Hawaii County, Administrative division in Big Island, US.
Description
Hawaii County is the administrative division covering the entire Big Island, stretching across mountains, rainforests, and coastal regions with varying terrain. The area includes diverse landscapes ranging from black lava fields to lush valleys and sandy beaches.
History
The region became part of the United States in 1959 when Hawaii achieved statehood, marking a fundamental shift in governance. This change restructured how the county operates and relates to federal authority.
Culture
Native Hawaiian traditions shape daily life through local festivals featuring hula, music, and traditional food that visitors encounter throughout the island. These customs remain woven into how residents and communities celebrate together.
Practical
The area is best explored from two main hubs: Hilo on the east side and Kona on the west, both serving as transportation centers. Travel times between regions are longer than first appearances suggest, so planning ahead helps make the most of your visit.
Did you know?
Two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, sit within this region and regularly reshape the landscape through eruptions. This geological activity makes the island one of the few places where you can witness ongoing earth formation.
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Mauna Kea
26.6 km
Mauna Loa
16.3 km
Kīlauea
30.2 km
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
44.4 km
Mauna Kea Observatories
26.7 km
W. M. Keck Observatory
27.2 km
Papakolea Beach
73.6 km
Puʻu ʻŌʻō
46.9 km
Waipio Valley
59.7 km
Subaru Telescope
27.1 km
Hualālai
40.4 km
Parker Ranch
50.7 km
Rainbow Falls
43.6 km
Punalu'u Beach
49.8 km
Ka Lae
77.2 km
Mauna Loa Observatory
9.6 km
Kohala
60.4 km
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
46.6 km
Akaka Falls State Park
47.3 km
Halemaumau Crater
29.6 km
James Clerk Maxwell Telescope
26.8 km
Waikoloa Beach
54.9 km
Kazumura Cave
49.7 km
Kīlauea Iki
32.7 km
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
56.6 km
Hiilawe Waterfall
58.2 km
Hakalau Stream Bridge
52.4 km
Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site
59.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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