Which Hawaiian treats are you craving? It’s hard not to drool a little when you see pictures of li hing gummy bears or sour worms. Or chi chi dango mochi, kulolo, or chocolate haupia pie. Hawaiian treats are seriously the best!
But if you’ve moved to the mainland, like me, you might realize that in order to get some Hawaiian treats, you sometimes have to go to Asian markets or other speciality stores because the local markets don’t have specific ingredients. Don’t worry. I’ve created this list of easy Hawaiian trets to help you satisfy that island sweet tooth. A few of the following items on the list may require some assistance from your island friends and family (or you can order items online), but most of these are treats you can make from items at your local grocery store. Enjoy!
Pineapple Upside Down Cake
I’m not sure if this counts as actually Hawaiian treats but it was my dad’s favorite so I always assumed it’s a Hawaii thing. Anyway, you can easily get a can of pineapple at your local supermarket, as well as the other ingredients like yellow cake mix, maraschino cherries, butter, and brown sugar. There are numerous recipes online but my favorite is the one where you don’t use a recipe and just pack that brown sugar and sugar on the bottom of the cake pan! Cheehoo!
Li Hing Mui Gummy Bears (or Worms or Watermelon)
You might need someone to send up a bag of li hing mui, but once you get your hands on it, the world of sweetness is yours! Sprinkle li hing mui on gummy bears, sour watermelons, sour worms, or even pineapple to make your own Hawaiian treats at home!
Haupia Chocolate Pie
This is surprisingly easy to make, especially if you’ve learned to do it from scratch. I like to buy the premade graham cracker crusts and make my own haupia, which is composed of coconut milk, corn starch, and sugar. The chocolate pudding mix is a breeze to make. Put that on top with some whip cream and you’re good to go. It might not taste exactly like Ted’s Bakery, but hey, it is good enough. 🙂
Guava and Lilikoi Juice
Did you know that you can find Guava juice at your local grocery store? It isn’t Hawaiian Sun brand–and it doesn’t really taste like Hawaiian Sun brand–but it’s guava and it’s good enough. I’ve also found Welch’s Passion Fruit drink, which tastes like heaven! (Disclaimer: My local grocery store is different from yours so it’s totally dependent on the location and availability! I wish you luck in finding tropical juice at your store though!).
Mochi
If you can find a box of mochi powder at your local supermarket, take advantage of it. There are numerous recipes online that will satisfy your mochi cravings. Chi chi dango can be made in the microwave while coconut mochi could be baked in the oven. If you’re ambitious like me, you might even try making mochi ice cream during the summer!
Cocoa Rice
This is super easy to make, and it tastes just like camping trips at the beach. Remember when all your family was there and they made cocoa rice cause it fed the army? There are some really great recipes online if you never learned how to make this warm island dessert from your kupuna. Can you smell the cocoa rice, coupled with the salty sea mist? Ono. 🙂
Tapioca Pudding
Mom makes cold tapioca pudding, kind of like halo-halo. Make the tapioca, add a can of coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, a can of fruit cocktail, a can of mandarin oranges, and, if you’re lucky like me, a can of lychee will do just the trick!
King’s Hawaiian Sweet Bread
Most stores carry this, but you’re probably going to have to pay the price for it. I can say, however, that it is worth it to buy, especially if you’re craving it. I can’t count how many times I walked past it in the store and thought to myself, Come on Lei, just get it. So just reward yourself sometimes! King’s Hawaiian Sweet bread never disappoints and tastes just like home!
Pani Popo
I absolutely love pani popo. When I lived in the Philippines, I’d take advantage of making this, because it was so easy to make and tasted just like home. Also, if you’re not into making rolls (like me), then you can buy rolls ready-to-make (in the freezer section) or use sweet rolls (King’s Hawaiian can even work for this but if you’re like me, you’d rather save that to eat by itself).
Fruit
If you’re absolutely dying for the sweet island flavor, then just buy some tropical fruit. I’ve found it so helpful (emotionally, mentally, and physically) to reward myself with some local fruits. They’re probably going to be expensive, which is why I call it a reward, but you should treat yourself to a mango here and there, or, if you’re ambitious, a pineapple. If you don’t have either of those things at your local supermarket, then try sprinkling some li hing mui on your apples or oranges. That always brings the taste of home back.
Dried Tropical Fruit
Dried mango is one of my favorites, especially because there’s usually an option for this anywhere you go.
Bananas
If you have some bananas, there are numerous ways to prepare them and satisfy cravings. If you’re Hawaiian, banana bread tastes so much like family. If you’re Filipino, make some banana lumpia (although you might have a tad bit of difficulty finding the wraps). If you’re Samoan, make suafa’i by boiling them, adding some tapioca and coconut milk, and sticking it in the oven (I LOVED when my mom made this–can you taste it now? Mmmmm). And if you just want to feel like a surfer, then make some banana pancakes and sing Jack Johnson’s “Banana Pancakes.”
Don’t get discouraged if you want Hawaiian desserts but moved away from Hawaii 🙂
There are so many delicious local foods you can make while on the mainland. I know that when I first moved, I felt like I had access to nothing. But, as I learned where to look (besides the Asian aisle–did you know they have coconut milk in the baking aisle?) and to keep an eye out for local goods, I’ve really enjoyed experimenting and learning to make the foods my mom used to make. Sure we might not have bubble tea, although I will say my sister ordered some of those items from Amazon and mastered it–so it is possible!–but we still can satisfy our inner local cravings using the goods we got!
