Why Hawaii is a Safe and Beautiful Winter Vacation Option for Canadians

The islands of Hawaii have become synonymous to many with true “paradise”. With the sugary-soft beaches, vibrant coral reefs and volcanoes calling to all the adventurous spirits, there is something for everyone during a vacation to Hawaii.

Travel opportunities may be limited right now, but the good news is that you can still travel safely to Hawaii!

The culture of the beautiful Hawaiian Islands is steeped in the values of kuleana (responsibility) and Hawaii holds true to those values. Read on to learn about COVID-19 procedures put in place at the Hawaiian airports and resorts and remember, if you’re interested in planning a trip to one of these locations further away from home, your TierOne Travel Consultant can get you there!

Requirements for Canadian Entry to Hawaii

Once your flights are booked, all adults that are age 18 and over must register with the state of Hawaii Safe Travels online system.

All travelers must have a negative test result before beginning the final leg of their trip. Anyone without a negative test result prior to departure must quarantine upon arrival.

The negative test result must be uploaded onto Safe Travels or be printed out prior to departure, and hard copy must be presented in-hand when arriving in Hawaii.

Canadian residents’ passports must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Hawaii.

What Covid-19 Safety Procedures Does Hawaii Have in Place?

It is crucial that travellers always take all necessary precautions to ensure that the islands of Hawaii remain a safe place for residents and visitors alike. Here are some things Hawaii is doing to keep their destination safe:

Face covers must be worn in public! Be sure your face covering completely covers your nose and mouth. Maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others when you are outdoors enjoying Hawaii. Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds each time, and refrain from touching your face as much as possible.
Parks, beaches, and trails are open in Hawaii, with some restrictions. Please practice physical distancing and always wear a face covering. Please refer to the following Hawaii Government website for the most current information.
Restaurants, retailers, attractions, and indoor activities such as museums, movie theaters and bowling alleys are open, with some restrictions. Face coverings must always be worn indoors except when you are eating and/or drinking. Each island has its own emergency rules for health and safety purposes.
Learn about stats and protocols put in place in the state of Hawaii here: https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel/ and register with the State of Hawaii Safe Travels online system. Only test results from Trusted Testing and Travel Partners will be accepted. All incoming travelers are required to have their temperatures checked and complete a health questionnaire online before they can leave the airport.

NOTE: Beginning December 2, Kauai is temporarily pausing participation in this pre-testing program. All incoming trans-pacific and inter-county travelers to Kauai will face a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

The Hawaiian Islands

THE BIG ISLAND

The big island of Hawaii is a whopping 4,000 square miles, and still growing! This is the youngest of all of the Hawaiian Islands, and larger than the other seven major Hawaiian Islands put together! And fortunately, with that larger size comes great geographical diversity. You can choose to explore the summit of an active volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, visit remnants of old fishing villages, listen to native birds sing in the rain forests, or stroll the shoreline of black sand beaches. Talk about an option for everyone!

There are 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the Big Island: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, containing two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Maunaloa and Kilauea, and the remote Papahanaumokuakea—Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and its surrounding marine environment.

One of the best activities to do on the Big Island is stargazing. Did you know that you can see most of the stars visible from earth from the Big Island of Hawaii? You can aso explore the Waipi‘o Valley on an incredible helicopter tour to see the sweeping coastline and its sheer, lush cliff sides. The Hāmākua Heritage Corridor scenic drive is known for its miles of water-carved gulches, lush green valleys, massive cascading waterfalls, and gorgeous seaside views. One of the most magical experiences that you can have on Hawaii Island is to go swimming with the manta rays, which are elegant and harmless sea creatures that have wingspans of up to 16 feet! This is only a start of all of the adventures available to you on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Click here to read about COVID-19 protocols on the Big Island of Hawaii

Weather on Big Island: The Big Island’s east coast is infamous for its wet, rainy weather! However, that should not discourage visitors from vacationing here, especially during the summer months, when most of that rain falls at night.

Summer on the Big Island is between May and October during which time, the daytime temperatures at sea level generally range from between 29–32 °C. Hawaiian winter is between October and April, with daytime temperatures still a very pleasant 26–28 °C. As you can see, there is no “bad” time to visit the Big Island!

O’ahu

Nicknamed “The Gathering Place”, O‘ahu is an island that is completely full of colorful contrasts! From the liveliness of Waikiki and Downtown Honolulu, to the quiet towns that are dotted across the coastline, Hawaii’s most populated island is a mixture of the modern and the historic. There are so many opposites here that attract: quiet hiking options and explosive fireworks shows, renowned chefs and mom and pop eateries, sleek shopping centers and decades-old general stores. Through all of these lovely contrasts, O‘ahu reveals the true heart of Hawaii.

