THE ISLA ND OF HAWA I ‘I Welcome to Kū ka‘apā Hawai‘i, he moku nui. ([It is well for] Hawai’i Island to show activity; it is the largest of the islands.) Hawai‘i Island should lead forth for she is the largest. ‘Ōlelo No‘eau #1885 Spanning over 4,028 square miles, Hawai‘i Island is a land of extremes, where untouched beauty stretches from active volcanoes to snow-capped peaks, green pasturelands to vast lava deserts, lush rainforests to vibrant valleys and beaches with sands in shades of white, amber, gray and black, while also being home to all but four of the world’s climate subzones. This diversity, coupled with an appreciation of the island’s history, culture and sense of place, creates a rewarding experience for visitors and residents alike. Centuries before King Kamehameha I, the great unifier of the Hawaiian Islands, four ali‘i (chiefs) ruled their respective islands with absolute authority. Cloaked in the plumage of native birds, these chiefs possessed mana (inherited, spiritual power) and upheld their kuleana (responsibility) to their people, ‘āina (land) and gods. They were so revered and celebrated that we still honor them today, centuries after their bones were secretly laid to rest to protect their mana. Their epic battles and deeds, preserved in oli (chants) and mele (songs), remain a vital part of each island’s identity and endure as poetic testaments to their leadership and legacy. Moku o Keawe, another name for Hawai‘i, means “island of Keawe” and honors Keaweikekahiali‘iokamoku, a 17th-century ali‘i who united the island through diplomacy, alliances and strategic marriages. His leadership ushered in a time of peace and prosperity, laying the foundation for his descendants, including his great- grandson Kamehameha, who later unified the Hawaiian Islands. Today, Hale o Keawe at Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park stands as a testament to his legacy. The ruling chiefs of Hawai‘i upheld unity, peace and prosperity, and their spirit endures through the stories and traditions that keep their memory alive. Experience The Island of Hawai‘i 7
