Gambling Laws in Hawaii
- Learn More About Hawaii's Gambling Laws
- No Domestic Casinos As Of February 2026
Hawaii has some of the strictest gambling laws in the United States. The state bans nearly all forms of in‑person gambling, including casinos, sports betting, horse racing, and commercial gaming venues. Despite this, Hawaii residents still have legal ways to gamble online through licensed offshore casinos that operate outside U.S. jurisdiction.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Hawaii’s gambling laws, including what’s prohibited, what’s allowed, and how offshore online casinos fit into the legal landscape.
Is Gambling Legal in Hawaii?
Hawaii prohibits almost all forms of gambling under state law. There are no commercial casinos, no tribal casinos, no racetracks, and no state‑regulated online gambling platforms. Social gambling is allowed under limited conditions, but commercial gaming remains illegal.
However, Hawaii law does not criminalize playing at online HI casinos, which are based outside the United States and legally accept players from Hawaii. These platforms provide access to real‑money slots, blackjack, roulette, live dealer games, and more.
In‑Person Casino Gambling in Hawaii
Hawaii is one of only two U.S. states—along with Utah—that bans all forms of in‑person casino gambling. This includes:
- Commercial casinos
- Tribal casinos
- Riverboat casinos
- Racinos
- Poker rooms
- Sportsbooks
- Pari‑mutuel wagering
There are no legal casino resorts, no slot parlors, and no licensed gaming operators anywhere in the state. Multiple legislative attempts to introduce casinos or sports betting have failed due to strong political and cultural opposition.
Overview of Hawaii Gambling Laws
- HRS §712‑1220 — Definitions That Classify Casino Gambling as Illegal Activity
This section defines key gambling terms such as contest of chance, gambling, bookmaking, and advancing gambling activity. Because casino games like slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker are all considered contests of chance, they fall squarely under the definition of prohibited gambling activity. This broad definition is the foundation for Hawaii’s statewide casino ban.
- HRS §712‑1224 — Promoting Gambling (Operator Offense)
This law targets anyone who operates, advances, or profits from gambling activity. Running a casino, poker room, sportsbook, or online gambling platform within Hawaii is a criminal offense. Because of this, no commercial casinos, tribal casinos, or regulated online casinos can legally exist in the state.
- HRS §712‑1226 — Possession of Gambling Records
This statute prohibits the possession of gambling records, books, or materials used to operate a gambling business. It reinforces the ban on casino operations by criminalizing the tools needed to run gaming activities.
- HRS §712‑1227 — Possession of Gambling Devices
Hawaii bans the possession of gambling devices such as slot machines, roulette wheels, card‑shuffling machines, and other casino equipment. This makes it impossible for any business to legally operate casino games, even in a private or limited setting.
- HRS §712‑1229 — Gambling Devices; Manufacture, Sale, Transport
This law prohibits manufacturing, selling, or transporting gambling devices into or within Hawaii. It prevents casinos from ever being established by cutting off the supply chain for gaming equipment.
- No Tribal Gaming Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA)
Hawaii has no federally recognized tribes, which means tribal casinos cannot be established under IGRA. This removes one of the most common pathways for casino development in other states.
Online Gambling Laws in Hawaii
Hawaii does not regulate or license online casinos, poker sites, or sports betting platforms. State law focuses on prohibiting operating an online gambling business within Hawaii, not on playing at offshore sites.
Because online casinos operate legally under international gaming licenses, Hawaii residents can access:
- Online slots
- Online blackjack
- Online roulette
- Live dealer casino games
- Online HI casino apps (offshore only)
- Online poker (offshore only)
- Online sports betting (offshore only)
These gambling platforms are not subject to Hawaii jurisdiction, making them the primary legal option for residents seeking real‑money online casino entertainment.
Are Online Casinos Legal for Hawaii Players?
Yes. Offshore online casinos are legal for Hawaii residents because:
- They are not based in Hawaii
- They are licensed in international jurisdictions
- Hawaii law does not criminalize individual players using online casino platforms
These casinos offer secure banking, mobile‑friendly gameplay, and thousands of real‑money games. Many also support cryptocurrency, which is popular among Hawaii players due to limited local banking options for gambling.
Social Gambling in Hawaii
Hawaii allows limited forms of social gambling, provided strict conditions are met:
- No one profits from hosting the game
- All players have an equal chance of winning
- The activity occurs in a private setting
- No admission fees or rake is collected
This exception covers casual home poker games but does not extend to commercial or organized gambling.
Future of Gambling Legislation in Hawaii
While lawmakers introduce gambling bills almost every year, none have gained significant traction. Opposition remains strong due to cultural values, concerns about tourism impact, and fears of increased social costs.
Still, discussions continue around:
- A potential state lottery
- Limited casino resorts
- Online sports betting
- Regulated online casinos
For now, Hawaii remains one of the most restrictive gambling states in the country.