Honolulu is a diverse and thriving hub with so many things you can do. It is really the perfect place to start your Hawaiian holiday. Chock-full of many historic landmarks and a modern city culture, fast-paced modern businesses thrive just minutes away from stunning natural beauty. History, art and culture all come together and allow travelers to experience many aspects of Hawaii life in just a few walkable blocks.

Wake to the sound of waves crashing against the sand outside your room, then jump into an ATV and race over mountain trails. Walk through the luxury of a 19^th century palace and pause at a centuries-old heiau (temple). Taste fresh cacao pulp right from a tree followed by the exotic dishes created from the island’s most unique ingredients in a world-class restaurant. Shop at the world’s largest open-air shopping center or browse handcrafted art and accessories at a farmer’s market. There’s something for everyone on O‘ahu, and we know you’re going to love it here!

Click here to read about COVID-19 protocols on O’ahu

Weather on Oahu: Oahu’s weather is pleasantly warm all throughout the year. The “coolest” months – at a still-lovely 27°C – are January and February. The hottest months are July, August, and September, with an average of 31°C.

Maui

Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island and it, too is full of exciting contrasts— think luxury resorts set against white-sand beaches, and charming small towns tucked against country roads that wind along the coast. The remote and sacred Haleakalā National Park offers a taste of history and adventure, as do the neighboring islands of Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i.

West Maui offers equal parts adventure and relaxation with its abundant sunshine, shopping, and world-class golf, You can start your day snorkeling in colorful reefs or teeing off on a championship green and then spend your afternoon exploring the shops and galleries of a historic whaling town. You can then finish the night off with a five-star feast at one of West Maui’s stellar restaurants.The options for exciting and relaxing vacation days are endless here!

Powerful surf, lush rainforest, and waterfalls that pour straight onto the road are just some of the highlights you can see while in East Maui. Streams rush down the forested side of Haleakalā into glistening pools, waves wash up onto jet-black volcanic beaches, and vines dangle over the winding highway. Maui’s rural North Shore and East Side are full of gorgeous, natural landscapes that you will want to photograph around each and every bend.

There is so much to do all over Maui and an abundance of activities to enjoy. It’s the perfect Hawaii Island for almost everybody!

Click here to read about COVID-19 protocols on Maui

Weather on Maui: The coldest months of January and February average a lovely 27°C for daytime high temperatures, while the evenings cool off to an average of 17°C. At the beach resorts (usually located on the sunniest parts of the island), summer months heat up to an average high of around 31°C. Average summer evening temperatures only dip to the low 20s, making for a comfortable and warm evening.

Kaua’i

Kaua‘i preserves a truly wild beauty, with waterfalls carving their way through canyons and mountain ridges, dazzling white sand beaches, and cliffs that appear to soar right out of the sea.

The moments of quiet will draw you right in. Kaua‘I retains the feel of an idyllic past — from its valleys and mountain ranges that look as if they’ve existed since dinosaurs roamed (Jurassic Park was filmed here!) to the one-lane bridges and small towns where it seems like everyone knows each other. Spend a few days here and you too will start to recognize familiar faces at the shave ice stands and scenic lookouts sprinkled around the island, all the way from Waimea to Hanalei.

Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle”, and for good reason – it is incredibly lush, green, and wet (home to one of the top two wettest spots on the planet, actually). Many folks who love Kauai so much do so because they know its verdant appearance is thanks to a happy medium of plenty of both sunshine and rain. Plus, more rain simply means more rainbows! These are seen in plenty on this island.

Your getaway likely will begin at Kaua‘i’s main airport in Līhu‘e or Nāwiliwili Harbor. The compact and easy-to-navigate hub gives visitors a glimpse into the day-to-day local culture, as well as fascinating museums. Kalapakī offers great beaches, water activities and world-class golf courses.

Kaua‘i’s South Shore has earned its glowing reputation as “the” place to go for sun lovers — perfect for relaxing away your days on white-sand beaches and browsing in local shops and restaurants!

Try to stand-up paddle board down Wailua’s tranquil river or set sail along the stunning Nāpali Coast. Snorkel among tropical fish and dive past volcanic rock formations. When it comes to playing in the water, Kaua‘i definitely does not disappoint!

