Hospitality News

Hawaiʻi Stays With You: A New Travel Campaign Launch

The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority launched the "Hawaiʻi Stays With You" campaign at a Los Angeles Rams game to promote meaningful travel experiences, highlighting cultural connections and local community. The campaign emphasizes emotional ties and authentic storytelling, featuring local ambassadors and aims for expansion across various media platforms to enhance visitor engagement.

Newsdesk R. Michael January 6, 2026 2 min read

New campaign makes global debut in Hawaiʻi’s top U.S. market at Los Angeles Rams game

HAWAIʻI — The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority launched the Hawaiʻi Stays With You campaign to encourage deeper travel experiences. Instead of selling a simple getaway, the campaign highlights Hawaiʻi as a way of life. As a result, it invites travelers to leave with a lasting connection, not just photos.

The Hawaiʻi Stays With You campaign debuted on January 4 during a Los Angeles Rams game presented by The Hawaiian Islands. Los Angeles matters because it is Hawaiʻi’s largest U.S. visitor market. So, the game gave the campaign a strong first stage.

Campaign Launches in Los Angeles

HTA brought the campaign into the stadium experience from start to finish. For example, fans saw campaign messaging on in-stadium signage. In addition, the game included branded moments like game ball delivery.

HTA also hosted an activation booth. There, Maui lei maker Britney Alejo-Fishell met fans and shared her work. This moment helped connect the message to a real person and a real craft.

A Message Built on Meaningful Travel

HTA says the campaign reflects how travelers think today. People want more than a checklist. They also want meaning, culture, and connection.

“Hawaiʻi is a special place to visit,” said Caroline Anderson, HTA interim president and CEO. “It is where couples start their lives together, where families celebrate milestones, and where people return again and again because Hawaiʻi stays with you.”

Because travelers now seek deeper ties, the campaign invites visitors to see Hawaiʻi through everyday moments. It focuses on what life feels like across the islands.

HVCB Develops the Creative Direction

The Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau developed the campaign under HTA’s strategic direction. The storytelling stays grounded and personal. It highlights culinary experiences, adventure, wellness, and leisure. At the same time, it aims to build emotional connection.

“Hawaiʻi is home to a living culture, diverse community, and a thriving creative spirit,” said Dr. Aaron J. Salā, HVCB president and CEO. “The Hawaiʻi Stays With You campaign is an invitation to find connection.”

Local Ambassadors Lead the Story

The campaign features local ambassadors from several islands. Their voices keep the message authentic. Plus, future social media content will share deeper insights from them.

Featured ambassadors include:

Miss Aloha Hula 2025 Jaedyn Pavao (Kauaʻi)
Lei maker Britney Alejo-Fishell (Maui)
Designer Keola Rapozo (Oʻahu)
Music producer and recording artist Asialynn G. Kama-Yap (island of Hawaiʻi)

The campaign also features Hawaiian cultural practitioner Sabra Kauka. Meanwhile, Greg Kuehn composed the music. Native Hawaiian producer Shawn Kekoa Pimental also contributed.

For more information, visit gohawaii.com.