Let’s hear from you!
Is there a snack or dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth craving? Is there a recipe you tried that really worked for you? Share in the comments below!
Hawaii locals are a unique bunch of people. Hawaii locals come from all kinds of backgrounds and ethnicity, not just Hawaiian. I grew up in Hawaii, and my parents are both Hawaiian, so the culture, customs, and etiquette of Hawaii were a part of my everyday life. I actually lived in the mainland until nine years of age, but my parents, Hawaii locals themselves, raised us in the way they’d been raised: we took our shoes off when entering the house, waited politely for the host to eat before digging in, shared food (or didn’t share food if we didn’t have enough for everyone), and so forth.
When we finally moved back to Hawaii, I learned even more from the locals themselves: how to go with the flow, not to stress too much over outward appearances, to be clean, generous, and more. Since moving back to the mainland, I thought it’d be fun to write a list of the funny things Hawaii locals do, as a result of growing up and/or living in the islands.
This article was written for my retired blog but I thought it’d be fun to re-use it here! I hope you enjoy this list and that something here makes you smile!
We wash our hair everyday
And I might just add that we shower everyday too. Since experiencing winters and dry environments in the mainland, I understand why people don’t wash their hair everyday. But growing up in Hawaii, it was a must to wash your hair every. single. day. It was a necessity and maybe just a natural part of growing up on a humid, wet island.
We wash our dishes by hand
When I moved into an apartment in Utah, I was shocked that my roommates used the dishwasher to wash a few mere dishes. Why not just do it by hand if you only have a few plates and cups? When my family did have a dishwasher in our home, I don’t remember using it much. If we did use it, it was usually for after big family events or when we had lots of guests over.
We wait for the hostess to eat before digging in
Not all locals do this, but I know this is something I’ve learned growing up. You don’t dig into the food until the wife of the head of house takes a bite. This might be something passed down from my Chinese heritage, but I remember this one incident where I went to a party and an aunty got mad at some girls for digging in before she, the hostess, had even gotten food and sat down herself. Yikes! Just a tip for the mainlanders… if you go to a local person’s house for dinner, do yourself a favor and wait til the hostess sits down and eats. I know she’ll say, “Eat, eat, eat!” but use your discernment. I always wait out of respect because the host deserves to eat too!
We take our slippers/shoes off at the door
I can’t even explain how weird it feels to wear shoes in a house, especially when the house has carpet….
We wear slippers and socks TOGETHER
And speaking of slippers, why not keep your socks on when you wear them? Sure you might have to make your socks look like tabis, but who cares? Slippers and socks are a comfy combination.
We always offer food to visitors
“Are you hungry? No? I’ll make you something…” Locals love food, and it’s shame if we can’t offer you something, even if it’s a glass of juice. If you drop in unexpectedly, we’ll still ask you if you’re interested in eating something. We don’t care if you might be standing at the door and ready to leave. We just love food, and we have to offer some, just in case. Nobody leaves our home hungry.
We won’t eat something in front of you if we don’t have enough to share
And, speaking of food, if we’ve brought a snack of some sort and you’re with us, we’ll only bring it out if we have enough to share. It’s really rude to eat something in front of another person and not offer. This includes if we’re in big groups. We’ll only buss out the snacks if we know everyone can get a piece. Otherwise, we’ll save our snack and eat it privately later.
We will pack up leftover food for you to take home
Whether it’s a party, a family dinner, or just stopping by, don’t be surprised when we buss out the ziploc bags to package things to go, or just give you the rest of the food. Just take it. We won’t be satisfied unless you do.
We appreciate food by making noises
And I don’t mean body noises, but I mean “Mmmmmmm…” We love complimenting and appreciating food with words and noises of affirmation like “Mmm…” and “Yum…” and “Ohhhh this is SO ono.” Some locals even dance a little when they eat–not dramatically though, just swaying back and forth–but we like to show our appreciation with noises of approval. Get used to it cause we love food. 🙂
We flash our headlights to warn other cars of cops up ahead
It’s an unspoken rule (but I guess it is spoken cause I just wrote about it), but on highways or going down busier streets in Hawaii, if someone coming towards you flashes their highlights once at you, it’s not a cause to get mad. In fact, locals are so grateful when this happens, because it means there’s a cop up ahead. Not that we’re speeders, but it’s just us being good neighbors. I’ve never experienced this on the mainland. I did it once and wondered to myself if the oncoming driver knew what that meant. And, tbh, there might be a lot of reasons people might not do it on the mainland, but Hawaii is small enough that we can keep other cars on the lookout.
We wave a lot when we’re driving
We are so used to sticking our hands out the window and throwing shakas, or waving just to anyone from behind the wheel (whether it’s an incoming car or a pedestrian crossing in front). I always feel weird when I wave to a pedestrian and they look at me like I’m crazy… but hey, gotta keep the aloha spirit alive. And it’s the best when they smile and wave back. 🙂
It’s so fun to be from Hawaii
There are probably more things that you thought of as you read this. While these differences in lifestyles aren’t bad things, they’re funny to think about. To be honest, locals will adapt to the lifestyle of wherever they live. Just don’t be surprised if any of these things pop around once in a while. Is there something you thought of that Hawaii locals do differently from mainlanders or other cultures/lifestyles?
