Last summer was a great time to visit Hawaii, but many residents feared the impact of the H1N1 pandemic. Hawaii hospitals were packed and ICUs were overflowing, so Gov. David Ige ordered a lockdown and issued travel entry restrictions. Though the outbreak is under control and hospital and ICU beds are full, the lingering effects of the pandemic are making it difficult for travelers to enjoy Hawaii. Though Hawaii’s travel restrictions are expected to be relaxed this fall, it is important to plan ahead and avoid any unnecessarily dangerous situations.
After a year of easing travel restrictions, Hawaii may be free of all the travel restrictions imposed due to the pandemic. By next spring, Hawaii may be free of its travel restrictions, as long as all travelers show proof of vaccination and a negative test for the virus. The state announced last year that it would eliminate the restrictions on travelers once seventy percent of people had been vaccinated, but the surge from a highly contagious omicron variant foiled this plan.
The State of Hawaii’s Safe Travels program requires all travelers to meet certain health requirements before visiting the island. Vaccinations, negative COVID-19 tests, and temperature screenings are some of the mandatory travel requirements. Those with a history of travel-related illness or who are fully vaccinated are exempt from these requirements, but they must upload their vaccination records digitally to Safe Travels before departure. Those who have digital vaccination cards are also eligible to self-quarantine in Hawaii.
To protect yourself from mosquitoes, visitors to Hawaii are strongly encouraged to wear a mask and protect their skin. They should also practice keeping an adequate physical distance while outdoors. In addition to wearing protective masks, visitors should make sure to wear a face mask. Although the CDC recommends face masks, all Hawaii beaches are open for public access. There are also emergency rules that may apply for weddings, social gatherings, and churches.
COVID-19 entry requirements will be lifted on March 26. COVID-19 vaccination certificates and a negative test will no longer be required for travelers to visit Hawaii. Hawaii will continue to impose an indoor mask requirement for those who do not meet the requirements. If you are unsure about the requirements for COVID-19 vaccination, be sure to consult the state’s Safe Travels website. If you have any questions, contact the Health Department or Safe Travels website.
Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and there are a number of lesser-known attractions that can be affected by the state’s restrictions. If you’re a nature lover, then you can fully enjoy all of Hawaii’s attractions without worrying about the restrictions. If you’re a scuba diver, you can snorkel or scuba dive while enjoying the beautiful nature. While some activities are prohibited, hiking, biking, and playing tennis are still possible, especially if you know about the restrictions.