79 Interesting and unique fun fact about Hawaii

Aloha State Chronicles: Hawaii Unveiled

79 Interesting and unique fun fact about Hawaii, Situated as the 40th most populous and the 43rd most extensive state among the United States’ 50 states, Hawaii stands as a singular entity, geographically detached from North America. It earned its statehood distinction on August 21, 1959, marking the 50th addition to the union. Notably, Hawaii maintains an exceptional status by having no land borders with any other state.

Renowned by various monikers such as the Aloha State, Pineapple State, and Rainbow State, Hawaii encompasses five counties within its bounds. The vibrant city of Honolulu proudly serves as the state’s capital, while the widely recognized abbreviation for Hawaii is HI.

Delving deeper into the fabric of Hawaii unveils a rich tapestry encompassing its intriguing history, diverse geography, vibrant populace, thriving economy, unique cultural tapestry, and the mesmerizing aspects of its volcanic landscapes and picturesque islands.

Understanding Hawaii goes beyond its surface, revealing a multifaceted gem that captivates visitors and residents alike through its intricate blend of heritage, natural wonders, and contemporary allure.

Interesting and unique fun fact about Hawaii

1. Islands Formed by Volcanoes:
Hawaii is the only U.S. state made entirely of islands. These islands were born from powerful volcanic eruptions. When hot magma cools down, it creates new land, forming the beautiful Hawaiian islands in the middle of the ocean.

2. Diversity in People:
Hawaii has a super diverse population. No single group is in the majority—everyone belongs to different backgrounds. People here come from various ethnicities, more than any other state in the U.S. This mix of cultures makes Hawaii special, with everyone living together peacefully.

3. Native Hawaiians Among Many:
Surprisingly, only about 10% of Hawaii’s population can say they are native Hawaiians. This small percentage shows how diverse the people living in Hawaii are. Native Hawaiians have a unique heritage that adds to the rich blend of cultures in the state.

4. 8 Main Islands and Beyond: Diverse Terrains in Harmony Hawaii boasts eight primary islands along with numerous smaller ones and islets. From the sprawling terrains of Niihau (180 sq km), Kauai (1,430 sq km), Oahu (1,545 sq km), Molokai (637 sq km), Lānai (364 sq km), Kahoolawe (115 sq km), Maui (1,883.5 sq km), to the expansive Island of Hawaii (10,432 sq km), all except Kahoolawe are inhabited, each contributing a unique essence to the state’s diverse landscape.

5. Below the Tropic of Cancer: Tropical Placement Situated just below the Tropic of Cancer, Hawaii enjoys a prime location within the tropical belt, contributing to its lush and vibrant climate.

6. Remarkable Coastline Length: A Coastal Wonder Hawaii boasts the fourth longest coastline among U.S. states, following the coastlines of Alaska, Florida, and California. This extensive stretch of coast adds to the state’s breathtaking natural beauty.

7. Hawai’i: Island and State Namesake The island of Hawai’i, spanning 10,432 sq km, serves as the largest landmass in the state and is the namesake of the entire Hawaiian archipelago.

8. Southernmost and Geographically Unique: Unparalleled Location As the southernmost state of the U.S., Hawaii holds a distinctive geographic position. Notably, it stands as the only state outside North America, emphasizing its unique placement within the Pacific Ocean.

9. The Concise Hawaiian Alphabet: A Lettered Rarity The Hawaiian alphabet comprises a mere 13 letters: A, E, I, O, U, H, K, L, M, N, P, W, and the ‘okina symbol (‘), established in 1864 and steadfastly used since. This concise yet distinctive alphabet contributes to the linguistic uniqueness of the Hawaiian language and culture.

10. Queen Liliuokalani and Iolani Palace: Royalty’s Modern Abode Iolani Palace, serving as the sole palace within the United States, was Queen Liliuokalani’s residence, equipped with cutting-edge amenities like electric lighting, indoor plumbing, and advanced communication systems. Ascending to power after her brother’s death on January 20, 1891, her reign was brief due to opposition from the Committee of Safety, leading to her overthrow, conviction, and subsequent sentencing.

