Hawaii

The beautiful island of Hawaii is known for a lot of things —  beaches, volcanos, high important taxes, and so on. What it is NOT known for is gambling. That’s because Hawaii is most opposed to betting of any state in the country (it’s a tie with Utah really).

Still, there is a way to bet on Hawaii through unconventional but perfectly fine means: we’re talking about offshore sports betting. These sites work in Hawaii cause they’re located in other, even more foreign islands where betting is perfectly legal. This means they can sidestep the rules and take in bets from Hawaiians. Allow us to explain in this guide to Hawaii betting!

Quick Hawaii Facts

StateHawaii
⚖️ Sports Betting Laws❌Not Available
👫 Population1.44 Million
👶 Minimum Gambling AgeN/A
🏙️ Retail Sports Betting❌Not Available
🌐 Online Sports Betting❌Not Available
📱 Mobile Sports Betting❌Not Available
🐎 Online Horse Betting❌Not Available
🏆 DFS❌Not Available
Last updated on: December 2, 2024

Is Sports Betting Legal In Hawaii?

Hell no, it isn’t. Excuse our language, but it felt appropriate for the state. We say this because Hawaii is very, very against sports betting. It always has been and likely will forever be. We really see no path to legalization in Hawaii — ever. Yes, they did introduce a bill in 2024, but it won’t go anywhere (like the previous ones did).

Really, we see one option and one option only for Hawaii bettors: bet offshore. That’s the easiest way to sidestep Hawaii’s rules. Yes, sidestep. As offshore entities, these sites don’t have to play by the rules of Hawaii or even the United States. Offshore sites freely work across the state and we’re about to tell you which ones to scope out!

Nov 19, 2024 11:38 AM

In Hawaii, all forms of gambling, including sports betting, are currently illegal. However, during the 2024 legislative session, House Bill 2762 proposing a gambling resort and House Bill 2765 aiming to legalize sports betting were introduced.

Hawaii Sports Betting Timeline

There's been some movement to try to legalize sports betting, but per usual, it goes absolutely nowhere. Here's some recent events:

2024

June 2, 2024 – In a move towards potential legalization, the Hawaii legislature has given the green light for a comprehensive study on sports betting within the state.

February 9, 2024 – Hawaii’s sports betting legislation, House Bill 2765, saw a rare advance this week as the House Committee on Economic Development voted 5-2, breaking the trend of little committee attention since 2019, despite yearly introductions of sports betting bills in the state, which lacks legal gambling.

February 2, 2024 – Hawaii legislators introduce gambling bills H.B. 2762 and 2765, aiming for legal betting. The bills are set for public hearings in committee on Friday, February 9, 2024.

May 4, 2023 – The 2023 Legislative Session ended without approving a sports betting law. HB344, which created some discussion in the House, was defeated.

January 9, 2023 – State Representative John Mizuno introduced a new bill to allow sports betting and poker in Oahu, planning a separate sportsbook and card room, different from earlier bills.

Best Sportsbooks In Each Category in Hawaii

Best overallBetOnline
Best bonusesBetUS
Most unique bonusesBetNow
Top VIP programMyBookie
Best reputationBovada
Best sportsbookBetOnline
Best casinoEverygame
Best mobile appXBet
Best for live bettingEverygame
Best for new playersBovada
Best up-and-coming sportsbookXBet
Last updated on: December 2, 2024

Top 7 Hawaii  Sports Betting Sites

Many offshore betting sites have popped up, looking to take advantage of Hawaii’s strict betting restrictions. However, out of all the options, we personally recommend these seven sites the most for reasons we’re about to explain:

  1. BetOnline - Competitive odds and early line releases.
  2. BetUS - Extensive range of betting bonuses that pay big time.
  3. XBet - Really top-notch mobile betting app.
  4. Bovada - User-friendly interface and reliable mobile betting experience.
  5. BetNow - Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for regular players.
  6. Everygame - Long-standing reputation and multi-language support for international bettors.
  7. MyBookie - Innovative rewards program for long-term betting.

