Hawaii is perhaps the most unique of the 50 American states, and as a result, people who call the Aloha State home have a distinct perspective on life. While living on an island chain in the middle of the Pacific Ocean has its frustrations and annoyances, most locals will agree that there is no place they’d rather live — and here are 14 reasons why. There’s certainly so much to love about Hawaii.

1. Hanging out at the beach.
Mike McCune/Flickr
Is there really anything better than spending time with your friends in or near the crystalline waters of the Pacific Ocean?
2. Staying active.
Steve Worster/Flickr
From surfing, SUP, and scuba diving to hiking, kayaking, and even skydiving, Hawaii locals ove it all and we're lucky to have access to these activities year round. No need for a gym membership here!
3. Malasadas, shave ice, spam musubi, acai bowls, rice, mac salad, etc.
Kanaka Menehune/Flickr
Everyone who lives in Hawaii loves these amazing foods, though honestly — we also just like eating in general.
4. We also absolutely adore fresh fruit.
Prayitno/Flickr
This includes pineapples, mangos, papaya, lilikoi, guava, coconut and many others. Have you really lived until you've tried lychee fresh from the tree?
5. Near-perfect tropical weather.
Andy Beal/Flickr
Let's be honest: we like our sun bright, our trade winds constant, and our weather warm. Don't forget about the rain showers — yeah, we like those ten minutes a day, too.
6. Living slowly.
Kristina D.C. Hoeppner/FlickrKristina D.C. Hoeppner/Flickr
In Hawaii, life is meant to be lived a little slower than on the mainland — and that’s exactly how we like it.
7. Getting up early.
Justin De La Ornellas/Flickr
Whether you are trying to squeeze in a pre-work surf session or catch the sunrise from the top of a mountain, getting up early is just part of the life. Besides, it's easier to wake up in the morning when you are promised a cup of Kona coffee. or a signature Hawaiian sunrise.

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8. Being barefoot.
Markus Spiske/Flickr
People in Hawaii don’t wear shoes on the beach — and definitely not in anyone’s house. When we do wear shoes, they’re "slippahs." The only time I put on regular shoes is to go on a particularly strenuous hike where good traction is a must.
9. Living amongst wildlife.
Steve Jurvetson/Flickr
From honu (green sea turtles) and vibrant tropical fish to whales, dolphins, and geckos, Hawaii has got it all. If you haven't been swimming with a Hawaiian green sea turtle yet, add the experience to your bucket list immediately!
10. Hawaiian sunsets.
Floyd Manzano/Flickr
There is really nothing more magical than a Hawaiian sunset — except maybe a beautiful sunrise.
11. Rainbows.
Rowent/Flickr
Hawaii is known as the Rainbow State for a reason. It doesn’t matter how often I see a rainbow, I always stop and admire the beauty that is Hawaii.
12. Free entertainment.
Marvin Chandra/Flickr
The cost of living in Hawaii may be astronomical, but at least many of our favorite activities — like swimming, hiking, and snorkeling — are free!
13. A welcome lack of snakes.
Carolyn/Flickr
Yeah, you read that right. There are no snakes in Hawaii, and we definitely love this fact.
14. Spreading the Aloha spirit to everyone they meet!
Kris Nelson/Flickr
The Aloha Spirit sure is intoxicating.

Tell us, what is your favorite thing about living in the Aloha State? What else do you absolutely love about Hawaii? Sound off in the comments below!

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More to Explore

Living And Loving In Hawaii

Megan Shute | August 10, 2020

What is it like to live in Hawaii?

Like anywhere, there are certainly pros and cons to living in Hawaii. If you’re new to island living, you might find yourself experiencing a bit of culture shock — after all, as the most isolated population center on the planet, the Hawaiian Islands are unlike anywhere else in the world. From the islands’ culture and history to our traditions, favorite foods, and strange habits, everything about living in Hawaii is a little bit, well, different.

What are the best things about living in Hawaii?

There’s nowhere else we’d rather call home than the beautiful Aloha State. Across the Hawaiian Islands, life is a little slower, and we choose to embody the Aloha Spirit in everything we do. From the stunning, panoramic views and that intoxicating tropical ocean breeze to the mouthwatering local food and an emphasis on ohana, there are so, so many things to love about living in Hawaii — but everyone has their own opinions. I think we can all agree that the rest of America could learn a thing or two about life from the islands, though.

Why does everyone want to vacation to Hawaii? 

Isn't it obvious? The Hawaiian Islands are home to unparalleled natural beauty as well as a tropical climate, fascinating history and culture, and mouthwatering local food. Add in the welcoming Aloha Spirit and our beautiful weather and we can't understand why anyone wouldn't want to enjoy an island vacation.

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