hen planning a vacation to Hawaii, you’ll likely be enamored by the sprawling beaches, swaying palm trees, and abundant natural resources. This destination is home to a deep traditions, friendly locals, and stunning vistas. Whether you relax at a resort or spend your trip hiking around the diverse natural landscape, this island state has something for everyone.
To get ready for your trip, check out the following fun facts about Hawaii. You can impress your family and friends with your history chops and local knowledge.
Hawaii has a rich history
The original residents of Hawaii arrived to the island chain about 1,500 years ago from the Marquesas Islands. They rowed about 2,000 miles in canoes to arrive. About 500 years later, more people arrived from modern-day Tahiti. These cultures merged to create many traditions that Hawaiians carry on today, including hula and surfing. While Hawaii became a US state in 1959, only those with native Hawaiian ancestry call themselves “Hawaiian.” Otherwise, residents refer to themselves “locals.”
Hawaii is made up of eight main islands
When traveling to Hawaii, you will likely visit one or more of the eight main islands. These are Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, and the Big Island (Hawai’i). However, the entire state is actually made up of 137 smaller islands. During your stay, you might decide to attend a luau in Maui, a spa day on the Big Island, and other adventures among the island chain’s many locations.
The Big Island is growing
Hawaii is known for its volcanoes, and these natural features are a critical part of the island chain’s land masses. A volcano on the Big Island, called Kīlauea Volcano, has been erupting for 30 years. This adds over 42 acres to the big island every year. If you are interested in learning more about volcanoes, be sure to visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.
Leis come with some rules of etiquette
You’re likely familiar with the Hawaiian lei, and you might have the chance to wear this flower garland during your vacation. However, it’s important to know some basic etiquette tips. If someone offers you a lei, it is impolite to decline it. You should also never remove a lei in front of the person who gave it to you. It is bad luck to wear a lei that you were going to give to someone else, or for a pregnant woman to wear a lei. Traditionally, Hawaiians never throw out their leis. Instead, they bury the lei where its flowers originated to give back to the earth.
The islands are abundant with wildlife
Hawaii’s natural landscape is full of exciting animal life, both native and not. The state actually only has one native land mammal, the Hawaiian hoary bat. Other mammals that live there today were brought to the island by settlers, such as the rat and mongoose. If you are a passionate bird water, a Hawaiian vacation is certainly right for you. Birds such as the nene, Hawaii’s state bird, fly around the islands. You can also take to the water during your trip to catch a glimpse of monk seals, turtles, and humpback whales.
Whether you are drawn to Hawaii’s rich culture or biodiversity, you are sure to create unforgettable memories during your stay. You can see a volcano up close, try your hand at surfing, and simply enjoy the island hospitality that this state provides. As you enjoy the local food and experience native customer, you are sure to learn even more facts to share along the way.
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