The Hawaii tourist tax comprises several fees and taxes designed to generate revenue from visitors to support infrastructure, conservation, and public services. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT)
- Rate: 10.25% (as of 2023) on accommodations (hotels, vacation rentals, etc.).
- Purpose: Funds the state’s general budget, including tourism-related infrastructure and services.
2. General Excise Tax (GET)
- Rate: 4% statewide, with an additional 0.5% county surcharge in Honolulu (Oahu), totaling up to 4.5%.
- Application: Applied to most transactions, including lodging, dining, and retail.
3. County Surcharges
- Examples: Oahu charges an extra 3% surcharge on short-term rentals (under 180 days), added to the TAT and GET.
4. Green Fee (Effective 2024)
- Fee: $25 per person for non-residents (proposed).
- Purpose: Funds conservation efforts and mitigates environmental impact. Grants access to state parks, trails, and natural areas for one year.
5. Park Entry Fees
- Examples: Hanauma Bay (Oahu) charges $25 for non-residents; Waimea Valley (Oahu) and Haleakalā National Park (Maui) have separate fees.
Key Notes:
- Inclusion: Taxes are typically bundled into accommodation bills or activity/entry fees.
- Exemptions: Hawaii residents are exempt from certain fees (e.g., Green Fee, park entries).
- Revenue Use: Supports environmental preservation, infrastructure, and public services.
Total Impact:
Tourists may pay ~14-17% in taxes on accommodations (TAT + GET + surcharges) plus activity-specific fees. Always check the latest rates via official Hawaii resources before traveling.
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