Looking forward to the comments on this video. 😁 It's a long one so grab your hurricane popcorn. The main point I'd like to emphasize is this: Despite what some may project online, not all locals would discourage people from visiting Hawaii. 🤙

As someone that part Hawaiian, I’m so glad you made this video. The anti-non native tiktokers are basically that one family member NO ONE LIKES and you can’t get them to shut up. Most of us just want to chill and have a good time. Tourists in any place are sometimes going to get out of hand mostly because they’re drinking on vacation and I get that.

Tourism is a double-edged sword. Like the article you presented, some hate it, but the bottom line is that in order for the State to function, we need tourism dollars. We could limit tourism, but how? If we say 7 million is just right, then when we reach 7 million, say, in September, do we just prohibit all flights coming into Hawaii until January 1? We all cry for diversifying the economy, but since pineapple and sugar plantations shut down, nothing has stepped up to take their place, so we only have tourism. And for me, someone who is born and raised here, do WE respect and care enough for the 'aina? I'm pretty sure it's not tourists who abandon cars and old furniture and appliances on the sides of the road. I have never seen tourists toss entire bags of trash from their rental cars. And, I think it's safe to say that it's not tourists who are tagging public buildings, highway overpasses and fences with their "art." Now, do some tourists show disrespect like trespassing on closed hiking trails and scenic/historic places? Of course. But my point is, we ourselves are often just as guilty. We can try educating tourists possibly through airline videos or other forms of media, but at the same time, some of us locals need "educating" as well!

I actually felt that way about coming to Hawaii after seeing so many negative post about tourists visiting the island. I remember being so upset that maybe if and when I did visit that I would be treated poorly. My intent was to come and experience and learn about the culture & history of the people of Hawaii but, after reading so many anti-tourist comments I pretty much gave up on wanting to come down there. Then my cousin, who lived there for 4 years, invited my sister and I to come and spend a week on Oahu. We accepted right away and made plans to come. I will honestly say that it was the best decision. We stayed in a house in one of the neighborhoods and it was fantastic. Because my cousin lived there I really did not feel like a tourist. We avoided most tourist traps, we did the Luau, Diamond Head and the Para-sailing. Drove up to Haleiwa for Shave Ice but, we also at at some local places and avoided most of the crowds. She even suggested we go to the Beach in Waimanalo instead of the one in Waikiki again the crowd issue. I will also say that while I was there and had several really good conversations with some locals and I came away from my experience with an overwhelming feeling of Aloha that I still carry with me today. I am so glad that I didn't listen to the nay-sayers and I listened to my gut and had the chance to enjoy Hawaii. Thank you Chris for tackling this sensitive topic and viewing it from another angle. I hope to make it back there soon.

As a local and native Hawaiian this video was done amazingly and beautifully said. Thank you

As an Alaska Native, who 💯 respect the Hawai’ian Natives (our history is very similar), I can see how they are annoyed with [some] of the tourist. We were there this past month and we saw more disrespectful tourists than we have ever seen in the past. I hope it all balances out in the near future 🙏🏼

When I attended UH on exchange from UMass for the 84/85 school year there was all this talk of diversifying the economy outside of tourism. I went back for my MBA in 1990 and stayed until 2021. Over the years the same story rang out "We must diversify!" but yet year after year both the state and the counties did nothing.

As a local, also part Hawaiian, I came here thinking that I would disagree with you. You discussed this topic with civility and understanding. I may not agree with everything that you say, or the article that you read, but I am glad that you are voicing an opinion that I find more balanced than most. Good one as always, Chris!

As a native, born and raised Puerto Rican now living in Hawaii, I understand some of the extreme views of this person, I also appreciate your moderate thoughts. Mahalo for making us non-locals feel welcome 🤙

I've only been to Hawaii once, and we had the most amazing time and really want to come back but I have heard locals dont want people coming there anymore (despite being treated incredibly kind by all the locals we met while in Kauai ) but this gives me hope we may go back some day. Videos like this are very helpful. Perhaps you could also make one about how to be a good tourist when you DO visit, so people know what to do or not do that will help/hurt local culture, economy, etc. Might be a helpful video for people like me and my family that want to be respectful and helpful to the places we visit.

I'm not really qualified to speak on this video since I grew up in Canada and moved to Hawaii for a year (2013-2014) and then lived in Chile and now am back in Hawaii permanently (which is where I have always wanted to live). As a new resident of Hawaii, this video was really informative and I appreciated getting a perspective from a local person very much. I love these islands and the culture and people here, and I want to be as respectful as possible. There are so many things to love here, and most people have been so friendly and welcoming to me despite me being new here. One thing I do love about Hawaii is how focused the news and people are on local issues. I have lived in the 48 contiguous states for a few months here and there since I've got American citizenship, and I hated it: so much divisiveness, constant politics, and a lot of anger and hate. I could never live on the mainland US again. After coming here, nothing ever felt more like home to me.

This was such a great video! I value your opinions and respect your perspective so much. You’re so smart and always fair👏🏻

Unfortunately, tourism is the main industry in HI. You are going to have good & bad tourists & the headaches that come along with being a vacation destination. Agreed. HI needs other industries to support itself. In CA, we have tech, agriculture, film/television, tourism, construction...just to name a few. HI has limited resources & many things need to be shipped in.

