How to become a Disney travel agent in Hawaii
Becoming a travel agent in Hawaii is an exciting and rewarding career path, especially given the state's thriving tourism industry. If you are passionate about travel, enjoy helping others, and have a knack for planning and organization, this could be the perfect career for you.
To get started, it is essential to understand the role of a travel agent in Hawaii. As a travel agent, you will plan and book travel for clients, which includes booking flights and accommodations, organizing activities and excursions, and providing valuable destination information. Your local knowledge of Hawaii can be a significant asset, allowing you to create unique and personalized travel experiences for your clients, whether it's a foodie tour of Waikiki, a cultural discovery in Lanai, or an adventure on the Big Island.
In Hawaii, there are specific requirements and steps you need to follow to become a licensed travel agent. First, you will need to obtain a Seller of Travel license through the state of Hawaii. This license is mandatory for all travel agents operating in the state. Additionally, most travel agents in Hawaii work with a host business, which provides access to an IATA number, necessary for conducting travel business. These host agencies also offer valuable resources such as booking systems, marketing support, and comprehensive training programs.
While formal certification is not required, it is highly encouraged to enhance your skills and credibility. Certifications such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test, Certified Travel Associate (CTA), Certified Travel Counselor (CTC), and Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) can significantly benefit your career. These certifications demonstrate your mastery of the basics of the travel industry, including selling skills, geography, and the products sold by travel counselors.
| Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) | Basic skills and knowledge of the travel industry |
| CTA (Certified Travel Associate) | Advanced skills in travel planning and customer service |
| CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) | Expertise in travel counseling and destination knowledge |
| CTIE (Certified Travel Industry Executive) | Leadership and management skills in the travel industry |
Academic programs and training courses are also available to help you get started. Institutions like Kapi'olani Community College and Hawaii Pacific University offer hospitality and tourism management programs that can provide a solid foundation for your career. Online courses, such as those offered by ed2go, can prepare you for the TAP test and provide comprehensive training in travel industry basics.
Becoming a travel agent in Hawaii is not just about fulfilling legal requirements; it's about gaining the knowledge, skills, and support needed to excel in a dynamic and rewarding industry.
With the right training, certification, and support from a host business, you can embark on a fulfilling career as a travel agent in Hawaii, helping clients create unforgettable travel experiences while leveraging your local expertise.
To embark on a career as a travel agent in Hawaii, you need to meet several basic requirements. These requirements are crucial for ensuring you are well-prepared and eligible to work in this field.
In Hawaii, there are no specific age restrictions for becoming a travel agent, but you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Seller of Travel license. Additionally, having a clean criminal record is essential. A background check may be required as part of the licensing process to ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of travel agents handling client funds and personal information.
While a formal degree is not mandatory, having a high school diploma or a GED is highly recommended. This educational background provides a solid foundation in basic skills such as communication, mathematics, and problem-solving, which are vital for a career in travel planning. However, it is important to note that certifications and training programs can often replace the need for a higher education degree in this field.
To succeed as a travel agent, you need to possess certain essential skills. Communication skills are crucial for interacting with clients, understanding their needs, and providing them with personalized travel plans. Management skills are necessary for organizing and coordinating travel itineraries, managing client trust accounts, and handling payments. Problem-solving skills are vital for dealing with travel conflicts, cancellations, and other issues that may arise during the travel planning process.
Having the right combination of age eligibility, a clean criminal record, and the necessary educational background and skills sets you up for success as a travel agent in Hawaii.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | At least 18 years old |
| Criminal Record | Clean criminal record |
| Educational Background | High school diploma or GED (recommended) |
| Essential Skills | Communication, management, problem-solving |
To operate as a travel agent in Hawaii, you must obtain a Hawaii Seller of Travel License. This license is mandatory for anyone acting as an intermediary between clients and travel service providers. The license is regulated by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, and it applies to all travel agencies and chartered tour operators, whether they are based in Hawaii or conducting business with Hawaii residents.
The licensing process involves completing an application form and paying the appropriate fee. The fees vary depending on the year of application; for example, registrations submitted in odd-numbered years cost $146, while those in even-numbered years cost $215 due to the inclusion of fees for the second year of registration and the Compliance Resolution Fund.
