Motto
Respect and love for the natural life and lands of the Hawaiian Islands are firmly engrained in the local culture. Hawaii's motto, "Ua mau ea o ka'aina i ka pono" means "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness."
Land
Hawaii is the only U.S. state to be increasing in area. Lava flow from volcanic eruptions continuously adds to the land mass.
Volcanoes
When hiking in the Hawaiian Islands, you have the opportunity to explore the largest inactive volcano in the world (Haleakala on Maui) and the largest active volcano in the world (Kilauea on the Big Island).
Climate
While most visitors envision perpetual sunshine, Hawaii has many diverse climate zones. The peak of Mauna Loa on the Big Island is often snow-capped, and Mount Waialeale on Kauai has the distinction of being the wettest spot on Earth.
Dangers
When exploring the islands of Hawaii, travelers do need to worry about dangers typical in other tropical regions. Hawaii has no snakes, no rabies and no malaria.
Article Written By J.C. Lewis
J.C. Lewis is the editor and co-owner of a weekly newspaper, as well as a staffer and regular contributor to a group of three newspapers in Los Angeles, Calif. Her writing has appeared on USAToday.com, Hotels.com and various other websites. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science in politics from the University of Bristol, England.
