In this guide, we dive into getting sim card for Hawaii trip, and the best Hawaii sim card and eSIM for Hawaii to use to make sure your connection is seamless in the Big Island.
Welcome to Hawaii, the Aloha State! Known for its breathtaking beaches, volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Hawaii is a paradise for travelers. Whether you’re hiking through lush trails or sipping cocktails by the sea, staying connected is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting a SIM card in Hawaii.
Related Travel Guides on Sim Cards for Hawaii
- SIM Cards in the USA
- eSIM in the USA
- Travel Insurance for the USA
- Best Places to Visit in the United States
- Kauai vs Maui
Can You Buy a SIM Card for Hawaii?
Yes, purchasing a SIM card in Hawaii is straightforward. Just bring a valid ID for registration.
Where to Buy a SIM Card for Hawaii
- Honolulu International Airport: Many kiosks sell SIM cards tailored for tourists.
- Shopping Malls: Ala Moana Center, for example, has several mobile stores.
- Local Mobile Stores: AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon stores are available island-wide.
- Convenience Stores: Places like ABC Stores offer basic SIM cards.
- Online: You can also pre-order a SIM card to pick up upon arrival.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Hawaii
When you land in Hawaii, you’ll have a range of options for mobile network providers, the most prominent of which are AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. These networks provide extensive coverage across all islands and most offer 4G services as a standard feature, with some even extending 5G services to specific areas. The frequencies commonly used are:
- AT&T: LTE bands 12/17, 2/4, 5, 66
- T-Mobile: LTE bands 2/4, 12, 66, 71
- Verizon: LTE bands 2/4, 13, 66
Whether you’re hiking through the rugged terrain of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or lounging on Waikiki Beach, you can expect pretty reliable service from these carriers.
VoLTE & VoWiFi in Hawaii
VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi) are generally supported by the major carriers in Hawaii. However, compatibility will depend on the make and model of your phone. Both technologies allow for higher-quality voice calls and the ability to use voice and data simultaneously. It’s advisable to check your phone’s compatibility before landing in Hawaii to ensure you can take advantage of these features.
Hawaii SIM Card Registration
Getting a SIM card activated in Hawaii is pretty straightforward. All you’ll usually need is a form of identification, most commonly a passport for international travelers. After presenting your ID, you can expect immediate activation and can start using your SIM card straight away.
Roaming in Hawaii
Roaming is certainly an option for those who’d prefer not to switch SIM cards. However, it’s worth noting that this convenience often comes at a premium cost. Local SIM cards usually provide a more budget-friendly alternative, offering better deals especially for data services. Many carriers offer tourist-specific packages, designed to offer lots of data and some local calls, which can be a better fit for your travel needs.
Hawaii Mobile Speeds, Internet Prices & Insights
In terms of network performance, Hawaii generally offers excellent coverage and decent internet speeds, particularly in urban areas and popular tourist destinations. Data plans are moderately priced, with options available for both budget and premium users. For example, you can expect to pay around $40-50 for an unlimited data plan from a leading carrier.
Currency in Hawaii
The currency in Hawaii is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, making digital payments convenient. However, if you find yourself in more remote areas or local markets, cash may be the preferred or only method of payment. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep some cash on hand for smaller expenses.
Best SIM Card for Hawaii
Verizon Hawaii
- Strengths: Exceptional coverage, fast data speeds
- Weaknesses: Higher price point
- Ideal For: Travelers who require reliable and fast connectivity
- Price Range: $70 – $90 for unlimited plans
AT&T Hawaii
- Strengths: Good coverage, multiple plan options
- Weaknesses: Slower speeds in remote areas
- Ideal For: Those who want flexibility in choosing plans
- Price Range: $65 – $85 for unlimited plans
T-Mobile Hawaii
- Strengths: Competitive pricing, decent urban coverage
- Weaknesses: Spotty rural coverage
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers staying mostly in cities
- Price Range: $60 – $85 for unlimited plans
Hawaiian Telcom
- Strengths: Local provider, reasonable prices
- Weaknesses: Limited network compared to national carriers
- Ideal For: Short-term travelers focusing on Honolulu and other urban areas
- Price Range: $45 – $60 for unlimited plans
Choosing the best SIM card in Hawaii depends on your needs and travel plans. For reliable service and speed, Verizon is the top choice, while AT&T offers plan flexibility. Budget travelers might find T-Mobile suitable, and Hawaiian Telcom is ideal for short-term visitors focusing on Honolulu.
Comparing eSIMs in Hawaii – Sim Card for Hawaii
Holafly Maya eSIM
Holafly is an eSIM service tailored for travelers who require dependable, high-speed internet access without the hassle of changing physical SIM cards. Holafly offers various data plans suitable for both short-term and long-term stays.
Example Plans:
- 5 GB for $20 USD (valid for 10 days)
- 20 GB for $40 USD (valid for 30 days)
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Maya Mobile eSIM
Maya Mobile offers flexible eSIM options for travelers looking for customizable plans. Their services are designed to provide high-speed, reliable connectivity in multiple regions, including Hawaii.
Example Plans:
- 2 GB for $15 USD (valid for 7 days)
- 15 GB for $40 USD (valid for 30 days)
Airalo eSIM
Airalo is a global eSIM store offering various data plans in multiple countries, including Hawaii. With Airalo, you can buy and install your eSIM and get online in just a few minutes. Airalo plans are generally affordable and flexible, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Example Plans:
- 1 GB for $5 USD (valid for 7 days)
- 10 GB for $25 USD (valid for 30 days)
These eSIM options should provide excellent choices for anyone looking to stay connected while in Hawaii. You can tailor your selection based on your needs, whether it’s a short-term or a long-term stay.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
For comprehensive coverage, AT&T is reliable, whereas T-Mobile is more budget-friendly. Verizon is excellent but expensive. For eSIM users, Holafly and Maya Mobile offer flexible and unlimited data options.
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