Hawaii may be the youngest American state, but that doesn’t mean we also aren’t the best state in the country. Life in Hawaii is as unique as our islands – from our slow, stress-less lifestyle to our Aloha Spirit and deep connection to nature. And while Hawaii locals don’t like to brag much (unless of course you look at our Instagram feeds), there are some things that are just better done in Hawaii.

1. We’re really good at relaxing.
Mike Faviell/Flickr
Life is a little slower in Hawaii, and that's exactly how we like it. We may not get to take a nap in a hammock every day, but we enjoy the little things, and practice the art of relaxation as often as possible - as a result, Hawaii just so happens to be the least stressed state in the country.
2. Nowhere else will you find a better cup of coffee.
MjZ Photography/Flickr
Hawaii is the only state in America that is able to grow coffee, and as a result, we take our morning caffeine fix extremely seriously. While the Big Island's Kona Coffee is the most famous, the islands are home to countless coffee farms, all offering exceptional blends, grown and roasted locally.
3. Our options for outdoor dining are numerous.
Rick Derevan/Flickr
From the famous north shore Oahu shrimp trucks to five-star restaurants with sunset views, the people of Hawaii have mastered the art of outdoor dining. Though, really, it's easy when you live in paradise.
4. The islands’ are home to the world’s best hiking.
Marvin Chandra/Flickr
Really, where else can you hike through a bamboo forest, to cascading waterfalls, through a volcanic crater and to a remote, secluded beach all in the same day? Truly, nowhere else can compare to Hawaii's incredible hiking opportunities for those of all skill levels.
5. And water sports.
Denis Dore/Flickr
Where else are you able to surf, paddle board and snorkel year-round in crystalline, warm waters? Oh, and Hawaii is also home to the most famous and prestigious surfing competition in the world - the Quicksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational. It's so important, in fact, that it is only held when the surf conditions are absolutely perfect - the event was held in February 2016 for the first time in six years!
6. You’d be hard-pressed to a location with better views.
Floyd Manzano/Flickr
Mountains, and oceans, and skylines, oh my! It's no wonder even those who travel often always come back to visit our beautiful islands.
7. Our weather is top-notch.
Albert de Bruijn/Flickr
While our weather may not be perfect, it is pretty close. Unless you're headed to any of Hawaii's summit areas, the temperature averages 80 degrees year-round, and though it does rain regularly, it's never for too long.

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8. We’re excellent at talking story.
Matt McGee/Flickr
Written language wasn't introduced in Hawaii until the arrival of Christian missionaries, and verbal story-telling was the primary means of passing down important information, so the people of Hawaii became really skilled in "talking story," as we like to say.
9. You won’t find better seafood anywhere.
Bionicgrrl/Flickr
When you combine fresh, local, and mouthwatering Hawaiian seafood with some of our local flavors and cuisine favorites, you've got unmatched potential for killer seafood.
10. Our sunrises and sunsets are second to none.
Rodney Topor/Flickr
Really, there's no comparison. And people from Hawaii recognize that and try to witness as many vibrant sunrises and sunsets as possible - even if that means waking up hours before the world for a sunrise hike.
11. We excel at being one with nature.
Seabright Hoffman/Flickr
In Hawaii, our lives are lived outdoors and we often find ourselves with a deep connection to the land. As I'm writing this, I am sitting on my lanai, listening to the blowing wind and looking out only the forest that backs up to my home.
12. And we care more about the environment than anyone else.
Scott Ingram/Flickr
Not only are people from Hawaii taught to respect the land, but we make efforts to keep our beaches clean and our land beautiful. We recognize the importance of sustainability and eco-conscious tourism, and hope to set up our islands to be enjoyed for future generations.
13. Our directions are easier to understand.
Tyler S. Miller/Flickr
What is this east and west nonsense you speak of? In Hawaii, we use the words mauka, meaning towards the mountain and makai, meaning towards the ocean.
14. The Aloha Spirit is all-encompassing.
Rhea C/Flickr
To be fair, the Aloha Spirit only truly exists in Hawaii, but it makes our islands' much more pleasant, relaxed, and enjoyable.

What else would you add to this list? Be sure to read about these 11 weird things only people from Hawaii do.

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