18 Undeniable Reasons Why Hawaii Is Absolutely Paradise

With stunning natural scenery — from crystalline turquoise waters and fine white sand to towering, verdant mountain peaks — as well as a unique culture, tropical weather, and so, so much more, Hawaii is an absolute paradise. Everyone dreams of visiting Hawaii, and it isn’t necessarily hard to convince anyone that a trip — or even a move — to the Aloha state is worth every second, but here are 18 things that make Hawaii so special.

1. Living Aloha

2. The Beaches

When you live in, or visit, Hawaii, you are never very far from a good beach, whether you want to surf on Oahu’s North Shore, or relax on Lumahai Beach, pictured here.

3. The Climate

While there are merits to having four distinct seasons, it is also pretty nice to never have to worry about the weather, because it is always approximately 70 to 90 degrees.

4. Slippahs

That's what Hawaiians call flip-flops, and unless you are hiking up a mountain, they are the only shoes you will ever need.

5. Hiking

Speaking of hiking, Hawaii is a hiker's dream, with numerous trails of differing lengths, elevation and views — because running on a treadmill is boring.

6. Eternal Sunshine

While it does rain quite frequently in Hawaii, all you need to do is either wait ten minutes, or drive to the other side of the island to experience sun, or rain. Plus, rainbows!

7. Kona Coffee

Need I say more? I will anyways, because Kona coffee is famous across the world, and it is grown right in our backyards.

8. Water Sports

In Hawaii, we have it all — kayaking, surfing, fishing, SUP, snorkeling, scuba, etc.

9. Iolani Palace

Once home to King Kamehameha, Iolani is the only royal palace on U.S. soil, and that’s pretty cool.

10. Volcanoes

Each state has their own unique terrain and even natural disasters, but nothing is more beautiful than a visit to one of Hawaii’s volcanoes — especially Volcano National Park on the Big Island.

11. We have snow, too.

Yes, you read that right. Snow is possible on the summits of Hawaii’s three tallest volcanoes, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea and Haleakala.

12. Pearl Harbor

An incredibly humbling experience, the historic sites at Pear Harbor give you a true glimpse of WWII history.

13) Luaus

A truly unique Hawaiian experience.

14. Sea Life

Whether you are snorkeling at the famous Haunauma Bay or cage diving with sharks, incredible experiences in the Pacific Ocean are just a step away.

15. Island Hopping

We may not get to take road trips, but we can always hop on a quick flight to a neighboring island for a weekend getaway.

16. H-3

The H-3 highway cuts through the Ko’olau Mountains on Oahu and is positively surreal.

17. Locally Grown Fruit

There is absolutely nothing better than fresh pineapple from the Dole Plantation, or a trip to your neighborhood farmer’s market.

18. Film Culture

They filmed Jurassic Park, Planet of the Apes, 50 First Dates — and countless other movies — in Hawaii. Enough said.

Whether you are a local, a transplant, or simply like visiting the Aloha State for a yearly vacation, Hawaii is an absolute paradise for adrenaline junkies and beach bums alike. So, why do you love Hawaii? Sound off in the comments.

And if you ever need more proof that Hawaii is the best state in America, here are 16 stunning photos sure to amaze you.