11. Captain Cook’s Encounter: The “Sandwich Islands” In 1778, Captain James Cook made history as the first European to set foot on the Hawaiian Islands, bestowing upon them the name “Sandwich Islands” in honor of his patron, John Montague, the Earl of Sandwich. Sadly, in 1779, Cook met his demise during a confrontation with Hawaiians at Kealakekua Bay.

12. Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace: Historical Religious Haven Dating back to 1843, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace stands as the oldest operational Catholic church in Honolulu. Welcoming visitors worldwide, this cathedral remains a testament to Hawaii’s religious heritage.

13. Pioneering Flight to Hawaii: The Bird of Paradise’s Journey The inaugural flight to Hawaii occurred in 1927, facilitated by the Bird of Paradise aircraft, covering a distance exceeding 2,400 ground nautical miles. Despite the arduous 25-hour journey, the flight concluded in an unexpected manner—due to fuel shortage, the airplane crash-landed. Miraculously, the crew survived the crash, marking a significant yet challenging milestone in aviation history linked to Hawaii.

14. Mauna Kea: Earth’s Towering Volcanic Giant Not only is Mauna Kea the highest peak in Hawaii, but it also claims the title of the Earth’s tallest volcano. As one of five volcanoes comprising the Big Island, its colossal size is such that it sinks into the seafloor due to its immense weight.

15. Olo’upena Falls: Majestic Natural Wonder Hawaii boasts the world’s fourth tallest waterfall, Olo’upena, standing over 3,000 feet tall, captivating tourists with its breathtaking beauty and grandeur.

16. The Youthful Big Island: Geological Wonders Remarkably, Hawaii’s Big Island stands as one of the youngest among its island siblings, at a mere 800,000 years old. Its relatively recent formation adds to the geological marvels that define the state’s rich history.

17. Charming Quaintness of Lanai: Small Town Vibes The intimate island town of Lanai is a serene locale featuring just a single main street and no traffic lights. Its quaint simplicity offers a peaceful retreat amidst Hawaii’s vibrant energy.

18. Land Ownership and Island Dominance: The Ellison Connection An intriguing fact about Lanai is that 98% of its land is owned by Larry Ellison, the renowned figure behind Oracle. His acquisition of the majority share in 2012 for $300 million makes him a significant influence in this small island town.

19. Private and Off-the-Grid: Niihau’s Unique Lifestyle Niihau stands as Hawaii’s sole privately owned island, sheltering 170 residents. It’s an off-the-grid haven without running water or electricity, offering a unique lifestyle choice for eco-minded individuals seeking an escape from urban chaos.

20. Lanai’s Pineapple Legacy: A Fruitful Heritage Famed as the “Pineapple Island,” Lanai boasts the world’s largest pineapple plantation, contributing to its distinct charm and agricultural legacy.

21. Macadamia Mastery: Hawaii’s Nut Export Prowess Hawaii leads globally in harvesting and exporting macadamia nuts, a remarkable achievement considering the nut’s arrival in 1881, with the first crop harvested nearly four decades later in 1920.

22. Mauna Kea’s Glacial Epochs: Unparalleled Geological History Over the past 300,000 years, Mauna Kea in Hawaii has witnessed four glacial periods—a geological rarity unmatched by any other island or country. This unique phenomenon adds to Hawaii’s allure as a geological wonder.

23. Mauna Kea’s Towering Presence: A Base-to-Summit Comparison As Hawaii’s tallest mountain, Mauna Kea, when measured from its base lying in the Pacific Ocean, surpasses Mount Everest in height, showcasing its monumental grandeur and significance in the state’s landscape.

24. Birthplace of Notable Figures: Barack Obama and Bette Midler Honolulu, Hawaii, holds the distinction of being the birthplace of former President Barack Obama, the only U.S. president born outside the contiguous 48 states. Similarly, renowned actress and singer Bette Midler proudly hails from Honolulu, born on December 1st, 1945.

