Officials are asking tourists to postpone their travel plans to Kauai as the island begins to recover from Hurricane Lowell, which caused significant damage to roads, power infrastructure, and oceanfront resorts.
Thousands of customers, including some resorts, were still without power late Thursday, and crews worked to clear downed trees and utility poles from roadways. Long lines formed at Kauai’s main airport as residents and visitors sought to leave the island.
"Our hope is that visitors will adjust their travel plans instead of canceling their trip to Hawaiʻi altogether," Caroline Anderson, interim president and CEO of Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, said in a statement. "Adjusting your itinerary allows you to continue your Hawaiʻi vacation while supporting the state’s broader visitor economy as Kauaʻi recovers."
While Kauai receives a small fraction of Hawaii’s annual visitors, tourism is the island's primary economic driver, accounting for an estimated four out of every ten jobs. The hurricane's storm surge buckled roads, damaged homes, and flooded resorts. The storm was blamed for two deaths: a 74-year-old man found near Kauai's south shore and another man who died on Oahu after a tree fell on his tent.
Democratic Governor Josh Green requested a major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump on Wednesday to expedite federal assistance for Kauai and Maui counties.
Some resorts, like the Ko‘a Kea Resort in Poipu, plan to offer refunds for canceled reservations and anticipate resuming normal operations within two weeks. The Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort closed due to damage but hopes to reopen soon after power is restored.
Despite images of destruction circulating on social media, some residents emphasize that much of the island remains functional. Chris White, a Kauai homeowner, noted that guests can still access beaches and that water service is largely available. He advised potential visitors to check directly with their accommodation providers regarding current conditions.
Kelly Kakalia, co-owner of The Musubi Truck, expressed less concern about a temporary dip in tourism, stating, "our island needs time to rest and rebuild and make sure locals have power and water" before welcoming visitors back. Her business recently used its commercial kitchen to prepare nearly 600 free meals for the community, utilizing generators and propane.
Kakalia donated her generators to families still without electricity, prioritizing community needs over business concerns. "The community and island are more important," she said.