About Hawaii

Home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes and the world’s tallest sea mountain... Birthplace of surfing and the hula... Former seat of a royal kingdom... Hawaii is one of the youngest geological formations in the world and the youngest state of the union, becoming the 50th state in August 1959.

There are primarily six major islands to visit in Hawaii: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big island. You’ll find each island has its own distinct personality and offers its own adventures, activities, and sightseeing opportunities.

Hawaii’s Big Island

Capital City: Hilo

Population: 148,677

Time Zone: Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), 5 hours behind the US East Coast, 6 hours behind during Daylight Saving Time (Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time).

Languages: English, Hawaiian

Currency: U.S. dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Traveler’s checks are accepted at many businesses.

Average Temperature: 75˚-85˚ F.

Climate: Eleven of the 13 climate zones exist on the Big Islnad - they generate everything from lush rain forests to arid deserts, black sand beaches to snow-capped mountaintops.

Famous for: Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, and orchids. Kileaua Volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the world’s most active volcano. At more than 33,000 feet, Mauna Kea is the world’s tallest mountain measured from the ocean floor.

The Hawaiian Language

The Hawaiian History

LINKS

The Fairmont Orchid Web site

Hawaii Tourism Web site

Map of Hawaii

Map of The Fairmont Orchid

Hawaii's Big Island
WEATHER