Hawaii is full of rich culture, delicious food, volcanoes, and so much more! The Big Island might be the youngest of all the Hawaiian Islands, but that doesn't mean it's not full of secrets and fun facts. While Hawaii might be known for its year-round tropical temperatures or picturesque beaches, here are a few other fun facts about the Big Island and Hawaii you might not have known.
1. THERE ARE ONLY 12 LETTERS IN THE HAWAIIAN ALPHABET
The Hawaiian alphabet only consists of only twelve letters and is the shortest in the world. It only has five vowels and seven consonants: a,e,h,i,k,l,m,n,o,p,u,and w. There’s also a glottal stop, or okina, which is a symbol that looks similar to an apostrophe that’s used in several Hawaiian words.
2. HOME OF THE HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA’A
Try saying that name five times fast! The Humuhumunukunukuapua’a is Hawaii’s state fish and is often referred to as the easier-to-pronounce “reef triggerfish.” The name can be broken down into two parts: “Humuhumu” refers to all species of triggerfish, and “nukunukuapua’a” translates to “snout like a pig.”
The Humuhumunukunukuapua’a can be found in the shallow reef waters and are easy to spot due to their brilliant yellow and blue patterns. Look for them when you go snorkeling around the Island!
3. MAUNA KEA IS THE TALLEST MOUNTAIN IN THE WORLD
It might be surprising to learn that the Big Island's dormant volcano, Mauna Kea, is actually the world's tallest mountain. Many people think Mount Everest is the tallest, but technically speaking, Mount Everest is the world’s highest mountain.
The difference is that most of Mauna Kea is underwater, so from the ocean floor to the peak of the mountain, it’s actually taller than Mount Everest. Mauna Kea sits 13,803 feet above sea level, whereas Mount Everest is 29,029 feet feet above sea level. The summit of Mauna Kea is one of the best sites in the world for astronomical observation.
4. HOME OF THE ONLY ROYAL PALACE IN THE UNITED STATES
The famous Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu on the Island of Oahu is the only royal palace in the United States. The palace was home to the last royal family of Hawaii, King Kalakaua and his sister Queen Lili'uokalani. After the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1893, the building became the capitol for the Hawaiian government.
In 1969, the government moved out of the palace to a new state building, and the palace was restored as a National Historic Landmark that’s open to tourists. If you’re ever in town, be sure to take some time to view the impressive exhibits and grounds scattered around the palace.
5. MOST MACADAMIA NUTS COME FROM THE BIG ISLAND
The Big Island is home to the largest source of macadamia nut orchards in the United States. Macadamia nuts are a delicious snack that can be used in many different forms, like macadamia nut butter, pesto, and coffee. Places like the Mauna Loa Nut Co. and the Hamakua Nut Co. are worth a visit when on The Big Island. Plus, they always offer plenty of delicious treats to their guests!
STAY A WHILE
Hawaii and The Big Island have so much to offer. Filled with hidden surprises and fun facts, there’s always something to do, eat, drink, or see. If you want to make Hawaii your home, contact me today. I would love to help you make this fun-filled paradise your permanent home.
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.