With more Americans getting vaccinated against COVID-19, popular destinations like Hawaii are reopening to visitors eager to travel again. Although out-of-state visitors have been able to visit Hawaii provided they quarantine at their hotel for 10 days upon arrival, the guidelines are rapidly changing. To help you make your vacation plans and avoid unexpected complications, here are the latest guidelines for visiting the Hawaiian Islands.
What You Need to Know About Hawaii Travel Right Now
Is there still a quarantine requirement?
Visitors to Hawaii who have proof of a qualifying negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival are exempt from the 10-day quarantine requirement. This includes visitors from the continental U.S. and those arriving from the islands of Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii. Without a negative test, you must self-quarantine for 10 days or the duration of your visit, whichever is shorter.
What is a qualifying COVID-19 test?
You must take a negative Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) no more than 72 hours before boarding the last leg of your flight. Only the NAAT administered by an approved laboratory is acceptable; Hawaii does not accept antigen. If the test results aren't ready before boarding, you must quarantine for 10 days or the length of your trip.
How do I submit my test results?
Hawaii requires all visitors to complete the mandatory Safe Travels health and safety form online before visiting. The form collects information about your trip, travel party, and current health status.
Once you have the test results, you can upload them to your form, which will generate a QR code to show at the airport, at your hotel, and to transportation providers indicating you're exempt from quarantine requirements. Every adult in a party needs to create their own Safe Travels account.
Am I exempt from quarantine if I'm vaccinated?
Although you should be fully vaccinated before traveling for safety, it doesn't automatically exempt you from quarantine in Hawaii. You still need to produce proof of a negative NAAT test or quarantine for 10 days if you've been vaccinated.
The exception is for inter-island travel. As of May 11, 2021, individuals who were fully vaccinated in Hawaii may travel between islands without testing or quarantine. A Safe Travels form is still required; upload a copy of your vaccination card and follow the screening procedures at the airport.
Travel guidelines for Hawaii change quickly, so check with the local authorities before your trip to get the most up-to-date information. When you're ready to visit Oahu, book a room at The Breakers Hotel in Honolulu for a relaxing and stress-free vacation. At this resort just half a block from Waikiki Beach, you'll have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Learn more about their amenities online, and call (808) 923-3181 to make a reservation.