last trip to Hawaii – the first (courtesy of the Marines) was in 1965.
No, the fees will not be the only reason. But if the govt doesn’t want me to come, that mind pollution will become evident in the people as well.
Where do all the fees and taxes (paid by locals and tourists) go – much of Oahu looks like a 3rd world country. The beaches, beautiful as they are, are not enough to keep people coming.
My wife and I are spending this weekend on Oahu. Our friends drove us down to Makapu`u Light house trail this morning (a very popular paved walking path). The people we are staying with live near the Queen Emma summer house, and so we had to drive all across the city on the way. I was surprised at how old and tired Honolulu is.
Semper fi. I spent the best 2 years of my childhood at Marine Corp Air Station Kaneohe. Eventually I had family on Maui, and my husband and I bought our Maui home 20 years ago (we could never afford it now). Like most of us who live here, I have mixed feelings about visitors. You folks are like family, but over the years, you have grown into the branch that is just too big. Maui is a small island and at times the percentage of visitors on it compared to residents is huge. I wish I were bright enough to have an answer to how to manage so much love for Maui. Already too many of our kids live on the Mainland. Just got a new baby in the ohana and I fear she will be 6th generation Maui born, raised, but then gone.
Do the powers that be in Hawaii not realize that tourism is the only thing that supports Hawaii?? I have been visiting since 1969 and the changes have been heartbreaking. What will residents do to support themselves without the tourist industry? Does the state have exports, etc. that I don’t know about? Me, and now for the past 30 years my family, have been respectful and joyful visitors! Hawaii is our happy place. We are going to Kauai in May and are now wondering what kind of situation we will be going into. Will it be the Aloha we have always been given and give in return, or will we face hostility and animosity? It is heartbreaking.
Check out “Pacific Biodiesel”. Looking forward to the next sunflower festival on Maui!
While significant, tourism accounts for 25% of GDP annually. That’s a lot, but over tourism reaps its own impacts on an already over stressed ecosystem. For example, dive off Maui. It is heartbreaking to see the amount of dead coral from toxic sunscreens, runoff and literally damaging coral from divers and boat operations.
Agree. When we dove off Kehea many of the turtles had major tumors, but this is not caused by tourists, rather pollution caused mostly by local farming runoff.
The figure for tourism reliance is Much higher for Maui – more like 40% of GDP, and 51% of jobs that are directly related to tourism.
About the coral, Maui passed a law at the end of 2022 that banned all non-mineral based sunscreen products. Hopefully, that will help the coral.
Regarding the non-mineral sunscreens, nobody will check it when you come in. In addition, the agricultural inspection is only when you “leave Hawaii”, not when you arrive. I have asked them why they protect the mainland instead of protecting the islands, but never received a clear response.
Eva, it goes a long way that because the sunscreen law was passed, not a single non-mineral sunscreen is sold on the entire island of Maui.
I agree that the agricultural inspection should go both ways.
while this is patially true, “dead coral from toxic sunscreens, runoff and literally damaging coral from divers and boat operations”. Everyone living on the islands, the past use of plastics, many many other factors and each individual is to blame. Any store owner, any farmer, any local, any visitor….the list goes on. Too Many People In The World Now.
I lived in Oahu from 84-87 and have since gone back more than 30 times, sometimes making more than one visit a year. My daughters, who are 13 and 15, have visited Hawaii seven times in their young lives. My entire family loves going there but I wonder if this next trip we have planned this year might not be our last.
I’m not here to tell the Hawaii state government or its residents what to do. At the same time, if they enact policies that are not to my interest, I’ll just take my tourism business elsewhere. It just seems to me that, even though tourism is the lifeblood of Hawaii, the issue is being politicized and tourists are being targeted as the main reasons for Hawaii’s myriad problems.
You all did read about the purpose of all of these new fees, right?
The purpose is to reduce tourism.
So you leave a post here saying “Fees and prices are getting too high, I’m not coming anymore”. Hundreds and hundreds of these posts.