Click here to read about COVID-19 protocols on Kaua’i

Weather: Many tourists prefer Kauai’s South Coast during the winter, although the North’s beautiful scenery is also hard to resist, especially considering rainfall rarely lasts for long periods! Even in the cooler month of January, daytime highs average 26°C and the evening lows dip to 18 °C. August is the warmest month, with daytime highs averaging 29°C and cooling off to just 24°C in the nighttime. Perfect weather for your perfect holiday!

Moloka’i

Life is simple and inspiring on Moloka’i, a mere 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point. This rural island is home to incredibly unique wonders — including the world’s tallest sea cliffs, and Hawaii’s longest continuous fringing reef! Visit and you’ll see how natural charm and potent history are inextricably linked on this secluded, beautiful little island.

Likewise, the beaches on Moloka‘i are beautiful and secluded. However, there are no lifeguards on duty on the island, so use caution when entering the water, especially during the winter months when the surf tends to be bigger.

From golfing to hiking, whale watching, visiting cultural centers and so much more, Moloka’i is full of opportunities and adventure, and more of an “undiscovered” Hawaiian island.

If you are looking to explore a quieter and more secluded island, Moloka’i might be perfect for you for your next trip!

Click here to read about COVID-19 protocols on Molokai

Weather: Molokai’s weather is wonderful year-round, with temperatures averaging about 24°C. In winter, which is December thru March, the nighttime temperatures may drop to about 15°C and you’re more likely to experience a rainy day.

Lana’i

Consider traveling to to Lana’i to soak up the seclusion and quiet that Lāna’i offers, from five-star luxury resorts to off-road adventures. This lesser-known Hawaiian island has few paved roads, plenty of opportunities for adventure, one plantation-style hotel and a single lavish resort. Hunt for petroglyphs or sip cocktails while watching for dolphins in Hulopo‘e Bay. You’ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle to explore the areas beyond Lāna‘i City – which is part of the fun!

Hulopo‘e Beach’s golden stretch of sand is one Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches. Spend a day with your family here, making use of the uncrowded picnic tables, barbeque grills, restrooms and showers. The sheltered waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring tide pools. Hulopo‘e Bay is a protected marine reserve. You can even see Hawaiian Spinner dolphins and humpback whales here during the winter months! And Hulopo‘e Beach is just as beautiful beneath the water’s sparkling surface. Strap on a snorkel and mask and visit the resident parrotfish, pencil urchins, and honu (sea turtles) for memories you’ll never forget.

When looking for a luxurious and secluded holiday, Lana’i is really the perfect destination.

Click here to read about COVID-19 protocols on Lana’i

Weather: In Lanai City, the summers are warm, muggy, and dry, and the winters are long and comfortable. It is windy and mostly clear year-round. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 16 °C to 27 °C, and is rarely below 13 °C or above 29 °C.

Returning to Canada

The Government of Canada has put in place emergency measures to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19 in Canada. When you return to Canada (unless you are flying direct into Calgary*), you must quarantine for 14 days, provide contact information, and monitor yourself for symptoms.

*2-Day Quarantine Pilot Project at Calgary International Airport:

The Province of Alberta, the Government of Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada recently announced an arrival testing program at YYC. Eligible arriving international passengers will be able to voluntarily get a free COVID-19 test upon arrival in Canada at YYC Calgary International Airport, when arriving direct on a non-stop flight. This will allow them to quarantine for less time (2 days vs 14 days), provided they test negative for COVID-19 and if they commit to following specific public health and testing measures.

READY TO ADD HAWAII OR ANOTHER OF OUR VACATION DESTINATION RECOMMENDATIONS TO YOUR BUCKET LIST?

If you’re itching to travel with a bad case of the Travel Bug, we hope that our recommendation of the Hawaiian Islands as beautiful and safe destinations to travel to has been helpful in assisting you to plan your winter getaway!

We’re always here to help you plan your trip and answer your travel-related questions. Reach out to your TierOne Travel Consultant if you have any questions to ask, or are ready to book your relaxing sunny getaway!

GET PEACE OF MIND WITH TRAVEL INSURANCE

Before you travel, be sure you have enough coverage. Travel insurance will provide you with peace of mind on your vacation. Find out more about Manulife travel insurance here.

START PLANNING YOUR VACAY TODAY

When you’re ready to explore Hawaii or another destination and make your travel dreams come true, contact one of our TierOne Travel agents today! They have extensive experience in life-changing travel and will be able to craft something incredible that is suited to your unique needs. One call; endless experiences!

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” – Anonymous