Which Hawaiian sea animal is your favorite? After all, what is a visit to Hawaii without seeing some of the ocean wildlife? Seeing turtles, sharks, dolphins, fish, and more are amazing memories. They’re unforgettable moments where we connect with nature and God’s creations. I can’t even say how many people tell me about how they saw turtles, fish, or dolphins on their trip to Hawaii and their entire soul lights up.
Seeing (and possibly getting close—if circumstances are safe and permit) marine animals in Hawaii inspires us. It ignites a part of us deep within, perhaps the inner child, the one we’ve tucked away for so long.
I hope this list of ocean animals in Hawaii will inspire you. Maybe it will jog your memories of Hawaii. Maybe you’ll learn something new. Or, just maybe, you’ll remember how much you love nature, God’s creations, and let out that inner child in you once more. 🙂
Read more about Hawaii’s value of protecting and caring for the ‘aina here: Mālama
Manta Ray
Yes, the manta ray is a Hawaiian sea animal too! I’m from the Big Island so I was actually shocked to learn—after I moved—that there are tons of manta rays on Kona side and you can go on a tour to swim with them! If you’ve done this, please let me know in the comments. I’m fascinated and would love to do it in the future.
Manta rays are different from sting rays, but I won’t go into detail on it. The nice thing is that the Hawaiians also distinguished them differently. The word for manta ray is hāhālua (pronounced hah-hah-loo-ah).
If you’ve read “Aloha State of Mind” you’ll remember my little discussion on hā, which is breath. But hā can also mean mouth, and manta ray literally means “two mouths.” Side note: If you know Hawaiian numbers, ‘elua is two, so that’s why “lua” is the last part of this word.
The Hawaiians called manta ray “two mouths” because of the two flaps sticking out either side of their mouths, so it makes sense.
Both the manta ray and sting ray can also be called “lupe.”
Sting Ray
The sting ray is known to be around Hawaii, though I’ve never heard of anyone encountering them. They’re called hīhīmanu in Hawaiian. Hihi could mean several things, like “to creep, spread, or intertwine” or “a large meshed fish net.” Manu means “bird” so what I infer from this is that the Hawaiians must have seen the sting ray as a large fish bird, because sting rays do have large wings on either side of their bodies, or a spread-out, creeping bird.
Turtle
My favorite sea animal of all time, the honu (pronounced hO-noo) can be found all over the Hawaiian islands. When I looked in the Hawaiian dictionary, I actually found out the the hawksbill turtle has its own name, which is ‘ea.
People are so afraid of sharks, but I think they’re beautiful and majestic! The Hawaiian word for shark is manō. Many ancient Hawaiian legends and proverbs tell of the niuhi, which is a man-eating shark, but most Hawaiians regarded the shark as sacred ‘aumakua, family ancestors.
The generic name for fish is i’a but most fish have specific names according to their type. The old Hawaiian superstition is to not let anyone know when you’re going fishing or the fish will hear and leave the area!
Here are some notable fish names (let’s see if you can say these!) 😉
‘Ahi
Mahimahi
Humuhumunukunukuapua’a
A’awa
Moi
Opelu
Manini
Dolphin
If you’ve been lucky enough to spot dolphins swimming and resting in the bay areas, then you know how playful and fun they can be. The Hawaiian word for dolphin is “nai’a,” pronounced nae-ah.
Whale
Maui is the best place to see whales when they migrate towards warmer waters. The Hawaiian word for humpback whale is koholā, pronounced kO-hO-lah, and the word for sperm whale is palaoa.
My dad used to catch squid in the reefy areas of the North Shore. While I have seen a good amount of squid in my life (and the black ink they shoot out too), I haven’t seen an octopus. The Hawaiian word for octopus is he’e, and the word for squid is similar, mūhe’e.
Sea urchin – Yes, it’s a Hawaiian sea animal (even though it might not look like it hehe)
Watch out for this lovely yet dangerous invertebrate animal. Especially on the Big Island, where the only way to get into the water is by way of walking on lava rocks, or sandy shores with rocks, keep an eye out for the long black spindles of the sea urchin. The Hawaiian word for sea urchin is wana, pronounced vah-nah.
Jellyfish
I used to get stung a lot by the Portuguese Man-of-War at Hukilau beach or other beaches along the North Shore of Oahu. While it’s not very common for people to get stung by jellyfish in Hawaii, it does happen. The Hawaiian word for jelly fish is pololia.
What is your favorite marine animal?
Is there a sea animal I missed? Do you know the Hawaiian word for it? Let us know in the comments below!
At this time of the year, your social media feed might be exploding with videos and articles about the Merrie Monarch. Your friends from Hawaii are probably posting things like “So proud of…” and then some long Hawaiian name, like “Halau ka lei Mokihana o Leina’ale” for example. Or they might be making 4-5 worded comments like “That chant was perfect,” as if they’re watching and judging a March Madness competition.
