Is it safe to visit the Big Island of Hawaii?
It is safe, and there are just a few safety considerations for visiting the recently active region. Kilauea, one of the world’s most active and largest shield volcanoes, is an ever-present reminder of the incredible forces of nature that are constantly at work on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Is it safe to visit Hawaii during and after the Kilauea eruption?
With the 2018 eruption of Kilauea, many people have questions about how the volcano will affect their visit to the Big Island and if it’s safe to visit Hawaii during and after this volcanic activity. It is safe, and there are just a few safety considerations for visiting the recently active region.
When is the best time to visit Hawaii Big Island?
Hawaii - The Big Island Travel Tips. Best Months to Visit. The best time to visit Hawaii's Big Island is between September and November. That's when the island's generally reasonable room rates take the most significant plunge.
Why choose a guide to the Big Island of Hawaii?
Having a reliable guide, that's key. We'd genuinely love to be your guide to the Big Island of Hawaii during your stay, and we hope you find our itineraries resourceful while planning your trip. The Big Island offers up not only some of the loveliest beaches in the state but also some of the most varied.
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Is Big Island safe to visit now?
The Big Island is one of the safest in all 4 islands of Hawaii. However, there are still some unsafe areas where crimes can happen at anytime of the day. Here are some places that you should avoid while you are visiting the Big Island: Downtown areas of Hilo.
Is it safe to travel to Hawaii right now?
Hawaiʻi is open and ready to welcome you. There are no COVID-19 related entry requirements for domestic travelers. Travelers arriving in Hawai'i directly from an international airport must still comply with U.S. federal requirements. For updates on international travel, visit CDC.gov.
Are beaches on Big Island Open?
All Hawaii county parks and beaches are open on all islands with some restrictions. Generally speaking, most state and national parks are open at this time. Select Hawaii state parks and monuments statewide are open, though emphasizing social distancing.
What are the current travel restrictions to Hawaii?
There are no longer any COVID-related requirements for arriving domestic passengers. Additionally, as of June 12, 2022, the U.S. federal government no longer requires a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test result or recovery from COVID-19 documentation.
Why are Hawaiians asking tourists to leave?
But being one of the top destinations for holidaymakers isn't all it's cracked up to be. The island state is burdened by overtourism - and it's becoming a big problem. Last year, tens of thousands of extra US tourists left Hawai'i in turmoil as it struggled to cope with unprecedented tourism demands.
Do you have to wear a mask in Hawaii?
Wearing a Mask or Face Covering Masks are strongly recommended while indoors and when you are unable to maintain physical distancing.
Which side of the Big Island has better beaches?
The Big Island's most popular beach is located on the Kohala Coast on the northwestern shore of the island. This half-mile stretch of white sand is loved by many for its calm swimming conditions that are perfect for families with younger kids, as well as great for bodyboarding and snorkeling.
How long does it take to drive around the Big Island of Hawaii?
around eight hoursThe Big Island makes up for more than half of the entire size of the state of Hawaii at just over 4,000 square miles—about half the size of New Jersey. Because of its size, navigating around the Big Island can be daunting, and driving around the entire island will take around eight hours.
Is Hapuna Beach Safe?
At more than 200 feet wide and nearly half a mile long, Hapuna Beach is the longest stretch of white sand on Hawaii Island – as well as the most dangerous. The intense shore break has led to more spinal cord injuries than any other beach in the state.
Do you have to test to leave Hawaii?
Leaving Hawai'i Hawaii residents leaving Hawaii should be prepared to undergo a government-mandated 5-day quarantine or pre-travel testing upon their return. If you are considering travel in the US, the CDC has developed the following guidance to help determine whether you should postpone your trip.
Is Hawaii still under quarantine?
PRE-TRAVEL TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAVELERS LIFTED Click here for more information. The State of Hawai'i's Safe Travels restrictions ended on March 25, 2022. Travelers are no longer required to complete a Safe Travels application to enter the Hawaiian Islands.
Should I travel right now?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you should avoid travel until you've had all recommended COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses.
Is Hawaii still under quarantine?
PRE-TRAVEL TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAVELERS LIFTED Click here for more information. The State of Hawai'i's Safe Travels restrictions ended on March 25, 2022. Travelers are no longer required to complete a Safe Travels application to enter the Hawaiian Islands.
