The actual island of Hawaii, the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands is more commonly referred to as the Big Island. Visitors to the island are typically return visitors to Hawaii, and are looking for a relaxing escape or are outdoor enthusiasts ready to explore. That’s not to say that first time visitors don't visit the Big Island, and any visitor is in store for a fantastic trip.
What many visitors don't know are the intriguing and interesting facts about the island that locals love to share, and will surely bring a new appreciation to the island.
Fun Facts:
- The island is usually known for the two main towns that most locals reside: Kona and Hilo.
- In addition to Kona and Hilo, the Kohala Coast is another area that offers a great place to stay.
- The island is made up of 5 shield volcanoes: Kohala (extinct), Mauna Kea (dormant), Hualalai (active), Mauna Loa (active), and Kilauea (active).
- Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea are the two dormant volcanoes that inhabit southern portion of the island.
- Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world, when measured from its base at the sea floor.
- Mauna Kea is the only place in Hawaii that receives annual snowfall. Haleakala on Maui receives snow occasionally, but not as often as Mauna Kea.
- Mt. Kilauea has been erupting since January 3, 1983, making it the world’s most active volcano.
- Since 2012, the eruption zone from Kilauea has produced 499 new acres of land to the island’s coast.
- King Kamehameha the Great was born on the Big Island in Kohala.
- Many historic sites of Ancient Hawaii are still standing today, and can be found all around the island.
- Big game fishing is very popular off the coast of the island, and many local fishermen believe the Kona Coast to be one of the best sport fishing locations in the world.
- The island is known for white sand beaches, but also features black sand beaches and even a green sand beach.
- The southern most point in the United States is on the island at Ka Lae, known as South Point.
- Standing at Ka Lae, the next closest piece of land is Antarctica.
We know that you’ll love your trip to the Big Island, and will learn so much more about the island. Our list of fun facts will get you started, and we cant wait to hear what interesting facts you discover while you’re here!
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Hawaii tours and activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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