Hawaii is currently facing a notable surge in bed bug infestations, with several cities and public facilities battling persistent outbreaks. The state’s warm, humid climate and high volume of travelers create ideal conditions for these resilient pests to thrive, affecting both residents and visitors alike.
5 Hawaii Cities Combatting Bed Bug Onslaught
1. Honolulu
As the state’s capital and most populous city, Honolulu is at the epicenter of Hawaii’s bed bug problem. It consistently ranks among the top 50 most infested U.S. cities, with outbreaks reported in hotels, apartments, and even public facilities.
Notably, several gates at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport were temporarily closed in 2023 and 2024 due to infestations, prompting deep cleaning and professional extermination efforts.
2. Mililani
This residential city on Oahu has seen increasing reports of bed bug infestations in homes and rental properties. Local pest control companies have been called upon frequently to address outbreaks, reflecting the broader trend across the island.
3. Waipahu
Waipahu, another Oahu community, has experienced significant bed bug activity, particularly in multi-unit housing complexes. The dense population and high rate of renters make it susceptible to rapid spread and recurring infestations.
4. Kailua
Kailua’s hotels, vacation rentals, and residential properties have not been spared. Bed bugs have infiltrated a variety of settings, from single-family homes to tourist accommodations, driven by the city’s popularity with travelers.
5. Kapolei
Kapolei, a growing urban center on Oahu, has also reported a rise in bed bug cases. The influx of new residents and tourists increases the risk of bed bugs hitchhiking into homes, hotels, and public spaces.
Statewide Response and Challenges
- Legislative Action: Hawaii lawmakers are considering new regulations that would require landlords to ensure rental properties are bed bug-free, but current proposals do not cover hotels, which remain a significant source of complaints and outbreaks.
- Public Facilities Impacted: Infestations have led to temporary closures of high-profile public buildings, including airport terminals and the Honolulu Joint Traffic Management Center, underscoring the widespread nature of the problem.
- Travel and Tourism: Bed bugs have been found in both budget and luxury accommodations, as well as on flights to and from Hawaii. Travelers are advised to inspect hotel rooms and keep luggage off floors to minimize risk.
Honolulu, Mililani, Waipahu, Kailua, and Kapolei are among the Hawaii cities most actively combatting bed bug infestations. The state’s unique climate and constant influx of visitors make eradication a complex challenge, driving both legislative action and increased vigilance among residents, businesses, and travelers.
Sources:
- https://www.civilbeat.org/2025/02/hawai%CA%BBi-might-ban-bedbugs-in-housing-but-not-hotels/
- https://www.sandwichisle.com/bed-bug-control/
- https://beatofhawaii.com/bed-bugs-in-hawaii-travel-go-beyond-honolulu-airport-issues/
- https://www.mbjguam.com/bed-bug-numbers-soaring-hawaii-again