Welcome

Hawai‘i has a long and storied history. The islands were originally a sovereign nation with a monarchy at the helm until Hawai‘i received its statehood on Aug. 21, 1959, making it the most recent state to join the United States. It is one of the smallest states in land size but also one of the most densely populated. However, the islands’ natural beauty and our unique hospitality make Hawai‘i a one-of-a-kind experience.

The state’s tropical climate, lush vegetation, world-famous beaches and active volcanoes make it a popular destination for family vacations, romantic getaways, avid golfers, adventure-seekers, history buffs and scientists alike. Visitors will enjoy the pristine Waikiki Beach and the vibrant shopping and nightlife in Honolulu. Play a round of golf on a public course or one of the private courses reserved solely for military personnel. See history up close and in person with a tour of Pearl Harbor and the USS Missouri Memorial. Visit the Valley of the Temples, a majestic Byodo-In Temple that is graced by two acres of ponds stocked with Japanese carp and surrounded by peacocks, black swans and other wildlife. Take the road to Hãna on the island of Maui where you will see a mix of waterfalls and magnificent gardens that are full of history.

For the more adventurous, you can swim with sea turtles (honu), snorkel in Hanauma Bay, take a volcano tour, explore the many hidden waterfalls and try surfing on one of the famous waves on O‘ahu’s North Shore. While you’re here, hit up a shrimp truck or grab some shave ice.

There are many options for hikers, with incredible views wherever you go. In addition to Diamond Head, local favorites include Koko Head Crater Trail, Olomana Three Peaks Trail, Kalalau Trail, Crouching Lion Trail and Sliding Sands Trail. Stick to the marked trails and be careful not to disturb the vegetation.

You’ll work up quite an appetite with all the activity, and Hawai‘i serves up some diverse and delicious cuisine. Sample our delicious Kona coffee, Spam, tropical fruits, kalua pig, malasadas, Portuguese sausage, taro, lomi-lomi salmon and plate lunches, which feature a combination of your favorites with a heaping scoop of rice and macaroni salad.

Our people and their spirit of aloha are what makes this state so great, and I feel strongly about helping our residents reach their highest potential. We’re working hard to improve our education system, sending more young people to universities, ensuring they’re on the path to higher-earning jobs. Luckily, these young people have the opportunity to do that right in their own backyard, with community colleges and major universities such as the University of Hawai‘i, which has campuses across the Hawaiian Islands.

Even with all of the adventures and fun to be had, life is slower here. That applies to just about everything. From shipping times for online orders to everyday traffic, the slower pace here may surprise newcomers. But in Hawai‘i, there’s no room for impatience. Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery.

Aloha!

David Ige