Personally, anyone claiming ownership of a certain place in the world just because they were born there, makes me very angry. The beauty of the earth should be enjoyed by everybody equally, as long as they treasure it and love it. I can't imagine what would happen if , for instance, Spaniards (which btw, Spain is one of the most touristic places in the world) came up with the statement "nobody who isn't Spanish should be able to come here, we don't want you in our land"... I'm pretty sure they would not be seen as "proud of their culture and heritage", but named something else entirely.

It takes a very cool and level headed mind to take on this subject on with being able to see both sides of the plate. We do have a lot of jerks here on the mainland. Unfortunately the worst taste in your mouth always seems to be the one you remember the most. I’ve loved all my visits thus far, and have never had negative experiences with any local on Oahu or the big island. I think my favorite experience (other than when I was young) was taking my young boys to the farmers market. My son wanted a fruit so I bought it for him but had no idea how to peel it for him. This lady showed him how to peel and eat it so sweetly, and when she was done teaching him she said “Now say mahalo to your auntie.” very sweetly. He said mahalo of course, even though he didn’t know what that word meant. As a parent I melted. (on the inside) Here is a lady, running a booth, selling her fruits that she has grown, taking the time not only to show my son how to peel this fruit but also very sweetly taught him a new word. To some, this might not be a big deal. For me it’s a memory I will cherish.

Thank you for the video. I think you covered everything I was thinking, I couldn't have said it better myself.

Aloha, my wife and I just got back home to California yesterday night. We had an amazing time spending our 5 year anniversary in Oahu. It was beautiful interacting with Hawaiian and locals. Though we did the popular tourist spots, we made it a point to shop and dine at local restaurants. We walked and took The Bus to get around all around the island. Unforgettable experience. Mahalo Hawaii 🤙🏽

Chris, your videos are so nuanced and intelligent! Keep doing exactly what you're doing!

I have been surprised at all the negativity coming for the Hawaiian tourism industry recently. You can barely see anything positive about us online anymore, which is truly a shame. As someone who works in the tourism industry, the vast majority of people I see visiting often come to learn about the culture, spend money, and simply gain a different perspective. One of the most important aspects of hawai’i has always been the ability to welcome different cultures from around the world. The diversity of this island is one of its major strengths. Of course there are some bad tourists, but I believe we should judge them on an individual basis. Just as all people of Hawai’i shouldn’t be judged by one opinion, or viewpoint. Really appreciate your show, & thank you for your positivity.

You are very straight forward. It’s refreshing to see someone analyze things objectively. I am in kaneohe visiting my family. And over the years that I’ve spent here, nobody is ever hostile when you are nice. Think for yourself, base your info on experiences more than what the algorithm says. Mahalo brother.

There's ignorant people going online asking people to volunteer during their vacation and that's exploitation in itself. People who live in a place are the ones to take care of it and visitors do help by putting money into the economy and creating jobs.

I'm glad you're bringing this up. As a non-local living in Oahu, I do the best I can to be respectful. I know the history, but I will never know the life experience of a native or local person. In a way, I felt pushed out of my home in New York City. Gentrification pushed so many people away. Costs went up too high for locals there to keep up with and the transplants have been redefining what New York is all about. I'd like for this not to happen in Hawaii because one of the reasons why I came here is to get away from the aggressive energy I experienced everyday.

I really appreciate this video by you, imho, it is one of your most important. In 2000 My dad and I moved from Dallas, TX to Molokai'i stayed there for 1 year, then moved to Lower Waiehu, Maui for 5 years and Oahu ever since. Know how many people told me to my face to go back to where I came from? Zero. Locals just judge me on the respect I have for this place and the people. That's all. But... enter social media, it adds in a layer of abstraction and we get content like what you just read. I remember after September 11th, 2001 the planes were arriving half full, Front St was a ghost town and the negative economic fallout hurt a lot of people. Same thing during the financial crisis of 2008-2009, people with bachelor's degrees couldn't get a job at Starbucks, the population collectively held it's breath until tourism recovered and the associated jobs returned. So we've seen what it's like without tourism and it's miserable if you need an income to survive. The 2020 pandemic was a little different. Most people got paid to stay home, and in many cases got paid more than their normal wage to do so. So there was very little tourism but the average person didn't feel it very much economically because of governmental financial assistance and that's what I think added a lot of fuel to this anti-tourism sentiment. You could also argue that Honolulu County has made an effective attempt to throttle down tourism by disallowing 90% of the AirBnB listings leaving hotels as the only lodging for vacationers. You made a great, intuitive counter point to the article when the author claimed most tourists were ignorant of Native Hawaiian culture. You essentially said exposure cures ignorance, which is 100% true. Shut people out and they'll never know any better. My basic philosophy is the same as most people's. Anyone should be able to visit a place as long as they're respectful of it. Great video, the demography and history of Hawaii make this a very complex topic and I am happy to see a YT content creator speak about it in a nuanced way.

I am a local and I think it’s hypocritical because according to my Hawaiian Studies teacher who has native Hawaiian ancestry taught me that no one who lives today has pure native Hawaiian blood and are mixed with ancestors who were foreign and not native to the islands. Without their foreign ancestors they would have never been born. Visitors are actually contributing to sustaining a lot of the local businesses we residents have taken for granted. So many restaurants are closing because let’s face it, local consumers are not enough. We need a larger consumer base to supplement these local businesses because there is just not enough locals to sustain what we currently have!

