Hey there! Thinking about marijuana in Hawaii? Here’s what you need to know
Aloha! Whether you’re a local wondering about the latest laws or a visitor hoping to enjoy your stay responsibly, I’ve got you covered. It surprises most. Locals and Tourists to know that weed isn’t actually legal in Hawaii. If you’re near a place that people gather, you’d think it’s 100% legal. It’s literally in the air. But, it’s not that simple. Hawaii’s marijuana laws can be a bit tricky, —I’ll break it down in a way that makes sense. Here’s what you’ll learn in this guide:
- Is marijuana legal in Hawaii?
- Who qualifies for medical marijuana and how to get a 329 Card
- Can a tourist get a temporary 329 Card?
- Where to buy legal weed and what the process looks like
- What happens if you get caught with marijuana
- The future of recreational legalization in Hawaii
- How Hawaii’s marijuana laws compare to other states
- Tips for safely and legally using marijuana while in Hawaii
Let’s get into it!
Is Marijuana Legal in Hawaii?
As of 2025, medical marijuana is legal, but recreational use is not—at least, not yet. That means unless you have a valid medical marijuana card, you technically can’t walk into a dispensary and buy cannabis. But there’s been movement towards full legalization, so stay tuned!
Who Can Get Medical Marijuana in Hawaii?
If you have a “debilitating medical condition”, as defined by the State of Hawaii Department of Health, you might qualify. Here are some of the most common conditions:
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Chronic pain, severe nausea, or seizures (including epilepsy)
- Severe and persistent muscle spasms (like with multiple sclerosis or Crohn’s disease)
How Do You Get a 329 Card?
Getting medical marijuana legally in Hawaii means going through the proper channels. Here’s the process:
- Find a certified doctor or APRN who can confirm your condition.
- Make sure they have an account on the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) registration system.
- Register online at login.ehawaii.gov and medmj.ehawaii.gov.
- Submit your application and pay the required fee (check the DOH website for the latest amount).
- Wait for the state to approve it and send you your 329 Card.
- Renew every 12 months—plan ahead so you don’t have any gaps in access.
Where Can You Buy Medical Marijuana in Hawaii?
With your 329 Card, you can purchase marijuana from state-licensed dispensaries. Here’s what the process looks like:
- Show your 329 Card and valid ID at the dispensary entrance.
- Choose from legally approved products (no gummies, but lozenges are fine!).
- Complete your order—it’s electronically tracked.
- Pay and pick up your products at the designated counter.
- Exit through the designated area (yeah, they’re strict about this!).
What About Recreational Use?
How Can a Tourist Get a Temporary 329 Card?
If you’re visiting Hawaii and have a medical marijuana card from another state, you’re in luck! You can apply for a temporary 329 Card, which allows you to buy from licensed dispensaries. Here’s how:
- Check eligibility – Your home state must have a medical marijuana program that Hawaii recognizes.
- Apply online – Go to medmj.ehawaii.gov and complete the application.
- Provide necessary documents – You’ll need to upload a copy of your medical marijuana card and a valid government-issued ID.
- Pay the fee – There’s a non-refundable application fee (check the DOH website for current costs).
- Wait for approval – Processing usually takes a few days, so apply before your trip.
- Download your temporary card – Once approved, you’ll receive a digital version of your temporary 329 Card that you can use at dispensaries.
Your temporary card is valid for 60 days, but you can reapply if your stay is longer.
5. What About Recreational Use?
Good question! Hawaii decriminalized small amounts of marijuana in 2019, which means if you’re caught with less than 3 grams, you won’t go to jail—it’s just a civil violation with a small fine. But larger amounts, selling, or growing without a license? That’s still illegal and could get you into serious trouble. What’s 3 grams look like? Well, are you Snoop Dog, or a normal person? Because it’s basically 3 regular joints. I know, very subjective, but you know what I mean.
Will Hawaii Legalize Recreational Marijuana?
There’s a lot of talk about it, and many people support legalization for its economic benefits and as a safer alternative to alcohol. While nothing has passed yet, new bills keep popping up, and the conversation is heating up. If full legalization happens, expect a regulated dispensary system and possible tax revenue boosts for the state.
How Do Hawaii’s Marijuana Laws Compare to Other States?
Hawaii has some of the strictest marijuana laws compared to other states that have fully legalized recreational cannabis. Unlike states like California, Colorado, and Oregon, where anyone 21 and over can buy marijuana legally, Hawaii still requires medical approval. The decriminalization here is also more limited—only up to 3 grams, compared to an ounce (28 grams) in some other states.
Tips for Using Marijuana Legally and Safely in Hawaii
- Stick to private property: Public use is illegal, so keep it inside your home or a private residence.
- Don’t drive under the influence: DUI laws apply to marijuana just like alcohol.
- Know the limits: Even if you have a medical card, there are possession and purchase limits.
- Respect the islands: Hawaii has a deep cultural and legal framework regarding substance use—always be mindful of local customs and regulations.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a medical marijuana patient, Hawaii has a great system in place. If you’re hoping for recreational legalization, we’re not there yet—but change could be coming. Until then, it’s best to stay informed and follow the law.
FAQs
1. Can tourists buy medical marijuana in Hawaii?
Yes! If you have a valid medical marijuana card from another state, you can apply for a temporary Hawaii 329 Card and buy from licensed dispensaries.
2. Can I grow my own marijuana in Hawaii?
Yes—but only if you’re a registered medical marijuana patient. The state limits how many plants you can grow and where you can grow them.