25. The Essence of “Aloha”: Cultural Meaning of a Simple Greeting The Hawaiian word “Aloha” extends beyond a mere greeting, carrying profound cultural and spiritual significance for native Hawaiians. It embodies themes of love, affection, and peace, reflecting the island’s ethos.

26. Duke Kahanamoku: Surfing’s Enduring Legacy Honolulu-born Duke Kahanamoku remains revered as the “Father of Modern Surfing.” His legacy as a five-time Olympic swimming medalist and ambassador of surfing continues to influence the sport. Hawaii’s stunning waves solidify the islands as a global surfing paradise, renowned for their towering and pristine surf breaks.

27. Dole Plantation’s Pineapple Garden Maze: A Botanical Marvel Nestled in Hawaii, the Dole Plantation’s Pineapple Garden Maze holds the distinction of being the world’s largest plant maze since 2008. Comprising 14,000 vibrant Hawaiian plants across 3 acres, this maze, established in 1989, remains a cherished tourist hotspot, captivating visitors with its colorful and intricate design.

28. Lahaina’s Banyan Tree: An Iconic Arboreal Marvel Among Hawaii’s billions of trees, the Lahaina Banyan Tree reigns supreme. Planted in 1873 as a modest 8-foot sapling, it has evolved into the largest of its kind in the U.S., boasting branches that span a quarter-mile, making it an iconic natural wonder within Lahaina.

29. Mauna Kea’s Stargazing Haven: Astronomical Marvels For passionate stargazers, Mauna Kea offers an unparalleled celestial experience. With 13 telescopes operated by astronomers from 11 countries, this site boasts an impressive combined light-gathering capability, exceeding sixty times that of the renowned Hubble Space Telescope. The collaborative efforts of these telescopes make Mauna Kea a premier destination for astronomical research and exploration.

30. Hawaiian Monk Seal: Emblem of the State’s Wildlife The Hawaiian Monk Seal, recognized for the distinctive fold of skin encircling its neck, reminiscent of a monk’s hood, earned the prestigious title of the state mammal in 2008, symbolizing Hawaii’s diverse and unique wildlife.

31. Native Bird Extinction: A Sobering Reality While Hawaii draws various bird species, a somber statistic reveals a harsh reality: over 70% of the island’s original native bird species have tragically become extinct, emphasizing the critical need for conservation efforts to protect the remaining avian population.

32. Maui’s Rare Sea Turtles: A Haven for Diversity Within the waters surrounding Maui, five out of the seven rare sea turtle species find sanctuary. These species—Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, Leatherback, and Green turtles—contribute to the rich marine biodiversity of Hawaii’s seas.

33. Ban on Billboards: Environmental Consciousness Hawaii holds the distinction of being among the states—alongside Alaska, Vermont, and Maine—to have prohibited billboards since 1927. This forward-thinking legislation aimed at preserving the island’s natural beauty reflects Hawaii’s commitment to environmental preservation.

34. Daylight Saving Time Exemption: Hawaii and Arizona As one of the two states in the U.S. exempt from observing daylight saving time (DST), Hawaii remains consistent in its timekeeping, aligning with Arizona’s similar exemption, with the exception of the Navajo Nation, which follows DST on tribal lands.

35. Shark Encounters in Hawaiian Waters: A Dichotomy of Surfers’ Paradise and Perils While Hawaii houses some of the world’s premier surfing spots, it’s also been a site for notable shark attacks. Between 2011 and 2020, a survey recorded at least 73 shark encounters in Hawaii’s waters, notably concentrated around Maui, a stark reminder of the coexistence of thrill and risk in the ocean.

36. Bethany Hamilton: Triumph Amidst Adversity At the age of 13, Bethany Hamilton lost her left arm in a shark attack. Remarkably, within two years of this life-altering incident, she defied the odds, becoming a triumphant professional surfer. Her maiden national surf title victory on June 26, 2005, stands as a testament to her resilience and determination.

