Hawaii is America’s most isolated state. It’s a chain of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean that captivate visitors with stunning beauty, rich culture, and unique characteristics. From active volcanoes to pristine beaches, a diverse ecosystem, and rich Polynesian traditions, Hawaii is an astonishing blend of natural splendor and human achievement. As the newest U.S. state and the only state consisting entirely of islands, Hawaii offers an experience like no other. To understand Hawaii, we must explore its formation, cultural significance, biodiversity, and modern challenges. These colorful facts about Hawaii will give a complete picture of the Aloha State.
9 Hawaii Facts
1. The Hawaiian Islands were created by volcanic activity over a geological hotspot. (Source)
The Kilauea volcano on the Big Island is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Not only that, but the islands are moving! They shift northwest by 3 to 4 inches a year as the Pacific Plate drifts over the hotspot.
2. Hawaii is the most expensive state to retire in. (Source)
If you’re dreaming of an island retirement in Hawaii, you’ll need a minimum savings of $2.2 million. The high costs are due to the state’s high cost of living and elevated healthcare costs.
3. Hawaii is the most isolated populated archipelago in the world. (Source)
Hawaii is located 3,850 miles from the North American continent, and the nearest populated land is Tahiti. That’s a lonely location for the Hawaiian Islands.
4. Hawaii has lost more birds than any other state in the U.S. (Source)
Over 140 species of Hawaiian birds have gone extinct over the years of urbanization. 25% of all federally listed American endangered species are found in Hawaii, even though the islands comprise less than .2% of the American landmass.
5. Hawaiian is one of only two official state languages in the U.S. (Source)
English is the only other official state language, and we nearly lost the indigenous Hawaiian language, which was revived through immersion in schools and cultural programs.
6. Tourism generates $18 billion for the Hawaiian economy and supports over 200,000 jobs. (Source)
That means tourism provides one in six jobs in Hawaii. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaii welcomed over 10 million visitors a year.
7. Hawaii is the only state that grows coffee commercially. (Source)
Hawaii makes the world-renowned Kona coffee on the slopes of the Big Island’s volcanoes. Hawaii also grows 100% of America’s commercially produced cacao, vanilla, and macadamia nuts.
8. Hawaii has the highest concentration of military personnel outside the continental United States. (Source)
Over 50,000 active-duty service members are stationed across multiple Hawaiian bases. Defense is a crucial part of Hawaii’s economy.
9. Hawaii has 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones. (Source)
Despite the small area, Hawaii has a diverse range of climates from tropical rainforests to arctic-like conditions on the top of Mauna Kea, where snow can fall despite the tropical location.
Featured image photo credit: Troy Squillaci.
