Where is Hawaii Located in the United States?

Hawaii, located in the central Pacific Ocean, is the only U.S. state made up entirely of islands, offering a unique combination of tropical landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and volcanic geography. It is composed of eight major islands, with numerous smaller islands and atolls, spread over a vast area of the Pacific. Known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, Hawaii is one of the most geographically and ecologically diverse states in the U.S. Hawaii’s state facts include: state name: Hawaii, postal abbreviation: HI, population: approximately 1.46 million (2024 estimate), area: 10,931 square miles, capital: Honolulu, largest city: Honolulu, year of statehood: 1959, time zones: Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time Zone (HAST), with no daylight saving time.

Bordering States

Unlike any other U.S. state, Hawaii is entirely surrounded by water and does not have any bordering states. It is located about 2,400 miles from the continental U.S., with California being the nearest U.S. state to Hawaii’s main islands. The closest landmass to Hawaii is Alaska, which lies roughly 2,800 miles to the north. However, Hawaii’s geographical isolation in the Pacific means that it is not bordered by any states in the traditional sense.

Hawaii’s Proximity to Continental U.S.

The state is considered part of the larger Pacific region, and its closest American state neighbors are thousands of miles away. California is the closest state in the contiguous United States, lying roughly 2,400 miles to the east. Hawaii is roughly 3,850 miles from Washington, D.C., and about 5,000 miles from the easternmost points of the U.S., emphasizing its distant location from the mainland. This isolation contributes to Hawaii’s distinct culture, economy, and environment.

Hawaii’s lack of land borders has influenced its development and economy, particularly in areas like tourism, trade, and military presence. The state’s location in the Pacific makes it a strategic point for the U.S. military, and it plays an important role in trade with Asian countries due to its position as a midpoint between the Americas and Asia.

GPS Coordinates of Hawaii

Hawaii is located at the geographical coordinates between 18.9108° N and 28.4021° N in latitude, and 154.8066° W and 178.4925° W in longitude. These coordinates place Hawaii in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, about 2,400 miles southwest of California. Hawaii is one of the only U.S. states located entirely in the tropics, giving it a unique climate compared to other states.

The state’s central location is near 20.7967° N, 156.3319° W, positioning it firmly within the Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time Zone (HAST). Hawaii does not observe daylight saving time, so it remains 10 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT -10) year-round.

These coordinates place Hawaii in a strategic location for both cultural and economic exchanges. As the crossroads of the Pacific, the Hawaiian Islands have historically served as a meeting point for East and West, with influences from Polynesia, Asia, and the United States all converging on the islands. This unique blend of cultures is evident in the state’s architecture, food, and traditions.

The Hawaiian Islands span a significant distance across the Pacific, with the most northwestern island, Kure Atoll, located at 28.4021° N, and the southernmost island, Hawai‘i (Big Island), located at 18.9108° N. The state’s vast latitudinal spread means that even though Hawaii is a relatively small state in terms of land area, its oceanic territory is vast, covering more than 1,500 miles from the southeastern end of the island chain to the northwestern end.

Levels of Elevation in Hawaii

Hawaii’s elevation levels vary dramatically due to the state’s volcanic origin. The islands were formed by volcanic activity, and as a result, Hawaii features some of the most significant elevation changes in the United States, with active and dormant volcanoes dotting its landscape. The highest point in Hawaii is Mauna Kea, located on the Big Island, which rises to an elevation of 13,803 feet (4,207 meters) above sea level. Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano, but its height, when measured from the ocean floor, makes it the tallest mountain on Earth, surpassing Mount Everest.

Mauna Kea is an important site for astronomical research due to its high elevation and clear skies, housing some of the world’s most advanced observatories. Neighboring Mauna Loa, another massive volcano on the Big Island, stands at 13,678 feet (4,169 meters) and is the largest volcano by volume on Earth. Mauna Loa remains active, with its last eruption occurring in 2022.

The lowest point in Hawaii is, of course, sea level along its extensive coastline. Hawaii’s coastal areas are characterized by beautiful beaches, cliffs, and dramatic sea stacks. The state’s coastline, particularly on the Big Island and Maui, also features black sand beaches formed by volcanic activity, providing some of the most unique beach experiences in the world.

Hawaii’s other islands feature lower, yet still impressive, mountains and ridges. Mount Haleakalā on Maui reaches an elevation of 10,023 feet (3,055 meters) and is home to Haleakalā National Park, which draws visitors for its sunrises and expansive volcanic landscapes. The Koolau and Waianae mountain ranges on Oahu rise to elevations of about 4,000 feet, creating dramatic backdrops for the island’s urban areas, including Honolulu.

The variation in elevation across Hawaii’s islands contributes to diverse microclimates. The high-altitude regions of Mauna Kea and Haleakalā can experience cold temperatures and even snowfall, while the coastal areas remain warm and tropical year-round. This range of elevations creates a unique combination of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to alpine deserts.

Most Extreme Points of Hawaii

Hawaii’s most extreme points are defined by its geographical isolation and volcanic origins. The state’s extreme points are spread across the islands, each showcasing Hawaii’s diverse landscapes and unique features.

