Motto:Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono (“The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness”)
Abbreviation: HI
Population: ~1.4 million (2023 estimate)
Area: 10,931 sq mi (28,311 km²) — The only state made up entirely of islands
Flag of Hawaii
Geography
Location: Hawaii is located in the central Pacific Ocean, approximately 2,400 miles southwest of the U.S. mainland. It is an isolated archipelago consisting of 137 islands, with eight major islands that are inhabited.
Major Islands:
Oahu: The third-largest island and home to the state capital, Honolulu.
Maui: Known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and the scenic Hana Highway.
Hawaii (The Big Island): The largest island, home to active volcanoes like Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
Kauai: Often called the “Garden Isle” for its lush rainforests and dramatic cliffs.
Climate: Hawaii has a tropical climate with consistent temperatures year-round. The coastal areas tend to be warm and pleasant, while the interior mountains can be cooler. Hawaii also experiences seasonal rain, especially in certain regions like the northeastern part of the islands.
Economy
GDP (2023): ~$96 billion
Major Industries:
Tourism: Tourism is Hawaii’s largest industry, with millions visiting each year to experience the islands’ natural beauty, beaches, and unique cultural experiences.
Agriculture: Hawaii is known for growing tropical fruits like pineapples, papayas, and coconuts, as well as coffee (especially from Kona).
Military: The U.S. military maintains a significant presence in Hawaii, making it a key component of both the local and national economy.
Technology and Research: Hawaii also hosts research institutions and emerging tech industries, particularly in oceanography and renewable energy.
Key Exports: Coffee, macadamia nuts, pineapples, sugar, and seafood.
Demographics
Diversity: Hawaii is the most ethnically diverse state in the U.S., with a unique blend of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Caucasian populations.
Ethnic Breakdown:
Asian: 38%
White: 25%
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 10%
Hispanic/Latino: 9%
Mixed Race: 17%
Languages: English is the official language, but Hawaiian Pidgin (a creole language) is widely spoken in informal settings. Hawaiian, an official language, is taught in schools and is used in some government proceedings.
Religions: The majority of Hawaii’s residents identify as Christian, with large communities of Buddhists, Mormons, and non-religious people as well.
History
Ancient Hawaii: The islands were first settled by Polynesians around 1,500 years ago. They developed a unique culture with traditions of fishing, farming, and navigation.
European Contact: The first Europeans to reach Hawaii were the British under Captain James Cook, who arrived in 1778. Cook was killed in Hawaii in 1779.
Kingdom of Hawaii: Hawaii became a sovereign kingdom in 1810 under King Kamehameha I, who unified the islands. The kingdom flourished in the 19th century through agriculture and trade.
Annexation and Statehood: Hawaii was annexed by the U.S. in 1898 after the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. It was granted statehood in 1959, becoming the 50th state.
World War II: Hawaii played a central role in the Pacific theater during World War II, with the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, bringing the U.S. into the war.
Culture and Landmarks
Aloha Spirit: Hawaii is known for its “Aloha Spirit,” a philosophy of kindness, hospitality, and mutual respect that guides interactions between residents and visitors.
Hula and Hawaiian Music: Hula dancing and traditional Hawaiian music (including slack-key guitar and ukulele) are important cultural expressions. The hula originated as a religious and storytelling tradition.
Volcanoes National Park: Located on the Big Island, this national park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. It offers visitors a chance to witness volcanic activity and explore unique landscapes.
Pearl Harbor: The site of the 1941 Japanese attack, which led the U.S. to enter WWII, is home to the USS Arizona Memorial and other military memorials. It remains a powerful symbol of U.S. history.
Waimea Canyon: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this stunning canyon on Kauai is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Haleakalā National Park: On Maui, Haleakalā features a dormant volcano and one of the most spectacular sunrise views in the world.
Famous People from Hawaii
Barack Obama: The 44th President of the United States was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and spent much of his childhood there.
Bette Midler: The singer, actress, and comedian was born in Honolulu and went on to become an international entertainment icon.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: The famous actor and former professional wrestler was born in Hayward, California, but was raised in Hawaii and identifies with its culture.
Bruddah Iz (Israel Kamakawiwoʻole): The late musician and cultural icon from Hawaii, known for his rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” which has become an international hit.
Fun Facts
The Only Island State: Hawaii is the only U.S. state composed entirely of islands and is geographically isolated from the mainland.
Unique Flora and Fauna: Hawaii is home to many species of plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. It also has one of the highest rates of endemic species (those found only in Hawaii).
Surfer’s Paradise: Hawaii is considered the birthplace of modern surfing. The sport has deep cultural roots in Hawaii and is still a major part of the state’s identity.
Hawaiian Time: Due to its laid-back culture, people often joke about “Hawaiian time,” a more relaxed and flexible approach to time than what you might find in other parts of the U.S.
The Aloha Spirit: The idea of “Aloha” is more than just a greeting—it’s a concept that represents a way of living with love, kindness, and respect for all people.
State Symbols
State Bird: Hawaiian “Hoary” Bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus)
State Flower: Yellow Hibiscus
State Tree: Coconut Palm
State Fish: Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa (Reef triggerfish)
State Song:Hawaiʻi Aloha
Outdoor Activities
Beaches: Hawaii is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including Waikīkī Beach on Oahu, and Hanauma Bay on Oahu, known for snorkeling.
Volcano Watching: Hawaii’s active volcanoes offer a rare opportunity to watch the birth of new land.
Hiking: From the challenging Kalalau Trail on Kauai to the scenic Diamond Head Trail in Honolulu, hiking in Hawaii offers something for all levels.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Hawaii’s clear waters and rich marine life make it one of the best places in the world for underwater activities.
Education
University of Hawaii: The University of Hawaii at Manoa is the state’s flagship university and offers a wide range of programs in areas such as oceanography, astronomy, and indigenous studies.
Hawaii Pacific University: A private university located in Honolulu, HPU offers programs in liberal arts, business, and health sciences.
