Hawaii is the most remote major island chain on Earth, and its isolation has produced a place full of natural and cultural wonders. Here are ten fun facts.

1. It is the most isolated population center in the world

The Hawaiian Islands lie roughly 2,400 miles from the nearest continent.

2. The Big Island is still growing

Active volcanoes, including Kilauea, regularly add new land as lava flows reach the sea.

3. It is the only U.S. state with a royal palace

Iolani Palace in Honolulu was the official residence of Hawaiian royalty, a reminder that Hawaii was once a kingdom.

4. The Hawaiian alphabet has just 13 letters

It consists of five vowels and eight consonants, plus a glottal stop called the okina.

5. It has most of the world’s climate zones

From tropical rainforest to alpine tundra, the islands contain a remarkable range of environments.

6. Surfing originated here

Wave riding was a central part of ancient Hawaiian culture long before it spread around the world.

7. It is home to one of the world’s tallest mountains

Measured from its base on the ocean floor, Mauna Kea is taller than Mount Everest.

8. There are no snakes native to the islands

Strict rules help keep invasive snakes out to protect the native ecosystem and bird species.

9. It grows coffee commercially

Hawaii is the only U.S. state that grows coffee on a commercial scale, with Kona coffee especially prized.

10. The state fish has a wonderfully long name

The humuhumunukunukuapuaa is a reef triggerfish whose name is famously fun to say.

Remote, volcanic and culturally rich, Hawaii is unlike anywhere else in the United States.