Not saying there is something alternative to post, but it’s interesting to see how effective these high-fee strategies are working and having an immediate effect!
Dont believe everything you read., especially with greed, and politics being in full force. The officials who state this are not making an intellectual statement. The fees would not keep me away, it is the constant whining.
Hopefully that will stop further construction of new resorts ….
Did a comparison BVI 3 weeks. Flight & lodging $5022. A $10. Environmental Fee on arrival. $20 upon departure… $15 for locals. No sales tax. Same 3 weeks LIH $8167. + the two proposed fee increases $75. + hidden lodging fees in package 47.50 resort fee+ 47.50 imposed tax + 25 self park fee each per day. Total $10,762. Plus sales tax on purchases, beach fees, park fees.Well over double.
Thank you for this analysis.
It’s been proven a reduction in tax rates increases tax revenue.
Increased tax rates result in the opposite.
Higher taxes and additional fees will cut tourism numbers, but there are few places in the world that compare to Hawaii’s plethora of beautiful, natural wonders. I have visited French Polynesia, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Guinea as comparable, but each requires a long flight, passport and considerable planning. Each had their beauty, but try to pick a comparable, accessible mainland location that compares. Except for a few Caribbean islands, most are flat atolls. Pretty sand and water with little variation.
In the long run, those reduced numbers will reap visitors with the resources and respect for what Hawaii needs to retain.
So only rich people can appreciate or respect the islands and people? I have observed just the opposite. Perhaps I misunderstood your comment.
This is getting ridiculous, tax the tourist so all they can afford when they’re hear is a Costco hotdog, we will see most of the tourism, which we are seeing now go to Mexico and Costa Rica so much for the greedy politicians did want to make more money on the back of the tourists, tourists have many other choices for destinations if all these taxes go through, you will see next to nail for tourists here, these politicians with these ideas need to go 😡
As far as higher taxes are concerned, I view that as just another biproduct of inflation caused by our own Federal Reserve Board authorizing the U.S. Treasury to print more and more paper dollars. It can all be traced back to inflationary monetary policy because it simply takes more paper dollars to acquire the same amount of anything, whether it’s a vacation in Hawaii, a dozen eggs from the grocery store, a pound of good coffee, or a meal out in a good restaurant. The only way to overcome that is to stay invested in assets that will do better than inflation. What better place to accomplish that than in Hawaii, where everybody wants to visit or live. The Kona Costco makes that even more possible with their $4.99 rotisserie chicken. 🙂
I have 4 weeks timeshare in Hawaii and I will no longer tip for anything! All tourists need to immediately stop tipping and spend as little as possible while in Hawaii
Please boycott Hawaii’s economy in any way possible.
We’ve upped our tipping to 25-30%. It’s not the restaurant servers who are anti-tourist. We need them – and we need to help them feed their families.
well, that will hurt our poorest , least well paid workers and won’t hurt the big hotels or the restaurant owners or the politicians at all. But, yeah, thanks for coming, I guess
from a Hawaii resident tryingto surive with our cost of housing, food and car maintenance and taxes etc
Just when I’m thinking about another 3 week trip… this happens….
Outrageous taxes! And rental cars are already so high priced. This won’t stop people from visiting; just an unconscionable taxing and feeing us to death! Vote out these legislators and Governor.
And I’m not the least bit surprised that the belief on behalf of the Hawaii legislature that you can actually tax your way into prosperity is something they still believe in while it has failed Everywhere else the concept has been applied. And Green has now become a complete embarrassment in any and all ways possible because of this and his role during the scamdemic!
Agree. When we dove off Kehea many of the turtles had major tumors, but this is not caused by tourists, rather pollution caused mostly by local farming runoff.
I totally agree with your reader Allan! We have skipped Hawaii for 2024 because the airfare was $2000…up from about $1300-1400 when we went in January2023! Car rentals for a month now top $2,000! I also question how much longer I will be able to visit Hawaii. I just hope the residents can make a living when we all stop coming.
