Business & Tourism
Hawai‘i’s economy, in all its complexities.
What do we talk about when we talk about ‘the economy’ in the Islands? We talk about the cost of living, the cost of doing business, what it takes to make Hawai‘i a place where people can succeed, where they can build a career or a business and afford to raise a family. We cover such issues as Hawai‘i’s efforts to maintain a strong, sustainable tourism industry, but also its attempts diversify the economy. We look at everything from small business success stories to major players such as Hawaiian Airlines and the hotel industry.
News

UHERO warns higher prices to come as Iran war continues
UHERO's second quarterly forecast significantly less rosy than the first after Strait of Hormuz closure.
Michael BrestovanskyMay 15, 2026

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue aims for record year
April was a record month for the Hawai‘i-based chain which has opened 13 new locations this year, including six in April alone. CEO Elisia Flores says the chain expects to open even more before 2026 ends.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 15, 2026

'Play with a purpose' at this kids gym in Honolulu
Owner of We Rock the Spectrum Honolulu John Ross shares the intention behind his first venture inspired by his son with autism and the families who are navigating a similar path. He describes it as "a place where every child, neurotypical or not, is genuinely celebrated."
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 15, 2026

Zippy's, Hawaiian Island Creations collab launches this month
The new collection that celebrates the Surf Pac, surfing and the "long-standing relationship between the two." It includes a T-shirt, towel and decals.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 12, 2026

Molokaʻi-based nail art business owner's tips for design
Līhau Willing, founder of Hawaiʻi-born brand Iwi Nails, talks about the evolution of her business since 2021.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 11, 2026

Zippy's to open newest Las Vegas location
Zippy's Camino Al Norte will open on Tuesday, May 19.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 09, 2026

Hanalei's 'Tiki Home' one of Vrbo's top vacation rentals
The 4,500-square-foot home, just 700 feet from Hanalei Bay, was one of 15 recently recognized as Vrbo's 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 07, 2026

Stix Asia expanding to Las Vegas
The food hall, whose first location opened in Waikīkī in 2023, will open at UnCommons in southwest Las Vegas this fall.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 06, 2026

Ala Moana Center nominated for 10Best list
Several other Hawai‘i businesses are also up for spots on various other 10Best lists.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 05, 2026

Chef Roy Yamaguchi to launch new oceanfront restaurant on Kaua‘i
Ocean House by Roy Yamaguchi is set to open next month at Outrigger Kaua‘i Beach Resort & Spa in Līhu‘e.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 04, 2026

Outrigger Hospitality Group starts $100M 'transformation' of Waikīkī Beach Resort
The company says the resort is being "reimagined as a design-led, barefoot luxury destination more deeply connected to the ocean, surf culture and sense of place that defines Waikīkī."
Stephanie SalmonsApril 29, 2026

SPAM JAM draws thousands to Waikīkī
This year's event featured 25 restaurants and 45 total vendors, as well as Spam-themed drone show and more.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 28, 2026