Every two years, Hawaii welcomes one of the world's largest gatherings of naval forces. While the focus is on military training, local businesses see something different: more customers. Hotels fill up, restaurants get busier, rental cars become harder to find, and shops, tour operators, and service providers all benefit as thousands of military personnel and support staff spend weeks across Oahu.
With RIMPAC 2026 now underway, organizers expect this year's exercise to be the largest in its history.
More Than Ships in the Harbor
RIMPAC, short for Rim of the Pacific Exercise, brings together 31 participating nations and more than 30,000 military personnel, civilians, and support staff for six weeks of training in and around Hawaii.
The exercise runs from June 24 through July 31 and is the world's largest international maritime exercise.
For Hawaii businesses, it also brings a steady stream of customers. Unlike a typical vacation, many participants stay for several weeks, spending money throughout their visit instead of over just a few days.
Where the Money Goes
The economic benefits extend well beyond Pearl Harbor.
Participants and support crews spend money on:
Hotels and vacation accommodations
Restaurants and food services
Rental cars and transportation
Retail stores
Attractions and activities
Local suppliers and contractors
That spending supports businesses across Oahu while creating additional work for employees, vendors, and service providers.
A Larger Exercise Means More Business
RIMPAC has continued to grow over the years, and 2026 is expected to be its largest edition yet.
More participating nations mean more ships, more personnel, and more visitors staying in Hawaii for an extended period. That translates into higher demand for local businesses during the six-week exercise.
For many companies, especially those tied to tourism and hospitality, the timing provides an additional boost during the busy summer season.
Why It Matters
Military spending remains one of Hawaii's largest economic drivers.
According to the State of Hawaii's Military in Hawaiʻi Economic Impact Factbook, military-related activity supports thousands of local jobs and contributes billions of dollars to the state's economy each year.
RIMPAC is one of the most visible examples of that impact. While the exercise focuses on international cooperation and training, the economic benefits reach local communities through business spending, employment, and supplier contracts.
The Bottom Line
For most residents, RIMPAC is easy to spot in the skies and around Pearl Harbor.
What is less visible is the money moving through Hawaii's economy. Every hotel room booked, restaurant meal purchased, rental car reserved, and store visited adds up over six weeks. That is why RIMPAC has become more than a military exercise. It has become one of Hawaii's largest recurring economic events.
Sources: U.S. Pacific Fleet (RIMPAC 2026); State of Hawaiʻi DBEDT Military in Hawaiʻi Economic Impact Factbook; Military & Community Relations Office (MACRO).