37. Oahu’s North Shore: Surfing’s Magnificent Realm Renowned for its surfing prominence, Oahu’s North Shore stretches over 7 miles, hosting waves towering at least 30 feet high, attracting surfers seeking thrilling challenges amid picturesque coastal landscapes.

38. SUP Innovation: John Ah Choy’s Contribution to Stand-Up Paddleboarding In the 1940s, Hawaiian surfer John Ah Choy is credited with pioneering the modern concept of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), revolutionizing water sports with this innovative approach in Hawaii.

39. Kalaupapa’s Tragic History: The Leper Colony Once a site of a leper colony on the island of Hawaii, Kalaupapa witnessed the exile of sufferers to this remote area in the 1960s. Founded due to fears of an unknown disease spreading, this chapter in Hawaiian history reflects the societal response to the affliction.

40. Mount Waialeale: The Rainiest Realm Located on Kauai, Mount Waialeale is among the wettest places globally and holds the title for the rainiest spot in the U.S. Annual rainfall estimates from NOAA-NCDC indicate a staggering 460 inches (11,684 millimeters) of rainfall, creating a lush and verdant environment.

41. Hawaii’s Rain Patterns: Unexpected Downpours Despite its warm climate, Hawaii experiences significant rainfall from October to April, with an average of 25 to 30 inches during these “winter months.”

42. Perfect Weather Year-Round: Hawaii’s Climate Charm Hawaii boasts some of the finest weather globally, maintaining temperatures between 67 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year, contributing to its allure as an ideal vacation destination.

43. Historical Heat Record: Pahala’s Blazing Peak Pahala, situated in the southern part of the state, holds the record for Hawaii’s highest temperature ever recorded, reaching a scorching 100 degrees Fahrenheit on April 27, 1931.

44. Polynesian Legacy: Hawaii’s Royal History The Hawaiian Islands were initially settled by Polynesians, establishing a rich cultural heritage. Hawaii stands as the only U.S. state with a royal palace, where Polynesian kings and a queen reigned for nearly a century.

45. Hawaii’s Kingdom Era: The Reign of Kamehameha Before becoming a state, Hawaii existed as a kingdom ruled by King Kamehameha, marking a significant chapter in the state’s history and its path toward statehood.

46. Mauna Kea Observatory: Home to the World’s Largest Telescope Nestled atop Mauna Kea, the observatory boasts the world’s largest telescope, situated at a breathtaking elevation of 13,700 feet, offering astronomers an unparalleled view of the cosmos from this elevated vantage point.

47. Language and Cultural Significance: Hawaii’s Unique Linguistic Status Hawaii stands as the sole U.S. state with an official native/second language, highlighting its rich cultural tapestry. Interestingly, the United States, as a whole, lacks an official language.

48. Mineral-Free Landscape: Hawaii’s Geological Quirk Notably, Hawaii lacks significant mineral deposits, setting it apart from many other regions globally, yet the state remains rich in cultural and natural treasures.

49. Historic Infamy: Pearl Harbor’s Momentous Role Pearl Harbor Naval Base, situated on Oahu Island, gained worldwide attention following Japan’s attack on December 7, 1941, a pivotal event that propelled the United States into World War II.

50. Exceptional Pool Offerings: Noteworthy Resort Amenities The Marriott Kauai Beach Club boasts the title of having Hawaii’s largest outdoor pool, an expansive 26,000 square feet, providing guests with an opulent aquatic experience.

51. Distinctive Features of Hawaiian Attractions: Orchid Mosaic and Black Sand Beaches Honolulu’s Halekulani Hotel showcases the Orchid Pool, adorned with a stunning mosaic of an orchid composed of 1.25 million individual glass tiles, attracting visitors seeking unique experiences. Waianapanapa Beach’s allure lies in its beautiful black sand, drawing global tourists to witness this natural wonder.

