Are you planning a trip to Hawaii and want to know the bug situation? Scroll to find out whether or not there are mosquitoes in Hawaii!
This post about are there mosquitoes in Hawaii was written by Marcie Cheung (a Hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Hawaii is a relaxing tropical destination that you have always wanted to visit. However, once you book your ticket, you begin to wonder: “Are there mosquitoes in Hawaii? Does Hawaii have bugs?”
While it is truly a paradise, there are, in fact, bugs and mosquitoes in Hawaii. But there are ways to avoid them!
Wondering why my advice matters? I’ve been to Hawaii over 40 times and have unparalleled firsthand knowledge of the islands.
In this guide, you will learn all about the types of mosquitoes in Hawaii, the best bug spray you’ll want to bring, and other important tips to help you love your trip to Hawaii and avoid those insects as much as possible.
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii itineraries complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
Mosquitoes in Hawaii
You will definitely find mosquitoes in Hawaii on each of the islands due to the tropical climate. Mosquitoes breed in water, even something as simple as a puddle on the road!
The rainy locations in Hawaii across the islands will have a lot more mosquitoes due to this fact.
Do Mosquitoes in Hawaii Cause Problems?
Some of the types of mosquitoes in Hawaii can potentially cause problems. While most deaths caused by mosquito bites are due to malaria, it has not been an issue in Hawaii.
However, there are other diseases to be aware of with these potentially dangerous insects in Hawaii.
Dengue fever, Zika, and Chikungunya have all been reported diseases to come from mosquitoes in Hawaii.
While not as fatal as malaria, the symptoms can be quite painful and can cause serious problems, so be sure to protect yourself from mosquitoes as much as possible during your visit.
While it can happen, it is very rare. In 2022, there was only 1 report of dengue fever in Hawaii. If you wear one of the best bug sprays for Hawaii and are aware of the mosquitoes, you should be safe.
Types of Mosquitoes in Hawaii
There are 8 different species of mosquitoes found in Hawaii. Of the 8 types, 6 will bite humans, while the other two are plant mosquitoes.
Each of these species is either considered a day-biting mosquito or a night-biting mosquito.
Most of the mosquitoes you will find on the islands are most active either in the early morning or late at night.
Day-Biting Mosquitoes in Hawaii
Four mosquito species you might find in Hawaii will bite you during the daytime. These species don’t migrate very far from their breeding source and only seem to go about 100 to 150 yards away.
If you find yourself getting a lot of bites, you might be right next to their breeding source. These mosquitoes prefer somewhat clean waters, found in containers, rock holes, plants, or tree holes. If the water contains soil, you won’t find them there.
The first three are all black with white markings, while the fourth is a bit different. Here is a little bit about each one of them.
Aedes albopictus (Asian Tiger Mosquito)
The Aedes albopictus, or Asian Tiger Mosquito, is the most common day-biting mosquito on all the Hawaiian islands.
Usually, these mosquitoes will stay outdoors, but they are very attracted to humans and will bite anywhere. This mosquito is one of the insects in Hawaii that can carry dengue fever.
Aedes aegypti (Yellow Fever Mosquito)
You will only find this mosquito on Molokai or the Big Island.
While it is also known as the Yellow Fever Mosquito, there are no cases of Yellow Fever in Hawaii. Both the mosquito and the fever need to be present for it to carry the disease.
Aedes japonicus
This mosquito used to only be found on the Big Island; however, in recent years, it has also been found in some mountains on Oahu and Kauai.
Wyeomyia mitchellii
Also known as Wyeomyia mitchellii, the Bromeliad Mosquito almost always breeds in the leaves of bromeliads, or pineapple lilies, hence the name.
These mosquitoes differ from the first three because they are brown with a white belly on the bottom. These are usually considered the Kauai mosquitoes.
Night-Biting Mosquitoes in Hawaii
There are two night-biting mosquitoes on the islands, both of which migrate much further than daytime biters. You can find them miles away from their breeding source.
Culex Quinquefasciatus
These night-biting mosquitoes, also known as the Southern House Mosquito, will breed in any man made container; however, they much rather breed in groundwater with organic matter that is rotting.
