ALOHA awaits! Hawaii Re-opening (again)...but this time it’s different!
Have you heard? Hawaii set a new re-opening date of October 15th! After Hawaii shut their borders in March, they added precautions to protect its residents by requiring a 14-day quarantine for anyone arriving in the state. Now, the governor of Hawaii has announced that rules will be changing soon, and that it’s going to be way easier to visit this tropical paradise again! Who else is excited?
Here is all the information on the new opening date for Hawaii and guidelines so you’re all prepared if you’re looking to travel to this paradise!
Re-opening Date for Hawaii
It’s kind of like that elusive guy/girl you have been pining after that keeps stringing you along...we know, we know, safety first! If you are like me and have been busting at the seams to travel to Hawaii, you’ve probably noticed that the re-opening date has moved a few times already. First, the islands were set to re-open on August 1st, which after a spike in cases, was moved to September 1st and then October 1st. Now, the governor has announced a new decision.
Hawaii is set to re-open on October 15th!
Starting from October 15th, travelers will NO LONGER have to complete a 14-day quarantine IF they can provide a negative approved COVID-19 test upon arrival that was taken within 72 hours before arrival.
As mentioned above, you’ll have to provide a negative COVID-19 test that’s was taken within 72 hours of arriving, or complete a 14-day quarantine upon arrival
Your temperature will be checked upon arrival
You’ll have to fill out a health & travel questionnaire
***It’s important to note that you shouldn’t do just any COVID test. Only a negative FDA-approved NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) processed by a CLIA certified laboratory will be accepted as proof. If you can’t provide this test result, you’ll have to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine at either your home (as a resident) or your hotel (as a tourist), no exceptions!
Rules and regulations surrounding travel both foreign and abroad are always changing so make sure you verify this information shortly before your trip. You can check out Hawaii’s most recent travel info here.
What is the current situation in Hawaii?
You’re probably wondering if it’s even worth going to Hawaii right now. The great news is that because of Hawaii’s precautions, they’re currently in the third stage of recovery, called “act with care”. Businesses like hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and indoor fitness facilities have been allowed to open. Larger venues and clubs are currently still closed to avoid big crowds of people. However, beaches are open and with less tourists and less people, you get a taste of what island life truly is like as a local, without the crowds.
Everyone is advised to wear a mask as recommended throughout the U.S. by the CDC. If you do go into a business, masks are required, so make sure to bring yours!
Flight Information for Hawaii’s Re-Opening
Hawaiian Airlines will resume flights between certain mainland U.S. cities in October and are waiving change fees. You can find their most up to date flight schedule and COVID-19 updates here.
Other major airlines including Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines will all be flying to Hawaiian airports as well. Delta and American are waiving change fees on most flights at the moment, but make sure that you read their terms and conditions before booking.
Delta is also currently blocking middle seats until the end of the year, which is great news for everyone who dreads getting stuck in the middle seat! Fares range between $400 to $700 dollars depending on your departure city and choice of airline.
Where to Stay in Hawaii for its Re-Opening
Need some ideas on where to stay? Most luxury hotels are starting to re-open as well. Some Marriott properties are accepting guests again, as are some Westin and Sheraton hotels. It’s currently uncertain when Turtle Bay Resort will open again, but you can keep an eye on their website. Not all hotels across the islands are open just yet, so make sure you do some research and book your stay ahead of time. Most of these hotels offer flexible cancellation, so definitely look into those conditions as well before booking.
If you are looking for a getaway from pandemic life, working remotely, or just re-booking your holiday, Hawaii will be an option again starting October 15th! Since this is an ever-changing situation, we will keep you posted if/when things change. Mucho Aloha!
***UPDATE*** Oct 29th, 2020 Please do your research before you fly, there is still a risk of being exposed to COVID-19 whenever you travel.