But that’s because to us Hawaii locals, Merrie Monarch IS a big competition and celebration. Merrie Monarch is the world’s largest annual hula competition, so it’s a really big deal. We love our culture and we love this time of year because it brings everyone together–not just from Hawaii, but from all over the world. We watch and admire and wait to see who will compete, and who will win.
Here are some of my thoughts on why Merrie Monarch stirs feelings of nostalgia, and why it gives us all the feels.
It keeps an ancient cultural practice alive and fresh
If you think about it, this one event has so many new mele (songs) and dances. The beautiful thing about the Merrie Monarch is that many halau (hula groups) will either stick to very traditional dance movements and song, or they’ll incorporate new elements. This event keeps the ancient practice of hula dancing alive and well, but it also encourages experimentation and twists on an ancient art form.
It brings the community together
This is one of my favorite parts because during the Merrie Monarch week, expect to see everyone (and their dogs) out and about. My family used to sell kulolo at the Farmer’s Market during Merrie Monarch week, so we saw just about everyone. There’s a sense of community as people buy local products and stop to talk stories and share goods with vendors and other Merrie Monarch visitors.
We love the way it looks
Everything about the Merrie Monarch has to look good, and we absolutely love that it looks good. The dancers are critiqued and analyzed for their movements, their grace, the positioning of their hands, toes, and fingers; and their facial expressions. Their costumes are judged on their flexibility, color, texture, design, and movement. The dancers must be in sync–they must move as one–and we LOVE when it looks that good, which, it always does. There’s so much hard work put into all of this behind the scenes and we appreciate that!
We love the way it tastes
The best of Hawaiian food comes out during Merrie Monarch week. The smell of laulau, kalua pig, and barbeque fill the air. But then the temptations really come when you can smell malasadas, poi mochi, and sweet fruits. Good luck going through downtown Hilo without catching a whiff of the food. Local vendors come out with their foods in all varieties and from all over the world (remember, Hawaii is a melting pot): China, Philippines, Japan, Samoa, Tonga, etc…. The food is so ono, and Merrie Monarch is a good excuse to eat up!
It makes us happy
I’ve never met a grumpy person at Merrie Monarch. Maybe it’s because we’re all so full of it. Or maybe it’s because it gives us an opportunity to get up and get out. This is a time for people to get dressed up in their most Hawaiian attire and to party. It’s the whole shebang: straw hats, leis, hakus, aloha print wear, pearl jewelry, gold bracelets, and lots and lots of flowers. This is THE biggest hula competition on the earth, so why not go all out? People love it, and they love seeing other people go all out too. Food, friends, and fun is a great recipe for happiness.
It touches us
When we see the Merrie Monarch winners crying, with the shock of pure relief, gratitude, and joy on their faces, we can’t help but feel touched. These hula dancers have worked SO hard, some of them dancing their whole lives so they could live this one moment. Even when some of the halau or soloists don’t win, it still touches us because we know they’ve worked hard to get where they are today.
It takes place in Hilo
Cheee just had to throw this one in here cause it’s where I’m from!
It keeps the Hawaiian language alive
At no other time will you hear the Hawaiian language spoken so abundantly. The kupuna come out to watch the competition and visit with one another, people greet each other and hold conversations in Hawaiian, and the Hawaiian language is used in oli and mele in the competition. Not gonna lie though… We also always speak Pidgin English so if you don’t hear Hawaiian being spoken, then expect to hear Pidgin.
It serves as a reminder
While we go about our daily lives, it’s easy to forget how much we appreciate our Hawaiian cultural heritage and traditions. The Merrie Monarch gives us a reason to keep the Hawaiian culture and language alive, and each time it rolls around, it reminds us of how much we love and appreciate our roots, and why we want to keep it going. Cause if we don’t preserve it, how will our future generations know?
While Merrie Monarch happens only once a year, it does give a Hawaii local all the feels, whether at home or abroad. Aren’t we so lucky to be from Hawaii?
Your turn!
Do you have any favorite memories of Merrie Monarch? What was your favorite performance this year?
Are you thinking of traveling to Hawaii during Covid? Is it worth it? My short answer: no. The long answer: there are pros to going during Covid.
Allow me to explain…
My husband and I decided to go to Maui at the end of January 2021. With about 4 weeks to plan our trip, I looked into everything I needed to do before boarding. With covid affecting the world, I wondered if my husband and I could successfully make it to Hawaii. I heard of so many people who got tested and arrived in Hawaii, only to be turned around because they went to the wrong testing center, or didn’t have their paperwork, etc. Needless to say, I was anxious about traveling to Hawaii during the pandemic.
I hope this article helps you make a decision about traveling to Hawaii during covid. There are some really great pros, and some pretty pathetic cons. I’ll be as transparent as possible to help you figure out the answer to your question.
Please know that everything changes with the pandemic, so what I’m sharing here may not be relevant anymore at the time of you reading this. Please, please, PLEASE do your research if you plan on traveling to Hawaii during covid. Their requirements change all the time, so do your part. This article is purely to give you an idea of the situation, not to direct you on the requirements to travel to Hawaii during covid. Check out the official Hawaii covid page for accurate and up-to-date information.