Do you have to test to leave Hawaii?
Leaving Hawai'i Hawaii residents leaving Hawaii should be prepared to undergo a government-mandated 5-day quarantine or pre-travel testing upon their return. If you are considering travel in the US, the CDC has developed the following guidance to help determine whether you should postpone your trip.
What should you not wear to Hawaii?
What Not to Wear in HawaiiWhite tennis shoes. Nothing says haole (“foreigner”) faster than chunky white sneakers. ... Socks with sandals. You're better than that. ... Loud Hawaiian shirts. ... Matching aloha shirts. ... Speedos. ... Shirts that say, “Hawaii.” It's like wearing an “I Heart NY” shirt in New York city. ... Leis.
Which Hawaiian island is safest?
If you're just looking at the sheer number of incidents on each island, Kauai is the safest island to live on. In 2020, the Kauai Police Department reported the lowest number of violent crime incidents and property crime incidents of any of the four major islands.
When will Hawaii open to all travelers?
On June 24, 2021 , Governor David Ige announced that beginning July 8, 2021, the state of Hawaii will allow all domestic travelers vaccinated in the U.S. (the exemption is for those vaccinated in all U.S. states and territories) to skip quarantine without getting a pre-travel COVID test, a major step toward reopening Hawaii to all travelers.
What is the Hawaii Department of Health?
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with aio Digital and the Hawaii Executive Collaborative (HEC), has launched AlohaSafe Alert, the free State of Hawaii officially approved exposure notification app to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
How long does it take to get a notice for Hawaii?
All adult travelers will receive a notice 24 hours prior to their departure time to the Hawaiian Islands to complete the Mandatory State of Hawaii Travel and Health Form via the Safe Travels Hawaii program set up in Step 2.
What is the Hawaiian culture?
The culture of the Hawaiian Islands promotes kuleana (responsibility) and aloha (love, peace, and compassion). Now that travelers can once again enjoy the incredible beauty and diverse cultures of the Hawaiian Islands, the state of Hawaii is asking for your kokua (help) in keeping Hawaii safe.
When will Hawaii stop inter-island travel?
This includes trans-Pacific travel restrictions required for all travelers not currently vaccinated within Hawaii. On June 15, 2021, the inter-island restrictions have now officially ended between all islands.
When do you have to take a pre-travel test in Hawaii?
Any travelers arriving before July 8, 2021, will still need to take the pre-travel test from a trusted partner within 72 hours prior to departure. Currently, as of June 26, 2021, Hawaii had a statewide vaccination rate of 57%, according to local state data from the Hawaii Department of Health.
When will Hawaii easing restrictions on gatherings begin?
Additional easing of Restrictions to also begin July 8th. In addition to expanding the "vaccine passport" program beginning July 8, 2021, the state of Hawaii is also easing restrictions on gatherings and restaurants in anticipation of reaching a vaccination rate of 60%.
Why is Kilauea a shield volcano?
Because Kilauea is a shield volcano, the volcanic activity it displays is a little different than what you typically think of with a volcanic eruption. The volcano is constantly pushing lava and gasses out which acts as a release valve for the volcanic pressure, making it much less likely that an explosive eruption will occur. Under typical conditions, this continual activity is why a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is so fascinating, you can actually see a volcano at work. During the eruption, the East Rift Zone and Volcanoes National Park were closed to the public, due to seismic activity, dangerous gasses and flowing lava, but they have since reopened with a few exceptions. Mostly places where buildings, trails or roads were damaged by earthquakes and are being repaired.
What was the biggest concern during the Kilauea eruption?
In most areas away from the eruption, the largest concern during the eruption was actually air quality as the lava pouring into the ocean created vog (volcanic fog) that could irritate your eyes and sinuses. Since Kilauea has quieted down after the 2018 eruption, the air quality on the Big Island is the best it has been in decades, ...
Why are volcanoes closed?
During the eruption, the East Rift Zone and Volcanoes National Park were closed to the public, due to seismic activity, dangerous gasses and flowing lava , but they have since reopened with a few exceptions. Mostly places where buildings, trails or roads were damaged by earthquakes and are being repaired.
How much lava flow is there in Kilauea?
