Riding the surge of global travel in 2019, the island of Maui saw visitor arrivals reach a record 3.06 million visitors. However, since 2020 and the global pandemic, many visitors that do travel to Maui are more likely to be independent travellers (81%) who do self-guided tours (83%), with a small number travelling to historic sites (21%) or museums (19%).
To counteract this, as part of the agreement formulated by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA), Hawaii is driving a plan that uses the power of tourism engagement with local communities and culture to build a regenerative tourism model!
Maui
Engaging in local culture and participating in volunteer programs, particularly in a way that provides employment to Native Hawaiians, is one of the keyways that tourism can drive positive impacts for the people who live and work in these destinations!
Dedicate some time to the Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge to help replace the previously established invasive Kiawe forests, and replenish the natural, native species in this dryland forest ecosystem. Or why not help Leilani Farm Sanctuary look after rescued farm animals live in harmony? You could also take part in the Na Mahiʻai ʻo Ke‘anae (The Farmers of Ke‘anae) monthly community work day, where you’ll learn all about the history of taro farming from local Ke‘anae farmers, and help plant, harvest and maintain this important produce.
Top tip: Seek out the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, which holds fun activities designed educate visitors about Hawaii’s culture. Why not try a course in lei-making or surfing, led by Native Hawaiians?
Kauaʻi
In Hā‘ena State Park, visitors can gain access to some of the most popular beaches and trails on Kauaʻi without negatively impacting the land or pushing locals out. A daily visitor cap, paid parking and entry for non-residents, and native guides to educate visitors on the area, all form part of this Hanalei Initiative and provide opportunities for Native Hawaiian lineal descendants to be part of overtourism solutions.
Did you know?
There are major programs within Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s Community-Based Tourism Program: Kukulu Ola Program, Aloha ‘Āina Program, Community Enrichment Program (HTA). Also, the Division of State Parks, offers the Adopt-A-Park and Curatorship programs in which you can volunteer. Check them out!