Hawaii

Thanks to the tropical climate and miles of sandy beaches, the island chain of Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation spots in the world. Temperatures rarely deviate from the pleasantly warm average of 75 degrees, and the lush green mountains behind the white beaches make the islands perfect for relaxing. The most popular island, Oahu, is home to the capital and largest city in the state, Honolulu, as well as the famous and trendy Waikiki Beach. For years people have been coming here to get away from it all and soak up some of that tropical sunshine, not to mention the rich Hawaiian culture where hula dancing and luaus are much more than just a tourist attraction. Down the coast from the high-rise skyline of Waikiki, one will find Diamond Head, the most famous volcanic crater in the world. From miles away you can see the crystals in the lava rock sparkling like diamonds. Also on Oahu you can visit historic Pearl Harbor and a moving memorial to the USS Arizona. The rest of the Hawaiian Islands are more scarcely populated than Oahu but still full of amazing things to see. Just on the Big Island, one can visit a tropical rainforest, a snow-capped mountain top, as well as the stunning Akaka Falls. Hawaii is easily the most unique of the 50 states. Its Polynesian heritage gives it a culture all its own that people from all over the world have grown to love. It is the only US state with two official languages, English and Hawaiian. The island chain is also the most geographically isolated population center on Earth making it an ideal place to get away. Between the rich culture, natural beauty and warm climate, it's no wonder Hawaiians are known for their relaxed and cheerful demeanor.