As a USA mainlander that has lived in or near touristy areas I understand many of these points. When you are a local you learn to plan around tourists. I think one hard thing is that in a larger area, like the mainland, if you don’t like it it is easier to relocate. I wonder how many people with this anti-tourism sentiment have been tourists themselves. I totally agree with you, rude people will be rude wherever they are/go. Hawaii is isolated and expensive to travel from, so it’s easier to be resentful when you feel like you are the only people that are experiencing this tourist overload - but you aren’t. Especially right now, many states and cities are not too happy about the influx of visitors and new residents that are leaving a home they aren’t happy with and bringing their unhappiness to a new location. This is why travel is valuable. We can learn to respect and appreciate other people and their locations for what and where they are. Indigenous people and sacred or treasured lands are not unique to Hawaii, although the isolation and possible lack of resources to experience other cultures may be. The willingness to appreciate these things is a choice and you did an excellent job of appreciating both sides of this perspective.

You're amazing. Please keep sharing your knowledge and perspective. It is valuable. (and you nailed it in the discussion from 26:50 on)

I very much appreciate your voice on this platform and sharing another opinion against some strong statements ☀️

I grew up in New Mexico, a "New Mexico Local" but not a native New Mexican. I was always considered a foreigner here yet I always felt I didn't belong anywhere else. Most of this country has a "stranger in a strange land" vibe to it. The drought has steadily pushed me to consider other places to live, when you've lived in multiple places that have run out of freshwater, places you love, it's a tough choice to make to leave the places you love, it hurts. I've worked my whole life to develop skills to make me valuable anywhere I go, things I can contribute to make life better for all. The world is a crowded place, what it needs is not more conflict but instead more restorative agriculture, more housing. Our generation has been given the greatest opportunity and challenge simultaneously, to figure out how to live with one another on this planet harmoniously, to give back, mitigate climate change, and feed ourselves in an increasingly unstable climate. If or when I make it to the big island and post up somewhere that most tourists would never want to live and the majority would not want to visit, I'm not there to take. I'm not there to extract. I hope you will accept me as part of the community, I'm coming to learn, to feed people, and to respect. Let it mold me as needed. If I'm not supposed to stay, so be it. But I'd like the chance to give it a try, I'll probably make some social faux-pas but I will put in a genuine effort. I'll try to earn it. Yes, We get those annoying tourists in New Mexico, I spent a decade either homeless or in off-grid shacks eating peanut butter and working full time in close proximity to million dollar vacation homes. It's one of those things that's more common than you think, a symptom of cultural issues that go back to the beginning of this country, Not everyone here abides by the mindset that created these problems, many wish to produce what we need to get us out of the scarcity hole. Give 'em a chance.

The backdrops in your videos are very beautiful! Could you mention at the beginning or the at the end of the video on where you shot it? Thanks.

Mahalo for your mana'o which I think is realistic and rational. I am also a local (but no 'koko") and my grandparents have lived in Maui since the 1940s. As much as some despise the tourism industry, the fact that the tourism accounts for over 20% of the state's economy. The budget, the revenue and financial figures allocated to the state is derived from the massive taxes from tourism. Take even 5% out of that and you're looking at a massive shortfall in social programs, welfare and infrastructure; not to mention decimating a lot of people's livelihoods. There is really no other industry Hawai'i can rely on unless islands are able to shave off at least a quarter of its population to self-sustain, and separate from the mainland. Hawai'i will never be able to let go of its reliance to tourism, but the least that can be done is entice the respectful and considerate ones to come and spend their hard-earned dollars to the state.

What a great video! Keep up the great content ,Chris!!!

I am married to a Native American Indian, and live in an area very close to several reservations. And the Indians in those areas are split the same way in how they feel about needing or not needing tourists/visitors. My wife basically just looks at life as just a natural progression and to fight it is pointless.

I also wish Hawaii would diversify its economy. It makes me nervous when any place bases their economy on just one industry (look at the coal mining towns). Stuff happens and what is the outcome when the thing your city/state/country's economy is based on is no longer viable?

Sending HOSTILE messages like this is indicative of the MOKE mentality prevalent in Hawaii. It is part of the reason that i cannot RELATE to LOCALS anymore. I moved away in the 80's and have owned properties on all 3 coasts. Best idea ever...NO regrets, only GRATITUDE. I have NEVER encountered this kind of hostility on the mainland.

During the height of the red hill crisis, a lot of military families were moved to hotels in Waikiki. I remember an article in the paper showing the school buses stopping at hotels to pick up the kids. I'm not sure if those families were competing for rooms with tourists, but that might be a possible connection?

Great video! We visited Iolani Palace and Bishop Museum to learn the history of Hawaii. Just out of curiosity, what are typical tourist destinations for locals and native Hawaiians?

I am born and raised on the island of Oahu, I left the island for cheaper living I didn’t want too but I had too. I was also married into the military. So he sent me to Kansas where he’s from. I always tell people you should go to Hawaii at least once in your life. But learn and respect the culture before you go.

Tourism and hospitality is a great work market. It sure beats working in a factory or distribution center or a cubicle. It is as fun or miserable as you make it. I have a BA degree and I still chose tourism as my job because of how fun it is to meet people from everywhere, how kindness really can go far, and how much money can be made from it if you work your way to the better restaurants, positions or even opening your own business. Also, tourism can help protect the historic culture and spreading knowledge. I do wish the islands had more opportunities to learn about the culture ie, hula & shows not just in luau style, but in a theater environment. Look at other places with indigenous cultures and see what they are doing within tourism to promote that culture and ways to deal with the amount of tourists coming in. IE parking lot for tourists/locals to park at, then take a bus up and down the NS. Having more pop-up weekly farmers markets so that locals can find ways to make money and get the momentum they need to start. Maybe one for each side of the island, and a few for the bigger towns. Being more community minded will go a long way.