52. Cultural Gems and Cost of Living: Tips and Health Care Recognition Black coral was designated as Hawaii’s state gem in 1987. While Hawaii is a desirable tourist destination, its high cost of living poses challenges for residents, prompting a culture of tipping between 15 to 20% at eateries and bars. Additionally, the state stands out for offering the best health care in the U.S. according to US News.

53. Filmography and Animated Inspiration: Hawaii’s Cinematic Influence Kauai’s lush tropical rainforest has provided the backdrop for over 60 movies, including iconic films like Jurassic Park, The Descendants, and Raiders of the Lost Ark. The animated movie Lilo & Stitch, set in Kauai and released in 2002, drew inspiration from the real-life town of Hanapepe, marking a cinematic milestone.

54. Coconut Mail: A Fun yet Surprisingly Feasible Gesture Surprise a friend with a whimsical and unconventional gift—mailing a coconut! Remarkably, for a nominal fee ranging from $12 to $20, you can send a coconut virtually anywhere within the United States, adding an element of fun and surprise to your gesture.

55. Haleakala Volcano’s Impact on Hawaii’s Landscape The colossal Haleakala volcano holds the distinction of being the largest dormant volcano, shaping at least 75% of the island of Hawaii. Its last eruption occurred over 200 years ago, contributing to the classification of only three volcanoes as “active” presently.

56. Strict Speed Limits: Consequences of Violating Highway Speeds Hawaii’s freeways enforce a speed limit ranging between 50 to 60 mph. Disregarding this limit can lead to fines ranging from $200 to $1,000, a 30-day driver’s license suspension, 36 hours of community service, or a jail sentence spanning two to five days—making adherence to speed limits imperative.

57. Environmental Consciousness: Plastic Bag Ban Demonstrating eco-consciousness, Hawaii implemented a ban on plastic bags in 2011. Possession of a plastic bag on the island incurs fines ranging between $100 and $1,000, reflecting the state’s commitment to reducing plastic pollution and fostering sustainability.

58. Low Crime Rate: A Noteworthy Safety Statistic Hawaii boasts a relatively low crime rate, reporting figures as low as 251 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2017. This statistic underscores the state’s reputation for safety and contributes to its allure as a secure and inviting destination.

59. Landmass Growth: Volcanic Activity and Expansion Hawaii distinguishes itself as the sole state in constant expansion, owing to volcanic eruptions that create new landmass. With the most active volcano globally, Kilauea, spewing lava that cools and forms new land when it meets water, the state gains approximately 42 acres yearly, showcasing the dynamic nature of its landscape.

60. Papakolea Green Sand Beach: Rare Olivine Crystals Attraction The allure of Papakolea Green Sand Beach lies in its volcanic olivine crystals, a rarity found on only four beaches worldwide. This uniqueness draws tourists annually, making it a sought-after destination for those eager to witness this geological marvel firsthand.

61. Diverse Climate Zones: Varied Environmental Landscapes Hawaii boasts a remarkable diversity of climates, housing 10 out of the world’s 14 climate zones categorized by the Koppen Climate Classification System of 1884. This variety contributes to the state’s rich environmental tapestry, offering an array of landscapes and weather conditions.

62. Tourism Statistics: Island Visitation Trends Oahu stands out as the most frequented Hawaiian island, welcoming nearly 4.7 million visitors annually, while Hawaii, commonly known as The Big Island, claims the third spot in terms of island visitation, highlighting the popularity of these captivating destinations.

63. Legal Restrictions: No Gambling and Pet Snake Ownership Hawaii, alongside Utah, maintains a complete prohibition on gambling, encompassing lotteries, sports betting, and even bingo—a measure implemented upon its statehood in 1959 to safeguard its family-centric environment. Additionally, owning a pet snake in Hawaii is illegal, carrying severe penalties of up to a three-year prison term or fines surpassing $200,000, reinforcing the stringent legal measures in place.

