The Islands of Hawaii: Names, Areas, and Facts

From the largest to the smallest, Hawaii's islands are a beautiful sight, home to diverse landscapes and unique ecosystems. This article will explore the names and details of all eight main and several smaller Hawaiian islands, along with additional information about the archipelago and its significance.

Island Names and Sizes

Here is a list of the Hawaiian islands, ranked from smallest to largest:

Kaho'olawe (33 square miles) Ni'ihau (173 square miles) Lanai (140 square miles) Molokai (260 square miles) Kauai (552 square miles) Oahu (597 square miles) Maui (727 square miles) Hawaii (4,028 square miles)

Other smaller islands and islets exist but are typically uninhabited and made up of cooled lava. Notably, the largest main islands in terms of area are as follows in descending order:

Hawaii (The Big Island) - 4,028 square miles Maui - 727 square miles Oahu - 597 square miles Kauai - 552 square miles Molokai - 260 square miles Lanai - 140 square miles Ni'ihau - 173 square miles Kaho'olawe - 33 square miles

About the Archipelago

Hawaii is not just the name of its largest island; it is an archipelago comprising a series of islands and islets. These are remnants of volcanoes that emerged from the Pacific Ocean floor, formed over millions of years through volcanic activity. The islands are part of the Hawaiian-Emperor chain, which stretches northwestward across the Pacific for over 3,500 miles.

A U.S. State and a Natural Wonder

Hawaii is not just an archipelago but also a U.S. state, making it a unique blend of natural beauty and urban development. The state of Hawaii consists of many islands, but the eight main islands are often referred to as the main constituents of the state. This includes Oahu, Maui, Hawaii (The Big Island), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Ni'ihau, and Kaho'olawe.

While Kaho'olawe remains uninhabited due to its history and recent rehabilitation efforts, Ni'ihau is privately owned by the Sinclair-Robinson family and is one of the world's last relatively untouched paradises. Other islands like Lanai and Kauai have seen significant development, making them vibrant and bustling tourist destinations.

Additional Notes

It's worth noting that the number 9 sometimes comes up in discussions of Hawaii islands, particularly if you count the island of Midway. Midway Atoll, located about 1,170 miles north of Hawaii, is a coral atoll with a barren and coral-like landmass. However, it is not part of the official main islands of Hawaii.

Las Vegas, Nevada, is often mentioned as the 9th main island of Hawaii due to its connection to Hawaii in popular culture and media, but this is more of a metaphorical or symbolical reference rather than a geographical or political one.

Conclusion

The islands of Hawaii are a marvel of nature, each with its own unique charm and story. Whether you are exploring the undeveloped beauty of Ni'ihau or the rich history of Maui, Hawaii offers something for every traveler. Understanding the geography and names of these islands can enhance your appreciation of this stunning archipelago.