State Abbreviation: HI

Capital: Honolulu

Name Origin: Hawaii may have been named for Hawai’i Loa, a legendary figure who is said to have first discovered the islands.

Nickname: Aloha State (1959)

Statehood: August 21, 1959 (50th State)

State Motto: Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka Aina I Ka Pono (The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness)

Hawaii, an archipelago of islands, was initially settled by Polynesians who sailed from other Pacific islands between A.D. 300 and 600. The arrival of British captain James Cook in 1778 marked the islands' encounter with the Western world, and Cook named the group the Sandwich Islands.

Throughout most of the 19th century, Hawaii remained a native kingdom. However, the expansion of the sugar industry, followed by the introduction of pineapple after 1898, led to increased U.S. business and political involvement in the islands. In 1893, Queen Liliuokalani was deposed, and a year later, the Republic of Hawaii was established with Sanford B. Dole as president. Hawaii was ultimately annexed in 1898, becoming a U.S. territory in 1900 and achieving statehood in 1959.

The infamous Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, directly prompted the United States' entry into World War II.

Stretching over 1,523 miles, the Hawaiian chain consists of eight main islands: Hawaii, Kahoolawe, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau. In addition, the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, excluding Midway, are administratively part of Hawaii. The islands enjoy mild temperatures throughout the year.

Hawaii's chief agricultural products include cane sugar, pineapple, flowers, and nursery products. The state also cultivates coffee beans, bananas, and macadamia nuts. However, the tourist industry serves as Hawaii's primary source of external income.

Among the major points of interest in Hawaii are Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawaii, Haleakala National Park on Maui, Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the island of Hawaii, the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, the USS Arizona and USS Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor, The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific on Oahu, and Iolani Palace (the only royal palace in the U.S.), Bishop Museum, and Waikiki Beach, all located in Honolulu.

In 2008, Hawaii-born Barack Obama made history by being elected as the president of the United States.

• Hawaii is the only U.S. state with two official languages: English and Hawaiian.
  
• In 2008 Barack Obama, who was born in Honolulu, was elected the 44th president of the United States.
  
• Entertainer Bette Midler was also born in Honolulu.
  
• The hula is a traditional Hawaiians dance that tells a story through movement. Dancers often wear grass skirts and leis.
  
• The sport of surfing may have originated in what is now Hawaii. Today professional surfersride waves over 50 feet high.

1. Explore the Volcanoes National Park: Visit the awe-inspiring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, where you can witness the incredible power of nature. Take a hike through the park's trails, marvel at active volcanoes like Kilauea and Mauna Loa, and explore unique geological formations like lava tubes and craters.
2. Relax on Waikiki Beach: Located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, Waikiki Beach is a world-famous destination known for its beautiful white sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing in the gentle waves. Nearby, you can also explore the vibrant city life of Honolulu, including shopping, dining, and experiencing the local culture.
3. Snorkel or Dive in Molokini: Take a boat trip to the crescent-shaped Molokini Crater off the coast of Maui. This marine sanctuary offers incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities, allowing you to swim alongside colorful tropical fish, coral reefs, and maybe even spot sea turtles or dolphins. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it a must-visit spot for underwater enthusiasts.
4. Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial: Pay tribute to the historic significance of Pearl Harbor on the island of Oahu. Explore the museums and exhibits that chronicle the events of December 7, 1941, when the harbor was attacked and the USS Arizona was sunk. Take a boat ride to the solemn USS Arizona Memorial, built directly above the sunken battleship, to honor the lives lost during the attack.
5. Hike to the Napali Coast on Kauai: Embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike along the Napali Coast on the island of Kauai. The coastline's dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls create a breathtaking backdrop. The Kalalau Trail offers a multi-day hiking experience, while shorter trails like the Hanakapiai Trail provide stunning views for day hikers. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this remote and rugged coastal area.