If you’ve been waiting until COVID regulations were a thing of the past to visit Hawai’i Island, stay in Volcano, and see Kilauea’s glowing lake of lava, then we have good news – The wait is over! 

Today we’ll look at the most recent updates from Hawai’i County and the Hawai’i State Department of Health on COVID-19, and what you need to know before traveling to the Big Island. To find out the latest and start planning your Volcano vacation, read on!

Here’s what all U.S. domestic travelers need to know:

Gone are the days of traveling all the way to Hawai’i only to find out that you have to spend your vacation in quarantine! There are NO LONGER restrictions for travel within the Hawaiian Islands or travel into Hawai’i from the Continental U.S.

That means that for arriving domestic visitors to Hawai’i, there are NO LONGER any COVID-related requirements. What’s more, the U.S. federal government NO LONGER requires that you quarantine, take a COVID-19 test, or show proof of a negative COVID-19 test or recovery from COVID-19 prior to departure.  

And Safe Travels? You NO LONGER need to create a trip within the Safe Travels website for your U.S. domestic flights. I bet you’ve never been so happy to hear NO before!

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is still required to enter the United States for non-U.S. citizens. Proof of vaccination is NO LONGER required to enter Hawai’i or any other state for U.S. citizens. 

Click here to learn more.

Here’s what happened with the mask mandate:

We know some people are more comfortable wearing masks. And we’ve seen some cute ones out there, so feel free to wear yours. But know that in many places, you aren’t required to mask up anymore. 

The federal mask mandate has ended and masks are no longer required at most U.S. airports, including the Kona International Airport and Hili International Airport. If you have a connecting flight to Hawai’i Island through an international airport like John F. Kennedy International Airport, keep in mind that masks are still required at some international airports. Check with your airline to find out if this will impact you. 

In alignment with TSA’s Security Directive, many airlines have also relaxed their face mask policies, making it optional to wear a mask onboard the plane. For international flights, there are certain countries that still require that face masks be worn in flight, but the U.S. is not currently one of them.

Although Hawaii’s indoor mask mandate ended on March 25, 2022, face masks are still strongly recommended for anyone who is unvaccinated for COVID-19, anyone over the age of 65, those with compromised immune systems, or anyone who cares for individuals that are at risk of severe illness. Face masks and hand sanitizing may still be required by some businesses here on the Big Island, so please kokua (help) our island remain such a safe place by respecting their pandemic-related regulations.

Safe, Comfortable Vacation Rentals in the Heart of Volcano 

Travel requirements can be complex and can change quickly as COVID-19 evolves. At Volcano Heritage Cottages, we are committed to monitoring the COVID situation, its impact on travel to Hawai’i, and its effect on our community to ensure the safety of all. 

We look forward to welcoming you back to Volcano, HI! There are so many opportunities to enjoy wide-open spaces, relax outside in nature, explore beautiful beaches and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, savor the flavors of our restaurants and farmers’ markets, and immerse yourself in the art, culture, and nature that make our island so special.

When you visit Tutu’s Place or the Ola’a House, you have the perfect home base for all your Big Island adventures. For more information on our two charming vacation rentals, located in the heart of Volcano Village, visit The Cottages page.