Hawaii tourism leaders say Canadians are canceling trips because of Trump

KAHULUI (HawaiiNewsNow) – Tourism leaders say more Canadians are canceling their trips to Hawaii because of President Trump.

They say if it continues, the state could experience major financial hardships.

One Canadian couple at the Kahului Airport on Thursday said they are getting backlash from people back in Canada for not canceling their trip to Maui. So, they said they are trying to lie low.

But they said it is no secret that many Canadians are no longer supporting the U.S.

Hawaii Tourism Canada presented during the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s spring update this month stating, “Canadians are on edge” about their relationship with the U.S. especially after President Trump imposed tariffs on their country and has been pushing to make Canada the 51st state.

They also said patriotic messaging such as “Buy Canadian” is everywhere and their political leaders are suggesting that Canadians forgo U.S. travel.

Hawaii reports 54,000 Canadians visited Hawaii this past January.

It is unclear how the Trump backlash will affect the numbers this spring, but Hawaii tourism leaders are worried.

But they said they are not giving up on marketing strategies that set Hawaii apart from the rest of the country.

“There’s some very different unique characteristics and attributes about Hawaii,” said Hawai’i Tourism Authority board chair Mufi Hannemann. “We have a monarchical past. We have an indigenous Native Hawaiian culture that the Canadians have loved in the past.”

“They love outdoor activities. They respect the ocean, and they just love to be in that kind of environment. So Maui fits perfect for them,” said John Pele, Maui Hotel & Lodging Association executive director.

The Office of the Governor said they too have received emails from Canadians notifying him of their cancellation plans.

“Governor Green and the people of Hawai’i deeply value the enduring friendship between our state and Canada—a bond strengthened over generations by shared experiences, values, and aloha.

We understand that current geopolitical developments may be concerning, but please know that Hawai’i’s heart remains open to our Canadian friends. Your visits over the years have supported local businesses, uplifted local families, and created meaningful connections that we greatly cherish.

We hope our Northern friends will consider keeping Hawai’i in future travel plans. The warmth and hospitality of our people remain steadfast, and they will always have a place here.”

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