#1 BetOnline

BetOnline Website Preview
Our score: 4/5
Play now on BetOnline
Pros
Deep sportsbook selection
Posts lines really fast
Cons
Sportsbook deals are cheap
Nothing matters more in a betting site than, well, the betting selection. That’s why you are here for, right? To bet on the things you want, and ideally, at a good price? It’s safe to say BetOnline leads the way on this thing, hence why Hawaii bettors should start here. BetOnline is very much an all-in-one sportsbook. There’s sports betting, horse racing, casino games, and poker all wrapped into a single platform that performs well. Realistically, a player could use BetOnline to do all their online betting and not miss out on anything. What really sets BetOnline apart is the sheer amount of sports betting lines available. From the major leagues like the NFL, NBA, and NHL to more niche markets (rugby and sumo— underrated sports in Hawaii), BetOnline covers it all. You’ll be hard-pressed to NOT find the bet you’re looking for here. Another standout feature is BetOnline’s in-play betting. If you love jumping into the action as it unfolds, BetOnline’s live betting system is a game-changer. With odds that update in real-time, you can make quick decisions and place bets on the fly, adding an extra layer of excitement to any game. BetOnline also excels at getting their betting lines up fast — lightning fast. As soon as one game ends, the odds for the next one are typically posted within minutes. Many bettors argue this is a competitive advantage since early betting lines have yet to “mature.” You can decide whether you agree or not, but the point is, BetOnline’s sportsbook sure delivers in multiple ways.

#2 BetUS

BetUS Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
Play now on BetUS
Pros
Lucrative promotions
Good betting menu
Cons
High rollover requirement
Free play expires in 7 days
Betting isn’t just about choosing winners — it’s also about squeezing every bit of value out of your wagers. The last will go a long way in maximizing your profits. This is how BetUS ends up on this last cause it’s perfect for that. You see, BetUS does free-play bonuses better than anyone else out there. We’ll give you some examples of how so. While other sportsbooks might cap their welcome offers at around $1,000, BetUS blows that out of the water with up to $3,125 in free play right from the get-go. Better yet, use crypto to make that deposit, and the bonus jumps to a staggering $5,000. Deals like these are unheard of besides BetUS. Think that’s impressive? Get a load of this: BetUS has a refer-a-friend program that could see you pocketing up to $6,000 in free play. Yes, a cool six grand! Not only that, but every referral also gives you a shot at winning incredible prizes like Super Bowl tickets or the latest tech gadgets like the Apple Vision Pro. We’re telling you, BetUS just does promotions differently. That’s only a sample size of the promos. BetUS offers dozens more — for crypto, casinos, reloads, and all sorts of other things. With so much free play on the table, it’s a smart move to take advantage of this and minimize the risks that come with gambling. Bet on the house’s own dime essentially. For Hawaii bettors looking to get the most out of every dollar, BetUS is the clear choice. No other site comes close to offering the kind of promotional value that BetUS does — it’s simply unmatched.

#3 XBet

Xbet Website Preview
Our score: 4/5
Play now on Xbet
Pros
Killer mobile app
Great user interface
Cons
Casino section needs work
Mobile betting has revolutionized the game, and XBet is leading the charge. If you’re the type of bettor who likes to place wagers wherever you are — whether you’re relaxing at home, out enjoying the islands with friends, or at a dive bar — XBet offers a top-tier mobile experience that’s hard to beat. What truly distinguishes XBet from the rest is the sleek, modern feel of its mobile site. While many betting platforms seem stuck in a time warp with outdated designs that haven’t changed in years, XBet is different. They’ve kept their interface fresh with regular updates (we’ve personally witnessed them), resulting in a clean, forward-thinking design. If you bet as much as us, you might as well have a good visual while you’re at it. Performance-wise, XBet’s mobile app really shines too. It’s fast, responsive, and handles everything you throw at it — whether you’re switching between sports or exploring the depths of the casino. In our experience, glitches and lag are practically non-existent, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free betting journey. And here’s the best part: when we say “app,” we don’t mean something you have to download. XBet keeps things simple. You can access their full range of features directly from your phone’s web browser. No need to take up storage on your device with another app — just open your browser, head to XBet, and boom, you’re all set to start betting! Easy, right? This mobile betting trend isn’t going to slow down anytime soon. Not even close. That’s why XBet is a good choice if you’re in Hawaii. It’s well-positioned to lead the industry forward!

