Hawaii County, Hawaii is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and is the largest county in the state. It is bordered by Maui County to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south and east. The county encompasses an area of 4,028 square miles (10,433 km2), making it larger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined.
The terrain in Hawaii County varies greatly from lush rainforests to barren lava fields. The northern part of the county is dominated by Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano which towers 13,796 feet (4,205 m) above sea level. The summit of Mauna Kea is often covered in snow during winter months and offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in all of Hawaii.
Kilauea volcano dominates much of Hawaii County’s southeastern region and has been erupting since 1983. The eruptions have created vast lava fields which cover almost 14 percent of Hawaii Island’s land area. Kilauea also serves as a sacred site for many native Hawaiians who consider it an important part of their culture and history.
The western side of Hawaii County features some spectacular beaches such as Kaunaoa Beach on Mauna Kea’s southern coast which offers great snorkeling opportunities due to its crystal-clear waters and abundance of tropical fish species. There are also numerous hiking trails throughout this region that offer breathtaking views over Hilo Bay as well as access to numerous waterfalls like Rainbow Falls which cascades 80 feet (24 m) into a pool below it.
Overall, Hawaii County offers visitors a wide range of attractions ranging from its lush rainforests and spectacular beaches to its active volcanoes and unique cultural experiences that can be found nowhere else on earth. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or simply want to relax on one its beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone in this incredible county.
Country seat and other main cities of Hawaii County, Hawaii
The county seat of Hawaii County is located in Hilo, the largest city in the county. Situated on the eastern coast of the Big Island, Hilo is a vibrant city with plenty of shopping and dining options as well as access to some of the best beaches on the island. The city’s downtown area is home to numerous historic buildings and monuments, including the Palace Theatre which dates back to 1925.
According to COUNTRYAAH.COM, other popular cities in Hawaii County include Kailua-Kona on the western coast and Waimea in the north. Kailua-Kona is known for its beautiful beaches and spectacular sunsets while Waimea is home to Parker Ranch, one of Hawaii’s oldest ranches which was founded in 1847 by John Palmer Parker.
Hawaii County also features numerous small towns such as Pahoa and Volcano which offer visitors a glimpse into rural Hawaiian life with charming local shops, restaurants, and galleries. The nearby villages of Naalehu and Pahala are both situated within Kaʻu District and offer access to some of Hawaii’s most impressive scenery including black sand beaches, lava fields, volcanic craters, and lush rainforests.
No matter which part of Hawaii County you visit you’ll be sure to find something special that will make your trip unforgettable. From its stunning scenery to its unique culture, this incredible county truly has something for everyone.
History of Hawaii County, Hawaii
Hawaii County is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and is the largest of all the counties in its state. The area was first inhabited by Polynesians who arrived around 1000 AD and established numerous settlements across the island. Later, Captain James Cook arrived in 1778 and eventually claimed the islands for Britain, establishing a British protectorate until it was ceded to the United States in 1898.
Hawaii County was officially established in 1905 and included all of the Hawaiian Islands except for Niihau, which remained part of Kauai County until it became part of Hawaii County in 1959. Over time, many immigrants from Asia, Europe, and North America have settled in Hawaii County, bringing with them a rich cultural heritage that can still be seen today.
The economy of Hawaii County is largely based on tourism as well as agriculture with crops such as sugarcane, macadamia nuts, coffee beans, and tropical fruits being grown here. The county is also home to two active volcanoes—Mauna Loa and Kilauea—which are popular tourist attractions. In addition to its natural beauty, Hawaii County offers visitors access to numerous cultural sites such as historic temples and museums that showcase its unique history.
Today, Hawaii County remains one of the most popular destinations for tourists from around the world who come here to enjoy its stunning scenery and unique culture. With its vibrant cities, lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, active volcanoes and more there’s something for everyone in this incredible county.
Economy of Hawaii County, Hawaii
Hawaii County is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and has a diverse economy that is largely based on tourism and agriculture. The county is home to numerous resorts, hotels, restaurants, and other tourist attractions that draw millions of visitors each year. In addition to its world-famous beaches, Hawaii County also offers visitors access to two active volcanoes—Mauna Loa and Kilauea—which are popular tourist attractions.
The agricultural sector in Hawaii County is also integral to the local economy with crops such as sugarcane, macadamia nuts, coffee beans, and tropical fruits being grown here. Many of these products are exported around the world or used for local consumption. Fishing is also an important industry in the county with many species of fish being caught in local waters.
The manufacturing sector in Hawaii County is relatively small but still contributes significantly to the local economy with products such as electronics and textiles being produced here. Other industries such as construction, finance, healthcare services, education services and government services also provide employment opportunities for residents of the county.
Overall, Hawaii County has a strong and diverse economy that provides jobs for many locals while also attracting tourists from around the world who come here to enjoy its stunning scenery and unique culture. With its vibrant cities, lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, active volcanoes and more there’s something for everyone in this incredible county.