Sports Betting in Hawaii: A Comprehensive 2026 Guide

As of early 2026, Hawaii remains one of the last frontiers in the United States where sports betting has not been legalized. Alongside Utah, the Aloha State holds the distinction of having the strictest anti-gambling laws in the nation, with no legal options for sports wagering, casinos, or lotteries. However, the legislative landscape is showing signs of a potential shift, with lawmakers actively debating the future of sports betting in Hawaii.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current legal situation, the ongoing legislative efforts, and what residents can expect if sports betting becomes a reality in Hawaii.

Current Legal Status and History

Hawaii's stance on gambling is deeply rooted in its history and culture. For decades, the state has resisted the expansion of gambling, citing concerns about its potential social and economic impacts. This has resulted in a complete prohibition of all forms of commercial gambling. It is currently Not Legal to bet on sports in Hawaii, either through online platforms or at retail locations.

However, the tide began to turn in the years following the 2018 Supreme Court decision that struck down the federal ban on sports wagering. Seeing the tax revenue generated in other states, Hawaiian lawmakers have introduced several bills aimed at legalizing sports betting. The most significant of these in 2026 is House Bill 2570 (HB 2570).

This bill proposes the legalization of online-only sports betting, which would authorize a minimum of six mobile sportsbook operators to launch in the state. The legislation includes a proposed tax rate of 15% on gross gaming revenue. Despite advancing through a House committee in February 2026, the bill faces considerable opposition and its future is uncertain. In a symbolic move to signal that the issue is far from settled, lawmakers amended the bill to delay its effective date to the year 3000, highlighting the contentious nature of the debate.

Available Sportsbooks and Their Features

Currently, there are no legal sportsbooks operating in Hawaii. Because sports betting is illegal, residents do not have access to popular and regulated U.S. operators such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, or Caesars Sportsbook.

It is crucial for residents to understand the risks associated with using illegal offshore betting sites. These platforms are not licensed or regulated in the United States, meaning they offer no consumer protection. Bettors who use these sites are at risk of losing their money, having their personal information compromised, and facing potential legal consequences.

Should HB 2570 or a similar bill pass, it is expected that the major U.S. sportsbook brands would eagerly enter the Hawaiian market, bringing their established platforms, promotional offers, and extensive betting markets to the state.

Types of Bets Available

If sports betting were to be legalized in Hawaii, residents could expect to see a wide variety of betting options that are standard across the U.S. market. These include:

• Moneyline: A straightforward bet on which team will win a game outright.
• Point Spread: A bet on the margin of victory. The favored team must win by a certain number of points, while the underdog can win outright or lose by less than that margin.
• Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total combined score of both teams in a game, betting on whether it will be over or under a number set by the sportsbook.
• Parlays: A single bet that combines two or more individual wagers. All "legs" of the parlay must win for the bet to pay out, but the potential rewards are much higher.
• Prop Bets (Propositions): Bets on specific events within a game that may not be tied to the final outcome, such as a player scoring a certain number of points.
• Futures: A long-term bet on an event that will happen in the future, such as which team will win the Super Bowl or the NBA Championship.

Tax Implications for Winnings

Even though sports betting is not yet legal, it is important to understand the potential tax implications. If legalized, all gambling winnings in Hawaii would be subject to both federal and state taxes.

Federally, the IRS considers all gambling winnings as taxable income. If you win over $600, you may receive a Form W-2G from the sportsbook operator. Regardless of the amount, it is your responsibility to report all winnings on your tax return.

Mobile vs. Retail Betting Options

The current legislative push in Hawaii is focused exclusively on online and mobile sports betting. This approach is logical for a state without any existing casino or horse racing infrastructure. By authorizing mobile-only betting, the state can launch a regulated market without needing to build new physical locations.

This model has been successful in other states, offering convenience and accessibility for bettors who can place wagers from anywhere within the state's borders using their smartphones or computers.

Tips for Bettors in Hawaii

While waiting for legalization, prospective bettors in Hawaii can take several steps to prepare:

1. Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news on sports betting legislation in Hawaii. Following reputable news sources and legislative trackers can provide insight into the progress of bills like HB 2570.
2. Learn the Basics: Use this time to learn about the different types of bets, how to read odds, and basic bankroll management strategies. This will prepare you to bet responsibly if and when it becomes legal.
3. Avoid Illegal Offshore Books: It cannot be stressed enough that using unregulated offshore sportsbooks is risky. Wait for legal, state-licensed options to ensure your funds and personal data are secure.
4. Explore Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS): While the legal status of DFS in Hawaii is also in a gray area, some operators like DraftKings and FanDuel do offer their DFS products to residents. This can be an alternative way to engage with sports.

Responsible Gaming Resources

Gambling addiction is a serious issue, and it's important to have resources available. Even without legalized sports betting, residents can access help if they are struggling with problem gambling. National resources include:

• The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): Offers a confidential 24-hour helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
• Gamblers Anonymous: A fellowship of people who share their experience, strength, and hope to solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem.

If sports betting is legalized in Hawaii, the state will be required to establish its own responsible gaming programs and resources, funded by a portion of the tax revenue.