A crucial part of the licensing process is setting up a client trust account. This account must be with a federally insured bank located in Hawaii. The trust account is necessary to handle client funds securely and transparently. You can prove the existence of this account by submitting a letter from the bank or a copy of a blank voided check
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Bank Location | Federally insured bank in Hawaii |
| Account Type | Checking or savings account |
| Proof of Account | Letter from the bank or a copy of a blank voided check |
The application process for the Hawaii Seller of Travel License involves several steps. First, you need to register your business with the Business Registration Division if you are operating as an LLC, LLP, Partnership, or Corporation. You will need to provide a file-stamped copy of your business registration or a certificate of good standing
It is important to ensure all required information and fees are submitted correctly to avoid application rejection. If your application is denied, you have the option to request an administrative hearing
| Fee | Description |
|---|---|
| Odd-Numbered Year | $146 |
| Even-Numbered Year | $215 (includes fees for the second year and Compliance Resolution Fund) |
| Business Registration | File-stamped copy or certificate of good standing |
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and paid the fees, you can submit your application to the Travel Agency Program at the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Ensuring you meet all these requirements will help you navigate the licensing process smoothly and begin your career as a travel agent in Hawaii
Joining a host business is a crucial step in becoming a successful travel agent in Hawaii. Working with a host business offers several benefits that can significantly enhance your career. One of the primary advantages is the access to an IATA number, which is essential for conducting travel business and earning commissions on the travel you book.
A host business also provides comprehensive training programs that cover foundational topics, customer service, and the intricacies of booking travel. For example, Fora offers a 40+ hour live training program, along with access to recordings, which helps new agents get started quickly and confidently
Host agencies provide a range of resources that are vital for your success as a travel agent. One of the most important resources is the IATA number, which allows you to book travel and earn commissions. Without this number, you would not be able to operate as a legitimate travel agent
Another significant resource is marketing support. Host agencies often have established marketing strategies and materials that can help you attract clients and grow your business. This support can include website design, social media management, and advertising campaigns
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| IATA Number | Allows for legitimate travel booking and commission earning |
| Marketing Support | Includes website design, social media management, and advertising campaigns |
| Booking Systems | Access to advanced booking systems and software |
Host agencies also provide access to booking systems and software, which are essential for efficiently managing client bookings, payments, and travel itineraries. These systems streamline your work and help you deliver high-quality service to your clients
In Hawaii, there are several popular host agencies that you can consider joining. Fora Travel is one such business that offers a comprehensive suite of resources, including training programs, marketing support, and access to booking systems. Fora is known for its supportive community and extensive resources, making it an excellent choice for new and experienced travel agents alike
Other notable host agencies may include those affiliated with major travel companies or industry-specific organizations. It's important to research and compare the services and support offered by different host agencies to find the one that best fits your needs and career goals.
To kickstart your career as a travel agent in Hawaii, enrolling in academic programs can be highly beneficial. Institutions like Hawaii Pacific University and Ka'iolani Community College offer comprehensive programs in hospitality and tourism management. These programs provide a solid foundation in the principles of the travel industry, including customer service, travel planning, and destination knowledge.
