Some businesses in small Maui town get tourism boost
by The Associated Press
Last Updated Dec 16, 2020 at 10:28 am EDT
WAILUKU, Hawaii Some local shops and restaurants in a small town on Maui’s north shore say they have experienced a boost in tourism since the state launched a pre-travel coronavirus testing program in October.
Owners of stores in Paia, known for its small shops and its proximity to big wave surf spots, said the policy change has helped business in recent weeks, the Maui News reported Tuesday.
At San Lorenzo Bikinis Maui, Store Manager Breanna Racoma said business has been “pretty good” since tourists were allowed starting in October to bypass a 14-day quarantine and instead prove they tested negative before they travelled to the island.
dgrossman@mauinews.com
Manager Breanna Racoma smiles through her face mask Monday at San Lorenzo Bikinis Maui, a swimsuit and clothing store that has remained open for most of the pandemic. The Maui News / DAKOTA GROSSMAN photos
PAIA Local shops and eateries in Paia town that were shuttered for weeks to months at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic are starting to show some promise, with a few managers staying positive with the recent boost in tourism.
Owners of Soley Aloha Boutique & Gallery said “business is not like it was, but it’s getting better” since the state launched a pre-travel testing program in mid-October.