Visiting a Licensed Medical Cannabis Dispensary on Hawaii Island

🧭Understanding how it works

After your Hawaii 329 Medical Cannabis Card is approved by the Department of Health, you can purchase your cannabis medicine at any licensed dispensary in Hawaii. Two brands operate locally: Big Island Grown and Hawaiian Ethos, with locations in Hilo, Waimea, and Kona.

🪪What to bring every visit

• Valid Hawaii 329 Medical Cannabis Card (digital or printed)
• Current government photo ID such as a Hawaii driver’s license or state ID

Keep your card and ID together. Dispensaries must verify both at each visit.

🌸First-time visit requirements

• Front desk will verify your registry status and ID.
• Present your original physical ID for first-time registration.
• After verification, your profile remains active for future visits.

🤝If you have a caregiver

• Caregiver must be listed on your DOH 329 registration.
• For first registration at a dispensary, bring the patient or the patient’s original photo ID for verification.
• After that, caregiver may purchase within DOH rules using their own current ID.

🏪At the dispensary

1. Check in and present your ID and 329 card.
2. Staff confirm your registration in the state system.
3. Review menus, ask questions, and make your purchase.
4. Purchases are tracked to remain within legal limits.

💡Helpful tips and saving money

• Bring your card and ID every visit. Both are required.
• Ask about discount days and weekly specials. Many locations offer savings for seniors, veterans, and first-time patients.
• Plan ahead. Weekends and evenings can be busier.
• Renew early to avoid a lapse in access.

⚠️Important reminders

• Carry your 329 card and ID whenever you possess medical cannabis.
• Do not consume in public places, parks, beaches, or vehicles.
• Medical cannabis cannot be mailed, shared, or transported off-island.
• Travel Reminder: Patients are not allowed to transport medical cannabis by air. It is illegal under federal law to carry cannabis on any commercial flight or through airport security, even between islands within Hawaii. Medical cannabis must remain in the state and on the island where it was purchased. Transporting it across federal airspace or waterways violates federal law.