Thank you for posting. As a member of a Federally-recognized Native American Tribe from Tucson, Arizona, I am interested in understanding the perspective of the Native Hawaiians. My sincere hope is that when tourists visit Hawaii, they are respectful and act like the kind of "guests" that they would like to host in their own homes. In other words, show Native Hawaiians the kind of respect that they would like to be shown. Thanks again for posting this video. Lios Em Chania (May God Preserve Us)

There is a lot to this video. I can only comment on how wonderful it was to hear the doves and mynah chatting continuously throughout. I felt like I was spending a nice morning at Ala Moana or Kapiolani Park.

well thought out and very well spoken. this video kept my attention for the full 30 minute segment.

I've been to Hawaii about 5 times in my life. I was on the Big Island in 2019 and saw protest from some locals with their signs near the volcanos. It kind of put me off a little. It's something that sticks with you. I'm now a little more hesitant booking that trip to the islands now because I don't want to be a burden. My wife and I have travelled to the beaches of El Salvador five times since then because we feel the hospitality and they're wanting tourist to experience their beautiful country. I want to meet and mix with the Hawaiian locals but.... I'm not sure that I would be welcomed. Thanks for the video.

Thanks for sharing...I hope to visit Hawaii someday because I'd love to learn more about the culture and see the beauty with respect and care. I've followed your blog

Thanks! Enjoyed your opinions and perspective on this sensitive subject. I have been away from Hawaii for close to 40 years, but still love Hawaii when I return to visit. I think we all need to understand or at least give Native Hawaiians a chance to vocalize their feelings and opinions. It’s important to all of us and especially those who live in Hawaii. Thanks.

I’m a native Hawaiian/Japanese mix living in California this past 34 years and just moved back home. EXCELLENT video👍🏼🤙🏼

I am so glad that you are addressing this, Chris. The "Don't come to Hawai'i" opinion is downright hostile and surely not full of what Hawai'i is known for, namely ... Aloha. Chris indigenous means "First Nations" people, the Polynesian people who were there first, before everyone else: (Before the Japanese, before the Samoans, before the Filipinos, before the Haoles, before ... everyone).

Aloha from Alaska I'm a local from Hawai'i. I am moving back to Hawai'i. Is it okay to move back to Hawai'i ?

I enjoyed this video and appreciated you content and opinions. I lived as a child in Hawaii, and when I left Hawaii, Hawaii always remained in my heart. I can understand how many may feel a type of intrusion to their environments. Here in Cali where I live, a lot of Bay Area folks have been priced out of the homes and neighborhoods and have moved into little towns and have priced out the locals in even my area. Homes are extremely expensive now! But if one were even to suppose that what was shared was just a Hawaii thing, imagine even some of the big attractions like Disneyland in Southern California where the common folk live and see the overuse of their environments to meet the needs and demands of the population that visit. Do they say don't come here? No, California depends on this revenue.And further some people like you and me understand no matter where we go in the world, we should display common decency. Anytime tourism is used, however, there will be pros and cons. I certainly agree, as you've emphasized, respect for someone's home must be a priority. There will always be those who feel "entitled" because they have the funds. Yet, on the flipside, there are many who appreciate the Hawaiian culture and want to respect it. Those ones may be another segue to getting the "voices" heard. **** On the side note, the green screen thing is real! When I miss Hawaii, I just watch a video like yours and PhotoLuke and I am good until I can get back to my other "home". Mahalo!

I'm leaving Michigan in 48 hrs to spend a month in Hawaii. My fiancé & I are the tourists you want. The last month has been stressful deciding wheather to cancel our trip or not. I was there in 2002 & Hawaii changed my life. I've worked for 22 years to get back. This epidemic of hate is ruining what moved my soul. If I could get my money back, I would, & spent it somewhere else. It is good that you are making these videos. I love your home, your culture, history (I am educated on it). I can understand the distaste for bad visitors. I dont even want them to go there. But, Hawaii is, like it or not, part of our planet, & the bad vibes are very loud coming from a place we need in today's world...the place & people who are the aloha spirit. My heart is broken that a quiet artist playing Hawaiin made instruments, deeply respectful of the land, the culture, the people... is not welcome. We have beautiful lakes & sand dunes, & wildlife, scenery, foliage, here in Michigan. We have a huge tourist influx in the spring, summer, autumn. I cannot imagine being filled with hate to share it. I'm heartbroken to feel like a trespasser, but cannot deny that the anger is loud. I hope for native Hawaii's sake, they do not get what they wish for. It will not last long before you find yourself in a far worse position, truly ruined by a far worse country than the United States of America. Aloha. Aloha. Aloha.

Hello @HelloFromHawaii, I had booked my vacation there (i only get 2 week vacation once every 3 years since I work multiple jobs to make ends meet) and saved up for a long time for it. Later on I saw tiktoks and videos of some people wishing others not to go and that tourists are not welcomed.. So I got scared and totally cancelled everything I booked. Thanks for clearing it all up. There are some hardcore people out there.