Host agencies in Hawaii play a significant role in providing training and support to aspiring travel agents. For instance, Fora Travel offers a comprehensive training program that includes over 40 hours of live, small-group training sessions, along with access to recorded sessions. This program covers foundational topics such as customer service, booking systems, and the nitty-gritty of running a travel advisor business
These training programs are designed to be interactive and practical, ensuring that new agents gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the industry. Additionally, host agencies often provide ongoing training and support through regular partner and destination trainings, helping agents stay updated with industry trends and best practices
| Host Agency | Training Program Details |
|---|---|
| Fora Travel | 40+ hours of live training, access to recordings, customer service sessions, booking systems training |
Certification is a valuable step in advancing your career as a travel agent in Hawaii. Several certification programs are available, each offering different levels of professional recognition. The Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test, offered by the Travel Institute, is a foundational certification that demonstrates your mastery of the basics of the travel industry, including selling skills, geography, and the products sold by travel counselors
The Certified Travel Associate (CTA), Certified Travel Counselor (CTC), and Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) certifications are also highly regarded. These certifications are offered by the Travel Institute and can significantly enhance your skills and credibility in the industry
| Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) | Foundational certification covering selling skills, geography, and travel products |
| CTA (Certified Travel Associate) | Advanced skills in travel planning and customer service |
| CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) | Expertise in travel counseling and destination knowledge |
| CTIE (Certified Travel Industry Executive) | Leadership and management skills in the travel industry |
Online courses, such as those offered through ed2go in partnership with Hawaii community colleges, also prepare you for the TAP test and provide comprehensive training in the basics of the travel industry. These courses are self-paced and include instructional materials and exam vouchers for the TAP test
As a travel agent in Hawaii, one of your primary duties is to plan and book vacations for your clients. This involves understanding the client's preferences, budget, and travel goals to create personalized itineraries. You will need to book flights, accommodations, and activities, ensuring that every aspect of the trip is well-coordinated and meets the client's expectations.
Coordinating travel and lodging is a critical part of your role as a travel agent. This includes booking hotel rooms, resort stays, or other types of accommodations that fit the client's needs. You will also arrange transportation, such as car rentals or airport transfers, to ensure a seamless travel experience
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Booking Accommodations | Hotel rooms, resort stays, or other types of lodging |
| Arranging Transportation | Car rentals, airport transfers, or other travel arrangements |
Managing client trust accounts and payments is a vital responsibility. As a travel agent in Hawaii, you are required to maintain a client trust account with a federally insured bank. This account is used to handle client funds securely and transparently. You will need to manage payments, process refunds, and ensure that all financial transactions are accurate and compliant with state regulations
Ensuring the integrity of client trust accounts is crucial for maintaining trust and compliance with legal requirements. This involves regular audits and adherence to strict financial management practices.
Providing destination information and travel advice is a key part of your role. You will need to be knowledgeable about various destinations, including their attractions, activities, and cultural nuances. For clients traveling to Hawaii, your local expertise can be invaluable, helping them navigate the best spots to visit, dine, and experience the unique culture of the islands
Handling travel conflicts and issues is an essential skill for any travel agent. You may need to deal with flight cancellations, accommodation issues, or other unexpected problems that arise during a client's trip. Your ability to resolve these issues efficiently and professionally is crucial for maintaining client satisfaction and building a positive reputation
| Conflict Type | Resolution Steps |
|---|---|
| Flight Cancellations | Rebook flights, communicate with airlines, and update client itineraries |
| Accommodation Issues | Resolve room assignment problems, negotiate with hotels, and ensure client comfort |
Your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure are vital in handling travel conflicts effectively. This not only resolves the immediate issue but also helps in building long-term client relationships.
Specializing in honeymoons and romantic getaways can be a rewarding and lucrative niche for travel agents in Hawaii. With the state's picturesque landscapes, beautiful beaches, and luxurious resorts, it is an ideal destination for couples looking to celebrate their special moments. As a travel agent, you can create tailored packages that include romantic dinners, sunset cruises, and spa treatments, making the experience unforgettable for your clients.
Family vacations and group travel are another excellent niche to specialize in. Hawaii offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to families and groups, such as the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Beach, and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. As a travel agent, you can plan itineraries that include family-friendly accommodations, group tours, and fun activities like snorkeling, surfing, or visiting local luaus.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Honolulu Zoo | A popular attraction with a variety of animal species |
| Waikiki Beach | A iconic beach with plenty of recreational activities |
| Hawaii Volcanoes National Park | A unique park featuring volcanic landscapes and hiking trails |
Specializing in business travel and corporate events can be highly profitable. Hawaii is a popular destination for corporate retreats and conferences due to its unique blend of business and leisure opportunities. As a travel agent, you can arrange meetings, conferences, and team-building activities at venues like the Hawaii Convention Center or luxury resorts with conference facilities.
Ensuring that all logistical details are handled smoothly is key. This includes booking flights, arranging accommodations, and coordinating transportation for attendees. Your attention to detail and ability to manage complex itineraries will be highly valued by corporate clients.