• Easternmost point: The easternmost point in Hawaii is Cape Kumukahi, located on the Big Island in the Puna District. Cape Kumukahi is known for its rugged coastline and its proximity to the Kīlauea volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The area around Cape Kumukahi has been shaped by lava flows from Kīlauea’s eruptions, creating dramatic black sand beaches and lava formations.
• Westernmost point: The westernmost point of Hawaii is Kaʻena Point, located on the island of Oahu. Kaʻena Point is a remote and rugged peninsula, home to a protected nature reserve that supports native seabirds and plant species. It is a popular hiking destination, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the chance to observe native wildlife in a pristine environment.
• Southernmost point: The southernmost point of Hawaii, and the entire United States, is Ka Lae, also known as South Point, located on the Big Island. Ka Lae is a windswept, remote area known for its dramatic cliffs and deep ocean currents. It has significant historical importance as one of the earliest known landing sites for Polynesian voyagers who first settled the Hawaiian Islands. Today, visitors to South Point can see ancient fishing platforms and take in expansive views of the Pacific.
• Northernmost point: The northernmost point in Hawaii is Kure Atoll, part of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Kure Atoll is located at the far end of the Hawaiian archipelago, far removed from the main islands, and is part of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, one of the largest marine conservation areas in the world. Kure Atoll is uninhabited and serves as an important habitat for seabirds and marine life, playing a crucial role in the preservation of Hawaii’s unique biodiversity.

Major Mountains in Hawaii

Hawaii’s mountains are primarily volcanic in origin, with the islands themselves being formed by volcanic activity over millions of years. The state is home to some of the most famous and significant volcanic mountains in the world.

• Mauna Kea: As the highest point in Hawaii, Mauna Kea is not only the tallest mountain in the state but also one of the tallest on Earth when measured from its base on the ocean floor. This dormant volcano on the Big Island rises to 13,803 feet (4,207 meters) above sea level. Mauna Kea is a popular destination for stargazing and astronomy, housing multiple observatories. It offers a unique landscape, with its summit often covered in snow during the winter months.
• Mauna Loa: Located on the Big Island, Mauna Loa is the world’s largest volcano by volume and one of the most active. It stands at 13,678 feet (4,169 meters) above sea level and covers half of the Big Island’s landmass. Mauna Loa has erupted many times over the centuries, with the most recent eruption occurring in 2022. The volcano is part of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws visitors from around the world to witness its impressive lava flows and geothermal activity.
• Haleakalā: On the island of Maui, Haleakalā is a massive shield volcano that forms the eastern half of the island. Its summit rises to 10,023 feet (3,055 meters), and the mountain’s crater is a popular destination for tourists seeking stunning sunrises and unique volcanic landscapes. Haleakalā National Park offers hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the mountain’s diverse ecosystems, from its desert-like summit to the lush rainforests on its slopes.
• Kohala: Another major mountain on the Big Island, Kohala is an extinct volcano that forms the northwestern part of the island. Although smaller than Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, Kohala rises to 5,480 feet (1,670 meters) and is known for its scenic valleys and waterfalls, particularly in the Waipiʻo Valley. The area is rich in Hawaiian history and culture, with many ancient sites scattered across its landscape.
• Waianae Range: The Waianae Range on the island of Oahu is an ancient volcanic mountain range that rises to 4,025 feet (1,227 meters) at its highest peak, Mount Kaʻala. This range forms the western backbone of Oahu and is home to several protected areas and hiking trails. Mount Kaʻala is Oahu’s highest point and provides panoramic views of the island’s lush landscapes and coastlines.

Hawaii’s volcanic mountains not only define the state’s geography but also play a crucial role in its ecosystem and culture. These mountains influence the weather patterns, create fertile soil for agriculture, and provide habitats for unique flora and fauna.

Major Rivers and Lakes in Hawaii

Hawaii’s islands are home to numerous rivers and streams, most of which are fed by the state’s abundant rainfall, particularly on the windward (eastern) sides of the islands. However, due to the state’s volcanic origin, there are fewer large natural lakes compared to the mainland United States.

• Wailuku River: The Wailuku River, located on the Big Island, is Hawaii’s longest river, stretching about 28 miles. It flows from the slopes of Mauna Kea down to Hilo Bay. The river is known for its waterfalls, including the famous Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots, a series of terraced pools that form in the river’s basaltic bed. The Wailuku River plays a critical role in the Big Island’s ecosystem and supports local agriculture.
• Waimea River: On the island of Kauai, the Waimea River flows through the spectacular Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The river stretches about 12 miles and is fed by the rainwater from the island’s wet, mountainous interior, particularly from Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest places on Earth. The river’s deep red canyon walls create a stunning contrast with the lush greenery surrounding it.
• Anahulu River: Located on Oahu, the Anahulu River is the island’s longest river, flowing through the town of Haleiwa on the North Shore. The river is a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, and its calm waters flow into Waialua Bay.
• Lake Waiau: One of Hawaii’s few natural lakes, Lake Waiau is a small, glacial lake located near the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island. Situated at an elevation of 13,020 feet (3,970 meters), it is one of the highest lakes in the United States. Despite its small size, Lake Waiau holds cultural significance for Native Hawaiians and is considered sacred.
• Wahiawa Reservoir (Lake Wilson): Located on the island of Oahu, Lake Wilson is one of Hawaii’s largest man-made reservoirs, created by the Wahiawa Dam on the Kaukonahua Stream. The reservoir is used primarily for irrigation, serving the central part of Oahu. It is also a popular fishing destination, with species like bass and catfish inhabiting its waters.

Hawaii’s rivers and lakes are vital to the state’s ecosystems, providing freshwater for agriculture, wildlife, and human use. Additionally, these water bodies contribute to Hawaii’s natural beauty, offering recreational opportunities and supporting the islands’ unique biodiversity.