Pre-Travel Hawaii Requirements for Covid
The pre-travel was probably the most stressful part because things change all the time. One day they say you need to do X, and the next day they say you need to do Y…
The day before our flights, I saw a NEW requirement to download the Aloha Safe Alert app BEFORE boarding. I felt SO relieved and stressed. If I hadn’t seen the newest requirement, would they have turned us around at the airport?
So here’s who you want to be following if you plan on going to Hawaii during Covid.
Ok, with that said, here’s what we had to do before the trip:
Create a Safe Travels account and upload all documents BEFORE the first flight
Get tested within 72 hours of departure. Please note you MUST get tested at one of their approved sites, not just at your local hospital. They will only let you through if you get tested from someone on their “Trusted Testing and Travel Partners” list.
Download and activate Aloha Safe alert app
Have ALL paperwork on hand. I printed so many papers because the website suggested I do so. Spoiler alert: they didn’t look at ANY of these papers because I had already uploaded it ALL online… better safe than sorry I guess.
You probably read that list and thought, “Not bad.” I thought so too. However, finding the trusted testing and travel partners was harder than I thought… We finally got tested at Walgreens, but drove to a super far location because the Walgreens in our county didn’t offer testing. While that sounds stressful, before the testing itself felt morestressful… because we avoided people as much as possible. We could not risk any chance of catching covid. Isolation played a toll on my mental health.
Pre-Trip Cons:
Using the Aloha Safe Alert app felt like huge anxiety. Knowing that at any time I could receive a notification saying, “You’ve been exposed,” just stressed me out so much. It felt unfair that I might have to quarantine because I’d been around a stranger for a few seconds.
Masks: Wearing a mask at the airport and airplane took a toll on both of us. Especially for my husband, who already has a difficult time breathing without the mask, wearing a mask for almost 10 hours wore him out. We couldn’t take any breaks from mask-wearing unless we went to the bathroom… no thanks. I felt sorry for flight attendants and airport security who had to constantly remind people to completely cover their nose and mouths with the masks. It just kind of felt like a big mess.
Pre-Trip Pros:
Airplanes worked at less than half capacity. My husband and I always sat together. I could honestly say about 11-20 people sat in each flight. I feel super bad for the airline companies but they worked hard to keep the planes clean and social distance people well. We definitely had a lot of space to stretch out.
During the Trip
When we landed in Maui, the whole process turned out easier than I thought. The workers at the airport already had our information (because I uploaded it all), so they checked a few things (including our temperature) and sent us through!
It was THE BEST FEELING to walk out of the airport and into the fresh Maui air—though we still wore our masks, as required. I thought the most helpful way to give you an idea of Hawaii during covid is a pros and cons list. These are all based on my opinion though, so take it or leave it, no offense. 🙂
Pros:
Overall Maui was waaaay less busy in Hawaii than ever before: For example, we drove the road to Hana, a scenic route typically overcrowded and full of traffic. We hit absolutely NO traffic whatsoever. When we arrived in Hana and stayed at the resort there, the local who worked there told us we came at a good time. She said usually it’s a stressful drive because of the traffic and lack of parking at scenic spots.
Less lines and crowds at restaurants: We hardly waited at any restaurants to take out or have a seat. To be honest, there was still a LOT of people, but definitely not as much people like I remember Hawaii.
Cons:
Masks: Governor Ige mandated masks in Hawaii and it just sucks to wear a mask, not breathe well, and not really enjoy things as much. Most people didn’t wear masks at the beach because we all sat social distanced, but at restaurants and grocery stores, managers and workers heavily enforced mask wearing. We went on a short hike on the road to Hana and didn’t wear our masks (because there weren’t other people around), and a local lady vending at the front yelled at us. It’s not fun to get yelled at, and it’s not like we were trying to be irresponsible or rude. There just wasn’t anyone around, and she was definitely more than six feet away. There’s just silly stuff like that, which make the situation unpleasant.
Less small businesses and restaurants open: Not sure if a bunch of restaurants went out of business or what, but many of the places I planned to eat at were closed. That bummed me out a lot, because the only food places that stayed open were mediocre food places, at best. It’s always disappointing to spend $30 or more on a meal for two people and it turns out to be crappy food.
Overall, is it worth it?
After I wrote this article and sat on this question for the last month, the short answer for me is no. I don’t regret our Hawaii trip during covid, because I needed a little break from the cold and felt tired of the whole covid situation. But I don’t think I want to go through the hassle of getting tested, experiencing anxiety over new and updated requirements, wearing a mask everywhere (including airports and airplanes), feeling bummed over closed good food places and restaurants, and dealing with snappy people over mask-wearing. I don’t feel like it’s worth it to me.
I would rather go to one of the southwest states to get some sun, saving money and stress. The only pro for me was that there was less people on the island. But it just felt like everyone was on edge, worried about wearing or not wearing a mask, wanting to enjoy, yet restricted… It felt difficult to talk to people or send a smile—everything felt so constricting.
While I may not travel to Hawaii during Covid again, I can still plan my next trip. Check out some of my free resources and articles on travel!
“What are the best things to do in Hawaii?” This is one of the most common questions I get asked. As someone who grew up in Hawaii and visits often, I’ve thought of how overwhelming planning might be for someone else who’s never been to Hawaii.
