Hawaii Tourism Authority

The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) is the state agency responsible for developing and funding Hawaii's tourism industry, managing the Tourism Special Fund funded by the transient accommodations tax, and overseeing destination marketing and management programs. It contracts with marketing organizations for each island, funds Hawaiian culture and natural resource programs, and develops policies to balance visitor industry growth with resident quality of life and environmental sustainability. HTA's strategic plan shapes how billions of visitor dollars flow through Hawaii's economy.

Tourism is Hawaii's largest industry, and HTA's spending and policy decisions affect traffic, crowding at natural areas, hotel development, and the overall character of Hawaii as a place to live. Residents can testify at HTA board meetings on destination management strategies that affect their communities.