#4 Bovada

Bovada Website Preview
Our score: 4.3/5
Play now on Bovada
Pros
Reputable site
Great user experience
Cons
Sports promotions pay peanuts
Dated-looking site
Still feeling a bit uneasy about betting online, especially with an offshore platform? We get it — trusting your hard-earned money to an online site you’ve never used can appear to be sketchy. That’s exactly why Bovada earns a top spot on our list. This platform is as trusted as they come. Bovada’s reputation is hard to beat. They’ve been in the game longer than big names like DraftKings or FanDuel, and over the years, they’ve built a massive, loyal user base. That kind of longevity and popularity doesn’t happen by accident, folks. No, it’s a clear sign that Bovada knows how to treat its bettors right. What we love about Bovada is how no-frills they make the whole betting experience — and we mean that complimentary. No need to sift through cluttered menus or confusing options. Nah, just jump right in and start placing your bets. Bets are easy to find, transferring money is fast, and things just work like they’re supposed to. This simple experience applies to both the sportsbook and casino. Speaking of which, that online casino is loaded with all the classic games — slots, blackjack, roulette, and more. It’s perfect for when you want to switch things up and try your luck beyond the sportsbook. You get the best of birth worlds at Bovada. All in all, it’s very obvious Bovada puts the bettor first. That’s why there’s all these betting options wrapped in an easy-to-use platform. For Hawaii bettors looking for a trustworthy and reliable platform, Bovada is hard to beat.

#5 BetNow

BetNow Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
Play now on BetNow
Pros
Tons of promo options
Only sportsbook rebate
Cons
Live betting feature could be better
BetNow might just have the most fitting name on this list. True to its name, BetNow makes it easy to dive right into the betting action — whether you’re into sports, casino games, poker, or more. This platform is an all-you-can-eat buffett for betting, and that’s not even the best part about using BetNow. Our favorite feature is the promotions. While BetNow might not boast the massive dollar amounts you’ll find at places like BetUS, what they lack in size, they more than make up for in variety. By our count, BetNow offers four different welcome bonuses, three reload deals, and three rebate programs. Plus, there are other smaller offers (e.g. referral bonus). This kind of variety is rare in the betting world. Most other sites stick to one sign-up bonus and maybe a single reload offer — a one-size-fits-all approach. That mindset seemingly forgets that bettors are different, and everyone has different needs and wants. Thankfully, BetNow gets it. They understand that every bettor is unique, which is why their diverse range of bonuses stands out so much. One deal that really deserves a shoutout is BetNow’s sportsbook rebate. It’s a truly unique offer — no other bookmaker out there does this. BetNow will refund 2% of your sportsbook losses. Sure, it might not sound like much, but in the world of sports betting, any refund is a win. It’s just another way BetNow sets itself apart in the crowded marketplace, and it’s definitely a good thing for bettors.