What are the best things a person should do when they go to Hawaii?
I’ve put together a list of my favorite things to do in Hawaii that are iconic, memorable, and FUN. These really are the best things to do in Hawaii! They are also things you can do on ANY Hawaiian island, which will really help with planning.
You can fit any of these activities easily into your schedule and they work around any budget. Some of these activities are even FREE! 🙂
So here are the 10 best things to do on any Hawaiian island!
P.S. I made the images like little postcards so you can save them to your Pinterest for later! Or download them to use as a phone background or reminder of your upcoming trip! 🙂 Even better, send them to a friend to share aloha!!
1. Relax at the beach – The #1 best thing to do in Hawaii!
A vacation to Hawaii is never complete without some time at the beach. Pack your favorite snacks, use reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin, and lie out on the warm beaches of Hawaii.
If relaxing, resting, or taking a nap on the beach isn’t your thing, there’s so much more to do! I’ve seen people doing all kinds of things at the beach, from playing football, throwing frisbees, reading a book, chatting with friends, having a campfire, walking hand-in-hand along the shore, doing a photoshoot, and so forth.
And don’t miss out on activity #3 for all the great things you can do IN the water! 😀
2. Eat shave ice
This is a must try! It gets hot in Hawaii, so cool off with some ‘ono shave ice! Most shave ice places have so many flavors, you might get overwhelmed.
Here are some local flavors from the islands that you might want to consider: guava, lilikoi (passion fruit), lychee, coconut, and pineapple.
All of the islands have places to get shave ice, so keep an eye open or plan ahead where to go! 🙂
3. Try a water activity, such as snorkeling, surfing, boogie-boarding, SUP, or body boarding
Water activities add an extra level of excitement and fun to the beach experience. The ocean is truly a magical place, with so much to learn about, explore, and do.
Trying a water activity is one of the best things to do in Hawaii because they’re great for all levels and ages. Boogie boarding is a great introductory water sport for kids. Teens and adults can enjoy SUP or surfing (kids can do it too!). And snorkeling is great for all ages! There really is something for everyone on the shores of the beautiful Pacific ocean!
4. Attend a luau (or eat luau food)
This is for the cultural experience of Hawaii. Every island has places to attend a luau, and the prices range. If you’re not interested in watching or paying for a luau show, at least try the food.
Many places in Hawaii serve traditional luau food on “luau plates.” The traditional food includes:
Laulau
Kalua pig
Rice
Lomi salmon
Poi
Chicken long rice
Squid luau
And poke.
There are always variations on the “luau plate”, but try at least some of these traditional, mouth-watering luau favorites at local restaurants and eateries.
To see traditional hula and performances, you can also find free shows on some of the islands! You just have to be aware of the times, and follow covid guidelines too.
5. Wear a lei (or a flower in your ear)
A fresh flower or leaf lei brightens up any day. If you are with someone, give them a lei, which is a symbol of friendship, honor, celebration, and love.
You can order leis from local vendors. Most grocery stores and road-side stops also sell fresh lei.
For women, a simple flower in the ear is also a fun way to feel and be a part of Hawaii. Wearing the flower in the right ear means she is single. Wearing the flower in the left ear means she has a special someone.
Another thing I love are haku lei, or flower crowns. These lovely crowns make any woman light up, bringing out their natural beauty. They’re fun to wear during the entire trip, and great for pictures!
6. See a waterfall – Don’t miss this best thing to do in Hawaii!
Every island has plenty of beautiful waterfalls. Each one is majestic in its own way, from small waterfalls flowing into different pools, to tall, breathtaking waterfalls.
Each one usually requires hiking, but the great thing is that there are hikes for all ages and levels. Some waterfalls you can literally drive right up to, and some takes a short (or long) hike to see.
7. Try a poke bowl
Cubed, raw ahi tuna fish marinated in the most mouth-watering sauces, poured onto a bed of hot rice.
That’s a poke bowl.
Some people get freaked out by the idea of eating raw fish, but you must give it a try! It might surprise you how delightful and refreshing a poke bowl is! My husband was pretty hesitant about eating it, but once he tried it, he could never go back.
Every island has grocery stores and shops that sell poke bowls. My favorite poke bowls are from Foodland (also known as Sack n’ Save), as they are the freshest, best sized cubes, and most flavorful poke choices. My favorites poke flavors are the traditional shoyu poke, as well as the spicy poke!
8. See marine life, like dolphins, whales, fish, or sea turtles
Your vacation wouldn’t be complete without seeing some kind of marine life. Hawaii is home to hundreds of beautiful sea turtles, as well as dolphins, whales, fish, and, of course, sharks.
Though I will mention shark sightings are SO rare! In all the years I lived in Hawaii (about 10+ years), I only saw a shark once. And it’s because I stayed out in the water past sunset. It was a small shark though.
Go snorkeling to see turtles and fish (this is free if you have your own snorkeling gear too!). Take a whale-watching tour or dolphin excursion to see these magical creatures in the wild (tours usually start at $100/person).
Seeing Hawaii’s unique marine life is an experience you will never forget!
9. Stop at roadside fruit stands or food trucks
Support local businesses by stopping to buy some fruit or food. Fresh fruit tastes AMAZING! And the local food trucks have delightful treats for all ages and tastes!
