Things You Never Knew About Hawaii

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Hawaii or are a frequent visitor, you’ll find it to be an amazing paradise. Even if you know a lot about the islands, there are some things that may come as a surprise to you. Check out the following eight facts you never knew about Hawaii:

8 Obscure Facts About Hawaii

1. A Vital Role in the Origins of Surfing

Surfing is extremely popular in Hawaii. The sport originated with Polynesian settlers who ultimately landed on the islands. The first surfers were fishermen who rode the waves to quickly return their catches to shore, and eventually developed into surfing as it is known today.

2. A Ban on Billboards

Hawaii is one of only four states that has banned billboards. There are also strict regulations on many other types of highway signage , including political signs, so you may see supporters waving signs for their favorite candidates before elections instead of road signs. The laws help to maintain Hawaii’s natural beauty.

3. No Daylight Savings Time

Hawaii stopped observing Daylight Savings Time in 1967, because it isn’t necessary there. Unlike many other states, Hawaii has a relatively consistent sunrise and sunset throughout the year and its climate stays warm with ample sunshine all day long.

4. No Native Snakes

If you’re afraid of snakes, you have another reason to love Hawaii. The islands have no snakes native to the state. Only one snake lives in Hawaii, and it’s nothing to worry about. The Brahminy blind snake came in from the Philippines, and the harmless reptile is only about the size of an earthworm.

5. The Ultimate Melting Pot

Hawaii has a very diverse population with the highest percentage of multiracial Americans (23.6%) of any state. The islands are heavily populated by people of various races, which contributes to Hawaii's cultural diversity and accepting attitudes.

6. An Abbreviated Alphabet

This may come as a surprise since Hawaiian words can be quite long but the Hawaiian alphabet has only 12 letters – 7 consonants and 5 vowels. You'll see A, E, H, I, K, L, M, N, O, P, U and W. There's also a glottal stop (or 'okina). In addition, Hawaiian speakers pronounce short vowels briefly and long vowels for a greater duration.

7. Distinction Between Locals and Hawaiians

You may be tempted to call all people who live in Hawaii "Hawaiians" or "natives" but that’s considered rude. Only people who have Hawaiian ancestry should be called "Hawaiians." And if a person lives in Hawaii (or was even born there) but isn't of Hawaiian descent, they should be called a "local."

8. An Open Beach Policy

Hawaii’s beautiful beaches belong to no one and everyone. With a few limited exceptions, all Hawaiian beaches are open to the public. County governments and private developers must provide public access and parking where the shoreline has residential dwellings.

These eight facts will give you a greater appreciation for the islands, their history and their culture. And while there are many exciting activities available in Hawaii, nothing makes you feel one with the islands quite like a helicopter tour, which allows you to experience the beauty and magnitude of Hawaii in an exclusive and intimate way. Contact us at 1-808-893-7999 to book your tour today!