Personally, I get the impression that the politicians in Hawaii are making a bet. And that bet entails that, no matter how much they raise taxes, people will still pay outrageous prices to vacation and possibly live in Hawaii and the goose will continue to lay golden eggs forevermore.
It’s a dangerous bet to make because Hawaii, without the massive funds that tourism injects into its coffers, can easily become another failed developing state. I mean, there’s nothing that Hawaii produces that the rest of the world can’t live without or isn’t better or cheaper elsewhere.
Not sure where you are coming from and I assume the $2K airfare you are mentioning is not per person? There might be certain days where the airfare is more expensive, but generally they haven’t gone up that much to and from Hawaii…that said, I am generally flexible with my dates.
If you live on the West Coast, then you can still get good deals on flights to Hawaii. If you don’t, then you can pretty much resign yourself to paying anywhere from $800-1200 per person on the low end. For our next, and more than likely last, trip to Hawaii, at least as a family, we decided to drive to LA from Salt Lake City because the fares were so much lower.
I can’t believe that we have another state that wants to cut their own throat. If tourists stop going to Hawaii, lets just see how they plan to maintain their way of living without the tourist dollars. Are tourists expected to pay for all their ineptitude? Now it looks like the runways on 4 of the islands need major maintenance, who’s going to pay for that, another tourist tax?
I doubt these new taxes will affect tourists coming to the islands. What it will do is affect the spending that is done in local businesses
Instead of shopping and taking tours they will hang out at beaches and hotel pools. They will have the same budget just spend it differently
You are so right. I love BI. Taxes and fees go up we will spend less on restaurants and more at Costco.
What is the Hawaiian government thinking?? This sounds like gross mismanagement of collected funds and a desire to pander to locals perhaps in an effort to stay in office.
To the best of my knowledge no other state directly asks tourists to fund their fire and climate efforts.
Hawaii you are losing your core economic engine!
I do understand the attempt to balance tourism dollars (and face it, folks, they’re not generating revenue with semiconductor facilities or other internationally significant manufacturing facilities which, but the way would help the locals and the local governments) with environmentally friendly pressures from the locals, but I’ll bet if a substantial effort to reduce tourism to a trickle of what it has historically been (think 10%), they would be falling all over themselves to figure out how to get that back. That’s my solution. Send a message by not visiting. With family on Oahu and a regularly scheduled visit to Maui, I’ll suffer personally. Time to help the elected people understand. Don’t. Go. Back. Until. They. Get. It.
I guess it was my “resort fee” that was waived at the Outrigger in Honolulu. I do know that car rental fees are the same for residents than for tourists, but how often do local residents need to rent a car?
Hi Eva.
Yes many rate offers avoid resort fees.
Aloha.
We are from Canada, the expense of the exchange rate is already a burden. Which is not in our control but increases the trip costs. we have been coming for 8 years now and love our trips.
we consider ourselves well aware of environmental issues and respect all of the Hawaiian cultural aspects.
Car rental and staying costs have increased enormously.
I dont mind fees for environmental and park uses.
There will reach and endpoint when we can’t afford to come anymore.
All respect to Hawaii .
Aloha Canada
As a Maui resident, I simply want to say hi and thank you for your appreciation of this special place and all your economic support of our tourist industry over the years. Some of my family work in tourism (as a second or third job cuz expensive here, yeah?). It is one big slice of our economy. I also wanted to say (and I’m a US citizen) that generally speaking, I find Canadian folk to be very responsible and mindful visitors (ah, all these modern buzzwords). You guys may still smoke but you don’t leave your butts on the beach. And you no whine like some Americans. You all seem to be real happy to be here. I would be too if it were January and I lived Alberta..
We have been coming to Maui from the east coast for 17 years spending thousands of dollars. If taxes and fees start making it harder to visit, while we will be disappointed, there’s plenty of other destinations that will welcome our tourists dollars
Do all the proposed increases affect time share owners as well?
As I recall, I still get charged the occupancy tax on my Timeshare. 😠
If those taxes went to better roads, nicer bathrooms at parks and beaches, and supported the airports and functional runways maybe it would be less objectionable.