3. Can I use marijuana in public?
Nope. Using marijuana in public places is illegal. Keep it private and within legal limits.
4. What happens if I get caught with weed without a 329 Card?
If it’s under 3 grams, it’s just a fine. More than that? You could be facing criminal charges.
5. Is full marijuana legalization coming to Hawaii?
Maybe! Lawmakers are still debating it, but many residents and business owners are pushing for legalization. Stay tuned!
What were the control groups score? You know, the group given the placebo. This was a study, right?
What a great video! I’m a chronic chronic user (ha-ha), and I applaud law enforcement and the public for testing the abilities of stoned drivers. I wouldn’t want the relatively benign perception of pot and pot smokers tarnished by someone hitting/killing someone while on the road when under the influence, and will abide by traffic laws limiting driving while high (once those laws have been established, using scientific studies like this). Personally I don’t find any diminished ability with myself when driving, but my perception might be altered ;).
I’m taking CBD oil for epilepsy and have a California medical card. Can I bring my CBD oil to visit Hawaii, big island, without trouble?
Got news for you . The edibles are not there to appeal to children , It’s for those who don’t want to smoke, for a million different reasons, like you know LUNGS and all , and for me the kinds I need sometimes burn my throat . Obviously I DO smoke now and then but, I quit smoking cigs years ago and I have had pneumonia 4 times since I was very young . Edibles are a lifesaver . I am in Seattle tho .
If you have marijuana license and don’t like to smoke because u have asthma, can i obtain cbd oil for chronic pain?
I wouldn’t mind the fact that marijuana is legal except that now it’s affecting where I live & my kids. I have 3 small children one of whom is a 4 month old. The down stairs nieghbors smoke every night. They have a medical certificate and all. It just worries me because it permeates our condo even with AC on in bedroom and windows closed. I feel a light buzz & I’m wondering the effects on my newborn. It would be a better situation if they were taking a pill or eating it that way it wouldn’t affect others. It’s got a ton of harmful chemicals just like cigarettes. What rights do I have as a mom to protect my kids from the smoke? Just wondering…
You raise valid concerns and I’m sure you’re not the first.
“It’s got a ton of harmful chemicals just like cigarettes” said no scientist, research, or study ever. I do empathize your pain, since I am not a fan of any kind of smoke at all (other than the BBQ), but cannabis doesn’t contain the “harmful chemicals” found in tobacco cigarettes, FYI.
It doesn’t have any harmful chemicals it’s all natural your babies will be fine and also you can’t get a buzz from smelling it or second hand smoke you need to do more research and stop letting people lie to you
Second-hand marijuana smoke: http://www.livescience.com/55587-marijuana-smoke-affects-blood-vessels.html
If a doctor recommends marijuana, and you register with the state, grow your own marijuana, or have a caregiver grow it for you, limit your plants to 7, and tag each plant with your “329 card” number and expiration, then you are protected from prosecution.
It is NOT legal to buy or sell any form of marijuana in Hawai’i until the dispensaries open, no earlier than July 15, 2016. Most caregivers will need to stop growing medicine on December 31, 2018.
The Hawai’i Department of Health will be responsible for establishing a “reciprocity” system whereby people with valid registrations from other states may Register with the State of Hawaii, and use dispensaries in Hawai’i, beginning January 1, 2018.
We have to restrict and create supply and demand on the black market on certain countries due to the influx of revenue which stems from the criminal underworld 26% of major countries annual income and expenditure is based on or toward the drug trade. we know not what we know just what see
I am headed to Kauai any of those guys with bud on that island. On the road holding up bud? I have my CA card but understand I cannot buy there.
I use medical marijuana for severe back pain after a failed spinal fusion. No other medicinal products help me.
I find it disheartening that I am unable to purchase medical marijuana when in Maui even though I have a card from Canada. Medical marijuana tailored to my pain is the drug of choice. Maybe in another ten years the medical community will figure this out. A reply would be appreciated.
Hi Mike,
Man, there is so much pot on the island, I would just do like everyone else and smoke it. You know? I mean, sure it would be nice to have your joints legal and all, but that time is coming. Maybe not 2016, but soon. Drive over to the west side of the island in the morning around 9-10 am. There will be guys holding 2 foot long budz beside your car window. I’d recommend that. Aloha!
West side of Which island? Oahu ? Thinking of moving to islands..former pot smoker .but not in last 25 yrs. I need relief for headache pain perhaps but prefer to ingest now that I’m older..perhaps as hash oil…do I go west side Oahu ?
As of right now there are no legal dispensaries in operation though this will probably change before the end of the year.
Do NOT go to the west side of Oahu looking for Cannabis, especially, if you are not from the area.
Yeah, agreed. I was talking about Maui.
If you put a bunch of people drinking alcohol in a room together s nd pit a binch of people smoking pot in another room….more than likely the people with the slcohol will get rowdy, unruly and start fighting…the people smoking pot will all be laughing, joking around snd become friends!!!! What’s the problem? IF you don’t lije it….DON’T smoke…IF you don’t want your kids yo smoke it….RAISE them that way but…..WE should have the legal right to enjoy our pleasure!!!!
People who drink alcohol or take prescription drugs are out on the road playing bumper cars and killing people….MOST pot smokers are at home enjoying their high and being mellow
Here on vaca from Wash….and Col. Looking for smoke….
Pot should most definitely be legalized everywhere. People who drink alcohol can come home from eork and enjoy a cold beer/mixed drink…we pot smokers should be allowed to come home and enjoy a joint/bowl. It’s “discrimination for sure!!!