Do Hawaii Have Casinos?
Hawaii is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. But one thing that many people don’t realize is that Hawaii does not have any casinos.
This is because of a law that was passed in 1959, shortly after Hawaii became a state. The law prohibits the operation of casinos in the state, with the exception of a few small casinos on the island of Niihau.
So, if you’re looking for a Las Vegas-style casino experience, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But there are still plenty of other things to do in Hawaii, so you won’t be disappointed.
Why Doesn’t Hawaii Have Casinos?
There are a few reasons why Hawaii doesn’t have casinos.
- Religious reasons: Some people believe that gambling is sinful, and they don’t want it to be allowed in Hawaii.
- Cultural reasons: Gambling is not a part of Hawaiian culture, and some people believe that it would be harmful to the state’s culture if it were allowed.
- Economic reasons: Some people believe that casinos would hurt the tourism industry in Hawaii. They argue that tourists would come to Hawaii to gamble, but they would not spend as much money on other things, such as food and souvenirs.
What Are the Exceptions to the Law?
There are a few exceptions to the law that prohibits casinos in Hawaii.
- Niihau: The island of Niihau is owned by a private family, and they have a small casino on the island.
- Military bases: There are a few casinos on military bases in Hawaii, but they are only open to military personnel and their families.
- Native Hawaiian gaming: Native Hawaiians are allowed to operate certain types of gambling games, such as bingo and pull tabs.
What Are the Other Options for Gambling in Hawaii?
If you’re looking for a gambling experience in Hawaii, there are a few other options available.
- State lottery: The Hawaii State Lottery offers a variety of games, including scratch-off tickets and lottery drawings.
- Horse racing: There are two horse racing tracks in Hawaii, one on Oahu and one on Maui.
- Poker rooms: There are a few poker rooms in Hawaii, but they are not allowed to offer table games such as blackjack or roulette.
Conclusion
Hawaii is a beautiful state with a lot to offer visitors. While there are no casinos in Hawaii, there are still plenty of other things to do. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Hawaii.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Having Casinos in Hawaii?
There are a number of pros and cons to having casinos in Hawaii.
Pros:
- Casinos could generate revenue for the state: The state of Hawaii could collect taxes on casino revenue, which could be used to fund government programs or reduce taxes for residents.
- Casinos could create jobs: Casinos would create jobs for both construction workers and casino employees.
- Casinos could attract tourists: Casinos could attract tourists from other states and countries, which would boost the economy.
Cons:
- Casinos could lead to increased crime: Casinos have been linked to increased crime rates, such as theft, drug abuse, and prostitution.
- Casinos could harm the state’s culture: Some people believe that casinos would harm the state’s culture by attracting people who are interested in gambling rather than other aspects of Hawaiian culture, such as surfing, hiking, and fishing.
- Casinos could hurt the tourism industry: Some people believe that casinos would hurt the tourism industry by attracting tourists who are interested in gambling rather than other aspects of Hawaii, such as its beaches, rainforests, and volcanoes.
Conclusion
The decision of whether or not to allow casinos in Hawaii is a complex one. There are a number of factors to consider, including the potential benefits and risks. Ultimately, the decision is up to the people of Hawaii.
Thank you for your visit!
