COVID-19 UPDATE 12/16/22 – Hawaii ended its COVID-19 travel requirements for domestic travelers on March 26. This includes the indoor mask mandate. However, some establishments still ask that patrons wear them. See www.Hawaii-Guide.com for more information on COVID mandates. Mahalo
Much has changed on island along with island life since COVID arrived to these shores. Some changes were already in the works Pre-COVID and others are new. All seek to better manage island resources for the health and benefit of Kauai’s environment, people and visitor experience. So, whether you are visiting for the first time or are a returning Kauai-lover, please be advised of the following:
Ha’ena State Park/Ke’e Beach – https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/kauai/haena-state-park/
Should your party be thinking of making a trip to the end of the road, please note that parking restrictions are now in place. You can’t just drive to Ke’e Beach and park. Further, parking permits Sell Out as soon as they are made available. So, I recommend getting shuttle passes. However, parking permits are available for purchase online 2-weeks in advance:
Kilauea Point & Lighthouse – https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300018
In order to better manage visitation and its impact on wildlife and habitat, visitors must now make a reservation for the Daniel K Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse. The passes allow the passholder and up to 3 Adults to enter. Admission is another matter: Adults $10 – Kids Under 15 FREE.
Kaua’i North Shore Shuttle now Go Ha’ena – https://gohaena.com/shuttle-schedule-stops/
Since there are only 100 permitted parking spaces available at Ha’ena State Park, most visitors must rely on the shuttle if they want to visit. And Go Ha’ena will get you there! Note: Due to road work slated for Spring 2023, service to and from Princeville may not be available.
Street Parking in Princeville
The roads in Princeville are privately owned and maintained. No street parking is allowed unless marked as such. Violators may find their rental vehicles “booted” if left on the street. Note: The Makai Golf Course does sell daily parking passes. It is recommended that you take advantage of this service whether you plan to catch the shuttle for destinations north of Princeville, or just want to hike to Queen’s Bath.
Princeville Resort Closure – https://www.1hotels.com/hanalei-bay
Under NEW ownership, the PV Resort is being transformed into 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and is expected to open anew in Spring of 2023.
North Shore Restaurants
A good number of restaurant operators, especially beloved Mom & Pops, have closed permanently due to COVID. Many of the establishments that remain OPEN now require reservations due to the increased demand for seating. So, please plan ahead and be patient. You are on Island Time.
Tour Operators & Luaus
As of this writing, most tour and luau operators are back up and running without restrictions. Although, labor and supply chains issues continue to hamper operations on island. So, do not wait to make reservations if you want to enjoy any of these island activities.
Facemasks
Facemasks no longer are required to be worn in public or private spaces, but you may want to show your Aloha Spirit and don a colorful mask anyway.
With Aloha ~ Aunty Tammy
2/23
