#PostPandemicTourism

A downturn in Hawaii’s tourism this summer serves as a warning to island destinations worldwide. A new report shows fewer visitors than last year, signaling potential stress on local livelihoods and the broader travel economy. Thailand, navigating post-pandemic shifts, can draw important lessons from Hawaii’s experience.

Historically, Hawaii welcomed more than 10 million visitors annually, a benchmark for island economies. The decline results from several factors, including lingering effects of the 2023 Lahaina fire, higher travel costs, and broader global economic changes. Economists warn the downturn could persist, with implications for jobs and business activity in the months ahead. The situation highlights how quickly tourism-dependent communities feel the impact of shocks.

Hawaii’s tourism sector — long considered a bellwether for global island destinations — is experiencing a significant downturn this summer, sparking worry among industry experts, policymakers, and local businesses. A new report by SFGate highlights that June’s daily visitor counts are down sharply compared to 2024, with similar trends expected for July and August, shattering hopes for a robust seasonal recovery (SFGate). The story holds vital lessons for the Thai tourism industry, which faces its own post-pandemic uncertainties.