Hawaii Declining as Gay Travel Destination

As Hawaii prepares to again deal with the legal rights of same-sex couples, its desirability among gays and lesbians as a travel destination is on the decline. That’s the analysis by researchers of a new marketing study of gay and lesbian tourism trends.

The 14th annual report by Community Marketing Inc. of San Francisco, released Dec. 28, barely mentions Hawaii and makes no mention of Honolulu or Maui. Yet, competing destinations such as New York City, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and San Francisco are cited repeatedly. Even smaller cities like Seattle, Boston and Denver are proving to be a draw.

“Hawaii has been slipping for a decade,” said David Paisley, senior program manager for Community Marketing. “Last year it was ranked 17th as a leisure destination, but this year you are 18th, tied with New Orleans and Atlanta.”

Full Story from Pacific Business News