When and How Did Tourism Take Root in Hawaii?

By Robert Palmer

Hawaii, the tropical paradise situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. From its pristine beaches to its lush green forests, Hawaii is a haven for honeymooners, adventure seekers, and nature lovers.

But how did this small group of islands become such a popular tourist destination? Let’s take a look at the history of tourism in Hawaii.

Early Visitors

Hawaii was first settled by Polynesians around 1,500 years ago. However, it wasn’t until the late 18th century that European explorers started visiting the islands.

The first recorded visitor was British explorer Captain James Cook who arrived in 1778. He named them the “Sandwich Islands” after his patron, the Earl of Sandwich.

During this time, Hawaii was ruled by a group of powerful chiefs who controlled various parts of the island chain. They welcomed explorers like Cook as they saw them as potential allies and sources of new technology.

Missionaries and Whalers

In 1820, Christian missionaries arrived in Hawaii with the aim of converting locals to their religion. They were followed by whalers who stopped in Hawaii to stock up on food and water before heading back out to sea.

The arrival of these groups brought significant changes to Hawaiian society. The missionaries introduced new laws and customs that restricted traditional Hawaiian practices such as hula dancing. Meanwhile, whalers had a significant impact on local economies as they brought new goods that locals could trade for.

The Rise of Tourism

It wasn’t until the late 19th century that tourism began to take root in Hawaii. In 1883, Matson Navigation Company began offering luxury steamship voyages from San Francisco to Honolulu. These voyages were marketed towards wealthy Americans looking for exotic destinations to visit.

By the early 20th century, Hawaii had become a popular destination for wealthy travelers. The opening of the Moana Hotel in 1901 and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in 1927 further cemented Hawaii’s reputation as a luxurious vacation spot.

Modern Tourism

Tourism in Hawaii continued to grow throughout the 20th century. The construction of airports and highways made it easier for tourists to travel to different parts of the island chain. In the 1960s, the introduction of jet planes made it even easier for people to travel long distances.

Today, tourism is one of Hawaii’s largest industries. Millions of people visit the islands each year to enjoy its natural beauty, learn about its culture, and relax on its beaches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tourism has been an important part of Hawaii’s history for over a century. From early visitors like Captain Cook and missionaries to modern-day tourists, people have been drawn to Hawaii’s unique culture and natural beauty for generations. As technology continues to advance, it will be interesting to see how tourism in Hawaii evolves in the years to come.