Hawaii’s tropical climate and high tourism fuel persistent bed bug infestations, with Honolulu topping state hotspots in recent reports. Cities combat outbreaks through fumigations, inspections, and public awareness amid hotel and public space closures.
Honolulu: Tourism Epicenter
As Hawaii’s largest city, Honolulu battles bed bugs in hotels, the airport, and emergency centers. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport shut gates for carpet removal and spraying in 2023–2025, while Waikiki hotels drew complaints from Japanese tourists bitten during stays. The Joint Traffic Management Center fumigated in March 2025 after bugs on an employee’s leg.
Hilo: Big Island Surge
Hilo sees residential and hotel spikes, with Pest Gnome noting tropical bed bug (Cimex hemipterus) prevalence. Local exterminators report isolated cases but urge vigilance in rentals.
Kahului: Maui Mall and Hotels
Kahului’s high-traffic areas face infestations; nearby Ala Moana mall (Oahu spillover) treated food court chairs in 2025 after bites reported. Maui hotels ramp up inspections post-tourism rebound.
Līhuʻe: Kauai Airport Alerts
Kauai’s Līhuʻe reports hitchhiking bugs from travelers; airport and lodgings monitor via Hawaii DOH protocols.
Urban Honolulu Extensions: Pearl City and Waipahu
Pearl City and Waipahu, Oahu suburbs, lead residential complaints per pest firms, with apartments and multi-units hit hard. Sandwich Isle notes them among top infested zones.
Cities deploy heat treatments, canine detection, and SB456 proposals for rentals (excluding hotels). Check Hawaii DOH for alerts; inspect mattresses upon arrival.
SOURCES :
- https://www.mbjguam.com/bed-bug-numbers-soaring-hawaii-again
- https://www.sandwichisle.com/bed-bug-control/
