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

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park readies for next eruptive episode
The U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcanic Observatory expects episode 44 to begin between April 6 and 14. The park says visitors should be prepared for tephra, volcanic gas and potential temporary closures.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 04, 2026

Hawaiian Electric bills expected to rise in the coming months
The utility has warned customers that bills are expected to increase by 20% to 30%, driven by rising global oil prices.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 04, 2026

Hawai‘i architects 'ready to assist' after storms
AIA Hawai‘i says architects can help property owners "understand the extent of damage, determine whether repairs are feasible, and ensure that any reconstruction meets current building codes and incorporates strategies to better withstand future climate-related events."
Stephanie SalmonsApril 03, 2026

CIM funds scholarships for construction students at UH Maui College
The Construction Industry of Maui has donated $44,000 to the school, which will provide 12 scholarships for students enrolled in its construction vocational program. Meanwhile, the deadline is approaching for another scholarship opportunity.
Stephanie SalmonsApril 02, 2026

Kona low storms slow business on North Shore
Poke for the People has been giving away meals to community members impacted by the floods as well as the volunteers helping them rebuild. But this week, the eatery cut its hours in half due to a decrease in sales. In Haleʻiwa, spring break for Mainland schools doesn’t look quite the same as it has in prior years, according to the shop's owner.
Katie HellandApril 02, 2026

Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines approaching the next milestone in their combination
Changes leading up to the launch of a shared passenger service system include the launch of a single app for both airlines.
Stephanie SalmonsMarch 31, 2026

ʻThe Book of Mormonʻ and more headed for Honolulu
The Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall will be alive with music from Broadway in Hawaiʻi in 2026 and 2027. The group has announced its next season, and tickets are now available.
Katie HellandMarch 30, 2026

Zippy's Restaurants celebrates 60th anniversary in 2026
Brothers Francis and Charles Higa opened the first Zippy's Restaurant in Honolulu's McCully neighborhood on Oct. 17, 1966. Aloha State Daily recently caught up with Jason Higa, CEO of Zippy's parent company, FCH Enterprises, to learn about the restaurant's origins, its legacy and more.
Stephanie SalmonsMarch 27, 2026

Hawaiian Electric continues inspections, repairs in flooded areas of O‘ahu
But continued stormy weather and new outages are still impacting customers.
Stephanie SalmonsMarch 24, 2026

Power bills to rise under HECO proposal
Hawaiian Electric's plan to upgrade its Waiau Power Plant has been approved by the state Public Utilities Commission.
Michael BrestovanskyMarch 24, 2026

How the storm is affecting airlines and travel
Hawaiian Airlines has canceled just a few flights due to the current storms as of this afternoon, and the Hawai`i Visitors & Convention Bureau has offered guidance to travelers.
Stephanie SalmonsMarch 21, 2026

Hawaiian Electric shuts off power to 4,100 North Shore customers
Utility warns the second Kona Low now hitting the Islands could lead to new outages. As a precaution, some power has been turned off in Waialua due to flooding.
A. Kam NapierMarch 20, 2026