Hawaii is one of the world’s dream destinations — famous for its volcanic landscapes, surfing culture, hula, and aloha spirit.
It’s also one of the most heavily visited island chains on Earth, with millions arriving each year to experience its natural beauty and unique Polynesian heritage.
In 2024, Hawaii welcomed 9.6 million visitors, nearly matching its pre-pandemic peak.
Tourism is by far the largest driver of the Hawaiian economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs.
How Many Tourists Visit Hawaii Each Day?
With 9.6 million visitors in 2024, Hawaii saw on average ~26,000 tourists arriving daily. Add in long stays (the average visitor spends over a week on the islands), and at any given time 250,000–300,000 tourists may be present across the archipelago.
How Many Tourists Visit Hawaii Each Year?
- 2019 (record year): 10.4M visitors.
- 2020–2021: Fell below 3M due to COVID restrictions.
- 2022: 9.2M arrivals.
- 2023: 9.5M arrivals.
- 2024: 9.6M arrivals.
- 2025 (forecast): Expected ~9.8M–10M visitors.
How Much Money Does Hawaii Make from Tourism?
- $19.3 billion in visitor spending in 2024.
- Average spend per visitor: ~$2,000.
- Tourism supports ~216,000 jobs in Hawaii (direct and indirect).
- Nearly one-fifth of Hawaii’s GDP comes directly from tourism.
💡 Expert Insight — Governor Josh Green
“Sustainable tourism is essential for the future of our state. This bill ensures that our visitor industry grows in a way that respects and preserves our cultural heritage while promoting economic diversification.”
Which Countries Visit Hawaii the Most?
Most of Hawaii’s visitors come from the U.S. mainland, especially the West Coast.
Internationally, Japan has traditionally been Hawaii’s strongest overseas market, though Canada, South Korea, and Australia also provide significant numbers.
| Country | Visitors (2024 est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States (Mainland) | ~7.8M | By far the largest market. |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | ~1.2M | Biggest international market. |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ~480K | Strong seasonal inflows. |
| 🇰🇷 South Korea | ~280K | Growing steadily. |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | ~150K | Long-haul leisure travel. |
| 🇳🇿 New Zealand | ~80K | Rising steadily. |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ~75K | Europe’s top source. |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | ~60K | Niche long-haul. |
| 🇨🇳 China | ~55K | Gradual recovery. |
| 🇹🇼 Taiwan | ~40K | Small but consistent. |
What Are the Most Visited Islands in Hawaii?
Hawaii is made up of multiple islands, each with its own identity. Oahu leads thanks to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, but Maui, Big Island, and Kauai are also popular.
| Island | Visitors (2024 est.) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Oahu | ~5.6M | Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head. |
| Maui | ~2.8M | Road to Hana, Haleakalā. |
| Hawaii (Big Island) | ~1.7M | Volcanoes National Park. |
| Kauai | ~1.5M | Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon. |
| Lanai | ~80K | Luxury resorts, off-the-beaten-path. |
| Molokai | ~55K | Authentic rural Hawaii. |
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Hawaii?
From volcanic parks to cultural landmarks, Hawaii’s attractions draw millions every year.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Waikiki Beach (Oahu) | Millions | Iconic tourist hub. |
| Pearl Harbor National Memorial (Oahu) | ~1.7M | WWII history site. |
| Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Big Island) | ~1.5M | Active volcanoes. |
| Haleakalā National Park (Maui) | ~1.0M | Famous sunrise views. |
| Na Pali Coast State Park (Kauai) | ~900K | Breathtaking cliffs. |
| Diamond Head State Monument (Oahu) | ~750K | Iconic crater hike. |
| Hana Highway (Maui) | ~700K | Scenic drive. |
| Polynesian Cultural Center (Oahu) | ~670K | Cultural experience. |
| Waimea Canyon (Kauai) | ~600K | “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” |
| Iolani Palace (Oahu) | ~500K | Only royal palace in the U.S. |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii? (Seasonality)
Hawaii is a year-round destination, but certain months are more popular:
| Season | Visitor Trends | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Peak | Escaping cold weather; high prices. |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Moderate | Pleasant weather, fewer crowds. |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Peak | Family travel, higher hotel rates. |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Moderate | Lower prices, quieter beaches. |
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to Hawaii?
Hawaii’s events showcase its culture, sports, and natural wonders:
| Event | Location | Visitors | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merrie Monarch Festival | Hilo (Big Island) | ~30K | World’s top hula competition. |
| Honolulu Marathon | Oahu | ~25K runners | One of the world’s largest marathons. |
| Aloha Festivals | Oahu & statewide | ~100K | Hawaiian culture celebrations. |
| Hawaii International Film Festival | Honolulu | ~50K | Leading Asia-Pacific cinema event. |
| Ironman World Championship | Kona (Big Island) | ~20K | Global triathlon event. |
| Prince Lot Hula Festival | Oahu | ~10K | Free cultural hula showcase. |
💡 Expert Insight — Aaron Salā, President & CEO, Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau
“Tourism as we have known it is over.”
How Does Tourism Impact Hawaii’s Economy?
- Tourism generated $19.3 billion in spending in 2024.
- Supported ~216,000 jobs.
- Nearly 20% of Hawaii’s GDP relies on tourism.
- Tourism also raises concerns: sustainability, overtourism, and environmental protection are major issues for the islands.
💡 Expert Insight — Caroline Anderson, Interim President & CEO, Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority
“These sessions are a chance for residents to share their mana‘o on tourism in a way that reflects the needs, values and priorities of their communities.”
FAQ – Hawaii Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Hawaii each year?
About 9.6 million visitors in 2024, close to pre-pandemic highs.
Which island is most visited?
Oahu, with ~5.6 million visitors.
What is the most visited attraction in Hawaii?
Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
When is the best time to visit Hawaii?
Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov) for fewer crowds and better prices.
How much money does Hawaii make from tourism?
$19.3 billion in 2024 from visitor spending.
Is Hawaii expensive for tourists?
Yes — Hawaii is one of the most expensive U.S. destinations due to accommodation and transport costs.
What are Hawaii’s biggest international markets?
Japan, Canada, South Korea, and Australia.
Sources
- Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) — Visitor Statistics: Monthly & Annual (arrivals, spending, length of stay)
- Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) — 2024 News Releases (sector updates & performance summaries)
- DBEDT – State of Hawaiʻi — Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism: Visitor Statistics Dashboard
- HTA News Release — Governor Josh Green signs landmark regenerative tourism bill (quote)
- Travel Weekly — Hawaii Leadership Forum 2025 (quote by Aaron Salā, HVCB)
- HTA News Release — HTA invites Kauaʻi residents to share thoughts on tourism (quote by Caroline Anderson)
- National Park Service (NPS) — NPS Visitor Use Statistics (Hawai‘i Volcanoes NP, Haleakalā NP, Pearl Harbor NM)
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial (NPS) — Plan Your Visit & annual visitation highlights
- Polynesian Cultural Center — Press Room (visitor information & milestones)
- Hawaiʻi State Parks — State Parks (Diamond Head, Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon) – visitor info & notices
- Hawaiʻi Data Collaborative — Tourism-related indicators & economic context (cross-validated with HTA/DBEDT)
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