The lava flow rate of Kilauea volcano has historically been between 250,000-650,000 cubic yards per day over the last several decades, this increased significantly during the 2018 flow creating a lava river to the ocean. Because so much lava was released during the 2018 flow, the activity of the whole region has dropped dramatically since the end of the eruption event. While no one knows when it will return to a more active status for sure, it seems that Kilauea is taking a much needed rest for the time being.
When did Kilauea erupt?
Kilauea Has Been Continuously Erupting Since 1983. Another thing to keep in mind is that Kilauea has been erupting regularly for a very long time and the recent activity has actually been continuous since 1983, with periodic times of increased activity. The 2018 Kilauea Eruption event lasted from late April until late August 2018 ...
What are some non-volcano activities?
Non volcano activities include; visiting amazing beaches, stargazing from the top of Mauna Kea, zip lining through the jungle, golfing, sport-fishing, surfing, hiking, sightseeing, kayaking and snorkeling in the pristine Pacific Ocean. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Flow Zone. If your primary reason to visit Hawaii is to see an active flow, ...
How big is the Big Island?
The Big Island is about 93 miles across and just over 4000 square miles in size . The region that was affected by the 2018 activity covers only around 20 square miles, that’s less than 1% of the island! The active flow area was in the Puna region, along the volcano’s east rift zone, the same area where the Kilauea flows have been active numerous ...
Is it Safe to Visit Hawaii Right Now?
There are other issues facing Hawaii right now. The beaches of the beautiful islands of Hawaii are becoming very polluted with (mainly) plastics washing up on the shore.
Is Hawaii safe for solo female travelers?
Solo female travellers out there are rising in their numbers. More and more ladies and donning their backpacks, getting their itineraries sorted and heading out for a trip of a lifetime. Hawaii, being the safe group of islands that it is, attracts a whole load of female travellers.
Is Hawaii safe to travel for families?
Unsurprisingly, Hawaii is safe to travel for families. In fact, it’s not only safe: it’s amazing for families. There’s even a Disney Resort and Spa on Oahu, which should give you an inkling of family-friendly credentials going on here.
Are taxis safe in Hawaii?
Taxis in Hawaii can be pretty expensive – like a lot of things in Hawaii, actually.
Can you drink the water in Hawaii?
Hawaii has some amazing tapwater and the island chain is understandably proud of it, too.
How is healthcare in Hawaii?
Hawaii, because it’s part of the United States of America, has a private, for profit healthcare system . This means you have to pay up front for any sort of medical expense from simply seeing a doctor to having an operation. Hawaii is amongst the healthiest states in the US.
How many visitors did Hawaii receive in 2017?
The latest stats that we found were that in 2017, according to the State Government, Hawaii received 9.4 million visitors. For a string of small islands, that really is a lot and arguably far too many. However, those tourists brought in over $16 billion, making up 21% of the state’s economy.
What happened in May 2018?
During the most recent eruption in May 2018, volcanic activity caused eruptions, earthquakes and the collapse of the Halemaumau crater. It's true that if you arrived here hoping for a stereotypical Hawaiian getaway that's full of luaus and a honeymoon-esque atmosphere, you've probably missed the mark.
Where to fly into on Big Island?
Many travelers who visit the Big Island have a connecting flight from O'ahu 's Honolulu International Airport (HNL), from which you'll fly into Hilo airport on the eastern side. Kona airport near the west side will probably be more convenient if you're staying by the Kona or Kohala coast.
Where to eat in Kona?
You'll find the best eateries are the establishments on the Kohala coast, near Kona, but you should be prepared to pay the special "tourist" price. ULU Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai earns high praise for its delectable menu and ocean views, but it'll cost you. There are cheaper spots in Kona, such as 808 Grindz Café, but for more reasonable prices, head to Hilo establishments like Hilo Bay Café, which earns high marks from travelers for its sushi, and local favorites like Paul's Place and Pineapples. For cheaper eats, try Puka Puka Kitchen.
How to get around the Big Island of Hawaii?
The best way to get around Hawaii's Big Island is by car. The island is simply too large to affordably and conveniently navigate without one. You can pick up a rental car at either the Kona International Airport (KOA) or the Hilo International Airport (ITO), or if you want to let go of some serious cash, you could take a taxi from the terminal to your hotel. Once near your lodging, you might be able to get around town on the island bus system, just keep in mind that its schedule is not always convenient for tourists.
