Pet Owner's Guide to

Welcome to Hawaii—where pets can bask in ocean breezes, explore tropical trails, and settle into a lifestyle rooted in nature, community, and aloha.
As the only U.S. state completely free of rabies, Hawaii takes pet ownership seriously. While the regulations are strict, the rewards are immense: daily walks on volcanic coasts, peaceful afternoons in beachside parks, and warm, welcoming neighborhoods for pet families.

This guide covers veterinary care, pet laws, outdoor spaces, pet-friendly venues, and tips to help you and your furry companion thrive in the islands.

Veterinary care in Hawaii is generally excellent, especially on Oʻahu and Maui. Clinics range from small family-run practices to full-service hospitals.

Top Veterinary Clinics:

• VCA Family & Oahu Veterinary Specialty Center (Pearl City, Oʻahu) – Offers emergency and specialty care.
• Ali‘i Animal Hospital & Resort (Honolulu) – Full-service care with grooming, boarding, and a pet resort.
• Kauai Veterinary Clinic (Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi) – Trusted by locals and newcomers alike.
• Big Island Pet Care Center (Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island) – General care and emergency services on the east side of the island.

👉 Tip: Availability may be limited in remote areas or smaller islands, so plan ahead for emergencies, prescriptions, and wellness care.

The aloha spirit extends to pets in many outdoor dining areas and cafés across the islands.

Pet-Friendly Spots:

• Arvo Café (Honolulu, Oʻahu) – Aussie-style café with shaded outdoor seating.
• The Sunrise Shack (Oʻahu & Kauaʻi) – Beachy smoothie shop that welcomes pups.
• Island Vintage Coffee (Kailua-Kona) – Leashed dogs allowed in outdoor areas.
• Tin Roof (Kahului, Maui) – Casual eatery with great takeout and pup-friendly picnic spots nearby.

From misty rainforests to volcanic ridges, Hawaii offers unforgettable landscapes for leashed pets.

Pet-Friendly Places:

• Ala Moana Beach Park (Oʻahu) – Dogs on-leash welcome in grassy areas and walkways.
• Makiki Loop Trail (Oʻahu) – A shady, moderate trail with wild tropical beauty.
• Kealia Pond Boardwalk (Maui) – Scenic and quiet, ideal for mellow strolls.
• Kona Dog Park (Big Island) – Fenced park for off-leash fun with agility equipment.
• Wai Koa Loop Trail (Kauaʻi) – Peaceful forest loop popular with dog owners.

Hiking Tips:

• Avoid trails near native bird conservation zones—some trails prohibit dogs
• Always pack water and be cautious of heat exposure
• Use tick and flea prevention year-round

🚆 Transportation with Pets

Hawaii does not have intercity rail or metro systems, so most pet travel happens by car or air.

Cars:

• Dogs must be secured while riding in open truck beds (crate or tether required)
• Keep water and ventilation available—Hawaii heat can build quickly in parked vehicles

Inter-island Flights:

• Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest allow pets in-cabin (under seat) or in pressurized cargo
• Requirements vary by airline—advance booking and crate compliance are essential
• Inter-island travel does not re-trigger quarantine, but paperwork must still be current

Hawaii’s pet stores often carry both mainland and island-made products. Shipping can affect prices, so many locals use auto-delivery services.

Popular Retailers:

• The Public Pet (Honolulu) – Stylish, locally loved boutique with healthy food options.
• PetSmart (Oʻahu, Maui) – Familiar U.S. chain with training and grooming services.
• Tails of Hawaii (Honolulu) – Boarding, daycare, and retail under one roof.
• Chewy.com – Offers delivery across the islands; plan for longer lead times.

🐾 Pet Registration & Laws

Hawaii’s pet laws are focused on public health and environmental protection.

Dogs & Cats:

• All dogs over 3 months must be licensed with the county
• Rabies vaccination is mandatory and must be current
• Microchipping is strongly recommended (and often required for licensing)
• Leashes are required in all public areas
• Dog waste must be collected and disposed of—fines are enforced