Big Island Overview
The Big Island of Hawaii is the youngest and largest island in the Hawaiian chain. Also know as the Orchid Isle, the Big Island is 4,028 square miles of land and is twice the combined size of all the other islands put together.The Big Island was formed by five volcanoes, two of which are still active. In fact, Kilauea Volcano is the world’s most continuously active volcano.Besides active volcanoes, the Big Island also boasts the southernmost point in the United States as well as the tallest mountains in the state at 13,796 ft.The Big Island also has the most diverse climates of all the Hawaiian Islands. From tropical rainforests to open prairie and snow covered mountains – just about every possible climate exists on this beautiful island.
Besides tourism, the Big Island’s major industry, other significant industries on the island include:
- The largest macadamia nut industry in the world
- The largest orchid growing business in the world
- The major coffee industry in the United States
- The major ginger producer in the United States
- The largest astronomy research facilities in the world
- Aquaculture with over 43 farms producing shellfish, finfish and algae, valued at $13.1 million