“If those taxes went to better roads, nicer bathrooms at parks and beaches, and supported the airports and functional runways …”
Good one!
Rather than supporting inept government.
As much as we would love to see our grandson in Maui, we will not be going there or any island. The state of Hawaii has just banned visitors from all islands. They don’t want us there but all business owners need us..they won’t survive.
If the business owners don’t get active in forcing political changes in government they will be out of business, period.
Fall of 2033, revisited Maui with our grown kids and families. Lots of hesitation before we went, mostly from things that we heard and read in the press. Sadly, most info was true. Still a special place, but pretty much priced out now. Lots of places and vacations priced better and just as remarkable. Can’t imagine when it will be affordable enough to revisit again.
I believe most visitors will adjust to a modest tourist-targeted fee, understanding the goal in mind. A Green Fee might actually make you feel good about “contributing.” Rental cars, well, there’s always a workaround – If you really Need a car, “carsharing” will serve that need (or just quit whining and pay the tax). The Accommodation Fees are part of the game, but upwards of 22% (I could easily see that number coming) will make potential travelers squirm, but not quit Hawaii because we will rationalize that the islands are a special place. Vacation Rental Tax of 33% is a killer. Game Over. If that comes to pass every corporate resort will be a White Lotus.
As much as I love Hawaii, if taxes continue to go up and up, I’ll stop going to Hawaii and discourage others from going as well. I guess Hawaii will become just like Bora Bora, Cannes, and St. Moritz, where only the rich need apply… 🙁
Didn’t you read from the past posts? Gov. Green to tackle low end visitors?
If the goal is to “reduce the number of days visitors spend”, I think they’re on the right track. After 30 days over two trips in the last 24 months, my future days spent will be zero. Good luck!
We have been traveling to Hawaii for 35 years. We go a minimum of twice a year and sometimes as many as 4 times. We feel that Hawaii has been very irresponsible with the tax dollars they collect. I believe we are going to be looking for a new place to vacation very soon. They do not appreciate the visitors and what they bring to the islands. It’s very sad that they are so greedy and don’t put the tax $$ where it would do them the most good. Typical government “let’s just raise taxes!” We’re done!
Rather not go down this path, but as a San Diego resident for 35+ years, it’s how one political party sees things. They say they’re out for the “little guy” but Always take care of the “big guys”. Always . They’ll squeeze out the little people so those with the means can have fun. Then they’ll complain that their “little people” need more to live on. Then they’ll raise the minimum wage and the little people will be happy. That will priced out more middle income folks. Until it’s only the wealthy visiting being served by the peasants. Hope I’m wrong. Let’s check back in 25 years.
Our family of 7 will support the governors visitor goals by not visiting at all. Thanks for 16 years of wonderful vacations.
My 1st visit to Hawaii was in 1989, arriving in Honolulu. We also visited Kauai, the Big Island and Molokai. Hawaii was a “special place” and when we returned almost 7 years later, arriving in Honolulu and visiting Maui a few days later, the Aloha spirit was still alive. The Sheraton in Honolulu had Hawaiian music and Hula that everyone could enjoy from the pool for free, the desk people were Hawaiians with flowers in their hair, always greeting you with a smile. When we arrived at the Kapalua airport, we were picked up by the driver from the resort and he was Hawaiian. I would not mind going back to that time. Mass tourism is never good. It doesn’t matter how much money they throw at you. As they say, money doesn’t buy love.
I would love to see some reliable polling from Hawaii residents (particularly those on Maui) that indicates the true sentiment regarding tourism. Is the anti-tourism faction a small, but overly vocal minority? Or is this attitude more popular than that? Given how much of the islands’ economy (and government treasuries) is dependent on tourism, I wonder how local folks really feel about this issue.
