Hawaiian Islands - Hawaii Information and Facts

Hawaii, admitted to the Union on August 21, 1959 after 60 years as a US territory, is the southernmost state in the Union. The Hawaiian Islands consist of a series of volcanic islands located in the Pacific Ocean. While there are hundreds of islands in the chain making up the state of Hawaii, the eight largest islands, in the southeast end of the chain, are the most populated and are the most well known.

Hawaii is unique in the United States in several ways. Hawaii is the only state completely surrounded by water. There are no straight lines in its borders. The only state that is not geographically located in North America, Hawaii is known as the only state in the Union that grows coffee. Hawaii also has more endangered species than any other state.

The climate of the island chain known as Hawaii is considered tropical, with normal high temperatures near 80 degrees year round, and relatively low humidity for a tropical climate. The State of Hawaii is generally considered to have only two seasons. Summer begins in May and ends in October. Winter runs from October to May. Even in the winter months, low temperatures rarely fall below 60 degrees. The trade winds blowing from the east contribute to the mild temperatures and humidity levels. The mild temperatures year round contribute to the large number of tourists visiting the island chain.

Hawaii is one of only four states in the Union that were independent republics before being annexed into the United States. The most historically significant event to happen in Hawaii is the surprise attack on the US military at Pearl Harbor, which brought the United States into World War II.

Tourism is one of the biggest industries in the Hawaii Islands. Numerous cultural events take place in Hawaii, including hula competitions and an international film festival. Some of the ancient cultural practices influence can be seen in the modern world, even in the rest of the United States. Luaus and hulas can be traced to ancient Hawaiian cultures, and although practiced in highly modified form, are popular today.

The unique culture, climate, and history make the Hawaiian Islands a fantastic place to vacation, and an even better place to live.