For clients looking for budget-friendly options, specializing in affordable travel can be a great niche. Hawaii offers various budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels and vacation rentals, and activities like visiting local markets, hiking, or enjoying the beautiful beaches without incurring high costs. As a travel agent, you can create packages that include affordable flights, accommodations, and activities, making Hawaii accessible to a wider range of travelers.
Luxury travel and high-end destinations are a lucrative niche for travel agents in Hawaii. The state is home to numerous luxury resorts, high-end restaurants, and exclusive experiences that cater to discerning travelers. As a travel agent, you can offer bespoke itineraries that include private villa stays, gourmet dining experiences, and exclusive access to premium activities like helicopter tours or private yacht charters.
| Resort | Description |
|---|---|
| Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina | Luxurious resort with premium amenities and services |
| Montage Kapalua Bay | High-end resort with exclusive villas and gourmet dining |
| The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua | Luxury resort with private golf courses and spa treatments |
Personalized service and attention to detail are paramount in luxury travel. Ensuring that every aspect of the client's trip is meticulously planned and executed will help you build a reputation as a high-end travel specialist.
To remain successful as a travel agent in Hawaii, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest industry trends. The travel industry is dynamic, with constant changes in technology, consumer preferences, and travel regulations. Staying informed through industry publications, newsletters, and online forums can help you provide the best services to your clients and stay ahead of the competition.
Attending conferences and travel seminars is an excellent way to enhance your professional development. These events provide opportunities to network with other travel professionals, learn about new destinations and travel products, and gain insights from industry experts. Conferences such as the Hawaii Travel Industry Conference and seminars organized by host agencies like Fora can offer valuable training sessions and workshops that help you improve your skills and knowledge.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Networking | Opportunities to connect with other travel professionals and industry experts |
| New Destinations and Products | Learn about new travel destinations and products to offer your clients |
| Workshops and Training Sessions | Participate in hands-on training and workshops to improve your skills |
Pursuing advanced certification programs is a significant step in your professional development as a travel agent. Certifications such as the Certified Travel Counselor (CTC), Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE), and Certified Travel Associate (CTA) demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession. These certifications, offered by organizations like the Travel Institute, require advanced training and a deeper understanding of the travel industry.
Advanced certifications not only enhance your professional credentials but also open up more career opportunities and higher earning potential. They signify that you have advanced knowledge in areas such as travel counseling, destination geography, and industry management.
| Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) | Expertise in travel counseling and destination knowledge |
| CTIE (Certified Travel Industry Executive) | Leadership and management skills in the travel industry |
| CTA (Certified Travel Associate) | Advanced skills in travel planning and customer service |
As a travel agent in Hawaii, you have the flexibility to choose between full-time and part-time work. Full-time positions typically offer more stability and benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans. However, part-time work can provide a better work-life balance and the freedom to pursue other interests or start your own business on the side.
You have two primary options when considering your career path as a travel agent in Hawaii: working for an established travel business or starting your own business. Working for a travel business provides immediate access to resources, including an IATA number, marketing support, and established client bases. This can be particularly beneficial for new agents who are just starting out and need guidance and support to build their careers.
On the other hand, starting your own travel business allows for greater autonomy and the potential for higher earnings. However, it also involves more risk and the responsibility of managing all aspects of the business, including marketing, finances, and client relationships. Host agencies like Fora often provide the necessary training and support to help you transition into running your own business if you choose to do so.
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Working for a Travel Agency | Access to resources, marketing support, established client base |
| Starting Your Own Agency | Greater autonomy, potential for higher earnings, but higher risk and more responsibility |
The job prospects for travel agents in Hawaii are promising. The state's thriving tourism industry and the increasing demand for personalized travel experiences create a favorable environment for travel agents. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the travel industry is expected to continue expanding, with an estimated 8,200 job openings for travel agents annually by 2033.
In Hawaii, travel agents can earn competitive salaries, with averages ranging from $44,608 to over $73,246 per year, depending on experience and location. Cities like Hilo and Honolulu offer particularly high average salaries for travel agents.
Becoming a travel agent in Hawaii is a rewarding and exciting career path, filled with opportunities to help others create unforgettable travel experiences. From meeting the basic requirements and obtaining necessary licenses, to finding a host business and participating in comprehensive training programs, each step is crucial in setting you up for success.
