A direct flight from New York City to Hawaii clocks in at around 11 hours, a distance that feels more suited to international travel than domestic. Yet, Hawaii — a collection of breathtaking islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean — is very much part of the United States. The geographical separation alone makes Hawaii a unique state, but its cultural and historical underpinnings truly set it apart.
Having recently traveled to Honolulu, the heart of the Hawaiian Islands, I experienced firsthand the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity, and the challenges that come with being a U.S. state while preserving a rich indigenous culture.
Landing in Hawaii feels like stepping into a different world. The natural beauty is overwhelming, with emerald mountains that seem to rise straight out of the ocean, crystal-clear waters lapping at the shores, and an endless sky that seems bluer than anywhere else. Beaches are everywhere, drawing visitors from around the globe to enjoy the tropical paradise.
Yet, this paradise is not just a playground for tourists. For native Hawaiians, the land, or ʻāina, holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. The connection to the land is not merely about beauty, but about identity, sustenance, and community. The lush mountains and fertile valleys are not just Instagram-worthy backdrops — they are places imbued with stories, legends, and ancestral ties.
What struck me most about Hawaii was the resilience and visibility of its indigenous culture. In a country where many indigenous traditions have been marginalized or erased, Hawaiian culture manages to maintain prominence. From the moment you land, you are greeted with the aloha spirit — a concept that transcends a simple greeting and embodies love, peace, and compassion. This spirit is woven into daily life, from the traditional lei (a garland worn around the neck) given as a welcome gift to the reverence for hula dancing and mele (songs). The aloha spirit extends beyond individual interactions; it is a guiding philosophy that shapes how communities operate and welcome outsiders. This communal ethos stands in stark contrast to the often individualistic culture found on the mainland, cultivating Hawaii’s distinct social fabric.
But this cultural visibility did not unfold without struggle. The history of Hawaii is marked by colonization, the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893, and its eventual annexation by the United States in 1898. The native Hawaiian population suffered greatly due to disease, displacement, and the erosion of their traditional ways of life. For decades, speaking the Hawaiian language was discouraged, and cultural practices were suppressed.
In recent years, however, there has been a renaissance. The Hawaiian language, once on the brink of extinction, is now taught in schools, and immersion programs are thriving. Hula and other traditional practices are being reclaimed not just as art forms but as acts of resistance and pride. This revival serves as a reminder of the resilience of native Hawaiians in reclaiming and preserving their cultural identity despite historical hardships.
At the same time, Hawaii is a modern U.S. state, complete with the infrastructure and issues that come with urbanization. Honolulu, the capital city, is a bustling metropolis with high-rise buildings, sprawling shopping centers, and a vibrant nightlife. The juxtaposition of tradition and modernity is particularly evident in areas like Waikiki, where luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton line the streets just a stone’s throw away from the historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel. While these developments attract visitors and contribute to the economy, they also highlight the tensions between preserving cultural identity and embracing globalization. For residents, the cost of living in Hawaii is among the highest in the nation, driven in part by the demand for real estate in such a desirable location. Many native Hawaiians and long-time residents have been priced out of their ancestral lands, forced to move to less expensive areas or even to the mainland.
Environmental sustainability is another pressing issue for Hawaii. The islands’ fragile ecosystems are under constant threat from climate change, over-tourism, and urban sprawl. Rising sea levels and coastal erosion jeopardize not only the natural beauty but also the cultural heritage tied to the land. Traditional taro farming, an essential part of native Hawaiian agriculture and diet, is threatened by changes in water availability and land development.
However, these challenges have led to innovative efforts by local communities to practice sustainable living and protect their natural resources. For instance, community-based fishpond restoration projects aim to revive ancient aquaculture techniques while addressing food security concerns. Efforts to balance economic growth with environmental preservation are ongoing, but finding this equilibrium remains a challenge.
Additionally, the tourism industry presents its own set of complexities. On the one hand, it is a major economic driver: it sustains jobs and brings in revenue. On the other hand, though, it often exacerbates the strain on local resources, including water, energy, and land.
With tourism comprising a substantial 21% of the state’s economy, the influx of millions of tourists each year can sometimes clash with local traditions and values. Native Hawaiians and local activists have voiced concerns about the commodification of their culture, urging for more respectful and sustainable tourism practices. Educational campaigns aim to bridge this gap, encouraging visitors to engage with Hawaii in a way that is mindful and respectful. “Tourists can be allies in preserving our culture if they choose to learn and support local efforts,” one native Hawaiian educator explained during a community meeting I attended.
Many organizations and community leaders strive to ensure that Hawaii’s growth does not come at the expense of its cultural and ecological identity. For example, programs like the Merrie Monarch Festival celebrate traditional Hawaiian arts, particularly hula, in a way that educates and inspires both locals and visitors. Community-led initiatives, such as the protection of Mauna Kea from overdevelopment, have demonstrated the strength and unity of the Hawaiian people when it comes to defending their heritage.
“Mauna Kea is more than a mountain,” a local activist, Terence, explained to me. “It’s a symbol of our responsibility to the land and our ancestors.” The ongoing debate surrounding Mauna Kea highlights the broader struggles faced by indigenous communities in asserting their sovereignty and protecting sacred sites.
Education and activism play crucial roles in addressing these challenges. Programs promoting cultural literacy among visitors aim to foster a deeper appreciation for Hawaii’s history and traditions. Initiatives like the “Mālama Hawaii” campaign encourage tourists to give back to the land through volunteer activities, such as beach cleanups and reforestation efforts. Schools and community organizations continue to emphasize the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and empowering future generations to advocate for their heritage. Additionally, partnerships between local governments and grassroots organizations are pushing for policies that prioritize environmental conservation and cultural preservation over unchecked development.
As someone who had the privilege of visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center, I witnessed firsthand how cultural preservation is being championed in ways that are both educational and entertaining. Visitors are invited to participate in traditional activities, watch performances, and learn about the rich histories of various Polynesian islands, including Hawaii. This experience highlights the importance of connecting with and respecting the cultures we encounter. Similarly, local schools and institutions play a pivotal role in nurturing cultural pride among younger generations by incorporating Hawaiian language and traditions into their curriculums.
Despite the complexities, Hawaii’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, natural beauty, and cultural richness remains awe-inspiring. It is a place where the past and present intertwine, creating a tapestry of resilience and hope. For native Hawaiians, the journey of reclaiming their identity and navigating their place in the modern world is ongoing. For visitors like me, the opportunity to witness and learn from this remarkable culture is an unforgettable gift. Hawaii is not just a destination — it is a profound lesson in the power of perseverance and the enduring connection between people and their land.
A direct flight from New York City to Hawaii clocks in at around 11 hours, a distance that feels more suited to international travel than domestic. Yet, Hawaii — a collection of breathtaking islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean — is very much part of the United States. The geographical separation alone makes Hawaii a unique state, but its cultural and historical underpinnings truly set it apart.