Hawaii’s Covid Restrictions
By Sydney Morgan
As the last state to still require masks in the United States, Hawaii now has the most safety requirements when it comes to travel during this pandemic.
Different businesses throughout Hawaii post signs and posters on their entryways asking people to “mask up” before entering.
Masks aren’t the only things required on the islands. In order to enter the state, proof of a negative Nucleic Acid Amplification Test, or NAAT is required, regardless of vaccination status.
Both airlines and the state of Hawaii have websites stating they require visitors to upload negative Covid test results.
The test has to be taken within 72 hours and through what’s called a trusted testing partner or TTP. Walgreens is one of the TTPs and gives out free tests, but it can take anywhere between four to six days to receive a result. The company lists on its website that it takes that long because there are not enough labs to test the swabs.
This timeframe surpasses the required time period, 72 hours, which is three days. Therefore this is not an option for those visiting Hawaii which leads to travel frustration.
“It was really stressful having to get your test a couple of days before because you never know if they’re gonna run out of tests,” said Katelynn Ayala, who went to Kona, Maui, and O’ahu for a month-long trip.
Madison Johnston went to Hawaii in February 2022. She planned her trip to Kaua’i, but before arriving she had to figure out a way to get a Covid test in the required time frame. She said that when she went to Walgreens to get the test the pharmacist explained that there would be no point since she wouldn’t get the results in time.
“I had to go to San Luis Obispo and pay $250 for my COVID test, which is so much money just to have it in a few days,” says Johnston. She said she thinks it would be easier if Hawaii provided a free test for those that are visiting.
“I think it’s very wrong to charge people that much,” says Johnston.
After getting the test, travelers are asked to submit the results both to their airlines and the state of Hawaii.
Those who aren’t able to get the test before arriving on the island have to self-quarantine for five days before going out and touring.
According to the governor of Hawaii, David Y. Ige, as of November 8, 2021, all visitors will be treated as domestic travelers, meaning they have to obey the following requirements:
- Create a Safe Travels Account, upload test results, flight information, and fill out a health form.
- While on the plane and within airports you can also expect to wear masks over your nose.
Depending on what island or county you choose to visit, be prepared for a mask requirement both outdoors, and indoors, at restaurants, Luaus, and other events where people are within six feet of others.
“I think it’s a little ridiculous to wear masks when it’s open-air,” Johnston said. “Then also the fact that we all had to be tested before we came here, but it was definitely worth it to come here.”
Ayala believes that the requirements are also worth it regardless of the stress of having to pay $120 for her own COVID-19 Test.
“You gotta do what you gotta do to go to a place that you’ve never been to. It’s worth it,” Ayala said.
In a recent article published in February by Hawaii Guide, Lt. Governor Joshua Green said that Hawaii “should be able to move away from the Safe Travels restrictions sometime in March 2022.”
Until then, you can find further updated requirements on a website created by the state of Hawaii.
This website contains information, details, and links that will provide answers to any possible questions travelers might have.