These pests in Hawaii are found on all the islands but are mainly found on Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
These mosquitoes in Maui are the most common night-biting mosquito you’ll find. They are completely brown.
Aedes Vexans
You will only find Aedes vexans breeding in flood water. They actually lay their eggs in dry soil, and they remain dormant until a flood occurs. It makes so much sense why there are always tons of mosquitoes after a hard rain in Hawaii!
These mosquitoes are brown with white stripes on their legs. The Aedes vexans are mainly on the islands of Oahu and Kauai.
Best Mosquito Repellent for Hawaii
There are a wide variety of mosquito repellents to help you avoid these biting insects in Hawaii. Here are a few of the best mosquito repellents to make sure to pack for your trip.
Mosquito Bracelets
This is the best bug repellent for Hawaii! They are so easy to put on and forget about. You won’t have to worry about constantly spraying your bug spray, especially since one bracelet can last up to 200 hours if used properly!
These bug bands are natural and DEET-free and work great for kids and adults. They are made with citronella, geraniol, and lemongrass oil.
You can wear one on your wrist and ankle to protect your skin from getting bug bites during your trip, especially since they are waterproof! Check the latest rates and availability.
OFF! Mosquito Spray
One of the most effective bug repellents for Hawaii is DEET. So, if you want a DEET bug spray, this is a great one that is suitable for the entire family.
It is very effective for repelling not only mosquitos but other bugs you will find on the islands. This DEET spray can last up to 8 hours! Check the latest rates and availability.
OFF! also has a plant-based bug spray that has no added dyes and is another more natural alternative that is proven to repel mosquitoes!
The only downside to this bug repellent is that it only lasts for two hours, so you will need to reapply it constantly. Check the latest rates and availability.
Picaridin Insect Repellent
Picaridin is another well-known ingredient to help repel bugs and mosquitoes. Instead of a spray, this mosquito repellent is a lotion to rub all over your skin.
It is also safe for the entire family and can last up to 14 hours, so you only have to worry about applying it once a day during your trip.
It is not greasy and is fragrance-free, making it perfect for kids who are sensitive to smells. Check the latest rates and availability.
Tips to Avoid Bugs and Mosquitoes in Hawaii
Here are a few tips to help you avoid getting any mosquito bites during your vacation to Hawaii!
- Wear lightweight, long clothing, especially if you are going hiking during your trip. The less skin exposed, the better your chances of not getting bit!
- In addition, some mosquitoes can bite you through tight clothing, so make sure to wear flowy or loose clothing, which in turn helps keep you cool as well.
- Most mosquitoes like to bite a few hours before and after sunrise and sunset. Try to avoid being outside or in places where mosquitoes might be during those times.
- If you don’t like bug repellent, these bracelets are incredible and one of my favorite ways to deter mosquitoes!
- If you do happen to get bit, try your best not to scratch it. Instead, try an anti-itch cream, or chamomile lotion, take a cold shower or use ice to help with the itch. This will help it to heal faster!
Mosquitoes in Hawaii FAQs
Yes, you will definitely want to bring some bug repellent for the mosquitoes in Hawaii, no matter what island you are visiting.
Like everywhere, you will find plenty of insects in Hawaii. Some of the most common include cockroaches, centipedes, ants, spiders, and mosquitoes.
While there are mosquitoes on Hawaii, they are not a huge problem, especially if you have bug spray. Currently, there are no mosquito-borne illnesses in Hawaii, but some can carry disease if they bite someone who is infected.
Because of the tropical climates of the Hawaiian islands, there will always be mosquitoes in Hawaii. While they can be present all year round, during the summertime, between March and November, you will typically see a lot of mosquitoes.
No, all the mosquitoes currently found in Hawaii were introduced to Hawaii by many European settlers in the past.
Insects in Hawaii Wrap Up
You will find many bugs in Hawaii, especially mosquitoes. However, that should never deter you from going on a vacation there!
While you may get a bite or two, it is so easy to put on some bug spray and get back to enjoying the relaxing islands. Make sure to bring bug spray, avoid standing waters, and have a blast on your trip!