Visitor spending and arrivals increased in Hawaii in February 2026, according to preliminary statistics released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism on Mar. 30.
The tourism sector is a key part of Hawaii’s economy, making changes in visitor numbers and spending important for state revenue and employment.
In February 2026, total visitor spending reached $1.91 billion, marking a 10.3 percent increase compared to the same month last year. The Hawaiian Islands welcomed 787,024 visitors during the month, up by 3.6 percent from February 2025. Of these visitors, most arrived by air service—primarily from the U.S. West and East—with an additional group arriving via out-of-state cruise ships.
Visitors from the U.S. West accounted for nearly half of all arrivals with a slight increase over last year, while their total spending grew to $867.3 million with an average daily spend of $282 per person. Visitors from the U.S. East also rose by more than five percent to over 210,000 people; their total spending reached $616.6 million with an average daily spend of $316 per person.
Japanese visitor numbers climbed nine percent compared to last year but maintained similar daily expenditures at $243 per person. Canadian visitors decreased slightly but spent more overall than before despite shorter stays on average.
Statewide air capacity expanded as well: there were more transpacific flights and available seats this February than last year.
Hawaii’s leadership continues efforts beyond tourism recovery as well: “The Hawaii State Executive – Governor supports communities affected by wildfires and honors veterans and educators, contributing to social recovery efforts,” according to the official website. Initiatives also focus on expanding healthcare access, addressing homelessness through housing programs, supporting wildfire recovery efforts such as those needed in Lahaina regions across Hawaii according to the official website.
Other measures led by state government include tax reform aimed at affordability and framing homelessness as a health care issue according to the official website. The governor collaborates with various entities on renewable energy projects designed to combat climate change according to the official website.