Continuing education and professional development are key to staying ahead in the industry. Staying updated with industry trends, attending conferences and travel seminars, and pursuing advanced certifications can significantly enhance your skills and credibility. These efforts not only benefit your career but also ensure that you provide the best possible service to your clients.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Basic Requirements | Age, criminal record, educational background, and essential skills |
| Licenses and Registrations | Hawaii Seller of Travel License, client trust account setup |
| Host Agency | Access to IATA number, marketing support, and training programs |
| Training and Certification | Academic programs, host business training, and industry certifications like TAP, CTA, CTC |
| Specialization | Niches like honeymoons, family vacations, business travel, budget trips, and luxury travel |
| Continuing Education | Staying updated with industry trends, attending conferences, and advanced certifications |
As you embark on this journey, remember that becoming a successful travel agent in Hawaii requires dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for delivering exceptional service. With the right training, support, and mindset, you can build a fulfilling and successful career in this beautiful and vibrant state.
With every step, from planning vacations to providing destination information and handling travel conflicts, you have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. So, take the first step today, and start your journey towards becoming a travel agent in the enchanting state of Hawaii.
🌴✈️
Six unique Hawaiian Islands. Immersive opportunities to visit Hawaii - to have an even more amazing experience by helping to regenerate the natural beauty, environment and culture of Hawaii. From crystal blue waters to stunning green cliffs and sandy beaches, Hawaii's wealth of natural beauty is not just a spectacular backdrop for your trip, but a chance to contribute to the flourishing of the distinctive islands, people and culture that come alive when you selflessly give of yourself. Delve a little bit deeper, and you'll discover not just a thriving food scene, timeless culture and breathtaking natural wonders but also vibrant communities that long for visitors to truly care about Hawaii and take part in long-standing efforts to malama.
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The #1 most visited Hawaiian island! Vibrant cities, dynamic dining and serene scenery. Oahu is aptly called "The Gathering Place" and is an island of rich contrasts.
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Luxury resorts set against white-sand beaches, charming small towns tucked against country roads that wind along the coast and into green-flanked mountains. The remote and sacred Haleakala National Park offers a taste of history and culture.
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The largest of the Hawaiian Islands is also the most geographically diverse, creating a setting you'll treasure for a lifetime.
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Kauai retains a wild beauty, with waterfalls that carve their way down canyons, dazzline white sand beaches and cliffs that soar out of the sea.
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Lanai has few paved roads, no crowds and lots of space to unplug and let the island's slower pace of life sooth your soul. Explore the island's historic town, a short and scenic ride upcountry and through tree-lined vistas from the harbor.
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A mere 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest, this rural island is home to excellent wonders - including the tallest sea cliffs and Hawaii's longest continous fringing reef.
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There's enough beauty and activity in Hawaii to fill more vacations than we could take in a lifetime. With so much to choose from, first-time visitors need to be selective. Our recommendation is to settle first on the Hawaii you want to see. It might be beaches, a luau and nightlife; it might be rare orchids and hikes in the rain forest; it might be quiet countryside, small towns and scenic drives. Whatever the combination, there is almost certainly an island or islands best suited to your Hawaii vacation dreams.
Hawaii, quite literally, is growing. Active lava flows from Kilauea Volcano are forming new land daily. There's even a new island forming a few thousand feet/meters below the surface of the ocean, off the southeastern coast of the Big Island, that will someday become the newest Hawaiian island. In fact, it already has a name: Loihi.
Everyone will find something enjoyable in Hawaii, and different islands will appeal to different people. Each island is unique, with distinctive attractions, special places and geophysical features.
Here's a look at the eight primary islands and their major attractions:
Hawaii Island
Hawaii Island is commonly known as the Big Island for good reason. It's larger than all the other islands combined. But aside from Hilo (the county seat), Kailua-Kona (a popular visitor destination) and the luxurious resorts along the Kohala coast, it retains a rural flavor.
Major Destinations on the Big Island: the Kona coast; Kailua-Kona; Hilo; Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with two active volcanoes (Mauna Loa and Kilauea); Mauna Kea (the world's tallest mountain).