My favorites are acai bowls. They are a refreshing way to fuel up and get your nutrients in for the day!
10. Feel the Aloha spirit
This is the best thing to do in Hawaii. There’s something about being on the islands that feels safe, light, and peaceful. We call that the aloha spirit. It’s in everything, from the people to the plants to the animals.
Planning a Hawaii vacation can sometimes feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What do you do? Which island should you visit? What should you eat and where should you stay? And when is the best time to go?
First off, take a deep breath. 🙂
Planning a Hawaii vacation doesn’t have to be stressful—in fact, it can be a lot of fun!
When my husband and I got married 2.5 years ago (at the time I’m writing this post), we decided that we wanted to visit Hawaii almost every year. That is to say, we wanted to visit during the winter months at least once. After a few trips, I can happily say I enjoy planning a Hawaii vacation.
It’s really fun and does take a little bit of legwork. So if this is your once-in-a-lifetime trip, or one of many trips to Hawaii, then follow these simple steps to plan the perfect trip to Hawaii!
1. Choose dates for your vacation to Hawaii
Did you know that there are busy seasons in Hawaii? Most people like to visit Hawaii when their own weather at home isn’t so great. Usually December to beginning of April are Hawaii’s busiest times.
People just want to get out of the cold, like me. 😛
But don’t let that deter you from choosing dates in the winter months. Hawaii is generally crowded all the time. These dates might just make it a little more difficult to book hotels, flights, and cars. And, unfortunately, some companies may raise prices during these times because they’re known to be so busy.
Personally, I plan for a time that works with my husband’s work schedule. And maybe you have to schedule around children’s school, activities, and so forth.
I find that choosing a date comes down to asking myself these questions:
-What is most convenient for me? What works with my schedule? and
-Do the prices look reasonable at this time? (Sometimes you WILL find that sweet price that works just perfectly for you and your family).
To sum up, here are some things to think about when choosing your dates:
November is one of the wettest months in Hilo on the Big Island (I know because I lived there).
November to May is when the whales migrate, with January-March considered the peak whale-watching season. These are great times to visit Maui.
Good travel deals usually occur in April, May, September, and October.
The Hawaii Vacation Guide says that December is the worst month to visit Hawaii.
2. How many days should I plan for my Hawaii vacation?
Long answer: I lived in Hawaii for most of my life. Family members and friends have visited many times. After my own trips to Hawaii, I came to the conclusion that 5-7 days is the perfect amount of time.
It gives you enough time to relax on the beach, explore sites, and do other fun activities like snorkeling, whale-watching, hiking, attending a luau, and so forth.
Short answer: 5-7 days are the perfect amount for a trip to Hawaii.
Akaka Falls, Big Island
3. Which island should I visit?
When planning a Hawaii vacation, you should know that there are 8 Hawaiian islands. However, only 4 of the 8 islands are the main attractions: Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Big Island.
If you are a first-timer to Hawaii, I suggest starting with Oahu or Maui, as they contain most of Hawaii’s iconic attractions.
Kauai and Big Island are much slower, with a greater diversity of eco systems and natural beauties. They are, in my opinion, less crowded too.
Check out my article: 10 iconic things to do on any Hawaiian island
Here is the list of ideas that you can do on each island:
Kauai: Enjoy beautiful and lush scenery, relax on white sand beaches, visit the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” take a boat out to see the Napali coast, see the beautiful Waipi’o falls, and go snorkeling at Tunnel’s Beach. This island is the honeymooner’s island, a perfect romantic getaway for couples. But there are plenty of family-friendly activities too!
Oahu: Home to Waikiki, North Shore, and plenty of family-friendly hikes and activities, Oahu is Hawaii’s picture icon. There’s a lot of history, hikes, sites, and iconic Hawaiian food in town (Waikiki) and across the island. With so many things to do, this is a great spot for families!
Maui: Visit Haleakala National Park with its wide variety of species and landscapes, go whale-watching along the coast, snorkel at Molokini crater, and hold on tight as you drive the road to Hana.
Big Island: Visit Hawaii Volcano National Park and admire the unique species of the island, see lava pour into the ocean, relax on a black sand beach, hike to a green sand beach, jump off the southern-tip of the United States, and see the snow on Mauna Kea.
To make it simpler, I created the ultimate bucket lists for all four main islands.
4. When planning a Hawaii vacation, how much money should I expect to spend?
This depends for every person, and I’ll show you how I organize the budget:
First, I write down the following categories on a piece of paper: flights, hotel, car, and food.
Second, I calculate how much it will be per person per day.
Finally, times that number (from the following step) by how many people and how many days. That should give you a rough estimate to budget for your trip.
I’m sorry I don’t have exact numbers, but I give my best estimates below.
Here is a little breakdown.
Flights:
My husband and I actually don’t pay for our flights besides about $20 dollars in taxes and fees, so check it out here:
Usually flights from the continental U.S. range anywhere from $500-$1200 round trip.
The easiest way to know the average price of your flight to Hawaii is to do a search on Kayak, inserting your dates and then checking the box that says “flexible dates.” Kayak will highlight the cheapest rates for you.
