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Bookmark & shareFamous for sun, sand and surf, Hawaiʻi is a true holiday heaven.
Hawaiʻi - aka the Big Island - is nearly twice the size of all the other Hawaiʻian islands combined. Geographically it's the most diverse island of the archipelago, with deserts, rainforests, volcanoes and, surprisingly, snow-capped mountains.
The mountains create a barrier that blocks the northeasterly trade winds, making the western side of the island the driest region in the archipelago. This coast has the best beaches and water conditions. The eastern coast is rugged, with pounding surf, tropical rainforests and majestic waterfalls.
Travel Warning: Watch that Volcano!
Travelers to Hawaiʻi should be aware that the Big Island is home to one of the world's most active volcanoes, Kilauea. On 25 March, its Halemaumau crater erupted. Visitors to the area should heed any local advice or warnings issued, and be vigilant for volcanic gas emissions.
severity: Mid-level alert
Fast Facts
Population
158,000
Currency
Name: US Dollar
Code: USD
Symbol: US$
Electrical Plugs
110V 60Hz
Languages Spoken
Essential: English
Time Zones
GMT/UTC -10
Country Dialing Code
+1
Weights & Measures
Imperial
USA - Pick & Mix Chapters
Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our USA guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the USA download page.
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
