This week, Hawaii Governor Ige agreed to new COVID rules proposed by both Kauai and Maui County. While some changes aren’t directly applicable to visitors, others definitely are.
First up is the elimination of the tier system on Kauai.
On Wednesday, Ige approved the Kauai Mayor’s proposal to eliminate an antiquated, year-old, no longer relevant, and inflexible tier system. Mayor Kawakami said the tiered system “was created before vaccines were available, and also before the Delta variant became a real challenge.” This good news is based on increased vaccinations and reduced cases.
How relevant is this change to visitors? Kawakami said that for “people that are visiting Kauai — not much.”
The changes do not impact indoor mask rules or gathering limits, which remain at 10 indoors and 25 outdoors. Professionally organized events can have 40 indoors and up to 100 outdoors. Kawakami said that “checking for vaccination and/or negative test results” is required for events exceeding these limitations.
Maui updated the “Safer Outdoors” program and expanded restaurant hours.
Maui never had the tier system per se. However, they had guidelines that were just updated and go into effect on October 16, 2021. In that regard, Maui’s mayor said, “Are we out of the woods? Absolutely not, but we are getting closer.”
- Social gatherings have been increased to a maximum of 10 indoors, 25 outdoors.
- Bars and restaurants can now stay open until midnight.
- Up to 10 guests are allowed per table.
- Unvaccinated patrons with a negative COVID test within the past 48 hours can now dine indoors.
Lt. Governor Josh Green concurs with changes.
Green said, “I think the mayors have it right. They are gradually reducing the restrictions.”
As a U.K. person who will be allowed to travel to the US from Nov 8. I’m looking at visiting Hawaii in December. I’m fully vaccinated in the U.K. but don’t think that counts. I see rules for transpacific visitors but not European visitors. Will I be allowed to fly to Hawaii? I’m considering Kauai as my destination. Thanks.
Hi Ed.
We too are awaiting clarification on that and expect news to be forthcoming soon.
Aloha.
“Kawakami said that “checking for vaccination and/or negative test results” is required for events exceeding these limitations.”
Maui – “Unvaccinated patrons with a negative COVID test within the past 48 hours can now dine indoors.”
Got it…so, to summarize, still “Unvaccinated patrons” are the only ones who will Not be spreading the virus in restaurants on Kauai or Maui. How is this following the science? Right, it’s not. Welcome to the new form of segregation in Hawaii, everyone!