Information in this article is correct at time of publication - note that travel restrictions may change due to the ongoing pandemic. Please check local government websites before you travel.
Great news: after many months and several pushbacks, the government of Hawaii has announced plans to reopen its doors to out-of-state travelers.
We’ll pause here and give you a moment to celebrate suitably! 🎉 🥳 🎊
So starting October 15, visitors to the Aloha State can skip the mandatory 14-day quarantine as long as they test negative for COVID-19.
But like anything in 2020, the rules can change at short notice, so we definitely recommend regularly checking the Hawaii Government website for the latest updates before you travel.
With many of us itching but unable to travel internationally, Hawaii could be the best alternative for “long-haul” travel this side of 2021. And, as a destination that’s both budget and family-friendly, full of great food and breathtaking natural beauty, we’re OK with that.
Here’s what you need to do to enjoy your next trip to Hawaii safely:
1. Register with the State of Hawaii
The State of Hawaii requires travelers to share information on their Safe Travels portal
“Visitors, friends, and ohana” traveling to the State of Hawaii are required to register with the Safe Travels website. You’ll be asked to add your trip details including travel dates and flight information. Similar to other countries’ test and trace programs, the Safe Travels application is mandatory for all adult travelers (over the age of 18) to help the State of Hawaii screen and monitor travelers.
2. Get a (negative!) Covid-19 test and upload it
Up to 72 hours before your flight, you need to take a Covid-19 test and receive negative results to be able to travel. All travelers, including minors five years and older, will need to take the test.
Once you’ve received your results, you’ll need to upload those to the safe travels website,
Covid testing in the US does vary in price, availability and speed of results. We recommend doing your research for the best test available near you.
It’s worth noting that the only types of coronavirus tests currently approved by the state of Hawaii are FDA-approved “NAAT” tests, processed by a CLIA-certified laboratory. The state of Hawaii will only accept test results from ‘trusted testing and travel partners’: AFC Urgent Care, Carbon Health, CityHealth Urgent Care, Color, CVS Health, Discovery Health MD, Kaiser Permanente, Quest Diagnostics, Vault Health and Walgreens (as of 10/6/20). For more information we always recommend referencing the Hawaii Government website.
Some US airlines including United and American Airlines have started offering tests themselves, so it’s worth checking if this is an option from your flight provider.
3. Fill in the Safe Travels Health Questionnaire
That’s the hard part out the way!
Next up: 24 hours prior to your departure, you will be required to answer a health questionnaire on the Safe Travels website. The health questionnaire will generate a QR code that will be scanned at the airport when you arrive in the State of Hawaii.
4. Confirm your negative Covid status on arrival
After you land in Hawaii, you’ll have your temperature checked, and you’ll need to present the QR code from your completed health questionnaire to airport representatives. Once your negative Covid test status is confirmed, and you’ll be free to enjoy your vacation without serving a quarantine. The Aloha State is #YoursToExplore.
Note: If you took a test and are pending your results, you’ll have to quarantine until you receive your negative results, upload them to the Safe Travels website, and receive confirmation.
5. Enjoy the beautiful islands of Hawaii, safely
Get ready for crystal clear water, white sandy beaches and a whole lot of Aloha 🤙 Photo by Cosmin Serban on Unsplash
It’s no secret that Hawaii’s economy thrives on tourism and the last six months have been hard for businesses and residents alike, especially because the reopening plan was originally set to launch much sooner. Hawaii still has stringent safety measures in place, such as social distancing and mandatory mask requirements, but as long as you abide by the rules, you’re bound to enjoy a beautiful vacation.
Going on a Circle Island Tour lets you see Hawaii's beautiful views and learn about its culture. In the evening, think about going on a Sunset Cruise in Waikiki to see the sun setting over the ocean in amazing colors. If you want to explore Hawaii's underwater world, try a Kona Snorkeling Tour to see colorful sea creatures in their natural homes. Remember to follow safety rules to keep yourself and the community safe while having fun on these tours.
Now, all that’s left to do is check out our top things to do in Hawaii and don’t forget to tag @KlookTravel in your holiday snaps! Here are a few of our favorite activities and travel utilities to get started.
Don't forget to book your Honolulu Private Airport Transfer.
