Can You Travel to Hawaii during the COVID-19 Pandemic?

The question remains open whether or not it is safe to travel to Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic. The answer to this question is not as simple as it might seem initially. While it is possible to travel to Hawaii, there are a few restrictions you should consider before planning a trip there.

The Hawaiian islands are currently following the same travel restrictions put in place by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of February 17, 2021, anyone traveling to Hawaii must have a negative test result for COVID-19 and must quarantine for 10 days after arrival. The quarantine can be interrupted by a second negative test result taken approximately 72 hours after arrival.

The restrictions on the Hawaiian islands apply to both domestic and international travelers. All travelers are expected to obtain a valid negative test result prior entering the state. Travelers must submit verification documents and a recent health questionnaire prior boarding their flight, failure to comply would result in refusal of boarding by either the airline or the quarantine team at the Hawaiian airports. Upon arrival, all travelers are expected to quarantine for 10 straight days at their accommodation. Hawaii also requires a second COVID-19 test taken 72 hours after arrival, which must result in another negative finding in order to interrupt the mandatory 10 days of quarantine.

The current restrictions were put in place with the purpose of preventing the spread of COVID-19 throughout the Hawaiian Islands. This has proven effective for keeping the numbers of new cases to a minimum as most of Hawaii still does not require face masks when entering stores or restaurants and maintain minimal social distancing protocols. This means that you can still travel safely to Hawaii if you are willing to comply with testing guidelines and mandatory quarantines.

If you are planning to travel to Hawaii, it is important to be aware of any changes in CDC regulations prior your trip given that these rules can be quickly amended. The current requirements can be found in the What You Need to Know Before Traveling To Hawaii guide published by Travel Gear Hound. It is also important to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage throughout your time in the Hawaiian islands in order to protect yourself from any unexpected cancellations or medical expenses due to COVID-19.

Overall, the answer to the question “Can you travel to Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic?” is yes, provided that you do your due diligence and research all requirements prior your trip. Strict testing and quarantine protocols must be followed at all times for travelers arriving in Hawaii, currently these are the only measures set up by the state’s government as preventive measures against COVID-19 and keep unaffected areas from infection spread from other states of U.S and other countries. It is possible to travel safely if these requirements are strictly followed, making Hawaii an ideal destination or a getaway if you are willing to comply with all safety protocols.

Insider’s Guide to Visiting Hawaii during the COVID-19 Pandemic

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt travel plans all over the world, many people are wondering if it is possible to travel to Hawaii. The answer is yes, but with some additional requirements to ensure the safety of visitors and locals alike.

Before planning your trip to Hawaii, you’ll need to be aware of the state’s regulations. All incoming travelers to Hawaii must have a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 72 hours before their flight departure to the state. You will also need to fill out a travel declaration form and undergo a temperature screening upon arrival at the airport. With that said, here’s our insider’s guide to visiting Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Attractions

Hawaii is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and the state has many attractions that showcase its dramatic landscapes. Some top attractions in Hawaii include the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Haleakala National Park.

Pearl Harbor is a must-visit for history buffs. The USS Arizona Memorial pays homage to the lives lost in the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that drew the United States into World War II. The site includes a museum, a moving documentary film, and a boat ride to the memorial.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the state’s most popular attraction, and for a good reason. This park boasts two active volcanoes, incredible hiking trails, and unique geological formations. Visitors can also explore the Kilauea Visitor Center and the Jaggar Museum, which showcase the park’s history and geology.

Haleakala National Park on Maui Island is another popular attraction. This park is home to the Haleakala Crater, a volcanic crater that rises more than 10,000 feet above sea level. Visitors can watch the sunrise or sunset over the crater and hike through the park’s lush trails.

Dining Spots

Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects that diversity. While it’s impossible to sample everything, we recommend trying some traditional Hawaiian dishes and fusion cuisine. Here are a few dining spots to add to your list:

– Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Oahu): This restaurant is known for its excellent Hawaiian comfort food, including lau lau (pork wrapped in taro leaves), kalua pig, and lomi lomi salmon.
– Sam Choy’s Breakfast, Lunch & Crab (Kona): This restaurant is a popular destination for seafood lovers and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
– Mama’s Fish House (Maui): This award-winning restaurant offers a fine dining experience and serves fresh Hawaiian fish and seafood. The restaurant is located on a secluded beach and has stunning sea views.
– The Fish and The Hog (Kauai): This restaurant serves a fusion of Hawaiian and American cuisine, including smoked meats and seafood.

Cultural Experiences

Hawaii has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many opportunities to learn about the state’s history and traditions. Here are some cultural experiences to consider:

– Hula Performance: Hawaii is famous for its hula dance, a traditional dance that tells stories of Hawaiian culture. Many resorts and cultural centers offer hula performances for visitors.
– Polynesian Cultural Center (Oahu): This cultural center offers immersive experiences that showcase Polynesian cultures and traditions. Visitors can learn about Hawaiian, Tahitian, Samoan, and Tongan customs, watch live performances, and sample traditional foods.
– Maui Arts and Cultural Center (Maui): This venue hosts a variety of cultural events and arts performances throughout the year, including shows by local artists and internationally renowned musicians.

Local History

Hawaii has a unique history, and there are many historical sites to explore. Here are a few to consider:

– Iolani Palace (Oahu): This 19th-century palace was the home of Hawaii’s last monarchs, King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the palace and learn about Hawaii’s monarchy and colonial history.
– Lahaina Historic Trail (Maui): This trail is a self-guided tour of more than 60 historical sites in Lahaina, Maui’s former capital city. The trail includes churches, museums, and homes that date back to the 1800s.
– Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park (Hawaii Island): This park was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians who had broken a law. Visitors can explore the park’s temples, royal fishponds, and reconstructed buildings and learn about the traditional Hawaiian way of life.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore some hidden gems in Hawaii, here are some suggestions:

– Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast: This rugged coast is only accessible by hiking or by boat. Visitors can hike the Kalalau Trail, which offers stunning views of the coast, waterfalls, and valleys.
– Molokai: This small island is often overlooked by tourists but has plenty to offer. Visitors can explore the island’s stunning beaches, take a mule ride to Kalaupapa, a former leper colony, or hike through the Kamakou Preserve, a rainforest sanctuary.
– Wailua Falls (Kauai): This 173-foot waterfall is easily accessible and offers breathtaking views. Visitors can hike to the bottom of the falls or view it from above.

In conclusion, it is possible to travel to Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic with some additional requirements. Hawaii’s natural beauty, cultural experiences, and rich history make it an attractive destination for tourists. While there are plenty of well-known attractions, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations can also be rewarding.