#6 Everygame

EveryGame Website Preview
Our score: 3.8/5
Play now on EveryGame
Pros
Awesome live betting system
Huge soccer betting selection
Cons
Bonuses lack richness
Really old-looking platform
A lot of the things we’ve said about the previous sites also applies to Everygame. They too have a deep betting selection. They too have been in the game for a long time — decades if you count the days they were called Intertops. They too have complimentary casinos and racebooks. So yes, Everygame is a very well-rounded platform. But if there’s one area where Everygame sticks out from the rest is live betting. Their in-play betting system is one of the smoothest we’ve encountered, delivering real-time odds better than most. This sounds like something that should be automatic but you’d be surprised how many bookmakers struggle at this. Not Everygame, and you’ll see this in a fast-paced sport like basketball where the site keeps up strikingly well with every made basket. Moreover, Everygame offers live betting on a wide range of sports and leagues. Whether you’re into the NFL, NBA, MLB, or top European soccer leagues — Everygame is European so they offer a lot of this — live betting options are available. Pretty much every major matchup will have it. The same support isn’t offered in more niche sports, but that’s an industry born, not something you can knock Everygame. Mobile betting has taken the industry by storm. If this continues — and our bet is it would — then Everygame will remain a top option for Hawaii and others.

#7 MyBookie

MyBookie Website Preview
Our score: 4.1/5
Play now on MyBookie
Pros
All-in-one betting destination
Killer rewards program
Cons
Invite-only to rewards program
When it comes to online betting, MyBookie stands out as a true all-rounder. This platform isn’t just good — it’s built to be your one-stop shop for all things betting, no matter what you’re into. First up, the sportsbook. MyBookie delivers on every front, offering a vast array of betting options that cover all the major sports and then some. Whether you’re throwing down on the latest football game, taking a shot at basketball, or exploring other sports, MyBookie has the bets you want, all in one place. But the fun doesn’t stop with sports. MyBookie’s casino is stocked with hundreds of games, making it a go-to spot when you’re ready to mix things up. And for the poker enthusiasts out there, MyBookie even has a dedicated poker room that’s always buzzing with action. However, what really makes MyBookie special is its VIP rewards program. This isn’t your typical, one-and-done bonus offer. With MyBookie, every bet you place earns you reward points, and the more strategic you are — like placing sports parlays — the more points you rack up. The best part? There’s no cap on how much you can earn. Keep betting, keep earning, it’s as simple as that. For those who are serious about their betting and want to get the most out of every wager, MyBookie’s VIP program is a game-changer. It’s a platform that keeps on giving, making it a top pick for bettors who are in it for the long haul.

Where Are Sportsbooks Like Fanduel, DraftKings, Caesars?

Don’t bank on ever seeing platforms like DraftKings or Caesars offering sports betting in Hawaii. This state is not going to budge on legalized sports betting anytime soon, which means those commercial operators will never be granted licenses.

To reiterate, there’s one option to bet online in Hawaii, and that’s offshore betting sites. These work perfectly fine no matter what island you’re on. Not only do they work, but they even offer some huge advantages over commercial operators like FanDuel. Allow us to explain in the next section:

Betting On Politics, Esports, Entertainment In Hawaii

Here’s something you’ll only get at offshore betting sites: options to bet on politics, entertainment shows, WWE, and other things that aren’t really sports. This is fair game on offshore bookies — but not regulated sites.

Even in states where betting is legal, there are strict regulations on what type of betting can be offered. Things that aren’t sports like who wins the US presidency or the Oscar for Best Actor are strictly banned. Offshore sites though? They don’t police any of this fun stuff!

Betting Apps In Hawaii

You can’t just have a good betting site anymore these days. No, you also need a killer app to go with it. That’s why we have an entire guide to betting apps in Hawaii. It’s packed with information like the page, but solely concentrated on getting the best mobile experience around!

Start Betting In Hawaii Today — Our Guides

It’s not enough to make bets in Hawaii, though that’s a big start given current laws. However, we want nothing more than to see you actually winning your bets more than losing. It’s certainly possible, but you’ll have to earn it. Here are a few must-read guides to help in that pursuit:

Payment Methods Available For Hawaii Sportsbooks

Don’t think for a second it’s hard to deposit money into these offshore bookies. They readily accept the top payment methods like the following:

  • VISA — the co-most popular card accepted on betting sites.
  • Mastercard — the other co-most popular card across the betting landscape.
  • Bitcoin — the payment method that'll earn you the most free play.
  • Bank wire — the tried-and-true payment method.

Here’s another offshore betting exclusive: the use of cryptocurrency. Once again, regulated bookies aren’t allowed to accept it, but offshore betting sites do. In fact, many offer specific bonuses for using crypto. These bonuses pay better than “regular” deals too.

Hawaii Casinos And Resorts

While there are many resorts in Hawaii to welcome visitors, there are none with casinos. Again, Hawaii has banned betting of all kinds in the state.

Native American tribes have been trying to get casinos built in Hawaii for years, with no luck. This tells you how opposed the state is to betting when even natives can't get special treatment.

History Of Hawaii Legalization Efforts

Here's some more context into legalization efforts in the state. Spoiler alert: there's hardly any movement.

Before the 2018 PASPA

Hawaii has a long history as an anti-gambling state. This stance is hard to explain, given the relaxed idea most of us have of Hawaii. In fact, since it became a state in 1959, the only changes have been to strengthen anti-gambling laws.

In 1959, a bill to legalize horse racing failed to get off the ground. In 2010, two bills to investigate just the possibility of gambling did not get off the ground. And in 2012, a similar bill suffered a similar fate.

Post-2018

Hawaii was given the opportunity by the national government to open up and legalize sports betting in the state. However, they seem dedicated to having a family-friendly state. There has been no significant push towards opening up this market on the islands.

Betting on Hawaii Sports Teams

There are no professional-level sports in Hawaii, but there are collegiate sports at the University of Hawaii. This is the island's main sports team affiliation.

Their football team, The Hawaii Warriors, are part of the Mountain West Conference. They had some glory years in the early 2000s with a high-powered offense, but haven't reached that level of success since.

The Warriors also have a college basketball team that is fairly mediocre. They’ve had some decent seasons, including their March Madness appearance in 2016, but never made it past the second round.

Other Types Of Betting In Hawaii

There are absolutely no forms of gambling in Hawaii. Nothing! Nada! Zip! Zilch. We’re telling you, there’s no appetite for this stuff in Hawaii. Not now, not in the past, and most likely not in the future.

Even things like charitable gambling — this common in other states — is explicitly banned in Hawaii. DFS is too. And forget about a lottery (Hawaii is one of five states without a lottery). Not native casinos. Absolutely nothing.

This leaves bettors with no other choice than to go offshore. We hope, by now, we’ve made our case why going offshore is not only safe, but it’s the better option to gamble with anyways!

Sports Betting Rules In Each State

We've written a host of betting guides just like this one but for other states. Here are some quick links to our best write-ups:

Responsible Gaming In Hawaii

In Hawaii, we believe in enjoying life’s pleasures responsibly, and that includes betting. Or should we say, especially betting?

While the state has strict gambling laws, if you choose to participate in betting through offshore platforms, it’s essential to keep things in balance. Set clear limits on your time and spending, and always prioritize fun over the desire to win. Remember, betting should enhance your enjoyment, not create stress. If you ever feel that wagering is becoming overwhelming, don’t hesitate to take a step back. Play smart, stay safe, and keep your experiences positive.

There's not a lot of in-person resources for irresponsible betting in Hawaii because, well, it’s supposed to be illegal. However, online resources are abundant. For your convenience, we’re highlighting three below. We hope you never have the need to reach out, but just know, help is available with a few clicks:

Gamble Aware (https://www.gambleaware.org/)

A non-profit organization providing resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

International Center for Responsible Gaming (https://www.icrg.org/)

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (CRG) is a research institution dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and addressing gambling-related issues.

24/7 Gambling Support Line (https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/about-the-national-problem-gambling-helpline/)

A round-the-clock helpline offering immediate assistance and guidance for those experiencing gambling-related problems.