A New Certification Makes It Easier Than Ever to Find Responsible Hawai’i Businesses That Benefit the Environment and Community

Planning a dream trip to Hawai’i means finding the perfect balance between enjoying the beautiful landscape and cultural experiences while ensuring your visit has a positive impact. How to visit Hawai’i responsibly has been a hot topic for some time, and to help us navigate the planning process and our vacation choices, the Hawai’i Tourism Authority has launched Qurator, a new certification program that recognizes businesses across Hawai’i committed to responsible tourism practices.

“Qurator isn’t just a stamp of approval,” says Hawai’i Tourism Authority board chair Mufi Hannemann. “It speaks to a set of brand values for the Hawaiian Islands, that we care deeply about our land, our people, our culture, and our guests. It’s a recognition of the interdependent relationship between businesses, visitors and our broader local community.”

To achieve Qurator certification, businesses undergo a rigorous assessment based on six critical criteria: environment, cultural support, equity, safety, community, and guest experience. This evaluation ensures that certified businesses actively work to minimize their environmental footprint, respect and celebrate Hawaiian culture, operate with fairness and inclusion, prioritize visitor safety, and give back to the local community.

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A helpful directory allows you to filter businesses by activity (dining, accommodation, transportation, etc.), by island, by categories of excellence (community, safety, etc.), and by tiers (certified, honored, and elite). The pilot program launched in May 2024 has already awarded the following businesses.

Alaska AirlinesBishop MuseumFour Seasons Resort Lāna‘iHāna and BeyondHawai‘i Forest and TrailHI Honey Farm Hawaiian AirlinesHolo Holo ChartersKeoki’s ParadiseMaui Chocolate TourSouthwest AirlinesStargazers of Hawai’iTrilogy Excursions

The Qurator program benefits everyone. Travelers seeking a more responsible and sustainable vacation can easily identify Qurator-certified businesses. This allows you to make informed choices that align with your values and have confidence that your trip contributes to the preservation of the islands’ natural beauty, cultural heritage, and communities. Certified businesses will also gain recognition for their commitment to responsible practices, attracting environmentally and socially conscious travelers while showcasing their dedication to the well-being of Hawai’i.

Businesses in Hawai’i can apply for Qurator certification now.

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