How Much Money Does Hawaii Make From Tourism?

By Michael Ferguson

Hawaii is a popular vacation destination, known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and rich culture. Tourism is the state’s largest industry, contributing significantly to the local economy. In this article, we will take a closer look at how much money Hawaii makes from tourism.

The Importance of Tourism in Hawaii

Tourism plays a vital role in Hawaii’s economy, accounting for over 20% of the state’s gross domestic product (GDP). In 2019, the state welcomed over 10 million visitors who spent a total of $17.75 billion during their stay.

Breakdown of Tourist Spending

  • Lodging: Visitors spent over $5 billion on accommodations, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.
  • Food and Beverage: Tourists spent approximately $3.7 billion on dining out and purchasing food and drinks.
  • Shopping: Shopping was another significant expenditure for tourists in Hawaii, with visitors spending $2.5 billion on retail purchases.
  • Activities: From surfing lessons to helicopter tours, tourists spent over $4 billion on various activities during their stay.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Hawaii’s Tourism Industry

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on tourism in Hawaii. With travel restrictions in place and many businesses closed or operating at reduced capacity, the number of visitors has declined dramatically.

According to data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), visitor arrivals to the state dropped by over 70% in 2020 compared to the previous year. As a result, tourism-related spending decreased by approximately $11 billion.

The Road to Recovery

While tourism in Hawaii has been severely impacted by the pandemic, there are signs of recovery. As vaccination rates increase and travel restrictions are lifted, more visitors are returning to the islands.

The HTA is working closely with local businesses and tourism partners to promote safe travel to Hawaii. The state has implemented a Safe Travels program that requires visitors to take a COVID-19 test before arriving in Hawaii and follow other safety protocols during their stay.

Conclusion

Tourism is a critical industry for Hawaii, contributing billions of dollars to the state’s economy each year. While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry, there are signs of recovery as more visitors return to the islands. By working together and following safety guidelines, we can help support the recovery of Hawaii’s tourism industry and ensure that it continues to thrive for years to come.