Chris....watched your video for the 2nd time. Excellent presentation, well thought out. I consider myself a local, but really moved with family to mainland as small kid and am almost 70 now. Came back to visit and even work as a teenager at Uncle's business in Lahaina during summers. Have been back home to 4 islands at least 50 times, probably more. Did have a few instances when tourists were rude, but 99 percent of the time people were friendly and respectful. Been mistaken for local many times, I just answered their questions, even if I thought some were pretty silly. Appreciate your take. Mahalo

It is what it is, a certain percentage of the population no matter what will always be compaining about this and that. They complain about tourism, the tourists, the traffic, their jobs, their neighborhood and neighbors, their family, and on and on. Even if they have great jobs and salaries, they will still be cpmplaining. The only solution is, "Don't Worry, Be Happy, and be Aloha." 😀😊😄

The issues of not being able to afford a home and having to leave a place is not just Hawaii. I live in NYC. I raised my family in NYC. I was raised in Hawaii -- my family in Hawaii goes back 4 generations in Hawaii and my husband's 3. I don't think we have any Kanaka Maoli in our family. We had a lot of trips as a family back to Hawaii to see family in Hawaii. My daughter went on those trips and after she found her fiancee ,who was born in the NYC area, also came on some of those trips. They had their wedding on Maui. And soon afterwards just before the Pandemic closed Hawaii they moved to Hawaii. They had a connection to the islands and to Hawaii so that every time they came back from a visit there (I once asked if my SIL wanted to take a vacation somewhere other than Hawaii but they said no...they wanted to go to HI) they were thinking about when they could go back. They finally just moved to Hawaii. They were lucky enough to find good jobs in Hawaii. The cost of living in NYC is incredibly awful. I think Hawaii has a horrible cost of living but they feel like they made a move that actually helped them get a nicer place than they could get in NYC, They are now raising a family in Honolulu. My mom is thrilled that her great grandson is in Hawaii where she can see him. The issues of cost of living and a place to live is not just in Hawaii. It's everywhere. I would think that our family going back 4 generations on my side and my husband's 3 would count for something but I hope my daughter and her SIL don't see all the get out of Hawaii unless you are Kanaka Maoli you have no right to be here sentiment. They are where they were meant to be. In Hawaii. We are coming back for another visit next week. I hope we aren't included in this person's don't come to Hawaii letter. I grew up in Hawaii. I have family in Hawaii. I respect the aina and the people of Hawaii.

I know this was mainly about tourists, but what about people that aren’t native and want to move there, do they still feel the same way?

I'm glad you did this article. I concur with your thinking. Tourism in any place should be welcomed and we of Hawaii need better hosts and hostesses. Whereas visitors should go with new learning, enjoy how people can live harmoniously together from different cultures, and listen to the songs and dances of the people. Then go back to your hometown and look for your harmonious living lifestyle. There is no difference. It is how you as people in your community can make living where you are more peaceful and successful. Imua Hawaii.

Mahalo for cultivating a forum and content where necessary, complex topics can be aired out. Indeed, I am learning a lot from the comments--gaining perspectives that I feel limited in understanding and re-examining my current ideas.

Moving to Oahu in July as a mainlander and this gives really good perspective of what to expect and how I want to act as an “outsider”.

Watching this reminds me of New Orleans so much. I lived in New Orleans for years. I respect and love the culture. Living in a tourism driven area made me understand how much value the government places on tourist dollars over residents. I can empathize with the frustrations of overwhelming amounts of tourists, but it’s puzzling why that responsibility falls squarely on tourists and not the powers that be that make it easier for corporate greed to run the show according to the article. That being said, there are awful people in the world and sometimes they go on vacation.

Respect is the common theme in your videos. I have to assume that comes from you wanting Hawaii to stay a healthy place to live for you and your family. You want the best for them and don’t want to see outside influences spoil it. Thank you for helping all of us mainlanders understand your experience as a local. It helps my family understand how we need to fit in when we move there in the coming months.

Makahiki as an example of a period of time annually that this holiday tourism break could occur that could coincide with seasonal break for locals.

Thanks. You always make a lot of sense.

Compare with other tropical island countries. They have restrictions on how long you can stay and buy land.

We just got back from Kona last Friday. We love Hawaii, and we don't do the tourist stuff. We hang out instead of the beach that is not crowded. Love your video.

This was such a well thought out and common sense discussion, from you as always ...yep I have seen the bad tourist with their blind eyes and sarcasm, but also have seen that just as often in locals ... Hawaii is fast becoming such an angry culture, like the mainland, too bad, and in many many cases tourism is not the cause at all, perhaps in some cases tourists are scapegoats in a sense, sometimes rightfully so, and sometimes not, not even close ... even if tourists were absent, this pervading anger would still be here, growing ... too bad, but again such a well thought out and common sense thoughts by you !!! btw perhaps my views may be different in way, I am on a neighbor island and wonder if neighbor island views may differ a bit from other islands ... 👍🤙🙏

You convinced me. My wife and I have visited and spent our vacation money in Hawaii on 4 occasions. Because of the un-friendly natives on Hawaii, we probably won’t be back. We really don’t want to know about your troubles with the US government from 175 years ago. The world is full of places with friendly people so your loss. I once ran a restaurant and I wonder how many customers I would have had if we had been nasty to the people that were providing us with a living. What would Hawaii be like if not for tourism, Puerto Rico? Would you trade your current life for that in Puerto Rico? Even for the Hawaiians that don’t think their living depends on tourism, it affects you all. For everything you import, there has to be an equal value go in the opposite direction and for Hawaii, that is tourism.

