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Hawaii may have to hang “No Vacancy” sign

February 02, 2006 |

Hawaii received nearly 7.5 million visitors last year, the first time the number has topped 7 million. Tourism officials say the islands are near capacity and express concerns that overcrowding may devastate Hawaii's unique "aloha" spirit, making it "just like any sand-and-surf destination."

Visitors to Hawaii topped 7 million for the first time last year, and the tourism industry is talking about making the islands a little more exclusive.

An affordable hotel room on Maui, an empty patch of warm sand on Waikiki Beach, a prime tee time on the Big Island — all are becoming more scarce as more tourists flock to the islands.

In 2005, the islands welcomed 7,457,297 visitors who spent a record $11.5 billion, according to the annual count released Monday.

Some officials in the tourism industry, however, warn that Hawaii is at or very close to capacity and are being more selective in attracting those they consider the most desirable tourists.

They’re not telling anyone to stay away, but they clearly want more spending without too many more tourists.

“Passing the 7 million milestone was a tremendous achievement for our state’s visitor industry,” state tourism liaison Marsha Wienert said.

Get the full story at USA TODAY

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