Kahoolawe
Kahoolawe is the smallest major Hawaiian island and serves as a symbol of restoration and resilience, featuring desolate landscapes and marine preserves. Access is restricted but guided visits and cultural education are permitted.
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Geography
| Continent | Oceania |
|---|---|
| Region | Hawaii |
| Subregion | Polynesia |
| Country | United States |
| State | Hawaii |
| County | Kahoolawe Island District |
| District | Kahoolawe |
| City | Kahoolawe |
| Timezone | PacificHonolulu |
| Latitude | 20.5 |
| Longitude | -156.9 |
| Maps |
4:13 PM LOCAL TIMEKahoolawe is a small, arid Hawaiian island that played a long but tragic role in modern history as a military bombing target. Since being placed under conservation and cultural protection, it has transitioned toward a focus on restoration and Taíno cultural revival. The island’s landscapes are stark and wind-shaped, with sparse vegetation and well-preserved archeological sites, while surrounding waters are protected for coral reefs and tuna and turtle populations. Visitation is by permit and typically involves guided trips emphasizing cultural context, environmental recovery projects, and safety given residual hazards from historic use. Despite limited access, Kahoolawe remains a powerful symbol of healing and an increasingly important site for native-led environmental and cultural programs.
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