Again, the sugar industry played a major role in deciding the composition of the population. Sugar growers began recruiting laborers in China in the mid-1800s, and others were later recruited from Portugal, Puerto Rico, Korea, Japan, and the Philippines. Intermarriage between these ethnic groups, native Hawaiians and descendants of missionaries has been common since the 1800s, and it seems as if each generation becomes more beautiful as the ethnic mix becomes more complex. Modern-day immigrants are coming from around the world, attracted by the climate, the surf, business opportunities, or the desire to retire to a rural, tropical setting. The largest industry is the visitor industry, which includes hotels and other accommodations, airlines, taxis and other ground transportation, and also restaurants, retail and wholesale trade, and services such as banks, utilities, and manufacturing.
Sugar is the largest agricultural product, and government is a large employment sector.
Most residents live on Kauai because they like the rural setting, the extraordinary scenery and the slower pace of life. Most of their leisure time is spent outdoors, in the company of family and friends. Suits and ties are not worn unless someone is going to a meeting in Honolulu or on the mainland. Aloha wear is favored by most business people. Food is a favorite topic of discussion and eating is a favorite activity.