What Should Tourists Know About Hawaii Tourism Natives?

Hawaii Tourism Natives hold unique perspectives on the islands’ popularity. This article explores their views, concerns, and hopes for a more sustainable and respectful future for tourism in Hawaii. SIXT.VN is committed to providing travelers with the information they need to make informed and responsible travel decisions. Learn about sustainable tourism, cultural sensitivity, and responsible travel.

1. How Did the Pandemic Impact Native Hawaiian Views on Tourism?

The pandemic offered a glimpse of a Hawaii without the constant influx of tourists, highlighting the islands’ natural beauty and tranquility. The dramatic reduction in tourism allowed residents to experience the islands in a way that was reminiscent of earlier times, free from crowded beaches and congested roads. This experience underscored the impact of mass tourism on the environment and the quality of life for local residents.

Kapulani Antonio, a Hawaiian studies educator, notes that the absence of tourists allowed the elements to “speak” again, a sentiment echoed by many Native Hawaiians who felt a renewed connection to their land and culture. This period of reflection prompted a reevaluation of the tourism industry’s role in Hawaii and the need for a more sustainable approach.

Caucasian man on paddle board in ocean

The pandemic’s impact extended beyond the environment, as it also highlighted the economic disparities exacerbated by tourism. The influx of remote workers seeking refuge in Hawaii drove up the cost of living, making it even more challenging for Native Hawaiians to afford housing and basic necessities. According to Locations Hawaii, the median sale price of a single-family home on O’ahu reached $1.1 million in June 2022, a significant increase from $835,000 just three years prior.

The frustration of local families unable to enjoy their own communities due to COVID-19 restrictions, while tourists freely roamed the beaches, further fueled the desire for change. This disparity underscored the need for a more equitable tourism model that prioritizes the well-being of residents and protects the islands’ resources.

2. How Has Tourism Historically Affected Native Hawaiians?

The current issues surrounding tourism in Hawaii are deeply rooted in the islands’ colonial past. The overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893 and the subsequent annexation by the United States in 1898 paved the way for the exploitation of Hawaii’s resources and the marginalization of its native population.

Kapulani Antonio explains that many Native Hawaiians view the islands as still occupied, never having relinquished their inherent sovereignty. This historical context is crucial for understanding the present-day concerns surrounding tourism and the desire for greater control over the islands’ future.

The transformation of Hawaii into a territory in 1900 and a state in 1959 further solidified the dominance of external interests. As Julie Au, Education, Research and Outreach director of ʻĀina Momona, points out, the marketing of Hawaii as a “paradise vacation destination” led to a decline in the Native Hawaiian population, from 97% in 1893 to just 16% by 1923. This demographic shift underscores the profound impact of tourism on the cultural and social fabric of the islands.

SIXT.VN recognizes the importance of understanding this history and its ongoing impact on Native Hawaiians. We are committed to promoting tourism practices that respect the islands’ cultural heritage and support the self-determination of its native people.

3. What Role Does Social Media Play in Raising Awareness?

Native Hawaiians have effectively utilized social media platforms to raise awareness about the social justice issues and historical context surrounding tourism. These online campaigns serve to educate visitors about the complexities of the islands’ past and the ongoing challenges faced by Native Hawaiians.

Groups like ʻĀina Momona have been particularly active in using social media to remind people about Hawaii’s colonial past. Their Instagram page serves as a platform for sharing historical information, promoting land restoration, and advocating for sustainable futures for Hawaii.

Alexa Bader, ʻĀina Momona Communications Director, emphasizes the importance of supporting Native Hawaiian non-profits that are working to protect the islands’ resources and uplift the community. By donating to these organizations, visitors can contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for Hawaii.

SIXT.VN encourages travelers to engage with these social media campaigns and learn more about the issues facing Native Hawaiians. We believe that informed travelers are more likely to make responsible choices and contribute to a positive impact on the islands.

4. What Specific Actions Can Tourists Take to Be More Respectful?

Visitors to Hawaii can take several concrete steps to demonstrate respect for the islands, its culture, and its people. These actions range from educating oneself about the islands’ history to making conscious choices about how to spend their time and money.

Kapulani Antonio urges visitors to take kuleana (responsibility) when they come, contributing to the place instead of just taking. This involves understanding the historical context, respecting cultural sites, and supporting local businesses.

One of the most important things visitors can do is to arrive educated about the islands’ history and culture. This includes learning about the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, the impact of colonialism, and the ongoing struggles for self-determination.

Visitors should also be mindful of their impact on the environment. This includes practicing the principles of Leave No Trace, avoiding high-foot-traffic areas to prevent erosion, and wearing reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.

Julie Au suggests that visitors regulate themselves and tread lightly, respecting any guidelines or restrictions in place to protect the environment or cultural sites. The slogan “visit, spend, go home” encapsulates the idea of responsible tourism that minimizes negative impacts and maximizes positive contributions.

