Internet in Big Island: speed, SIM cards and coworking

Updated October 2026Sources

307 MbpsMedian download

Is the internet good in Big Island?

Median fixed broadband in United States is 307 Mbps and mobile is 187 Mbps (Speedtest Global Index, 2026-08). Free wifi in Kona and Hilo cafés; coverage drops in rural areas and between towns.

Getting online in Big Island

	Details
Home fibre	Spectrum cable and Hawaiian Telcom fibre in Kona and Hilo; rural areas rely on satellite or fixed wireless.
Cafés and coworking	Free wifi in Kona and Hilo cafés; coverage drops in rural areas and between towns.
Outages	Storms and lava-zone events can cut power and roads.
Tourist SIM	Prepaid SIMs at carrier stores, Walmart and Target, roughly US$25–50 for 30 days; no ID usually needed. A travel eSIM is easiest.
eSIM	Local carriers sell eSIMs to visitors.
Carriers	T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T
Monthly data plan	$25–50 ($25–50)

Coworking in Big Island

There's no dedicated coworking scene here; people work from cafés and accommodation.

Internet speeds in North America

National medians, Speedtest Global Index.

Country	Fixed	Mobile
United States	307 Mbps	187 Mbps
Canada	258 Mbps	86 Mbps

Quick answers

Is the internet fast in Big Island?

Which SIM card should I get in Big Island?

Prepaid SIMs at carrier stores, Walmart and Target, roughly US$25–50 for 30 days; no ID usually needed. A travel eSIM is easiest.

Can I use an eSIM in United States?

Yes. Local carriers sell eSIMs to visitors, and travel eSIMs work too.

More about Big Island

Going to Big Island solo?

SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Big Island meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.

See plans in Big Island

Sources

Speeds are medians from Ookla's Speedtest Global Index, cited for reference. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.