Maui Gets More Canadian Visitors than Oahu in 2009

By Sonia Isotov

The Hawaii State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) recently released a statistical summary of Canadian visitor characteristics which shows that more Canadians visited Maui than Oahu in 2009.

In 2009, Maui County received 172,343 visitors from Canada compared to 158,911 for Oahu, but overall still saw a decrease of 5% in Canadian visitors, with 181,396 Canadians visiting Maui, and 195,034 Canadians visiting Oahu, in 2008.

In 2009, statewide, Hawaii saw 345,583 Canadian visitors compared to 359,580 in 2008, amounting to a 3.5% decrease year over year.

Total expenditures by Canadian tourists statewide decreased 11.5% to $628.8 million in 2009, year over year. Figures released also indicate that Canadians spend approximately $143 per day and $1,814 per trip, on average.

Figures released also indicate that the Canadians predominantly travel in party sizes of 2 or more, or more commonly repeat visitors, independent travelers, and stay in hotels and condominiums for the most party.