Located on Maui’s northwest shore is the gorgeous resort area of Kapalua Bay.  I spent a few weekends at the Kapalua Villas for some rest and relaxation.  It takes about 50 minutes to drive from Kahului Airport to Kapalua, depending on traffic.  But once you get there it is a splendid retreat.  These luxury condominiums are conveniently located near the Ritz Carlton and the Kapalua Bay Hotel.  Three world class golf courses are within easy access.  Kapalua is also home to the PGA Mercedes Championship at the Plantation Course.  It was so nice to awaken to the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Oneloa Bay.  Nearby Kapalua Bay holds the distinction of Sunset Magazine’s nomination for the world’s nicest beach.  Shuttles are also available to transport you between hotels, villas and golf courses.  The Maui Ocean Center offers a nice option for a fun, educational family outing.

The Hawaiian Islands have always been the premier vacation destination spot of the United States.  With 2007 being the busiest year  of tourism the Hawaiian Islands has ever seen, tourism has steadily decreased since then.  Tourism is down close to ten percent since then.

On the negative side, this has hurt all businesses that rely on tourism.  If you look throughout the major cities you will find many small businesses shut down and many employees looking for work.

On the positive side, vacation rentals have become a better alternative for those people that still want to come to the Hawaiian Islands, but are still on a budget.  With vacation rentals you can cut the cost of your room, you can cook in, as well as still conduct business as though it is your home.

This week many airlines drastically reduced their rates to the Hawaiian Islands and tourism is starting to look fairly strong for May, which is typically a slow season.  Looking forward, the later part of 2009 tourism will probably still struggle, but hopefully by 2010 it will start to pick up to bring us back to the way 2007 was.