The new year brings several changes for travelers to Hawaii, including hotel openings, new attractions and restaurant debuts.
One of the most noticeable changes for visitors will be the addition of direct flights from California. Starting May 13, Alaska Airlines is launching a daily seasonal route between Hollywood-Burbank and Honolulu, according to local reports. It will be the first direct flight linking Burbank and Honolulu airports in more than two decades.
Following suit, Southwest Airlines is adding routes from Ontario, Calif., to Honolulu June 4, and from Burbank to Honolulu Aug. 4.
On the entertainment and foodie front ...
Kauai recently saw Tihati Productions' debut of the Wailua Nui Luau at the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay. The evening luau includes cultural storytelling with Hawaiian and Polynesian dance and a 17-course buffet with Hawaiian favorites like huli huli chicken, kalua pork, poi and pineapple upside down cake with Koloa rum.
On Oahu, Hawaii celebrated chef Alan Wong is opening a restaurant at the Kahala Hotel & Resort in early 2026 that will replace the resort's fine dining restaurant, Hoku's. Wong will serve as a consultant to guide the restaurant's opening and menu development and is expected to showcase some of his signature dishes from his former King Street restaurant location.
Resort renovations and construction
Early in the new year, Hawaii Island resort Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection is debuting oceanfront, two-bedroom suites featuring private lanais, floor to ceiling windows and walk-in showers. The neighboring Mauna Kea Resort will complete the final remaining piece of its $200 million multiphase renovation: the spa. The anticipated open date is in April.
The Wailua Nui Luau debuted in December at the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tihati Productions LTC
The Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa in Waikiki is in the final stages of its renovation, having already completed work on its lobby and Tower wing. It is expected to complete its full renovation by March, when it will be celebrating its 125th anniversary.
In West Oahu, construction began on Ewa Beach's first hotel, Hyatt Place and Hyatt House at Hoopili. Located near a Skyline rail station and the University of Hawaii West Oahu, the five-story hotel will have 240 rooms, a pool, spa, dining room and fitness center. Work is expected to be completed by summer.
New taxes and fees in 2026
Other changes to keep in mind in the new year include an increase in Hawaii's Transient Accommodations Tax from 10.25% to 11% beginning Jan. 1. The increase is part of the state's effort to raise funds to mitigate the effects of climate change.
New parking and management systems will also be implemented at four Hawaii parks, introducing $5 per person entry and $10 per vehicle parking fees. The four parks are Wailuku River State Park and Kekaha Kai State Park on Hawaii Island; Wailua River State Park on Kauai; and Puu Ualakaa State Wayside on Oahu. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead.