Christine Hitt
From September to December, the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) met with residents across the islands to discuss tourism and how best to preserve cultural, historical and environmental resources. Insights from these conversations are being used to shape the next iteration of Hawaii's Destination Management Plans for 2026-2028.
This month, before any plans are finalized, the draft versions are being shared with the public for comment by March 2.
This year's plans place particular emphasis on hot spots, or places that are strained by overcrowding or traffic congestion, and it focuses on the top two or three sites on each island. Here are a few.
Hawaii Island
Residents cited Kealakekua Bay, one of the island's most visited marine destinations, for crowding, safety issues, improper behavior and blocked driveways. The proposal suggests establishing a reservation system, on-site stewardship and designating days of rest for the bay.
"You see reservation-type systems that have been quite successful at other sites, especially on Oahu ... you can think of Hanauma Bay," said HTA destination manager Matthew Sueda at the meeting.
Ka Lae, also known as South Point, was mentioned for its sensitive ecosystem, which has been damaged by off-road vehicle use. The draft plan's first step calls for working with the Department of Hawaiian Homelands, which has jurisdiction over the area, to collaboratively address and mitigate the impacts.
Oahu
Lanikai Pillbox Trail in Kailua was listed as one of the hot spots, with the draft plan suggesting managed access that could time or cap entries. Other priorities addressing congestion on North Shore roadways, with a proposed park-and-ride visitor shuttle system.
Maui
The Hana Highway was identified for safety concerns, including illegal roadside stopping and trespassing. The draft plan suggests additional signage, an on-site steward in Keanae and a Hana Highway tour guide certification program.
At Honolua Bay, another hot spot, the draft plan suggested a reservations system and shuttle.
Kauai
The hot spots focus on reducing traffic between Wailua and Kapaa and improving parking and trail access at Kokee and Waimea Canyon.