The news is as welcoming as a fresh-flower lei: Hawaii has loosened its restrictions on tourism, allowing visitors from the United States to enter the state without quarantining. But feeling the aloha spirit is not as easy as just hopping on a plane. For one thing, the testing requirements vary from island to island. And of course, you should consider the risks of traveling at all right now. But if you’re ready to spend a week in tropical paradise, Hawaii’s crescent-shaped beaches, fragrant breezes, and warm hospitality are now much easier to access.

Here’s everything would-be vacationers need to know about arriving in the islands — and how to make the most of a trip once you’re there.

Entry Requirements

As of October 15, all visitors to Hawaii must register online with the state’s Safe Travels Hawai‘i program, and upload proof of a negative COVID test 72 hours prior to your flight’s departure time. Note that only specific tests (such as a PCR test) from approved testing partners will be accepted. Children under 18 can register under a parent’s name; kids under 5 don’t have to take the test. 

You can find further details and a list of testing partners on Hawaii Tourism Authority’s COVID-19 page. The list of trusted partners includes a few testing programs run by airlines, like United’s Color, available for passengers flying out of San Francisco, American’s LetsGetChecked at-home kits, and Hawaiian Airlines’ at-home test kits with Vault Health.

Once you arrive, you may be asked to take a second test. But only the Big Island requires it. Oahu doesn’t currently require it, and it’s optional for Maui and Kauai. If you visit multiple islands, you may need to get tested again — but not if you’re just connecting in Honolulu en route to your ultimate destination.

Two more important details: The island of Lanai is completely closed to visitors until at least November 20. And masks must be worn in public throughout the state — including on the beach.

Yeah, it’s confusing and a little exhausting to figure out. But trust us: Once you’re sitting on the beach, sipping a mai tai and listening to the sound of the surf, the hassle will be worth it. 

Where to Stay

Now for the fun part: Deciding where to sip that all-important mai tai. Timeshare rentals are the way to go in Hawaii. You’ll get all the amenities you want from a resort — a swimming pool, reception desk, activities, sometimes restaurants and fitness facilities — but you’re staying in a residence-like unit with multiple bedrooms, living space, and kitchen facilities. It’s the perfect set-up for families, and that kitchen comes in especially handy in Hawaii, where dining out can be very expensive.

Timeshare rentals offer exceptional value when compared to traditional resorts (again, especially if you’re traveling with your family or a group). And because they’re professionally run by names you trust (Marriott, Wyndham, Westin), they’re a safer bet than homesharing: Housekeeping to make sure everything is sparkling clean when you arrive; staff to keep you secure and help arrange activities. (Note that due to COVID, some resorts are currently only cleaning rooms prior to arrival.)

As a bonus, enjoy $80 off your next booking on KOALA. Just apply the promo code KOALASTAY80 at check-out.

Here are a few of our most popular timeshare rental options in Hawaii:

Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas North, Maui. A stunner of a resort in West Maui (above) offering the complete Hawaii experience: A gorgeous beach with calm waters for snorkeling, three restaurants, swimming pools galore, and a nightly hula show. From $200/night.

The Bay Club at Waikoloa Beach Resort, Big Island. Managed by Hilton Grand Vacations, the Bay Club is perched on the famously scenic Kohala Coast, with easy access to championship golf, tennis, even a swimming-with-dolphins program. From $365/night.

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Hawaiian Sun Holidays Resort, Oahu. Just steps from Waikiki Beach, these fully-kitted-out high-rise condos are perfect for visitors who want to pair sun and sand with city living. You’re close to the Ala Moana Shopping Center, the Honolulu Zoo, and Diamond Head. From $129/night.

Club Wyndham Ka Eo Kai, Kauai. On the quieter North Shore of already-pretty-quiet Kauai, the Club Wyndham sits on grounds studded with palm trees and a rock-lined pool. The staff will point you to the area’s secret beaches and waterfall hikes. From $200/night.

Make the Most of Hawaii

As longtime Hawaii lovers, we’ve got a few tips for making your vacation more enjoyable.

Venture out: As much as we love chilling at the resort, it’s worth getting off-campus at least once to explore the island. Hawaii is filled with beautiful hikes, secret beaches, and stunning vistas — ask a local for their favorite spot. In Honolulu, the Bishop Museum and USS Arizona Memorial are must-visits.

Be daring: Hawaii is a great place to try out some fun new adventures, whether it’s surfing, ziplining, scuba diving, or even hula dancing. Or splurge for a helicopter ride — an exhilarating way to see the otherworldly landscape.

Try the local food: Many restaurants in Hawaii have reopened, but they can be expensive (which is why we’re a fan of renting a timeshare with a full kitchen — see above). Still, don’t neglect trying some local dishes, like poke (cubed raw fish served over rice), refreshing shave ice, and doughnut-like malasadas.

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