How Big Is the Big Island of Hawaii Compared to Other States?
The Big Island of Hawaii, also known as Hawai’i Island, is often overshadowed by its popular counterparts, such as Oahu and Maui. However, what it lacks in popularity, it more than makes up for in size. In fact, the Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is larger than many U.S. states. Let’s take a closer look at just how big the Big Island is compared to other states in the U.S.
The Big Island spans a vast area of approximately 4,028 square miles (10,432 square kilometers). To put this into perspective, it is larger than the states of Delaware and Rhode Island combined. In fact, it is even larger than Connecticut, the third smallest state in the U.S. by land area. This gives you an idea of just how expansive the Big Island truly is.
To provide further context, let’s compare the size of the Big Island to other states across the U.S.:
1. Rhode Island: The Big Island is roughly five times the size of Rhode Island, which measures about 1,034 square miles (2,678 square kilometers). The island’s size dwarfs this small northeastern state.
2. Delaware: With an area of approximately 1,949 square miles (5,047 square kilometers), Delaware is surpassed by the Big Island by more than double its size.
3. Connecticut: Connecticut, often considered a small state, spans about 5,543 square miles (14,356 square kilometers). The Big Island is still significantly larger, highlighting its vastness.
4. New Jersey: Known for its densely populated areas, New Jersey measures around 8,722 square miles (22,591 square kilometers). The Big Island is almost half the size of the Garden State.
5. Massachusetts: The Big Island is only slightly smaller than Massachusetts, which covers an area of about 10,554 square miles (27,336 square kilometers). The two are relatively comparable in size.
6. Hawaii: It’s interesting to note that the Big Island is not the largest of all the Hawaiian Islands. That title goes to the state of Hawaii, which includes the Big Island and is made up of multiple islands. The state of Hawaii covers approximately 6,423 square miles (16,638 square kilometers). The Big Island itself makes up a significant portion of this total area.
FAQs:
Q: Is the Big Island the largest island in the United States?
A: No, the Big Island is the largest island within the state of Hawaii, but the largest island in the U.S. is Kodiak Island in Alaska, which measures approximately 3,595 square miles (9,311 square kilometers).
Q: How long does it take to drive around the Big Island?
A: Driving around the Big Island can take anywhere from 5 to 8 hours, depending on traffic, stops, and detours. The island’s diverse landscapes and scenic routes make for an exciting road trip experience.
Q: How many people live on the Big Island?
A: As of the latest data, the estimated population of the Big Island is around 200,000 residents. However, this number may vary as population trends change over time.
Q: What are some must-visit attractions on the Big Island?
A: The Big Island offers a plethora of attractions, including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea Observatories, Akaka Falls State Park, and Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. These are just a few of the many remarkable sights to explore on the island.
In conclusion, the Big Island of Hawaii is not only a hidden gem in terms of its popularity but also in its sheer size. Spanning over 4,000 square miles, it surpasses several U.S. states in terms of land area. Its vastness and diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a glimpse into the unique culture of Hawaii.