UPDATE: As of July 13, 2020, the Governor’s office has extended the mandatory quarantine restrictions for out of state travelers from August 1st to September 1st.
For those of you living under a rock, the COVID-19 outbreak has shut down just about everything fun. No restaurants, concerts, or vacations. Just sit at home and think about what you’ve done.
Because of our limited healthcare options, Hawaii has been one of the most restrictive states in the country, and while it has been difficult to forego the beach trips and restaurant visits, we have successfully limited coronavirus cases on the Island. As of June 25th, the Big Island has had only 86 cases total with only three cases still active. Good job everyone!
No Mandatory Quarantine with Negative Test Result
Since the numbers are looking so good, the governor’s office has decided to ease up some of the travel restrictions and allow more people to come in from the mainland. Starting September 1st, travelers from the mainland will be able to forego the mandatory 14-day quarantine if they show proof of a negative test result. No, the D- you got on your high-school calculus test doesn’t count.
All COVID-19 tests must FDA-approved PCR tests from a CLIA certified lab and must be taken before arrival to the Island. Proof of negative results must be either printed or emailed to be accepted.
NO TESTING WILL BE DONE AT THE AIRPORT.
Once you arrive in Hawaii, you’ll have to fill out a questionnaire and get your temperature taken. Anyone with a temperature of more than 100.4 degrees or showing any symptoms will have to go through a secondary screening. If you pass the screening, you’re free to experience the Islands!
Can You Still Come to Hawaii without Getting Tested?
Yes, but it’s a little bit harder. If you come to Hawaii without being tested, you’ll have to go through a mandatory 14-day quarantine. That means you can’t leave your house, condo, or hotel at all for 14 days. And yes, they will check up on you. If you’re caught going out and about during your quarantine, get ready to face some stiff fines of up to $5,000. That’d put a damper on your vacation, so don’t do it!
The other alternative is to sail to Hawaii in your recreational boat. As long as you’ve been at sea for 14-days, you don’t need to quarantine. Although, I think I’d rather just take the test.
Other COVID-19 Rules to Note
If you decide to get tested and take your summer vacation in Hawaii, you should know that the restrictions might be a little different than you’re used to on the mainland, so brush up on the latest news before you come. In general:
Anyone over the age of 5 is required to wear a mask.
Practice social distancing
No groups larger than 10 people
Some of the restaurants are open at limited capacity and you can go to the beach, but always always always wear your mask and practice social distancing. Just think of your mask as additional protection from the sun.
And while you’re here, don’t forget to check out some of the wonderful properties on the market. There are plenty of houses available, and with the low interest rates, it’s a great time to buy! Shoot me an email or give me a call to start searching for your dream Hawaiian home.
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii (finally!).