What is the difference between Maui and Oahu?
Forgotten in favor of adorable little brothers and sisters, her attributes are often glossed over. Maui is for fun and families . Oahu attracts surfers, partiers and outdoor adventurers.
Where is Rainbow Falls?
Thanks to its location near Hilo, Rainbow Falls is one of the island's most accessible waterfalls. Thanks to its location near Hilo, Rainbow Falls is one of the island's most accessible waterfalls. Laszlo Podor/Getty Images.
When is fall vacation in Hawaii?
Plan a fall trip Tourism slows on Hawaii's Big Island in October and November. It's only a small window, but you could find a great package deal on some of the four-star hotels around this time.
How many people visit Hawaii annually?
Travel Tips for Hawaii's Big Island. The Big Island of Hawaii is the third most popular Hawaiian island among visitors, hosting over 1.5 to 1.7 million travelers annually.
What are the best things to do on the Big Island?
To say the Big Island is bursting with some of the best and most popular sights and attractions in Hawaii is certainly an understatement. Tour otherworldly volcanic landscapes; marvel at the beautiful waterfalls, lovely parks, and botanical gardens; or stop by the museums and cultural centers.
How many islands are there in Hawaii?
The eight major islands at the eastern end of the chain are, from west to east, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii. Big Island Essential Things to Know. learn more. Big Island Things to See & Do. learn more.
What is Hawaii's big island called?
Explore Hawaii's Big Island by Topic. Often called the "Big Island" (or "Big I") to help distinguish it from the 1,500-mile-long archipelago with which it shares its name- Hawaii- the Big Island has undoubtedly earned its moniker.
Is Hawaii a big island?
All of the Big Island of Hawaii is fascinating and worth a visit. However, some Big Island attractions are significantly more popular because they offer an experience that truly captures the magical essence of the state's largest island. Most Inspirational, Must-See, Top Picks, Best of the Big Island... no matter what you label them, you absolutely must witness these attractions for yourself.
Is it easier to find black sand or white sand?
It's almost easier to find a black sand beach than a white one, and if you're adventurous enough, you can even sink your toes into one of the world's few green sand beaches. Snorkeling with Manta Rays in the Kona area and touring the island's volcanoes are just a few of the tops things you should look into while visiting the Big Island of Hawaii.
What happens if you break quarantine in Hawaii?
Under the Governor’s Proclamation, if a guest breaks quarantine, the host can be penalized or fined as well as the quarantine breaker, whether or not they knew of the guest’s actions. So please do not come to Hawaii with the intention of breaking quarantine, it will put both you and your host in danger of legal action.
What happens if you take the wrong test?
Unfortunately, if you take the wrong test, you will be required to quarantine upon arrival. If you’re wondering where to start looking for a test, contact your doctor or pharmacy and let them know you are looking for a travel test.
How far away should you be from someone wearing a mask?
The primary things to know for the visiting public are the requirements to Wear a Mask in indoor public spaces, to Social Distance by 6 feet from anyone not in your immediate household, and to keep group gatherings at less than 25 people indoors and 75 people outside.
When will inter-island travel be lifted?
Inter-Island Travel between the Big Island and Other Hawaiian Islands. As of June 15th, 2021 all inter-island restrictions have been lifted (you will still need to wear a mask on flights). If you are traveling just between the islands after this date you will not need to test out. This includes everyone, local, visitor, vaccinated, and unvaccinated.
Is Hawaii still quarantined?
While the 10 day quarantine is still in effect, traveling to Hawaii is now much easier due to a test out or vaccination exemption.
Can you travel to Hawaii without quarantine?
Mainland travelers who test negative for Covid-19 within 72 hours before embarking on their flight to enter Hawaii can do so without having to quarantine. Mainland travelers who are fully vaccinated in the United States are now able to use their vaccine card to travel from the mainland to Hawaii without having to test out or quarantine.
Which airlines have resumed flights to Hawaii?
Most Airlines have reinstated their Trans-Pacific flights between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii. Hawaiian, United , Southwest , American, Alaska and Delta Airlines have all resumed offering flights between a wide variety of Mainland US cities and Hawaii.
