Hawaii Time (HST) - Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone
The live clock above shows the current time in Honolulu, Hawaii, which operates on Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST), UTC-10. Unlike most US states, Hawaii does not observe daylight saving time (DST), so its time remains constant year-round. Major cities in the zone include Honolulu, Hilo, and Kailua. Because the mainland US shifts to DST in spring and back in fall, the time difference between Hawaii and mainland zones changes: for example, during mainland DST, Hawaii is 3 hours behind Pacific Time (normally 2 hours behind), and 6 hours behind Eastern Time (ET) (normally 5 hours behind). For a global perspective, visit TimeRight.Now.
Why Hawaii Does Not Observe Daylight Saving Time
Hawaii has not observed DST since 1945, except for a brief experiment in 1967. The state's proximity to the equator means sunrise and sunset times vary little throughout the year, making DST unnecessary. Additionally, the Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone includes only Hawaii and a small portion of the Aleutian Islands in Alaska (which do observe DST, creating a temporary split). The lack of DST means Hawaii's offset from UTC remains a constant UTC-10, simplifying scheduling for residents and businesses. For travelers, this stability is a benefit, as there is no need to adjust clocks when visiting the islands.
Time Difference to Mainland US Time Zones
The table below shows the time difference between Hawaii and major US mainland time zones during Standard Time (ST) and Daylight Saving Time (DST) on the mainland. Note that Hawaii does not change its clocks.
| Mainland Zone | During Mainland ST | During Mainland DST |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Time (ET) | HST - 5 hours | HST - 6 hours |
| Central Time (CT) | HST - 4 hours | HST - 5 hours |
| Mountain Time (MT) | HST - 3 hours | HST - 4 hours |
| Pacific Time (PT) | HST - 2 hours | HST - 3 hours |
For example, when it is noon HST in Honolulu, it is 5 pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) but 6 pm Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). Use our EST to PST Converter or PST to EST Converter for precise conversions between mainland zones.
Cities in the Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone
The Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone covers the entire state of Hawaii and a small portion of the Aleutian Islands in Alaska (west of 169.5 degrees west longitude). Major Hawaiian cities include Honolulu (on Oahu), Hilo (on the Big Island), Kailua-Kona (on the Big Island), Kahului (on Maui), and Lihue (on Kauai). The Aleutian communities, such as Adak and Atka, observe HST during standard time but switch to HDT (Hawaii-Aleutian Daylight Time, UTC-9) during DST, creating a temporary difference within the zone. For a multi-city world clock view, check CurrentTime.now.
Historical and Geographical Context
Hawaii's time zone was originally based on its solar time, which is approximately UTC-10:30. However, for convenience, the state adopted UTC-10 in 1900. The zone's name, Hawaii-Aleutian, reflects its extension into Alaska's Aleutian Islands, though the two regions rarely interact timewise due to the DST difference. The lack of DST in Hawaii means the state is one of only two US states (along with most of Arizona) that do not change clocks. This consistency makes Hawaii a popular destination for mainlanders seeking a stable time reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current time in Hawaii?
The live clock at the top of this page shows the current time in Honolulu. You can also visit Time.now for the world clock.
Does Hawaii observe daylight saving time?
No, Hawaii does not observe daylight saving time. It remains on Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, UTC-10) all year.
What is the time difference between Hawaii and New York?
During Eastern Standard Time (EST), Hawaii is 5 hours behind New York. During Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), Hawaii is 6 hours behind. Use our EST to CST Converter for similar comparisons.
Is Hawaii time the same as Alaska time?
Most of Alaska uses Alaska Time (UTC-9 during standard time), which is one hour ahead of Hawaii. However, the Aleutian Islands west of 169.5 degrees west longitude use Hawaii-Aleutian Time, so they share the same time as Hawaii during standard time but switch to HDT (UTC-9) during DST.
Why doesn't Hawaii change its clocks?
Hawaii's location near the equator means daylight hours vary little throughout the year, making DST unnecessary. The state also tried DST briefly in 1967 but discontinued it due to public opposition and lack of benefit.
How do I convert Hawaii time to my local time?
You can use our time zone converters, such as the EST to PST Converter, or visit TimeRight.Now for worldwide city times.