SIXT.VN is committed to providing travelers with the resources they need to make informed and responsible choices. We offer information on cultural etiquette, sustainable tourism practices, and opportunities to support local businesses and organizations.

5. Why Is It Important to Support Native Hawaiian Organizations?

Supporting Native Hawaiian organizations is a crucial way for visitors to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for the islands. These organizations are working to address a wide range of issues, from land restoration and cultural preservation to economic development and social justice.

Alexa Bader recommends that visitors research Native groups that are trying to help the islands survive and support these grassroots efforts. By donating to these organizations, visitors can directly contribute to the well-being of the Native Hawaiian community and the protection of the islands’ resources.

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is one such organization that aims to enhance the cultural, economic, political, and community development of Native Hawaiians. The Hawaii Tourism Authority has recently selected the Council to take over brand management and support services in the US market, signaling a growing recognition of the importance of Native Hawaiian voices in the tourism industry.

SIXT.VN is proud to partner with organizations that are working to uplift the Native Hawaiian community. We believe that by supporting these efforts, we can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for the islands.

6. What Is the Significance of Land (ʻĀina) to Native Hawaiians?

Land, or ʻāina, holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for Native Hawaiians. It is seen as a source of life, a connection to ancestors, and a foundation for cultural identity. The desecration of sacred sites and the loss of access to land have had a profound impact on the Native Hawaiian community.

Kapulani Antonio explains that Native Hawaiians see the ʻāina as family and will fight to protect it like they would fight to protect their own kūpuna (grandparents). This deep connection to the land is what drives their activism and their desire for greater control over the islands’ future.

The exhumation of around 1200 ʻiwi kūpuna (ancestral bones) in Honokahua during the excavation for a Ritz-Carlton resort in 1987 is a stark example of the desecration of sacred sites that has occurred as a result of development. While the resort was eventually pushed further inland after an outpouring of Native Hawaiian activism, the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to protect these culturally significant places.

SIXT.VN recognizes the importance of respecting the ʻāina and its significance to Native Hawaiians. We encourage visitors to be mindful of their impact on the land and to support efforts to protect and preserve it for future generations.

7. How Can Tourists Help Bridge the Gap Between Cultures?

Building bridges between cultures requires understanding, empathy, and a willingness to learn from one another. Tourists can play a significant role in fostering positive relationships between visitors and Native Hawaiians by engaging with the local community, respecting cultural traditions, and supporting Native Hawaiian businesses.

Oralani Koa, Manager of Hawaiian Programming at The Westin Maui, notes that there are more Native Hawaiian cultural advisors in tourism and hospitality than ever before. These advisors play a crucial role in facilitating authentic cultural experiences for guests and ensuring that Hawaiian culture is accurately represented.

By participating in cultural activities, such as weaving, learning about native plants, and listening to moʻolelo (storytelling) and mele (songs), visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture and its values.

Kapulani Antonio emphasizes the importance of haole (foreigners) showing that they are not here to hurt Native Hawaiians, but rather to learn about their culture, appreciate it, and help. By being an ally to Hawaiians and Hawaiʻi, visitors can contribute to a more harmonious and respectful relationship between cultures.

SIXT.VN is committed to promoting cultural understanding and respect. We provide travelers with information on cultural etiquette, opportunities to engage with the local community, and resources to learn more about Hawaiian history and culture.

8. What Are Some Examples of Sustainable Tourism Practices?

Sustainable tourism practices aim to minimize the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, culture, and local economy while maximizing the benefits for local communities. Visitors to Hawaii can adopt several sustainable practices to ensure that their trip contributes to a more responsible and equitable tourism industry.

Wearing reef-safe sunscreen is one simple but effective way to protect marine life. Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, while reef-safe sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients that are less harmful to the environment.

Supporting local businesses is another important way to contribute to the local economy. By purchasing goods and services from Native Hawaiian-owned businesses, visitors can help to create jobs and support the self-determination of the community.

Conserving water and energy is also crucial in a place like Hawaii, where resources are limited. Visitors can take shorter showers, turn off lights when leaving a room, and choose accommodations that have implemented sustainable practices.

Respecting cultural sites is essential for preserving the islands’ heritage. Visitors should avoid touching or climbing on ancient structures, and should be mindful of any guidelines or restrictions in place to protect these sites.

SIXT.VN is committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices. We partner with eco-friendly accommodations, offer tours that minimize environmental impact, and provide travelers with information on how to make responsible choices.

9. How Can I Plan a Trip to Hawaii That Benefits Locals?

Planning a trip to Hawaii that benefits locals involves making conscious choices about where to stay, what to do, and how to spend your money. By prioritizing local businesses, supporting Native Hawaiian organizations, and engaging with the community, you can ensure that your trip has a positive impact on the islands.

