The Value of Responsible and Sustainable Community Tourism on Big Island Hawaii

The Value of Responsible and Sustainable Community Tourism on Big Island Hawaii

Big Island Hawaii, also known as the Island of Hawaiʻi, is a unique destination that offers travelers a wide range of experiences. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone on this diverse island.

For travelers interested in sustainable tourism, Big Island Hawaii offers a wealth of opportunities to engage in responsible and sustainable community tourism. But what is community tourism, and why is it valuable for both travelers and local communities?

Community tourism is a form of tourism that focuses on engaging with local communities and supporting their economic, social, and environmental well-being. It provides travelers with an opportunity to learn about local cultures and traditions while also giving back to the communities they visit.

The value of responsible and sustainable community tourism on Big Island Hawaii lies in its ability to support the local economy while also preserving the island’s unique natural and cultural resources. By engaging in community tourism, travelers can help support local businesses and initiatives while also learning about the rich history and culture of the island.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) has published a 2021-2023 Hawaii Island Destination Management Action Plan (DMAP) as part of its strategic vision and continuing efforts to manage tourism in a responsible and regenerative manner. The DMAP serves as a guide to rebuild, redefine, and reset the direction of tourism on Hawaii Island. It identifies areas of need as well as solutions for enhancing residents’ quality of life and improving the visitor experience ¹.

The community-based plan focuses on key actions that the community, visitor industry, and other sectors deem necessary over a three-year period. The foundation of the Hawai‘i Island DMAP is based on HTA’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan and the 2020-2025 Hawaii Island Tourism Strategic Plan (TSP) ¹.

In conclusion, responsible and sustainable community tourism on Big Island Hawaii offers travelers a unique opportunity to engage with local cultures while also giving back to the communities they visit. By supporting local businesses and initiatives, travelers can help support the local economy while also learning about the rich history and culture of the island. So why not consider adding some community tourism experiences to your next Big Island adventure? #BigIslandAdventure

Source:
(1) HTA Publishes Community-Based Tourism Management Plan for Hawaii Island. https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/news/news-releases/2021/hta-publishes-community-based-tourism-management-plan-for-hawaii-island/.
(2) HTA’s Big Island action plan embraces ‘regenerative tourism’. https://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/2021/04/01/hawaii-news/htas-big-island-action-plan-embraces-regenerative-tourism/.
(3) STRATEGIC PLAN 2020-2025 – Hawaii Tourism Authority. https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/media/4286/hta-strategic-plan-2020-2025.pdf.
(4) Tourism | Hawaii County, HI Research & Development. https://www.rd.hawaiicounty.gov/economic-development/tourism.
(5) Top 5 Places for Ecotourism on the Big Island – Hawaii Guide. https://www.hawaii-guide.com/big-island/top-5-places-for-ecotourism-on-the-big-island.