Big Island Attractions: If you're into the outdoors, this is the place for you. Attractions include sandy beaches in shades of green, red and black; beautiful coral reefs; snorkeling; deep-sea fishing; gorgeous flowers, including most of the orchids for lei made in the state; cattle and horse ranches; horseback riding; mesmerizing landscapes; cascading waterfalls; golf; watersports; and hiking. Nightlife and shopping are limited.
Kahoolawe
Access to this former U.S. Navy bombing target is strictly limited. Much of the island remains unusable because of unexploded ordnance.
Kauai
Kauai is the oldest and northernmost of the inhabited Hawaiian islands. Nature is its biggest draw.
Major Destinations on Kauai Island: Waimea Canyon, Kokee State Park, Poipu, Lihue, Napali Coast, Princeville, Hanalei.
Kauai Island Attractions: Mountains; valleys; waterfalls; spectacular beaches; hiking; fishing; golf; whale-watching; kayaking and sailing; bird-watching; ziplining; and snorkeling, surfing and other watersports. Shopping and nightlife are limited.
Lanai
The smallest of the main islands is quiet and uncrowded. It is 98% privately owned by Larry Ellison, CEO of Oracle Corp. Tourism is now the mainstay of the economy.
Lanai Island Attractions: Sailing, fishing, golfing, ocean rafting, hunting and back-road exploring.
Maui
Maui is the second most-visited Hawaiian island, after Oahu.
Major Destinations on Maui Island: Haleakala National Park, Iao Valley, Hana, Ka'anapali, Kihei, Lahaina, Wailea and Wailuku.
Maui Island Attractions: Wonderful beaches; calm ocean bays; stunning mountain and volcano vistas; sugarcane fields; highland ranches; twisting mountain roads; whale-watching; upcountry agriculture tours; golf; hiking; ziplining; sailing and other boat excursions; deep-sea fishing; and watersports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing and parasailing.
Molokai
This rural island is best suited for travelers who want to see the old Hawaii and unwind quietly.
Major Destinations on Molokai Island: Kaunakakai, Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Halawa Valley.
Molokai Island Attractions: Isolated beaches, mountains, waterfalls, deep-sea fishing, history, hiking and relaxing.
Niihau
This tiny, privately owned island is also known as the Forbidden Island. Home to about 200 native Hawaiians who live a traditional lifestyle, it is off-limits to visitors. Only those who book a tour with Niihau Helicopters can land there.
Oahu
Oahu is the political, social, economic and population hub of Hawaii. It attracts the most visitors of all the Hawaiian islands.
Major Destinations on Oahu Island: Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, the North Shore.
Oahu Island Attractions: City life, including theater, opera, museums, shopping, nightclubs and fine dining; lush greenery; beautiful beaches; great historic sites; sailing; surfing, windsurfing, kayaking and other watersports; golf; and hiking.
The state of Hawaii comprises eight main islands—Kauai, Niihau, Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe and Hawaii—and the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, a string of mostly uninhabited atolls, small islands and reefs that stretch across nearly 140,000 sq mi/362,598 sq km of the Pacific Ocean.
The Northwestern Hawaiian Islands harbor more than 7,000 species of undersea creatures, one-fourth of which are found nowhere else in the world. Former U.S. President George W. Bush designated this region Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument in 2006. It is the single largest conservation area in the U.S.
Of the main islands, Kauai, with tiny Niihau off its leeward coast, is the oldest and northernmost. As you travel south down the island chain, you'll find Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, Kahoolawe and Hawaii, or the Big Island. There, Ka Lae, also known as South Point, has earned distinction as the southernmost point in the U.S. The Hawaiian Islands are volcanic in origin, with active eruptions continuing on the Big Island.
Honolulu, the state capital, is located on Oahu. The other islands are sometimes referred to as the "Neighbor Islands."