I haven’t been to Hawaii since 2013. I miss it and look forward to when I can visit again. I have heard of correspondence like what you have shared. I respect concerns of Kanaka Maoli. I’d love to visit long time family friends who are Kanaka Maoli, now in their 80s I really want to visit in person again. I have learned much about Hawaii from them and other Hawaiian friends (whether Kanaka Maoli or other ethnicities who are locals). I don’t do a lot of big ticket touristy stuff. I enjoy eating at small local restaurants, or shop at the farmers market, go for a hike or a enjoy a little time at the beach. I try to practice the “leave no trace” philosophy when I visit and visit places that are open to the public for visiting and educational purposes and don’t go to places that are clearly indicated as off limits. One of my favorite times was sitting in a small gift shop with locals and Native Hawaiians, just enjoying some coffee together, talking story, good laughs and enjoying each other’s company.

Great vlog and you made this in Ala Moana park, my favorite town beach. I lived in Honolulu for six years in the late 70's and finally made it back for a vacation last summer for hiking in the Koolau's and to visit places I remembered. I really wish I could move back. I remember seeing signs around Kailua "Keep the country country" and had someone explain it to me. Probably the biggest changes on the island I saw was on the windward side from Kahuku south and the suburb sprawls here and there. But I will return as a tourist, and do my best to respect the people and the aina. Popular on the radio at the time was "Coming Home" (The Green) which was perfect. In my heart Hawaii will always be No Ka 'Oi.

I really appreciate this video. I had just moved to Hawaii about a week and a half ago to be with my fiancé, but I was also very concerned about if I had any right to move here, considering the types of opinions that I’ve heard that are in line with the article you read. I’m really looking forward to volunteering for nature reserves, especially ones involving marine life and I want to learn as much as I can about the culture so I can properly respect it for the few years that I’ll be staying here.

Hawaii has a lot to teach and share with visitors. I understand the author's perspective. But as the world gets smaller and flights to the island become more affordable. It's important for people like yourself to use their platform to educate others. I believe you laid out a very compelling argument for starting a conversation about how things need to change. Or at the very least how to make things better in the future.

Great comments… thanks for sharing your perspective

I went to Kona a couple of months ago for work. I was there for a few days but were enough to make me realize the anger that exists within hawaiian native community. I met this woman from Texas who was working in the same hotel chain where I work and she was very sad because in the two years that she had worked in that hotel, she never felt welcomed from hawaiian co-workers even they didn't talk to her and she did not understand why. At that time, I had no knowledge of the history of Hawaii, but when I returned to my place, I did some research and I understood why the natives acted that way towards foreigners, I even felt admiration for them for defending their land. Your points are fine but you can't hide the reality either, there is a part of the natives who want their sovereignty and their lands back.

I really appreciate this video. As a tourist to Hawaii many times I often wonder how the Locals, both native and non native, feel about me being there. I try to be respectful and learn as much of the culture as I can but I'm sure I've inadvertently annoyed someone at one point or another. I am truly sorry for that, it's never intentional. That being said, it's good to know that we (tourists) are not universally disliked. Mahalo!

Just food for thought. If the US wouldnt have annexed Hawaii who do you think would have?

26:55 this is the most important part in my mind. If the issue is tourists disrespecting the land and the people, then telling people not to come will simply reduce the amount of respectful tourists. So is the issue the amount of tourists or the % of respectful tourists? If it’s the latter, then the goal should be educating people and showing them how to act. Otherwise you just get fewer tourists but all of them are the disrespectful ones who don’t care about native pleas not to visit.

It’s not the “coming” that’s the problem.. it’s the “STAYING” once you grasp that, everything else is water under the bridge..

I have worked many years in the tourism industry in various locations including many years in Alaska. I have been to the Big Island and to Kauai, both times as a tourist. I also travel extensively in South America (off the beaten path)… having worked in tourism and traveling extensively I am not an idiot tourist - yes they exist I see them everywhere and from all cultures and backgrounds. Having said that, I do get targeted on occasion for being blonde/blue - such as getting asked for money in Colombia way more than my father who is dark hair/skin… no biggie. The ONLY place I have been harassed and threatened multiple times (physically threatened as well) was in Kauai. All 3 times I was alone and there were 3-7 locals. One of the times was very close to getting out of hand and my hair and Wiley color were mentioned repeatedly all 3 times. I honestly wish the US government would pull out and give the islands back to the people to run how they see fit. There is a very high percentage of Hawaiians who want to be sovereign and I wish we would move our Pacific fleet and operations to an island where it was welcomed. Let Hawaii be left to itself and make a new 50th state. It is hands down the most racist place I have experienced in my extensive travels and their threats worked - I will never go back and anyone I know who is planning to visit (and who looks like me) I try to dissuade them from doing so. In this sense I guess I am now an ally to the locals!

Bruh, Chaa to the Hoo🔥 Have you considered running for office? City or state level? You should consider it. I really appreciated your words, and the spirit carried in your words because they were sound, humble and pointed back to principle. That's what we're missing today, that kind of mana. Think about it if you haven't. Hawaii and our country need more ordinary locals and citizens who can point to the issues while upholding character and principle at the same time 🤙❤️ Thanks for your korero. It was refreshing.

