New Hawaii Visitor Laws That Every Tourists Must Know for 2026

Whether you’re planning a Maui getaway or a Big Island adventure, these six changes will directly impact your trip starting January 1, 2026.

1. The “Green Fee” Makes Hotels More Expensive

Hawaii’s new climate tax officially took effect on January 1, 2026. The state’s Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT) increased from 10.25% to 11%.

When you add county surcharges and the General Excise Tax, you’ll now pay between 18% and 19% in total taxes on your hotel or vacation rental bill.

For a $400-per-night room, that’s an extra $75 per night just in taxes. The revenue funds wildfire prevention, beach restoration, and climate resilience projects across the islands. Learn more about Hawaii’s green fee from the Hawaii State Legislature.

2. Maui Vacation Rentals Are Vanishing Fast

Maui County passed one of the most aggressive short-term rental bans in the nation.

Starting in 2026, thousands of vacation rentals in apartment-zoned areas, especially West Maui and South Maui, are being phased out to create long-term housing for residents.

This means significantly fewer Airbnb and VRBO options. If you’re booking Maui accommodations for 2026, do it now.

Prices are already climbing as inventory shrinks. Always verify your rental has a valid TAT and GET license number to avoid last-minute cancellations.

3. New Parking Rules Could Cost You Hundreds

Hawaii’s new parking law (Act 171) bans parking within 20 feet of any crosswalk or intersection. Even if there’s no red curb or “No Parking” sign, you can still get ticketed or towed.

The base fine is around $50, but towing fees can exceed $300. Rental cars are easy targets.

When parallel parking in Honolulu, Lahaina, or Kona, measure your distance carefully or use a parking app to find legal spots.

4. Hotels Ditch Small Plastic Bottles

All Hawaii hotels and lodging properties must stop providing small plastic toiletry bottles under six ounces as of January 1, 2026.

You’ll now find wall-mounted dispensers or large refillable bottles in your room.

If you prefer your own shampoo or have sensitive skin, pack travel-sized products in your luggage. This statewide plastic reduction law aims to cut down on single-use waste that ends up in the ocean.

5. Check Your Macadamia Nut Labels

Hawaii’s new macadamia nut labeling law (Act 199) requires clear disclosure if the nuts weren’t grown in Hawaii. Many souvenir shops sell imported macadamia nuts in packaging that looks Hawaiian.

Before you buy that $25 gift box, flip it over and check the label. If it doesn’t explicitly say “Grown in Hawaii,” the nuts likely came from Australia or another country.

This law protects local farmers and helps tourists buy authentic Hawaiian products.

6. Big Island Cracks Down on Illegal Rentals

Hawaii Island (the Big Island) now requires all short-term rentals to register with the county. Enforcement begins in July 2026, with fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 per violation.

If you’re booking a private home or condo on the Big Island for summer 2026 or later, ask the host for their county registration number. Unregistered properties could be shut down mid-stay, leaving you scrambling for last-minute accommodations. For more Hawaii travel tips, visit Hawaii’s Best Travel.

What This Means for Your Hawaii Trip

Budget an extra 10-15% for accommodation costs due to the new green fee. Book Maui rentals months in advance or consider staying in resort zones where vacation rentals are still legal. Download a parking app to avoid the 20-foot rule violations. Pack your own toiletries if you dislike bulk dispensers. And always verify vacation rental licenses before paying a deposit.

Hawaii’s new visitor laws 2026 are designed to protect the environment and housing supply for residents. With a little extra planning, you can still have an amazing island vacation.

Visitor Tip

Before finalizing any Hawaii booking in 2026, double-check that your accommodation has valid state and county permits. Use the Hawaii Tax Online system to verify TAT and GET numbers. This simple step could save you from a canceled reservation and a ruined vacation.