Aloha and welcome to Living in Hawaii! If you’re planning to move to the islands, one of the most crucial services you’ll need is a reliable internet connection. Whether for remote work, gaming, or streaming, having the best internet provider can make a big difference.

In today’s video, we sit down with local experts from across Hawaii to discuss the best internet options available on each island. Our hosts, Carol Spierling, Yoko Humphries, Chelsea Fernandez, and Patrick Chandler, share their experiences with different providers and discuss what you need to consider when choosing the right internet service for your new home in Hawaii. Watch the embedded video above and read on for a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about internet service in Hawaii.

Types of Internet Available in Hawaii

Hawaii offers a range of internet services comparable to those on the mainland. Here are the main types of internet available:

1. Cable Internet (Spectrum)

  • One of the most widely used options in Hawaii.
  • Bundles TV, internet, and phone services for convenience.
  • Works well for moderate internet usage but can slow down during peak hours.

2. Fiber Optic Internet (Hawaiian Telcom)

  • A growing option in many areas, offering faster and more stable connections.
  • Ideal for households with multiple devices, remote workers, and gamers.
  • Less affected by multiple users compared to cable.

3. DSL (Traditional Phone Line Internet)

  • Operates through phone lines, making it one of the few options available during power outages.
  • Not as fast as cable or fiber optic, but still a viable choice in some areas.

4. Satellite Internet (Starlink & Other Providers)

  • Best for rural areas or those living off-grid.
  • Works well in locations without wired connections but can be affected by weather conditions.

5. Mobile Hotspots (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile)

  • Great for travelers, real estate professionals, and temporary setups.
  • Useful in remote locations where wired internet isn’t available.

Island-Specific Internet Options

Hawaii’s internet availability varies by island. Here’s what locals from each island had to say:

Oahu (Patrick Chandler’s Insight)

  • Offers the most extensive infrastructure with multiple high-speed options.
  • Spectrum and Hawaiian Telcom are the dominant providers.
  • Internet services are comparable to mainland prices and speeds.
  • Hawaiian Telcom controls the undersea fiber optic cables connecting Hawaii to the mainland, making it a preferred choice.

Maui (Chelsea Fernandez’s Perspective)

  • Spectrum is the default provider for many residents.
  • Fiber optic is growing, with Hawaiian Telcom expanding services.
  • Upgrading to fiber made a huge difference for Chelsea’s gaming-enthusiast household.

Big Island (Yoko Humphries’ Experience)

  • Rural areas face more challenges in connectivity.
  • Hawaiian Telcom’s fiber expansion is gradually improving speeds.
  • Satellite internet, like Starlink, is often the only option in very remote areas.

Choosing the Right Internet Provider in Hawaii

When deciding on an internet provider, consider these factors:

1. Availability

  • Your location will determine your options.
  • Urban areas have more choices than rural locations.

2. Speed & Performance

  • Households with gamers, remote workers, or multiple devices may need fiber optic for the best performance.

3. Reliability

  • Consider weather impacts and customer reviews on uptime.

4. Customer Service

  • Based on local insights, Hawaiian Telcom and Spectrum both offer reliable service teams.

5. Promotions & Pricing

  • New customer promotions are common. Compare packages for the best deal.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Internet Provider in Hawaii?

The best internet provider in Hawaii depends on where you live and your specific needs. If fiber optic is available, Hawaiian Telcom is often the preferred choice for high-speed and stable connectivity. Spectrum remains a solid option for cable internet users. For those in remote areas, Starlink or a mobile hotspot can be viable alternatives.

Are you moving to Hawaii and need internet recommendations? Have questions about living on the islands? Feel free to reach out—we’re here to help! Mahalo for joining us, and see you next time on Living in Hawaii! Aloha!