In 2009, I had a five day layover in Honolulu. I had a nice time in Waikiki. Found downtown Honolulu dated and in serious need of rejuvenation. Saw homeless in and around Waikiki and other social problems. I expected Hawaii to be expensive as other tourist Islands typically are. My impression was that it was a nice place to visit but not a place to live. I still miss macadamia nuts, can't seem to find in my neck of the woods. Aloha!

Respect the people and the Aina of Hawaii. Thanks for bringing up the topic and for your insight.

You could set it so it doesn’t interfere with Golden Week or other foreign travel holidays periods to Oahu not to reduce overall tourism revenue significantly. You could offer discounts, incentives, or added to fees to entice or deter Oahu arrivals meanwhile expanding tourism to outer islands if wanted. Same tactics could be applied to N. American tourists as well.

Great conversation. Thank you!

Differentiating locals from native Hawaiians, while useful in various contexts, is counterproductive if used to determine authority. I understand that the Hawaiian Kingdom was wrongfully overthrown but life moves on, new people have come and gone, and nobody can control where they are born. From a historical perspective, natives and non-natives (locals) belong to Hawai'i as much as Hawai'i belongs to them. Hawai'i has produced a variety of people with different experiences and perspectives. I don't believe that we can satisfactorily portray a place like Hawai'i if one perspective overrides all others. In fact, everyone should be engaging with each other's ideas and perspectives. I do want to say that I respect and value Native Hawaiian perspectives and have deep sympathy for Hawaiians in particular, as recent history shows that they have had to endure a lot of injustices. But I do also have to say that it is often the case that an individual or even a group is not always correct about every single thing. To demand effective solutions that will improve people's lives, you have to be not only open to various sources of information but also see the present state for what it actually is. You are dealing with a place and society that is so much more different and complex than in the past. Think about its geography, local economy, and the multicultural society it is made up of. I understand that in our political and social climate, it is difficult for all of us (Native Hawaiians, Locals, Mainland people, and citizens of the world) to engage with one another and our ideas in a healthy and constructive manner. I think Chris, you are doing a good job of this, and we need more, so thank you.

Really great video! We come every year and try to be extremely respectful and careful of sacred grounds.

On point!!! There’s a major difference in tourists whom understand and those whom don’t, unfortunately “native" Hawaiians tend to point a finger as not to take any blame of the past… Not all locals are the same and many become extremists when it comes to being anti-tourism, yet Hawaii would not be able to sustain itself without technological advances brought to the island by foreigners through history!!!

Hello I want to thank you for your video. As always you bring great discussion up that get people talking. My hubby and I bought property on the big island and before we moved we watched so many videos about hawaii. Some really good and some really bad. I’ll admit I was a bit scared of moving here and being treated poorly. But to my surprise the first person I met was a native Hawaiian family and we have become good friends in the year I’ve lived here so far. Her entire family welcomed us with open arms and made us feel at home. I’ve learned many things from them and they accept that my pronunciation is not always right and actually get a kick out if it. They never make me feel out of place. On another side I have been treated poorly by a lot of the Philippine population. I had to fight to prove I was as good and caring worker. Just because I do my job differently then they do but come out with the same results does not make me a bad worker. It took me a year to get people to stop talking about me behind my back and actually talk to me. Being the only white girl on a hall with all Philippine staff was hard. But I kept my head held high and did my job to the best of my ability. Along with my Hawaiian friend telling them to stop talking about me and actually try to get to know me things have somewhat smoothed out and I don’t feel so much of an outsider anymore. I try to always do my best to respect every culture because we are all human with different beliefs and that to me is what makes us great. Respect everyone’s differences and respect local cultures be kind and open up discussions. I can truly say I live this island and all the different cultures and I’m proud to live here.

coming from the perspective of my friend who is Kanaka Maoli, when it come to why some natives feel the Haole (non-natives) are disrespectful is how they feel the need to touch things. she says this is especially true about them touching the turtles and seals when they are specifically told not to. She is not against Haole coming to Hawai`i but is hoping that they learn to be a little more respectful and wanting to learn about the culture and island ways.

I can only speak for the 50 folks I know who are native Hawaiians on the Big Island and Oahu...they don't want folks coming for vacation and ESPECIALLY to come and buy homes, or rent out homes for AIRBNB. There are 5 generations living under one roof because they can't afford to purchase or rent in their own homeland. They had to work hard to learn the Hawaiian language which was outlawed in public schools for decades. They believe the actual land is living and everything is spiritually connected. Too often folks take their western understanding and mentality and lay it over what they think Native Hawaiians think or should think. I've been close with some of my friends for a decade and I still don't completely understand, probably not even 40 percent. However, I respect. The only time I travel to Hawaii is when I'm staying with my friends and there for connection with them. It's not the world's playground.

I replaced our yearly Hawaiian vacation with Florida a couple of years back and tbh I don't think I'll come back to hawaii. The gratitude and attitudes are much better in Florida towards tourists and the weather is the same.

as a hispanic who has roots in mexican culture. i understand what its like to see your own culture be commercialized. it can be annoying or borderline offensive but i see it as those who want to learn about my culture will try.

This video is especially relevant today as Maui struggles to recover. Tourists seem to get the picture now and have stopped coming. Luckily there are some organizations who are looking to train natives in jobs outside of tourism. This is necessary if you want to have an economy not depending on tourism

Another excellent video. Covering alot of what and how locals feel today. Iʻve been here all my life and can see everyones perspective but I feel the islands are just unsustainable. Imagine if all the locals and kanaka’s who moved away moved back? Weʻd have a larger problem. Something has got to give and our government has zero answers.

