| Nickname: |
The Big Island/The Orchid Isle |
| Flower: |
Lehua 'ohi'a |
| Color: |
Red |
| Area: |
4,028 sq. miles (twice the combined size of the
other Hawaiian islands) |
| Average temperature: |
Hilo - 71F
Kailua-Kona: 73F
Mauna Kea summit: 31 - 45 F |
| Average rainfall: |
131 inches at Hilo Airport
10 inches near Kawaihae (Kona Coast) |
| Population: |
143,135 |
| Tourists: |
The island of Maui is Hawai'i's second most popular
destination. West Maui, with the sprawling beaches and resorts
of Ka'anapali and the historic whaling town of Lahaina, is one
of Maui's major resort areas. South Maui is home to the island's
other main resort area, Kihei/Wailea. Although the tropical
north shore of Maui does not offer hotels, visitors can choose
between bed & breakfast establishments or rental homes. |
| Science & Technology: |
Mauna Kea has 13 major astronomical facilities
representing the cooperation of 10 countries. The Subaru Telescope
Facility represents a new class of highly accurate, revolutionary
telescopes. The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii at Keahole
Point promotes ocean-related research, education and commercial
activities using deep-ocean technology. |
| Notable Facts: |
The big island is the youngest and largest of
the Hawaiian islands, still growing every day (Kilauea Caldera
is the longest continually erupting volcano in recorded history).
The Big Island is home to five volcanoes, three of which are
active. Mauna Loa erupts an average of once every 5 years; Hualalai
last erupted in 1801; and Kilauea has erupted continuously since
1983. Kohala is the Big Island's oldest volcano. Mauna Kea,
which rises 13,796 ft. above sea level, is the world's tallest
mountain when measured from its submarine base. It is normally
snowcapped in the winter. The Orchid Isle is approximately 0.7million
years old. There are 12 distinct climate zones, ranging from
rain forest to tundra. The rain forests are on the eastern portion
of the island, while the western side receives very little rain.
Ka Lae, also known as South Point, is the southernmost point
in the US. |