64. Telecommunications Evolution: Inception of Telephone Services In 1931, Hawaii marked a milestone by establishing its inaugural telephone service, signifying the state’s early embrace of modern communication technology.

65. Apollo 15 Astronaut Training: Lunar Mission Preparations The Big Island of Hawaii hosted specialized astronaut training in December 1970, involving Apollo 15 commander Dave Scott and lunar module pilot Jim Irwin. This unique training session contributed to their preparations for the Apollo 15 lunar mission.

66. Vog and Hawaiian Skies: Natural Phenomenon and Volcanic Emissions Hawaii maintains a smog-free environment owing to clean air and limited industrial activity. However, the region experiences vog—a blend of volcanic gases and fog—emanating from the semi-active Kilauea volcano, which erupted in 1983. These volcanic emissions create stunning sunsets and moonrises, adding to the island’s natural beauty.

67. Cultural Heritage: Birthplace of the Hula Dance Hawaii takes pride in being the birthplace of the hula dance—an art form that utilizes hand gestures to narrate stories and pay homage to deities and nature, representing an integral aspect of Hawaiian cultural heritage.

68. Drowning Concerns in Hawaii: Visitor Safety Emphasized Drowning remains a prevalent cause of death in Hawaii, with an average of over 40 reported cases annually. Alarmingly, 55% of these incidents involve visitors. To enhance safety, Hawaiian national lifeguards stress the importance of swimming solely in designated areas.

69. Hawaiian Hoary Bat: A Singular Native Land Mammal Remarkably, the Hawaiian Hoary Bat stands as the sole native land mammal in Hawaii, holding a unique place in the state’s ecosystem and representing an exclusive facet of its wildlife diversity.

70. Kona Coffee: Exclusive Commercial Growth Hawaii stands as the sole state in the U.S. where commercial coffee cultivation thrives. Renowned globally, Kona coffee, cultivated on the Big Island, is hailed as the pinnacle of the state’s coffee production, celebrated for its exceptional quality and flavor profile.

71. Wind Power Surge: Sustainable Energy Growth A noteworthy achievement in Hawaii’s energy landscape is the substantial growth in wind power production. In 2021, an impressive 20% of the state’s total energy output stemmed from wind power, a significant increase from a mere 8% in 2008, showcasing the state’s commitment to sustainable energy sources.

72. Geographical Width and Isolation: Alaska’s Follow-up and Global Isolation Second in width after Alaska, Hawaii spans a considerable distance from east to west. Additionally, its geographic isolation earns it the distinction of being the most isolated population center globally, situated approximately 2,390 miles from the South and nearly 4,000 miles from Japan.

73. Hawaiian Standard Time: Time Zone Independence Due to its considerable distance from other landmasses, Hawaii observes its unique time zone, known as Hawaiian Standard Time. Generally trailing 2 to 3 hours behind Pacific Standard Time and a substantial 5 to 6 hours behind Eastern Standard Time, Hawaii exhibits varying time differences based on daylight savings, creating distinct time differentials across the United States. For instance, during Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), Hawaii lags 3 hours behind western states like California, Oregon, Washington, and Nevada.

74. Kauai’s Unique Building Code: Limiting Heights for Natural Beauty In a bid to preserve Kauai’s natural splendor, there exists a rather peculiar rule prohibiting structures taller than a palm tree, maintaining the island’s aesthetic harmony with nature.

75. Alaska vs. Hawaii: A Comparison of Vastness Surprisingly, you could fit Hawaii into Alaska a staggering 60 times, emphasizing the vast difference in the size of these two U.S. states despite their inclusion in the same country.

76. Tourism’s Economic Influence: Hawaii’s Financial Backbone Hawaii’s economy heavily relies on tourism, serving as a pivotal pillar by supporting over 192,000 jobs and contributing a substantial $1.8 billion in tax revenues to the state in 2016. In 2022, a staggering 9.2 million visitors flocked to the island state, significantly boosting its economy with billions of dollars.