Interesting reactions to a pretty extreme opinion. I’m with you on almost all of it. Just want to point out that everything, everything the writer of that post says could be said, and is, by locals in almost any popular tourist destination. Tourism is better than strip coal mining insofar as environmental issues. And tourists are better than unemployment. No excuses for bad behavior, and there’s lots, I’m sure. But many tourists have good intentions and appreciate Aloha when they find it. I was lucky to be there during Covid. Open beaches and closed tourist traps. Heaven on earth. You can’t keep people from wanting that - if only for a week. Thanks for the thought and effort you bring to issues on this vlog. Always thought provoking.

Locals on Oahu need a break from tourism and high costs of basic life. There could be a three week holiday in which tourism is reduced by 50%-75%plus…maybe 100% so locals can enjoy the aina they live and work so hard to live on. Tourists that do make it to Oahu could pay “Makahiki” fee surcharges around 30%-50% above normal prices. This would reduce tourist population on island (Oahu only) for a set period of time annually. This fee could be put back into local economy directly by no fees for locals/Kama’aina for local attractions or Kokua to houseless. Many ideas to alter tourism and economy to benefit locals and Kanaka maoli.

Wow, I really miss Magic Island. That was my biking, picnic, and jogging spot. Sorry for being out of topic. 😁

Really good insights for locals, great ambassador for the islands!

The problem with Hawaii is that although much of Hawaii's culture has been "Americanized" it simply doesn't fit in with the rest of the 49 states. One could argue Hawaii's closest counterpart Alaska is the most "American" state in terms of cultural ideals and themes. Many of the problems we see today in Hawaii are enabled by Hawaii's culture, and some are enabled by it being a state. Much of Hawaii's issues regarding housing prices are simply because Hawaii adopted the mainland's approach to zoning regulations and property taxation which incentivizes building low density housing which is a horrendous idea when you live on an island with limited land to develop. The other part of this issue is that Hawaii seriously lacks entrepreneurial spirit, this is where Hawaii's culture hinders it. Hawaii culturally is still a plantation state and although people aren't as impoverished as the days of the plantations they still have the same mindset. The hotels effectively replaced the plantations and this is also reflected by many council members being previous hotel managers, similar to the plantation days where many mayors and elected officials were union officials or plantation managers. I believe without a doubt that Hawaii would be way worse off if it was its own nation, and the only thing that stops it becoming that is the federal government. If Hawaii stops being a state it'll lose federal funding that keeps it afloat, but if it stays and keeps trying to copy other states it'll lose its mana and spirit by being overcome with globalization and cookie cutter homes (like it is right now). If Hawaii wants to truly change it'll need to find its own way to use its unique culture and land to maximize ingenuity, preserve its true culture, and work with the American system to flourish and not blame it for its shortcomings. When I was in highschool I started a nonprofit on Maui with the best friend to address many of the issues our local youth face. I know this issue deeply and it saddened me being met with limiting beliefs by local families who held their children back. Many of the youth we worked with and myself left Hawaii because it wasn't economically feasible to live there. If Hawaii wants real change they need to abandon the plantation culture and not adopt the American culture, but go back to its roots and make its own society, but using the American system and tax structure to allow that growth to happen. Taxing the hell out of people won't allow this to happen.

I’ve thought Hawaii could have a thriving tech industry especially post covid with working from anywhere. But being in Sacramento and hearing about what went down in Tahoe and other mountain ski towns, I realized a wave of youngsters making close to 200k only worsens the existing housing problems for locals.

It really isn’t a surprise that Native Hawaiians would feel this way. Also interesting you mentioned Delaware at one point since that is where I’m from and close to resort beaches where summer tourism can be challenging. Many people on vacation only care about their vacation and nothing else. I have been to Oahu twice while I was active duty Navy. My first day ever in Hawaii I stood an honor guard on the Arizona memorial for a dozen or so Navy vets including a couple who were Pearl Harbor survivors. That was on Veterans Day in 1992 and I have always wanted to go back. Finally able to afford that “once in a lifetime trip” with my wife so I can show her the Arizona Memorial. I will promise you, and all the other Hawaiians here that respect for all of those who live on the island and the Hawaiian culture will be uppermost on our mind. Not because of anything said here, or in the article, but because that is the way everyone should always act towards others. Respect for others is always how one should act. Thanks for this as it has made me more aware that I will need to really watch out that the vacation doesn’t become more important than my attitude.

I just have one question. Do you believe your living and/or visiting the United States of America or the Kingdom of Hawaii??

Growing up in the northeast of the United States we have everything we need right here and we don't "need" to travel outside of our very large metro areas. That being said... I've traveled all over the continental United State all my life for business and for pleasure. I think it's good for people to travel around the country to understand that we are all different and we are all the same. The beauty is experiencing somewhere outside of where you were born and grew up. This means native Hawaiians need to get off their islands and travel to the other 49 states whenever possible so they also can see and experience outside of where they grew up. Personally I've never traveled all the way to Hawaii because I always got everything I needed in Southern California and figured why bother. And now that I've seen this video I'm less likely "to bother" coming to Hawaii in the future. Of course this is just my opinion. I know the west coast loves me spending my money there. Aloha