Does Verizon Work in Hawaii in 2024? Everything You Need to Know

Hawaii saw over 10 million visitors in 2022, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. With incredible scenery, beaches, hikes, and culture, it‘s easy to see the appeal. But does Verizon work there? Can you use your phone like normal on the islands?

As a top cell phone carrier in the U.S., Verizon offers excellent coverage throughout most of Hawaii. Their 4G LTE network reaches about 94% of the populated islands, and 5G service is rapidly expanding.

Let‘s dive into the details about using Verizon in Hawaii, from coverage on each island to saving money on your cell bill.

Verizon Has the Strongest Cell Network in Hawaii

When compared to other major carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile, Verizon consistently comes out on top for coverage in Hawaii.

CarrierPopulation Coverage5G Availability
Verizon94%Moderate
AT&T91%Minimal
T-Mobile88%Moderate

Verizon has invested heavily in Hawaii in recent years, adding new towers and small cells to increase capacity. They now offer the fastest speeds and most reliable service around the islands.

Coverage on the Most Popular Hawaiian Islands

Verizon blankets the most heavily populated Hawaiian Islands with strong 4G LTE and growing 5G:

Oahu – As Hawaii‘s most populous island and home to Honolulu/Waikiki, it‘s fully covered by Verizon‘s network. You‘ll have service across the entire island.

Maui – Maui sees over 3 million visitors per year. Verizon‘s LTE and 5G network span the entire island, including popular spots like Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Haleakala.

Kauai – Known as the "Garden Island", Verizon covers all major areas of Kauai like Poipu and Princeville. Some remote northern interior valleys lack service.

Big Island – From Kona to Volcanoes National Park, Verizon covers the most visited parts of Hawaii‘s largest island. Only certain remote areas aren‘t covered.

Lanai and Molokai – These smaller islands now have at least partial 4G LTE service. But some rural sections still lack coverage.

Hawaii is Considered Domestic – No Surprise Fees

Hawaii is part of the United States, so Verizon treats it as part of the domestic network – not international roaming.

You can use your talk, text, and data without any surprise roaming charges. Verizon includes Hawaii as part of nationwide plans for no added cost.

The only time you may incur international rates is if continuing on to another country like Fiji or New Zealand after visiting Hawaii.

Tips to Conserve Your Cell Data Usage

While Verizon offers strong coverage in Hawaii, a vacation there can still quickly eat through your monthly data allotment.

Here are some tips to keep your cell data usage down:

  • Enable WiFi calling on your phone before leaving – it routes calls/texts over WiFi networks
  • Download offline Google maps and playlists via WiFi ahead of time
  • Connect to WiFi hotspots whenever possible to use apps
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card if staying for an extended time
  • Use FaceTime Audio or WhatsApp for international calls to avoid fees

You Can Rely on Your Verizon Phone in Hawaii

Whether you‘re beach-hopping on Maui, exploring volcanic craters on the Big Island, or taking in Waikiki‘s sights on Oahu, you can rest assured your Verizon phone will work throughout your Hawaii vacation.

With Verizon leading for coverage across the islands, you can focus on relaxing and enjoying Hawaii‘s natural beauty – not worrying about your cell signal.

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