ALOHA! Hawaii is the youngest of the 50 U.S. states (coming into the union on August 21, 1959), and is the only U.S. state made up entirely of islands. Hawaii’s natural beauty, warm tropical climate, inviting waters and waves, and active volcanoes make it a popular destination for tourists, surfers, biologists, and volcanologists alike. Due to its mid-Pacific location, Hawaii has many North American and Asian influences along with its own vibrant native culture.