North Shore Businesses Struggle After Kona-Low Storms

Confusion over flood damage and road closures leads to steep drop in visitor demand for North Shore businesses.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:04am

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Spring break is typically a busy time for Sharlyn Foo's budget accommodations in Haleiwa, but last month she spent her days canceling reservations and refunding payments as travelers were unsure if the North Shore was even open. The recent Kona-low storms have negatively impacted businesses that cater to visitors, especially on the North Shore, with preliminary estimates placing total economic losses at over $100 million. State officials and business leaders say confusion fueled by viral images of flood damage has prolonged economic losses as the region heads into the critical summer booking season.

Why it matters

The North Shore is a major tourist destination in Hawaii, and the economic impact of the Kona-low storms has been devastating for small businesses that rely on visitor traffic. Inaccurate messaging and lingering uncertainty have compounded the losses, threatening the livelihoods of many workers and the long-term viability of these local enterprises.

The details

Businesses across the North Shore, from budget accommodations to surf shops and restaurants, have seen revenues plummet by 70% or more since the storms. Many had to cancel spring break reservations, while others lost inventory and equipment to the floods. The disruption has rippled through the supply chain, affecting farmers, distributors, and transportation companies. Some businesses are operating with virtually no revenue while still paying employees and benefits.

  • The first Kona-low storm hit on March 13, causing extensive wind damage.
  • The second Kona-low storm on March 20 brought 13 inches of rain, triggering widespread flooding.
  • Roads were closed and access to the North Shore was severely limited from March 13 until last week.
  • Businesses are now trying to salvage the critical summer booking season, but need prompt action to restore visitor confidence.

The players

Sharlyn Foo

Owner of Backpackers Vacation Inn & Plantation Village in Haleiwa, whose budget accommodations saw a complete collapse in spring break bookings.

Sean Quinlan

State Representative for the Waialua–Haleiwa–Punaluu district, who estimates business in Haleiwa is down about 70% on average.

Sherry Menor

President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, who described the downturn as 'instantaneous' for small family-run businesses.

Lamont Brown

Owner of The Fixx Haleiwa and Maya's Tapas and Wine, whose revenues are down about 75%.

John Morgan

President and General Manager of Kualoa Ranch, a major North Shore employer that was also affected by the storms.

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What they’re saying

“'I'm down to zero; nobody is here. When they hear the word 'Haleiwa,' I have no business.'”

— Sharlyn Foo, Owner, Backpackers Vacation Inn & Plantation Village

“'Most visitors aren't well-versed in island geography. When they see images on the news, they assume all of Hawaii is closed.'”

— Sean Quinlan, State Representative

“'Some businesses are operating with virtually no revenue while still paying employees, benefits and even feeding the community. Many are dealing with damaged equipment, spoiled inventory and flooding impacts — often without adequate insurance. They are bleeding.'”

— Sherry Menor, President and CEO, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

“'We got through COVID, we'll get through this. But this time, people have lost homes and don't have extra money.'”

— Lamont Brown, Owner, The Fixx Haleiwa and Maya's Tapas and Wine

“'When people think all of Hawaii is impacted, they make other plans. Clear messaging matters.'”

— John Morgan, President and General Manager, Kualoa Ranch

What’s next

The Governor's Office said a recovery campaign is needed to restore confidence and encourage visitors to keep or rebook trips. Funding would come from HTA's fiscal year budget reserve for marketing, which is held back annually for situations like this. State officials say correcting misinformation now is urgent to salvage the critical summer booking season.

The takeaway

The Kona-low storms have dealt a devastating blow to North Shore businesses, with confusion over the extent of the damage compounding the economic losses. Restoring visitor confidence through targeted marketing and clear messaging will be crucial to helping these small, community-oriented enterprises recover and survive the long-term impacts.