That’s a great question, Eric. After vacationing here for ten consecutive years we finally bought a condo on the Big Island 4 years ago and now spend winters here. In my opinion, the anti-tourist sentiment is mostly a small vocal collective composed of frustrated locals and local Kingdom advocates who see all tourists as colonial extensions of Captain Cook. On the one hand they advocate for self-determination, while gladly accepting their monthly EBT cards. The frustrated locals, OTOH, have a valid point in that they are finding it next to impossible to remain here due to the very high cost of living that is forcing many to seek a more reasonable standard on the mainland. For that reason, Hawaii is losing a lot of residents.
We appreciate and admire the beautiful isles and their rightful owners, the Hawaiian people, but perhaps this year will mark our last visit there as it appears only the wealthy can afford to visit and experience what’s left of the Aloha spirit. My wish is for the islands to return to those who respect the land and its peoples…Molokai seems to be doing it right. What a relief from the crass commercialism of some other islands.
This has all been covered before, but that state of Hawaii continues to shout ” Stay Away” at the top of their collective lungs. Of course, the local business owners don’t feel this way, but it is becoming cost prohibitive and offensive to book at The Fairmont or Four Seasons like we have for over 20 years. Corporate and government greed is not serving the general public. We are traveling to Europe and Napa. Yes, it is still expensive, but we feel welcomed.
Unfortunately, there are not many “local” businesses and obviously, the Fairmont isn’t either. Neither is the Westin in Kaanapali which is now mostly timeshares. People buy at Costco (not local), Safeway (not local) and mostly spend their money in that resort. Local businesses are in Makawao, Kula, Paia etc. Most of those destinations are not advertised to tourists, since they don’t have mega resorts. One thing that tourists don’t seem to realize is that the money they spend (although complaining about the cost) also increases the prices for locals.
P.S.
What will happen to Hawaii Residents & their local families who book tickets to or from the mainland? So these new taxes will hit them too, at the same time that Hawaii Residents are already taxed to the hilt. This is truly “highway robbery”! Perhaps these expected millions of new tax dollars from out-of-State “tourists” [how does the State know that these mere “tourists” aren’t coming here to work?!] can flow back to Hawaii Residents in the form of State tax relief. I doubt it. This State has found more ways to waste money than I can count over my 40+ years here.
Hawaii residents don’t pay those taxes, at least not at the Outrigger in Honolulu and they are other resorts that have Kamaaina discounts. Also, Hawaiians who live on the mainland and come visit Hawaii, usually stay with their friends and relatives.
Hi Eva.
Yes, Hawaii residents pay all the same accommodation and car rental taxes, without exception.
Aloha.
“Hawaii residents are already taxed to the hilt?”
Hawaii residents have The lowest tax rates in the entire country.
An average large house on Maui costs the full-time resident owner 3-5K in property taxes.
A 2-bedroom vacation condo costs the part-time resident owner $16-18K in property taxes.
Where did you hear that Hawaiian residents are “taxed to death”?
Just wondering what Hawaii does with all the current tax revenue. It isn’t being used for any infracture that I can see. Roads, powerlines, sewer. Almost no improvements that are visible. Hawaii must be making millions and millions a year on tourist tax money. So where does it go?
The fact that the state is unwilling to listen to the advice of the World Travel and Tourism Council, which is based on common sense, tells me that Gov. Green and the people making these tax proposals are not only on a power high but are completely ignorant as to what their policies are doing not only to tourists but to their own citizens. Unfortunately by the time the locals decide they have had enough, it may be too late to save the state from self destruction. So sad.
Aloha BOH, and Mahalo for keeping us all in-the-loop on all things Hawaii. My 2 cents worth is that the proposed fees and tax structure will alter the nature of Hawaiian tourism profile, favoring “one-and-done”, “trip of a lifetime, bucket-list” visitors, and discouraging regular or periodic return visitors who have “been-there, seen-that” for thou high profile tourist spots and experiences, but return over-and-over again for the love of the land and culture.
That, of course, is Hawaii’s business and Hawaii’s choice to make!
Best wishes for us all, and for a sustainable future.
