Which Botanical Gardens Has A Waterfall On The Big Island Of Hawaii

10 Fun Facts About the Hawaiian Islands

CC0/hmmunoz512/Pixabay

Hawaii may be a state, but it's one of the most isolated from the rest of the country. For that reason, people may not get to visit, and many more don't know too much about it beyond the fact that it's a gorgeous paradise and beautiful place for a vacation. With that in mind, here are 10 fun and interesting facts about the Hawaiian Islands.

137 Islands

Most people know that Hawaii is made up of eight main islands: Hawaii, Maui, Oahu, Lanai, Kauai, Moloaki, Kahoolawe and Niihau. But what you may not realize is that it's actually a cluster of approximately 137 islands, notes Matador Network. Many are much smaller, including some made out of coral reef.

CC0/markof4123/Pixabay

Isolation

Hawaii often feels like it's isolated from the rest of the United States because it's the only state you can't get to by land. That's because it's actually one of the most isolated places in the world. The closest land to the island chain is 2,000 miles away. So, when it feels like you're a world away, you almost are.

CC0/elayne001/Pixabay

Snakes

If you have a fear of snakes, you may want to consider relocating to Hawaii. Snakes are not native to any of the islands. And don't even think about trying to bring one to the state. It could cost you over $200,000 in fines and several years in jail, notes Matador Network.

CC0/SeppH/Pixabay

Wallabies

Snakes aren't native to Hawaii and neither are wallabies. However, you can find some of these Australian creatures living in the wilds of Oahu. Legend has it they escaped from the Honolulu Zoo and started a colony of their own.

CC0/LoneWombatMedia/Pixabay

Hawaii vs. Key West

If you ask most people where the southernmost point of the United States is located, they'll probably point you to Key West in south Florida. That's actually the southernmost point in the continental U.S. Hawaii is farther south.

CC0/FitzFox/Pixabay

American Coffee

Think all coffee comes from countries outside the United States? Think again. Hawaii grows everyone's favorite caffeinated beverage. Hawaiian coffee has a strong flavor and is typically a bit higher-priced than most other kinds.

CC0/Couleu/Pixabay

Surfing

Surfing is popular in coastal spots all over the world, including Hawaii. But few people know the islands are actually where it originated. The first recorded info about surfing is from 1779, though many believe it may date all the way back to the year 4 A.D., notes Discover Oahu.

CC0/Free-Photos/Pixabay

Coconuts

Next time you visit Hawaii, skip the postcards and send your friends back home some coconuts. The island actually mails them out. You can even decorate them how you want.

CC0/Couleur/Pixabay

Yellow Hibiscus

The state flower of Hawaii is the yellow hibiscus. It thrives in the state's warm climate. However, each of the main Hawaiian islands has its own official flower and color.

CC0/Aloha_Mahalo/Pixabay

Rabies

If you're planning to come to Hawaii, don't expect to hop on a boat or plane with your furry friend. Hawaii is a rabies-free state, and in an effort to keep it that way, the government has many rules and regulations about bringing dogs and other pets here.