The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, and the tourism industry is among the hardest-hit sectors. Many countries have closed their borders to international visitors to curb the spread of the virus.
However, there have been rumors that Hawaii has banned tourism altogether. So, has Hawaii really banned tourism
What Happened
On March 26, 2020, Hawaii Governor David Ige issued a mandatory 14-day quarantine for all arriving passengers. This meant that anyone arriving in Hawaii would have to self-quarantine for two weeks upon arrival. This order included both visitors and residents returning home.
The quarantine was initially set to end on June 30, but it has been extended several times since then. As of May 2021, it is still in effect.
What Does this Mean for Tourism
The quarantine has had a significant impact on Hawaii’s tourism industry. With visitors required to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival, it effectively makes travel to Hawaii impractical for most people.
Many hotels and resorts in Hawaii have closed due to low occupancy rates. The ones that are still open are mostly catering to essential workers or people who need long-term accommodations.
Can You Still Visit Hawaii
Yes, you can still visit Hawaii if you’re willing to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival. The order applies to everyone arriving in Hawaii regardless of their purpose of travel.
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, make sure you factor in the two-week quarantine period when making your plans. You’ll need to have accommodation arranged before your arrival since you won’t be allowed to leave your hotel room or rental property during the quarantine period.
When Will the Quarantine End
It’s unclear when the quarantine will end. Governor Ige has extended the order several times, and it’s likely that it will be in effect for the foreseeable future.
The state is currently working on a plan to allow vaccinated travelers to bypass the quarantine requirement. However, no timeline has been provided for when this plan will be implemented.
The Bottom Line
So, did Hawaii ban tourism No, Hawaii has not banned tourism. However, the mandatory 14-day quarantine for arriving passengers has effectively made travel to Hawaii impractical for most people.
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, make sure you’re aware of the quarantine requirements and factor them into your plans. While it may not be possible to visit Hawaii right now, things may change in the future as vaccination rates increase and travel restrictions are lifted.