Peter L
I love Hawaii. Would move there if it wasn’t for the job and housing costs. Unfortunately with inflation and increased taxes I can no longer go to Hawaii. Sad that the average person can afford to travel anymore.
I personally welcome a $100 fee per person setting foot on the islands.
Considering, we spend at least $8000 for a 6 week stay, whats another $200. Or maybe a per week fee of $15pp would suffice.
Something needs to be done to assist the islands to transition away from a tourism only economy, and help with tourist impact.
Hawaii was just crying to bring tourist back to Maui, since the fire, they already seen the impact on how no tourism affects their own lifestyle. So making it so tourist don’t want to come is not going to solve their problem but just create more.
how do they think all the hotels and condo managment people are going to react if their occupancy is only half. They need to rethink this before the outcome isn’t what they envision.
that’s the point. Hotels and resorts on Maui are not managed by locals, so why would they care? Most of that money goes to the mainland anyway.
Who works at the hotels and resorts on Maui? I’m pretty certain it is people who live on Maui (aka “locals”) and need a job to support themselves and families. But, maybe you are right, and the locals won’t care.
Check the average hourly rate for hotel workers (~$23/hour) or ~$46,000/year. With the average long-term housing rental costs at ~$3,000/month, that leaves ~$10K for those who work at these mostly mainland-based owners hotels and resorts.
Unfortunately, that is not the case (but should be). Many resorts and restaurants hire people from California and elsewhere. Hawaiians are the minority.
Hawaiians are the minority, but that’s only because only 10% of the population of the islands are Hawaiian. The rest of the workers are residents of Maui, but their ancestors hail from elsewhere, like from other Pacific Islands, the Philippines, Japan, and elsewhere in the United States.
That doesn’t make them any less deserving of a job.
I have been going to Maui since 2008 and evee year the taxes go up and every year I don’t see any change at all.
I was there in December and that’s the last time I will go. Taxes are going to drive all the tourists away including the ones who like to spend money because they can go elsewhere and get better accommodations for cheaper.
The people who live there will eventually have to cover the money that comes from tourists. That is when you will see a mass migration out of the islands because nobody will be able to afford to live there.
The government there is crooked or inept yet people keep voting for them.
You reap what you sow, be careful what you wish for
Bad Idea. #Taxation Without Representation. Tourists have options, while the wealthy won’t care. Doesn’t Hawaii State Government know that Hawaii Residents also book other-island hotels & rental cars ?! So if one goal is to not hurt the locals, then there should be Zero accommodation taxes and Zero rental car taxes for anyone presenting a Hawaii State photo I.D. or a Hawaii driver’s license.
One morning these legislators will awake to island after island of empty hotel rooms and won’t have a clue as to why. They are the “why.”
In November, my best buddy from the Marines will be interred at Punchbowl. It will be my last trip to Hawaii – the first (courtesy of the Marines) was in 1965.
No, the fees will not be the only reason. But if the govt doesn’t want me to come, that mind pollution will become evident in the people as well.
Where do all the fees and taxes (paid by locals and tourists) go – much of Oahu looks like a 3rd world country. The beaches, beautiful as they are, are not enough to keep people coming.
My wife and I are spending this weekend on Oahu. Our friends drove us down to Makapu`u Light house trail this morning (a very popular paved walking path). The people we are staying with live near the Queen Emma summer house, and so we had to drive all across the city on the way. I was surprised at how old and tired Honolulu is.
Aloha Rod,
Semper fi. I spent the best 2 years of my childhood at Marine Corp Air Station Kaneohe. Eventually I had family on Maui, and my husband and I bought our Maui home 20 years ago (we could never afford it now). Like most of us who live here, I have mixed feelings about visitors. You folks are like family, but over the years, you have grown into the branch that is just too big. Maui is a small island and at times the percentage of visitors on it compared to residents is huge. I wish I were bright enough to have an answer to how to manage so much love for Maui. Already too many of our kids live on the Mainland. Just got a new baby in the ohana and I fear she will be 6th generation Maui born, raised, but then gone.