Hawaii

Home to the world's most active volcano and the world's tallest sea mountain. Birthplace of surfing and the hula. Former seat of a royal kingdom. Hawaii is one of the youngest geological formations in the world and the youngest state of the union. But perhaps Hawaii's most unique feature is its Aloha Spirit: the warmth of the people of Hawaii that wonderfully complements the Islands's perfect temperatures.

There are primarily six major islands to visit in Hawaii: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, an the Big island. You will find each island has its own distinct personality and offers its own adventures, activities, and sightseeing opportunities. We invite you to explore all of Hawaii to find the unique island experience for you.


Hawaii Quick Facts:
Kauai's incredible Waimea Canyon is 10 miles long, and one mile wide.

Duke Kahanamoku, the "Father of Modern Surfing," grew up in Waikiki on Oahu.
The tallest sea cliffs in the world can be found on Molokai's north side.
A hulking ship is still trapped in the waters of Shipwreck Beach on Lanai.
The crater of Haleakala on Maui is roughly the size of the island of Manhattan.
Kileaua Volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii's Big Island is the world's most active volcano.


State Name:
Hawaii

The 50th State - Hawaii was admitted as the 50th of the United States of America on August 21, 1959. Alaska was admitted in January of the same year, which sometimes causes confusion as to which was admitted first.There are still some businesses in the islands with 49th or 49th state in their name, as Hawaii was expected to be admitted before Alaska. Fact is, though, that Alaska is #49 and Hawaii is #50. Another accident of timing is that although both were admitted in the same year, new flags had to be commissioned for each, because a new star was to be added on the 4th of July (Independence Day) following admission of a new state. Hence the the 49 star flag from July 4, 1959 to July 4, 1960, when the 50 star flag was adopted.

State Nickname:
The Aloha State

Sandwich Islands

On his third voyage of discovery, Captain James Cook of Great Britain visited the Hawaiian Islands and named them the Sandwich Islands in honor of his friend and supporter, John Montague, the 4th Earl of Sandwich and first lord of the Admiralty. Though Cook found Hawaii an excellent reprovisioning stop, it's not likely this included "sandwiches".

Capital City:
Honolulu

Population:
1,262,840

Time Zone:
Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), 5 hours behind the US East Coast, 6 hours behind during Daylight Saving Time (Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time).

Languages:
English
Hawaiian

Currency:
US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Traveler's checks are accepted at many businesses.

Average Temperature:
April- November: 75-88 F.
December- March: 68-80 F.
Average water temperature: 74 F.

Area Code/Cell phones:
The area code for all of Hawaii is (808). Cell phone coverage on most Islands is readily available if you're coming from the US. Check your carrier and calling plan for details.

Internet Access:
Internet access is readily available on most islands and at many hotels.

Accommodations:
Luxury resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, rental cottages and condos are located throughout the islands.

Transportation:
Transportation options include car rentals, tour buses, shuttles, taxis or city buses.

Clothing:
Dress casually. Bring a light jacket for nights. Bring semi-casual dress clothes or resort wear for restaurants and nightlife. Suits and ties are rarely worn.

Tipping:
U.S. standards apply: 15-20% on meals, at least $1 per bag for porters, and at least $1 per night for housekeeping.