77. The Hana Highway’s Serpentine Route: An Adventurous Journey Maui’s famed Hana Highway, spanning 60 miles, is a coveted tourist destination featuring 59 bridges and approximately 600 hairpin bends, offering an exhilarating and picturesque drive.

78. Celebrations of Legacy: King Kamehameha Day and Statehood Commemoration June 11th is commemorated as King Kamehameha Day in Hawaii, a time when locals honor the legacy of the state’s first king. Additionally, the third Friday in August, known as “Admission Day,” celebrates Hawaii’s statehood attained in 1959.

79. Pioneering Congressional Representation: Daniel Inouye’s Legacy In 1959, Daniel Inouye made history as the first Japanese American elected to Congress, contributing significantly to American politics. A war hero from WWII, Inouye’s service and achievement hold a significant place in Hawaiian and American history.

Flag of Hawaii

Design and Symbolism

The flag features eight horizontal stripes alternating white, red, and blue, representing the main islands. The Union Jack in the corner denotes historical ties to the UK.

Adoption

Hawaii adopted the flag on December 29, 1845, with the last modification made in 1898.

Technical Details

The flag’s width is half its length; stripes are equal in thickness—white, red, blue—repeated. The Union Jack uses a 4:7 ratio instead of 1:2.

History

In 1778, Captain George Vancouver presented a Red Ensign to Hawaii. In 1816, Captain Alexander Adams’ flag, with eight stripes and the British flag, became the Hawaiian flag. Adams sailed to China under this flag during the War of 1812.

Other Flags

The governor’s flag had stars and letters “TH” before statehood, replaced with “HAWAII.” Early versions had different stripes and included a red band. The Union Flag briefly flew over Hawaii during British occupation in 1843.

Flag Facts

Hawaii celebrates Flag Day on July 31, coinciding with Sovereignty Restoration Day. An inverted flag signals distress or supports the Hawaii sovereignty movement.

Hawaii: Quick Facts and State Symbols

State Rank by Date of Formation	50th
State Musical Instrument (traditional)	Pahu
Longitude	154° 48′ W to 178° 22′ W
State Size	Total (Land + Water): 10,931 sq miles; Land Only: 6,423 sq miles
State Island Flower	Hawai’i ‘Ohi’a Lehua
State Rank by Area	43rd
State Nickname	Aloha State
State Island Lei Material: Ni’hau	Pupu Shells
State Mammal	Hawaiian Monk Seal
Mean Elevation	3,030 feet above sea level
State Gem	Ēkaha kū moana
State Land Mammal	Hawaiian Hoary Bat
Highest Point	Mauna Kea: 13,796 ft (4205.0 m)
State Insect	Pulelehua
State Fish	Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa
State Abbreviation	HI
State Rank by Population	40th
State Motto	Ua mau ke ea o ka aina i ka pono (The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness)
State Capital	Honolulu
Statehood	August 21, 1959
State Plant	Kalo
State Tree	Kukui
State Bird	Nene
U.S. President Born in Hawaii	Barack Hussein Obama II
Time Zone	Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone
State Size	Length: 1,522 miles (2,450 km), Width: 93 miles
State Gem	Ēkaha kū moana
Famous People	Jason Momoa (Actor), Bruno Mars (Singer)
Population	1,440,196 (Estimate July 1, 2022 from United States Census Bureau)
State Marine Mammal	Humpback Whale
State Rank by Date of Formation	50th
Governor	Josh Green (D)
State Flower	Hawai’i ‘Ohi’a Lehua
State Language	English, Hawaiian
Website	www.hawaii.gov
Area Codes	808
Electoral Votes	4
Nobel Prize Winners	Barack H. Obama (Peace, 2009)
Lowest Point	Pacific Ocean, Sea level
Demonym	Hawaiian
Bordering States	None
% Water	41.2
Latitude	18° 55′ N to 28° 27′ N
Table Last Updated	November 16, 2023

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