Do Tourists Need to Quarantine When Visiting Hawaii?

No, visitors to Hawaii are not required to quarantine if certain criteria are met. However, if travelers don’t meet the allowed criteria, they will be subject to quarantine upon their arrival to Hawaii.

Tourists visiting Hawaii from mainland U.S. states, U.S territories, and other countries are required to take a pre-travel test 72 hours before departing for Hawaii and be tested for COVID-19. If the result of the test is negative, the traveler must still complete the mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival to the islands. If the test result is positive, they must isolate themselves and not continue their trip.

In March 2020, Hawaii Governor David Ige enacted the mandatory 14-day quarantine law for all passengers arriving at the state’s airports regardless of whether they were visiting or returning residents. The quarantine orders are still in effect, with some exceptions.

If travelers are willing to adhere to the rules surrounding quarantine and testing, they can visit Hawaii while avoiding the 14-day quarantine. To qualify for an exemption from quarantine upon arrival in Hawaii, travelers must follow specific testing rules, wear a mask upon entry, receive a valid test from an approved health care provider or county, and supply a “Safe Travels” form for proof.

Qualifying for an Exemption

To qualify for an exemption from quarantine upon arrival in Hawaii, travelers must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Complete the State of Hawaii-approved form and upload it to the Hawaii Safe Travels Program website.
• Receive a valid test from an approved healthcare provider or a county no more than 72 hours prior to departure.
• Wear a face covering at all times from the airport to their final destination.

If all of these criteria are met, travelers will be exempted from the 14-day quarantine and be allowed to continue with their vacation in Hawaii.

The pre-travel testing is important to keep Hawaii’s case numbers down – as of October 2020, there were only 853 active cases and 26 deaths in Hawaii according to this website. To keep cases numbers down, Mayor Kirk Caldwell of Oahu Island has implemented a nightly curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. starting from 10/19/2020 until 10/31/2020, according to this news article.

When it comes to staying safe in Hawaii during the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important for travelers to follow social distancing guidelines and take local restrictions into account when planning their travels and activities. Of course, it’s also important to get tested prior to entering the islands in order to avoid having to quarantine upon arrival and be able to enjoy one’s vacation.

Overall, tourists do not need to quarantine when visiting Hawaii so long as they follow the guidelines listed here and keep safety in mind while traveling. Tourists who follow these guidelines can still enjoy all that Hawaii has to offer while avoiding having their plans affected by a long stay in quarantine.

Insider’s Guide to Traveling to Hawaii

Hawaii, located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, is a dream destination for any avid traveler. Boasting stunning beaches, breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and a delightful cuisine, Hawaii is a must-visit destination. However, with the ongoing pandemic, tourists are curious whether they need to quarantine before their visit. This guide will answer that question and provide information on the best places to visit, dine, and experience Hawaii’s hidden gems.

Quarantine Requirements in Hawaii

Visitors to Hawaii are required to take a COVID-19 test within 72 hours before arriving in Hawaii. The test must be negative, or they will need to quarantine for ten days. Travelers are urged to obtain a negative test result before arriving to avoid quarantine and enjoy Hawaii’s attractions.

Top Attractions in Hawaii

Hawaii has an endless list of activities and attraction sites, making it challenging to choose where to visit first. A visit to the islands is not complete without visiting Pearl Harbor, where you can pay tribute to fallen soldiers and learn about the impact of World War II on the island. Take a tour of Diamond Head, a volcanic crater, and experience the stunning panoramic views of the island’s rugged coastline.

For an adventurous activity, go snorkeling or scuba diving at Molokini, where you can admire an array of tropical fish, octopuses, and ocean turtles. Hike through the lush Waimea Valley to the Waimea Falls and cool down with a refreshing dip in the pool.

Best Dining Spots in Hawaii

Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures, so it’s no surprise that its cuisine is diverse and packed with flavor. A trip to Hawaii is incomplete without trying a poke bowl, a traditional Hawaiian dish made with ahi tuna. Visit the Maui Fish Market in Maui for a tasty bowl of poke or dine at the small food trucks in North Shore Oahu for traditional Hawaiian plate lunches.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to Mama’s Fish House, located on Maui’s north shore, and enjoy fresh seafood caught that day.

Cultural Experiences in Hawaii

Hawaii is rich in cultural experiences, from attending a traditional luau to learn about the hula dance and Hawaiian lei making to visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center to learn about the culture of the Pacific Island nations. Additionally, visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can learn about the island’s volcanic history and see active volcanoes up close.

Local History of Hawaii

Get a glimpse into the history of Hawaii by visiting the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, and learn about the Kingdom of Hawaii’s monarchs. Visit the USS Arizona Memorial to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Bishop Museum in Honolulu also showcases the history of Hawaii’s indigenous people.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Hawaii

Discover Hawaii’s hidden gems by visiting the Papohaku Beach, located on Molokai Island, which is the quietest and largest white sand beach. Hike through the Manoa Falls Trail in Oahu, which takes you to a stunning waterfall hidden within a lush forest. Take a break from the island and head to the island’s interior to visit the Dole Pineapple Plantation, where you can tour the plantation and indulge in sweet pineapple treats.

In conclusion, Hawaii has activities for every type of traveler, from sunbathing on beautiful beaches to hiking the lush forest trails. With its quarantine requirements, safety should be a priority. However, it is worth the extra effort to enjoy Hawaii’s culture, cuisine, and unique attractions.