Consider staying in locally owned accommodations, such as bed and breakfasts or vacation rentals, rather than large chain hotels. This helps to support the local economy and provides a more authentic travel experience.

Choose tours and activities that are operated by Native Hawaiians or that support local communities. These tours often provide a deeper understanding of the islands’ history and culture, and they ensure that tourism dollars are flowing back into the local economy.

Eat at local restaurants and food trucks, and purchase goods from local farmers markets and craft fairs. This helps to support local businesses and reduces the environmental impact of transporting goods from the mainland.

Volunteer your time with a Native Hawaiian organization or participate in a community service project. This is a great way to give back to the community and learn more about the issues facing Native Hawaiians.

SIXT.VN is committed to helping travelers plan trips that benefit locals. We offer a curated selection of accommodations, tours, and activities that are operated by Native Hawaiians or that support local communities.

10. What are the Current Efforts to Partner for a Sustainable Path Forward for Hawaiʻi?

There are ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between Native Hawaiians and the tourism industry, and to create a more sustainable path forward for Hawaiʻi. These efforts involve collaboration between government agencies, Native Hawaiian organizations, and the tourism industry.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority’s decision to select the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement for a contract to take over brand management and support services in the US market is a significant step forward. This partnership signals a growing recognition of the importance of Native Hawaiian voices in shaping the future of tourism.

The increasing number of Native Hawaiian cultural advisors in tourism and hospitality is another positive development. These advisors play a crucial role in facilitating authentic cultural experiences for guests and ensuring that Hawaiian culture is accurately represented.

These efforts demonstrate a growing commitment to creating a more equitable and sustainable tourism industry that benefits both visitors and Native Hawaiians. However, there is still much work to be done to address the historical injustices and ongoing challenges facing the Native Hawaiian community.

SIXT.VN is committed to supporting these efforts and to working with our partners to create a more responsible and sustainable tourism industry in Hawaiʻi. We believe that by working together, we can ensure that the islands remain a beautiful and vibrant destination for generations to come.

People swimming by waterfall

By understanding the perspectives of Hawaii tourism natives and taking concrete steps to be more respectful and responsible travelers, visitors can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for the islands. SIXT.VN is here to help you plan your trip to Hawaii, offering convenient services such as airport transfers, hotel bookings, and tours of Hanoi. Contact us today at +84 986 244 358 or visit our website at SIXT.VN to learn more. Our address is 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hawaii Tourism Natives

1. Why are Native Hawaiians concerned about tourism?

Native Hawaiians are concerned about tourism due to its historical and ongoing impacts on their culture, land, and way of life. These concerns include the desecration of sacred sites, the exploitation of cultural practices, the rising cost of living, and the environmental degradation caused by mass tourism.

2. How can I, as a tourist, be more respectful of Native Hawaiian culture?

You can be more respectful by educating yourself about Hawaiian history and culture, supporting local businesses, respecting cultural sites, practicing sustainable tourism, and engaging with the local community.

3. What does “kuleana” mean and how does it relate to tourism?

Kuleana means responsibility in Hawaiian. Visitors should take kuleana by contributing to the place instead of just taking, understanding the historical context, respecting cultural sites, and supporting local businesses.

4. Where can I donate to support Native Hawaiian organizations?

You can donate to organizations like ʻĀina Momona and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, which work to restore land, preserve culture, and support the Native Hawaiian community.

5. What is the significance of “ʻāina” to Native Hawaiians?

ʻĀina (land) is deeply significant, representing a connection to ancestors, a source of life, and a foundation for cultural identity. Protecting the ʻāina is essential for preserving Native Hawaiian culture.

6. How has the history of colonialism affected Native Hawaiian perspectives on tourism?

The history of colonialism, including the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom and subsequent annexation, has led to a sense of occupation and a desire for self-determination among Native Hawaiians. Tourism is often seen as a continuation of this exploitation.

7. What are some sustainable tourism practices I can adopt in Hawaii?

Sustainable practices include wearing reef-safe sunscreen, supporting local businesses, conserving water and energy, and respecting cultural sites.

8. How can I plan a trip to Hawaii that benefits local communities?

You can plan a trip that benefits locals by staying in locally owned accommodations, choosing tours operated by Native Hawaiians, eating at local restaurants, and purchasing goods from local markets.

9. What role do cultural advisors play in the tourism industry?

Cultural advisors ensure that Hawaiian culture is accurately represented and that tourists have authentic cultural experiences. They also serve as a bridge between the community and the tourism industry.

10. What are some current efforts to create a more sustainable path forward for tourism in Hawaii?

Efforts include partnerships between government agencies, Native Hawaiian organizations, and the tourism industry, such as the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s collaboration with the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement.