Welcome to your ultimate guide for Hawaii sports betting. Although your options may be quite limited in the Aloha State, we’re here to help you find a way to get in on the action. In this article, we’ll provide everything you need to know about sports betting in Hawaii, including the legal landscape, top sportsbooks, latest news, and much more. Let’s dive right in!
Is Sports Betting Legal in Hawaii?
In May 2018, the United States Supreme Court ruled that the Professional & Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), a federal law that effectively banned sports betting across the country for over 25 years, was unconstitutional. This decision opened the door for individual states to legalize and regulate sports betting within their jurisdictions, allowing them to determine their own laws and policies regarding the practice.
The overturning of PASPA marked a pivotal moment, leading to the rapid expansion of legal sports betting across the United States and transforming the landscape of the sports betting industry. Today, more than two-thirds of U.S. states have legalized sports wagering in some capacity. Unfortunately, Hawaii is not one of them and has yet to pass legislation to legalize sports betting within its borders.
In fact, Hawaii is one of only two U.S. states that do not allow any form of gambling, the other being Utah. Sports betting, horse racing betting, daily fantasy sports, casinos, poker, bingo, state lotteries, and charitable gaming are all prohibited in the Aloha State. The state’s strict gambling laws also extend to cruise ships and online betting platforms, making it clear that the state is committed to maintaining its stance against all gambling activities within its jurisdiction.
When Will Sports Betting Launch in Hawaii?
In recent years, several attempts have been made by state legislators to get the ball rolling when it comes to the legalization of sports wagering in the state. House Bill 1107 (in 2019) and Senate Bill 595 (in 2021) both aimed to create a sports gambling task force that would examine the economic feasibility of introducing sports betting in the state, but both bills struggled to gain much traction and died in committee.
In 2022, HB 1815 and HB 1973 were both introduced in an attempt to legalize sports betting, but neither bill gained much support. Most recently, in January 2023, Representative John Mizuno introduced House Bill 344 which would allow a standalone retail sportsbook and cardroom on the island of Oahu while also establishing a regulatory framework for the introduction of online sports betting in the state.
HB 344 was quickly deferred by the House Committee on Economic Development, and the 2023 Hawaii legislative session came to an end in May with no sports betting legislation being passed or even strongly considered. As a result, it is currently unknown if or when sports betting will launch in Hawaii.
What Are the Best Hawaii Sportsbooks & Betting Sites?
Unfortunately, there are no sportsbooks currently available in the state of Hawaii. That said, many of the top U.S. sportsbooks and betting sites may look to enter the Aloha State if and when an opportunity presents itself. Here are a few of the likely candidates:
FanDuel Sportsbook
- Available States: AZ, CO, CT, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, & WY.
- Best Feature: Fantastic Mobile App
- Full Review: FanDuel Sportsbook Review
FanDuel is a leading sportsbook known for its exceptional mobile app, which provides a seamless and user-friendly betting experience. The app’s intuitive design allows bettors to navigate effortlessly through various markets and place wagers with ease.
The platform also stands out with its speedy payouts, ensuring that customers will always receive their winnings in a timely manner. Moreover, FanDuel Sportsbook offers a wide range of betting options, competitive odds, and enticing promotions, making it a preferred choice for sports enthusiasts seeking excitement and convenience.
BetMGM Sportsbook
- Available States: AZ, CO, IN, IA, IL, KS, LA, MA, MD, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, TN, VA, WA, WV, & WY.
- Best Feature: Exciting Customer Rewards Program
- Full Review: BetMGM Sportsbook Review
BetMGM is a highly reputable sportsbook that boasts a comprehensive rewards program, making it a popular choice among bettors. The program offers various benefits, including loyalty points, exclusive promotions, and personalized offers, rewarding users for their continued betting activity. With its widespread availability across the United States, BetMGM ensures that sports fans in many different states can enjoy its services.
bet365 Sportsbook
- Available States: CO, IA, NJ, OH, & VA.
- Best Feature: Top-Tier Live Betting Experience
- Full Review: bet365 Sportsbook Review
A global leader in online sports betting, bet365 offers an extensive range of sports markets and a reputation for competitive odds. With its sleek and intuitive interface, bet365 provides a seamless betting experience across various devices. The platform’s standout feature is its live streaming service, allowing users to watch and bet on live events simultaneously.
SuperBook Sportsbook
- Available States: AZ, CO, IA, MD, NV, NJ, OH, & TN.
- Best Feature: Excellent Customer Service
- Full Review: SuperBook Sportsbook Review
Over the years, SuperBook has built a reputation for its commitment to delivering a premium betting experience. It focuses on providing a wide range of sports markets, including niche sports and international competitions, catering to bettors with diverse interests.
SuperBook differentiates itself with its personalized customer service, ensuring that users receive tailored assistance and support. The platform also offers competitive odds, unique betting opportunities, and exclusive promotions, making it a compelling choice for bettors all over the country.
How Can I Bet on Sports in Hawaii?
Although sports betting is not yet legal in the state, Hawaii residents aren’t completely out of luck. A few potential ways for you to get in on the action are discussed below.
Offshore Sportsbooks
Over the years, offshore sportsbooks have emerged as an option for Hawaii sports bettors looking to engage in online sports betting. Offshore sportsbooks are online platforms based outside the United States that cater to customers from all over the country, and they typically offer a wide range of sports markets, generous welcome offers, and convenient betting options, allowing users to place bets on their favorite sports teams and events from the comfort of their own homes.
However, it’s important to note that offshore sportsbooks operate outside the jurisdiction of U.S. laws and regulations, which can pose risks related to legality, security, and customer protection. Hawaii sports bettors considering offshore sportsbooks should exercise caution, conduct thorough research, and choose reputable platforms that prioritize safety and fair play.
Daily Fantasy Sports
Most U.S. states that have not yet legalized sports betting within their borders allow residents to participate in daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests, as they are often considered a game of skill rather than a game of chance.
Unfortunately, DFS has been illegal in Hawaii since January 2016, when the state’s former Attorney General Doug Chin ruled daily fantasy sports to be an illegal form of gambling under state law. As a result, DraftKings, FanDuel, Yahoo Fantasy, Underdog Fantasy, and all other DFS sites are unavailable in the Aloha State.
Horse Racing
More than 40 of the 50 U.S. states currently allow betting on horse racing in some capacity. Hawaii is again in the minority and prohibits pari-mutuel wagering on horse races. There are no racetracks in the state, and residents will not have the option to place wagers in person at any off-track betting facilities or online with horse racing betting sites, such as TVG, TwinSpires, or AmWager.
Visit Other U.S. States
One of the best options for Hawaii sports betting enthusiasts is to plan getaways or travel to other U.S. states on vacation where legal betting options are available. Las Vegas is a very popular destination among Hawaii residents, and the city offers a multitude of retail sportsbooks and casinos as well as plenty of online betting options. New York City, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. are a few other places you may choose to visit to experience all the city has to offer and place bets on all your favorite teams.
Where Can I Bet on Sports in Hawaii?
As a result of the state’s strict anti-gambling laws, there are no legal ways for Hawaii residents to bet on sports in the state. However, they will always have the option to take a trip to the continental United States and place wagers in states that have already legalized the practice. Here are a few popular destinations that give Hawaiians a chance to enter the exciting world of sports betting:
Nevada
Nevada stands as a prominent destination for sports betting, with a long history of legalized gambling. The state offers a wide range of options, including brick-and-mortar sportsbooks in renowned casinos along the Las Vegas Strip and throughout the state.
The Silver State allows both in-person and online sports betting, making it convenient for visitors and residents alike to place bets on a variety of sports events, and its well-regulated market ensures a safe and reliable betting experience.
New York
In recent years, New York has emerged as one of the country’s most profitable sports betting markets. Residents and visitors of the Empire State can place bets online with many of the top U.S. sportsbooks, including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and several others.
In addition, there are plenty of in-person wagering opportunities available at casinos in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and many other cities across the state. Hawaiians will get to place bets on all their favorite sports and leagues while also having the chance to visit the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and many other popular attractions in New York City if they choose to visit.
Illinois
Illinois has embraced the legalization of sports betting and offers a robust market with several options for bettors, especially those in the Chicago area. The state allows both in-person and online sports betting, with more than half a dozen sportsbooks currently operating within its borders.
Bettors can visit retail sportsbooks located in casinos or horse racing tracks, or they can enjoy the convenience of online sports betting platforms. Illinois has seen significant growth in its sports betting industry, providing a range of markets and competitive odds for sports enthusiasts to engage in legal wagering activities.
How To Sign Up & Start Betting in Hawaii
Unfortunately, you are not yet able to sign up and start betting on sports in the Aloha State. However, it may be beneficial to learn about the steps you’ll need to take if and when sports betting is legalized in Hawaii. Here’s what you’d need to do:
- Choose Your Sportsbook
Research and compare different sportsbooks to choose one that aligns with your personal preferences and individual betting needs. Consider factors such as reputation, user experience, available betting markets, odds, and promotions.
- Register for an Account
Select your preferred sportsbook and proceed to register for an account. Provide the necessary information, including your name, email address, and any other required details. Create a strong and secure password for your account.
- Verify Your Information
To comply with legal requirements and ensure the safety of the platform, the sportsbook may require you to verify your identity. This process typically involves providing additional documentation, such as a valid ID or proof of address.
- Make a Deposit
Once your account is verified, you can proceed to make a deposit. Choose a suitable payment method, such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, or bank transfers. Follow the instructions provided by the sportsbook to complete the deposit process securely.
- Claim Your Welcome Offer
Many sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses or promotions to new customers. Check if there are any available offers and review the terms and conditions associated with them. If eligible, claim the welcome offer to help get off to a great start on the platform.
- Start Placing Bets
With funds in your account, you can begin placing bets. Explore the sportsbook’s available markets and select the sport or event you wish to bet on. Choose your desired bet type, enter the stake amount, and confirm your wager. Good luck!
What Teams Can I Bet on in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, sports hold a special place in the hearts of its residents, fostering a vibrant sports culture that unites communities across the islands. From professional leagues to collegiate sports, fans in Hawaii are known for their unwavering support and loyalty to their favorite teams. Here are a few of the most popular teams among Hawaii sports fans:
Hawaii Rainbow Warriors
The University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors enjoy immense popularity and support from local fans. The football team, in particular, draws large crowds to Aloha Stadium all season long. Their games are often celebrated events, bringing together the community in a sea of green and white. The Rainbow Warriors have a rich history and have achieved success in various sports, fostering a strong sense of pride among Hawaii residents.
Los Angeles Lakers
Despite being located in California, the Los Angeles Lakers have a significant fanbase in Hawaii. The team’s success over the years, featuring iconic players like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Kobe Bryant, has earned them a devoted following worldwide. The Lakers’ games are widely televised and watched by fans across the islands, who passionately support the team from afar.
San Francisco 49ers
The NFL’s San Francisco 49ers also have a dedicated fanbase in Hawaii. The team’s rich history, including five Super Bowl victories and legendary players like Joe Montana and Jerry Rice, has contributed to its popularity. Hawaii residents often connect with the 49ers due to the team’s proximity to the islands and the shared love for football. Fans gather in sports bars, homes, and local establishments to cheer for the 49ers all season long.
Strategies & Tips for Hawaii Sports Bettors
While sports betting is not yet legal in Hawaii, it’s never too early to learn the best guidelines to follow and strategies to use to set yourself up for long-term success. Here are some tips and tricks for Hawaii sports bettors:
- Do Your Research: Before placing a bet, conduct thorough research on the teams or players involved. Consider factors such as their recent performance, head-to-head matchups, injuries, weather conditions, and any other relevant information. Analyzing statistics and trends can help you make more informed predictions.
- Be Selective: Avoid the temptation to bet on every available game or event. Instead, focus on quality over quantity by selecting a few well-researched bets with strong potential. Being selective allows you to dedicate more time and attention to each wager, increasing your chances of success.
- Control Your Emotions: Emotions can heavily influence betting decisions. Avoid letting personal biases, favorite teams, or previous losses dictate your bets. Stick to your research, analysis, and strategies, and make rational decisions based on the available information.
- Use Multiple Sportsbooks: Consider opening accounts with multiple reputable sportsbooks. This allows you to compare odds, access different promotions and bonuses, and ensure you have a wider range of options for placing your bets.
- Learn From Experience: Treat sports betting as a learning process. Analyze your past bets, both winning and losing ones, to identify patterns and areas for improvement. Adapt your strategies based on what has worked well and what hasn’t.
- Enjoy the Process: Sports betting is meant to be enjoyable and entertaining. Approach it with a positive mindset and enjoy the thrill of the games. Don’t let the outcomes of individual bets impact your overall enjoyment of the sports you love.
Hawaii Sports Betting FAQ
No, online sports betting is not yet legal in Hawaii. However, it is possible this could change in the not-so-distant future.
There are currently no online sportsbooks available in the state of Hawaii. That said, FanDuel, BetMGM, bet365, and SuperBook stand out as a few of the top U.S. sportsbooks that may look to enter the Aloha State should an opportunity present itself.
No, betting on horse racing is prohibited in Hawaii. There are no racetracks in the state of Hawaii, and online horse racing betting with TVG, AmWager, TwinSpires, or other similar sites is not allowed.
No, Hawaii is one of the few states that does not permit daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests. DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and all other DFS sites are not available in Hawaii.
Yes, you can potentially use a virtual private network (VPN) to spoof your location and place wagers from a state where sports betting is not yet legal. However, we strongly discourage you from doing so. Once your sportsbook finds out, they will most likely ban your account and make your forfeit all winnings.
