Hawaii County, HI
Music connected to Hawaii County
About Hawaii County
- • Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, the famous musician, was born in Honolulu but spent much of his life in Hawaii County.
- • The Hawaiian cowboy culture, known as paniolo, originated in Hawaii County in the 19th century.
- • Sugar plantations put Hawaii County on the map, attracting labor and investment in the 19th century.
- • Hawaii County is the only county in the United States that continues to grow coffee commercially.
- • A devastating tsunami in 1946 significantly altered Hilo's coastline and infrastructure.
- • Hawaii County was established in 1905 and named after the island of Hawai'i itself.
- • With over 200,000 residents, it's the second-most populous county in the state after Honolulu.
- • Mauna Kea's summit reaches 13,803 feet, offering unparalleled astronomical viewing.
- • Tourism is a major industry, attracting visitors to experience the island's natural beauty.
- • The air feels like a warm embrace, infused with the scent of plumeria and volcanic earth.
- • While no major pro teams reside there, the NFL's Pro Bowl has occasionally been held in Honolulu.
- • The Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo celebrates Hawaiian culture and hula traditions every spring.
