HONOLULU (KHON2) – The state is looking for ways to manage tourism when it reappears in Hawaii.

Kalakaua Avenue was full of people on the afternoon of Saturday, June 12th. It was a clear sign that tourism has increased.

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A survey found that local residents want more control over the industry as visitor numbers continue to rise. The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) said it was working on a plan for responsible management of the tourism industry.

Waikiki was deserted in June 2020. The beach was overcrowded on Saturday so there is no doubt that tourism is back in full swing.

The Hawaiian tourism industry is launching a campaign aimed at “mindful travelers” when more visitors arrive

Daily arrivals for June 2021 are close to pre-pandemic levels, with an average of 27,528 travelers arriving each day. Compare that to the 34,461 average daily arrivals in June 2019 and 32,881 in June 2018.

Hawaiian residents such as Sherry Kahawaii said more had to be done to that Crowds of visitors flock to the state.

“I think we need tourism on the one hand because that brings our economy to our island, but there should be some kind of control over it, not overwhelming,” said Kahawaii.

Tourism is only supposed to increase for summer trips

“Waikiki is crazy, it seems like Waikiki times two,” said Isaiah Tavares from Honolulu. “It’s a balance, you have to find that balance.”

A survey by the University of Hawaii shows that many residents are in favor of limiting the number of tourists who can come to Hawaii and supporting the charging of entrance fees for visitors to parks or other “hotspots”.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green says fees are likely to be introduced for visitors to places like harbors, bays, and trails, but other changes might not come until later.

“This year we will be dependent on tourism,” said Green. “In the years to come, the goal will be for fewer people overall to come in order to stay longer. You’re likely to have higher overall spending, but a much smaller footprint. And that is the goal. “

In a statement, Mufi Hannemann, President and CEO of the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association said:
“It would be inadvisable to put limits on tourism as soon as it recovers. It remains our most enduring economic sector, and we should treat it as such. “

George Kam, chairman of the HTA board of directors, said efforts are being made to strike a balance between economic needs and the well-being of local communities and residents.

“We’re trying to redefine the future of Hawaiian tourism in a sustainable and healthy way,” said Kam. “Since this path that we have taken in the last 10 years, the current path is not sustainable according to all information.”

The HTA said Oahu’s Destination Management Plan (DMAP) should be drawn up in the next 45 days.

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