Aloha and welcome to our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions (Hawaii FAQ) guide about Hawaii! Hawaii is not just a place of breathtaking natural beauty and unique culture, it’s also a state full of fascinating history and vibrant diversity. Whether you’re planning a trip to the islands, considering a move, or simply curious to learn more about the Aloha State, our Hawaii FAQ has got you covered. From the basic facts about Hawaii’s geography and population, to insights into the state’s culture, cuisine, wildlife, and so much more, we’ve compiled these common questions and in-depth answers to give you a deeper understanding of this paradise in the Pacific.
The Basics
Hawaii is a U.S. state located in the Pacific Ocean. It is a tropical archipelago and is the only U.S. state composed entirely of islands.
Hawaii is located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 2,000 miles southwest of the U.S. mainland.
Hawaii is made up of 137 islands, but it’s mainly comprised of eight major islands: Hawai’i (the Big Island), Maui, O’ahu, Kaua’i, Moloka’i, Lana’i, Ni’ihau, and Kaho’olawe.
The capital of Hawaii is Honolulu, which is located on the island of O’ahu.
The official languages in Hawaii are English and Hawaiian. However, a local dialect known as Pidgin is also commonly spoken.
As of the 2020 census, the population of Hawaii was approximately 1.4 million people.
Hawaii operates on Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST), which is GMT-10. Hawaii does not observe daylight saving time.
Hawaii enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Rainfall varies depending on location and season.
Hawaii is a great destination year-round, but the best weather tends to be in April, May, September, and October. These periods also typically see fewer crowds.
As Hawaii is a U.S. state, the currency used is the U.S. dollar.
Hawaii is home to many unique species, including humpback whales, sea turtles, and a variety of birds. The state’s flora is equally diverse, with many native plants like the hibiscus (the state flower) and numerous types of orchids.
Important landmarks include the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on U.S. soil, and the Polynesian Cultural Center, which showcases the culture and traditions of Polynesia.
Native Hawaiian culture is rich in music, dance (like hula), and traditions like the luau. Respect for the land, or “Aloha ‘Aina,” is a key part of Hawaiian values.
Tourism is the main industry in Hawaii. Other significant sectors include agriculture (coffee, macadamia nuts, pineapple), defense, and film production.
Hawaii is famous for dishes like poke, luau stew, kalua pig, laulau, and the iconic shave ice. Also, the local version of sushi, known as Spam musubi, is very popular.
Some traditional Hawaiian activities include surfing, hula dancing, lei making, and outrigger canoeing.
Surfing is the most popular sport. Others include outrigger canoe paddling, football, and volleyball.
The most common way to get to Hawaii is by airplane, with flights arriving daily from around the world. Once on the islands, common modes of transport include car, bus, bike, and boat.
Hawaii has a strong healthcare system with hospitals and clinics across the islands. The state also has a unique mandate for employers to provide health insurance for employees working over 20 hours per week.
Hawaii has public, private, and charter school options for K-12 education. It is also home to the University of Hawaii System, which includes three universities and several community colleges.
While Hawaii is generally safe, visitors should be mindful of natural hazards like strong ocean currents, sudden rainstorms, and active volcanoes. It’s always recommended to respect warning signs and local advisories.
Hawaii’s state bird is the nene (Hawaiian goose), the state flower is the yellow hibiscus, and the state motto is “Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono” (The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness).
One unique law is the “Aloha Spirit” law, which mandates consideration and kindness in all public acts. Also, it is illegal to take rocks, sand, or other natural materials as souvenirs from the islands.
Showing respect involves not trespassing on sacred sites, attending cultural events appropriately, not removing natural resources, and generally behaving with consideration and kindness, in keeping with the “Aloha Spirit”.
Housing in Hawaii can be expensive and competitive due to the high demand and limited supply. However, a range of options are available from luxury villas to more affordable condos and rentals.
Jobs are available across a range of sectors including tourism, healthcare, education, and agriculture. Hawaii’s remote location also makes remote jobs increasingly popular.
As Hawaii is part of the U.S., international visitors must meet U.S. visa requirements, which vary depending on the country of origin.
Transport options include renting a car, using local bus services, biking, walking, or taking inter-island flights or ferries.
Hawaii is a leader in conservation efforts, with many protected areas, marine reserves, and initiatives to protect its unique biodiversity. However, it still faces challenges such as invasive species and climate change impacts.