Visiting Hawaii in 2026? Discover How the Green Fee Impacts Cruises, Hotels, and Eco-Friendly Travel Experiences

Published on December 7, 2025

Hawai‘i is making waves in the travel world with its new “Green Fee.” This fee affects hotel stays, short-term rentals, and cruise passengers visiting the islands. It is designed to fund climate resilience and environmental projects. Travelers planning a 2026 Hawaiian vacation should be aware of the changes.

What Is the Hawaii Green Fee?

The Hawaii Green Fee is part of the state’s effort to address climate challenges. It slightly increases existing accommodation taxes for hotels and short-term rentals. The standard lodging tax rises by 0.75 percentage points, reaching 11% statewide. Counties may also add extra charges.

Cruise passengers face a unique surcharge. An 11% tax is applied to gross fares, prorated by the number of days spent docked in Hawaiian ports. Local county taxes may add another 3%. This makes visiting the islands a bit more expensive for those traveling by sea.

The revenue from this fee is earmarked for environmental protection, disaster preparedness, and infrastructure improvements. Projects include shoreline restoration, beach preservation, and reinforcement against hurricanes and other storms. Water conservation and wildlife protection initiatives are also supported by these funds. State officials estimate the fee will generate around $100 million annually.

Legal Challenge and Implications

Shortly after the Green Fee law was passed, a group representing cruise lines filed a lawsuit. They argue the surcharge violates federal maritime regulations and constitutional protections. The U.S. government has been permitted to intervene in the case, but the legal outcome remains uncertain.

For travelers, this means that cruise-related costs could fluctuate depending on the court’s final ruling. It is important to factor in the potential surcharge when budgeting for cruises to Hawai‘i in 2026.

Travel Tips for Budgeting

If you are planning a trip to Hawai‘i, it is essential to consider these new fees in your budget:

• Hotel and short-term rental rates will carry an 11% tax, plus possible county surcharges.
• Cruise fares may include the Green Fee surcharge, increasing costs for port visits.
• Comparing accommodation types, such as city hotels versus smaller inns, or land-based rentals versus cruise cabins, can help manage expenses.

Eco-Friendly Travel Opportunities

While the Green Fee increases costs slightly, it promotes sustainable tourism. Travelers can participate in protecting Hawai‘i’s fragile environment:

• Longer stays on one island can reduce tax accumulation from multiple stops.
• Visiting during off-peak seasons saves money and helps prevent overcrowding at popular sites such as Waikīkī Beach.
• Supporting eco-conscious businesses contributes to conservation efforts and climate resilience projects.

Embracing these options allows travelers to enjoy Hawai‘i while contributing to the islands’ long-term environmental protection.

Cruise Planning Considerations

For those arriving by cruise, careful planning is essential:

• Check with cruise operators about any added port surcharges.
• Be prepared for potential fee changes if the legal challenge alters the fee’s application.
• Consider itineraries that optimize both travel experiences and cost efficiency.

By planning ahead, travelers can minimize surprises and still enjoy a full Hawaiian experience.

Why This Matters for Hawai‘i Tourism

The Green Fee reflects a new approach to tourism that balances economic benefits with environmental responsibility. The islands attract millions of visitors each year, and protecting their natural beauty is critical.

For global travelers, this fee is more than a cost increase. It is an invitation to travel responsibly. By being mindful of spending and supporting sustainable practices, visitors can play a role in preserving Hawai‘i’s stunning landscapes.

Hawai‘i’s policy is a model for integrating climate awareness into tourism. It encourages a shift toward eco-conscious travel, highlighting the connection between visitor experiences and environmental preservation.

Practical Travel Advice

• Always verify the latest tax information when booking hotels or cruises.
• Consider extended stays and off-peak travel to manage costs and avoid crowds.
• Seek out eco-tourism experiences that support local communities and conservation projects.
• Factor in potential cruise surcharges when planning multi-island trips.

Traveling to Hawai‘i in 2026 will likely be slightly more expensive due to the Green Fee, but the islands’ beauty, culture, and unique landscapes remain worth the visit. By planning carefully and embracing sustainable travel choices, visitors can enjoy a fulfilling and responsible Hawaiian vacation.