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

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue continues Mainland expansion
The Hawai‘i-based restaurant chain has recently opened new locations in Washington and California.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 25, 2026

Honolulu launches AI training program for O‘ahu businesses, nonprofits
The city's Office of Economic Revitalization, in partnership with Māpunawai and Skilled Tomorrow, is set to launch "AI for Everyone at Work: Training Trainers to Teach Across Generations." The program aims to help organizations on the island introduce artificial intelligence "in practical, responsible and accessible ways for a multigenerational workforce."
Stephanie SalmonsMay 23, 2026

Maui eatery included on 'legendary' best-of list
Only in Your State’s newest 50 Best list looks at 'Legendary Local Restaurants Across the U.S.' A popular Pā‘ia restaurant is included.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 21, 2026

Maui County looks to acquire water assets from Maui Land & Pineapple
The county says this move marks the first phase of a broader effort that aims to also secure other private water systems in Olowalu and Launiupoko.
Stephanie SalmonsMay 21, 2026

Jarod Hester now oversees Oʻahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center
Earlier this month, Hester succeeded P. Alfred Grace as president and CEO of the cultural attraction in Lāʻie and in his role plans to prioritize people — workforce, guests and community members. Hester, who previously served as PCC's chief operating officer and chief financial officer, is originally from New Zealand and shares what initially drew his family to Hawaiʻi nearly 13 years ago, pleasant surprises in the role so far, and his vision to continue to enhance experiences at PCC.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 18, 2026

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