Whether you actually live in the area or are just visiting, you will find that most Hawaii news channels are either affiliates of the major networks, or broadcast by local cable access cable companies. If you are staying in a hotel, the choices for viewing will vary from island to island. As well, it will vary depending on if your hotel subscribes to satellite or cable. Both services are available on all islands. If you live in the area, then most choices that are available on the mainland are available in Hawaii. National news, including all of the major networks, and cable channels like CNN and the Weather channel are also available. Your hotel room should have a channel guide near the television set.

Hawaii news channels are important to watch everyday if you are on vacation. Since most of the activities are outdoors, it important to look at the local forecast to see if it predicts that there will be inclement weather. Check any policies from tour operators before you make payment for their services. They all have different restrictions on rain checks and refunds. Some tour groups and outdoor performances will go on as scheduled and require that you show up in person to get a rain check. Others will deliver their service regardless of weather with no refunds. For example, a Kayaking company may say, "We go rain or shine. You'll get wet any way, so there are no refunds." Other vendors may allow a cancellation 24 hours ahead of time if there is a particularly severe storm coming in.

Hawaii news channels can also help you get more acquainted with the area. They all have local segments that highlight festivals and events that you might not be aware of. As well, they report any traffic hold ups, closed roads, closed beaches, rip tides, and airport delays. If the worst should happen; they also report on hurricanes and typhoons and even have lava advisories. In case of emergency evacuation, they also report on what precautionary steps you should take. Hawaii news channels will tell you what areas will be hit hardest, who needs to evacuate and where they need to go.

Hawaii news channels also include cable access news and a variety of other programs that discuss issues that pertain to Hawaii. If you are interested in the local culture or politics, these shows will give you a local on perspective of what living on the islands is like.