Polynesians arrived in the Hawaiian Islands more than 1,500 years ago, one of many moves these people had undertaken over the centuries. Evidence suggests that these first settlers of Hawaii set out from the Marquesas Islands in present-day French Polynesia—and never expected to return there. Their oceangoing canoes were filled with domesticated animals (chickens, dogs and pigs), plants and seeds—everything they needed to start their new home. In time, the islands came to be ruled by a powerful hierarchy of chiefs and nobles, who oversaw elaborate agricultural projects and the construction of many ceremonial shrines and temples.
In January 1778, British explorer James Cook and his two ships reached Kauai. (This may have been the first Western contact with Hawaii, though another theory holds that a Spanish ship may have visited the area in the 1500s.) Cook's party traded with the locals and reported that the Polynesians were fascinated by anything made of iron. Common nails became valuable items for trade, and sailors used them to woo Hawaiian women, from whom they received a very cordial welcome. Unfortunately, this contact passed venereal disease to the Hawaiians, the first of many Western ailments that would devastate the population.
When Cook returned to the islands the next year, things didn't go as smoothly. A dispute arose when Hawaiians on the Big Island at Kealakekua Bay, Kona, took one of the ship's small boats. Violence broke out, and Cook was killed. For many years, the islands were known in the West by the name Cook gave them, the Sandwich Islands (after the Earl of Sandwich, Cook's benefactor who financed his voyages of exploration).
At roughly the same time that Europeans first came in contact with Hawaii, internal politics and warfare were also redefining the islands. Each island was ruled independently until King Kamehameha I (1758-1819) united them by force. The continuing presence of Westerners played a role in the wars: The armaments of the newcomers were a decisive factor in Kamehameha's victory. Greater encroachment by outsiders took place in the 1800s, with two rather divergent groups—Calvinist missionaries and whale-hunting seamen—leading the charge.
In the mid-1800s, another group, sugar planters, became a force in Hawaii. They gained control of large parcels of land, imported foreign workers and eventually, in 1893, orchestrated the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani, the last reigning Hawaiian monarch.
The Hawaiian Islands were annexed to the U.S. in 1898, though the island election approving annexation excluded most native-born Hawaiians. Hawaii became a U.S. territory in 1900. In 1941, the Japanese attack on the Pearl Harbor naval base on Oahu brought the U.S. into World War II. Following the war, the movement favoring statehood gained strength, and on 21 August 1959, Hawaii became the 50th U.S. state.
Most of Hawaii's sugar plantations closed by the mid-1990s. Since then, crops have diversified. Farmers statewide now grow coffee, flowers, macadamia nuts and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Tourism now is the state's major industry.
Aloha Oe, perhaps the most famous Hawaiian song, was written by Queen Liliuokalani, the last reigning monarch of the islands.
There is no "s" in the Hawaiian language, so the proper plural for lei is lei, luau for luau, and so forth.
Venture up 3,379-ft/1,048-m Lanaihale (Lanai's highest point) on a clear day, and you'll see Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe and the Big Island in one magnificent panorama.
Virtually all of the tropical fruits and flowers associated with Hawaii, including orchids, plumeria, pineapple, papaya and mango, were introduced from other countries.
Molokai claims the highest sea cliffs in the world. They rise nearly 4,000 ft/1,240 m along the island's northeast coast.
Hawaii has some 300 endangered plants and animals—which represents about one-quarter of all endangered species in the U.S. Both its state mammal (the humpback whale) and state bird (the nene or Hawaiian goose) are endangered.
Passed in 1972, Kauai County's "Coconut Tree Ordinance" prohibits the construction of buildings taller than 55 ft/17 m (four stories or roughly the height of a mature coconut palm). There are, however, two exceptions: the Kauai Marriott (which was built as the Kauai Surf in 1961, before the law was passed) and the St. Regis Princeville Resort (which is 11 stories, but eight stories go down the side of a cliff).
About 70% percent of Hawaii's population live on Oahu, which represents just 9% of the state's total land area.
Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. where coffee, vanilla and cacao (which is used to make chocolate) are grown commercially.
Hawaii is the only U.S. state that has royal palaces: Hulihee Palace in Kailua Village on the Big Island and Iolani Palace and Queen Emma Summer Palace in Honolulu on Oahu. King Kalakaua installed electric lights in Iolani Palace in 1887—four years before any were installed in the White House.
A list of travel tips and tricks for hawaii.
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