Hotel/stay:
Hotels in Hawaii are expensive, with the starting price usually at around $100 a night. Because hotels can get pricey, Airbnbs and VRBO are budget-friendly options but carefully read reviews and watch out for scams.
Unfortunately, bugs (cockroaches, mosquitoes, centipedes, etc) are a thing in Hawaii. And it’s the huge thumbs down for me, so just be careful when picking airbnbs or vrbo rentals.
I don’t “pay” for hotel stays besides taxes and fees, and I’ll write an article how to do that soon! I will update this post as soon as I write that. 🙂
Car:
When you book your flight, try to do a package deal with hotels and cars. There is usually a “package deal” option on most airline company websites for flights + car. I’ve found those to be some of the cheapest rates.
Sometimes you can find even better rates with the flight + hotel + car packages.
I don’t go through third party vendors anymore (like Priceline, Expedia, etc) because it’s so difficult to cancel or get help if something goes wrong. However, I have heard success stories of people getting amazing deals through third party vendors. I just like to keep things simple and work directly with companies, but if it works for you, then go for it! 🙂
If you can’t get a good deal through a travel package, you can rent a car through any of the car rental companies on the islands. There are plenty to choose from, with rates as low as around $20 a day.
Another great option is to use Turo. This is like airbnb for cars. So people put their cars on the Turo app for others to rent. Most times they’ll even pick you up from the airport without a fee, which is very convenient. No long lines at the rental car place, just one person working with another. 🙂
Another amazing benefit is that you can rent a car via Turo for as low as $15 a day! The prices are very reasonable. Even luxury vehicles are seriously discounted in comparison to rental car companies.
Check out this article on best local foods to eat!
Food:
If you plan to eat out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner I would estimate this for the cost:
$10 for breakfast
$15 for lunch
Anywhere from $18-$25 (or more) for dinner
You can really cut costs down by buying stuff at the grocery stores or Costco to make your own meals, like breakfast foods, sandwiches, snacks at the beach, etc.
However, I do encourage you to support the businesses in Hawaii by eating at local restaurants, food trucks, and farmers markets some of the meals. These businesses rely on the tourism industry.
Also, I’m a firm believer that “tasting” a place makes travel that much more experiential, inspiring, and fun.
Activities:
You can spend hundreds of dollars on activities or nothing at all! There are plenty of free experiences on the islands to check out and enjoy.
But just so you can get an idea, here are some examples of activities and price ranges:
Renting a surfboard: about $20/day
Surfing lessons: about $100/person
Whale watching tour: about $150/person
Luau event: about $120/person
Private tour (horseback riding, whale watching, hike, etc): about $500-$700/person
Helicopter ride: $300-$600/person
And here are some free activity ideas:
Relaxing on the beach
Hiking (to a waterfall, mountaintop, beach, etc)
Historic sites
Free night shows at specific hotels (like in Waikiki)
I talked about the budgeting part of booking flights, hotels, and the car, but what about actually booking them?
As I mentioned before, I recommend going directly through companies, but third-party vendors can sometimes have better deals. The reason I go directly through companies is the security and ease of communication if I run into any problems.
Especially when Covid hit, I felt really grateful I could cancel flights, hotels, and cars quickly and easily through the company’s websites.
6. Should I visit more than one Hawaiian island during my trip?
When planning a Hawaii vacation, my short answer to this is no.
There are two exceptions:
Exception #1: If you catch your inter-island flight in the evening, that allows you a whole day on the island.
For example, you spend 3 full days on Oahu, and the third night you fly out to Maui. If you fly out in the night, you’ll be able to pick up your rental car and get situated at your hotel in Maui without wasting precious daylight hours.
From observing friends and family plan their trips to Hawaii, I’ve noticed that so much time in Hawaii is wasted at airports, catching a flight to the neighbor island, only to cram in a day or two there.
It’s really difficult to explore and enjoy the island, especially if it’s your first time there, in only a day or two.
Ask yourself: Is it worth my time to travel to another island? Do I have enough time to really do what I want?
I suggest visiting one island at a time. If this really is your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Hawaii and you can fit in more than one island, I recommend a max of visiting two islands.
So many of my friends and family have made the mistake of visiting two islands, only to feel frustrated that they spent half the day at the airport, waiting in line at the rental car company, and checking in at the hotel.
Don’t waste your precious time in Hawaii.
View at South Point, Big Island. Give yourself plenty of time to explore each island.
Exception #2: You’re planning a Hawaii vacation for a long time.
Let’s say you’re going to Hawaii for 10 days. You can spend 5 days on one island, and 5 days on the other, giving you plenty of time to explore and really enjoy each island.
Again, this is just my opinion but I highly recommend doing one island on your visit, unless you plan to spend a longer amount of time in Hawaii.
To recap, my top tips if you want to do two islands in one vacation are:
-Travel in the evening/night time so you’re not wasting your day at the airport, picking up the rental car, and checking in at the hotel.
-Give yourself plenty of time to explore both islands.
7. What activities should I do on my Hawaii vacation?
This is just a starting list, and doesn’t even begin to include everything!
Relax on the beach, obviously 🙂
Go surfing, boogie boarding, body surfing, SUP, snorkeling, or scuba diving
Take a whale-watching tour
Eat shave ice
Try local cuisine
Attend a luau
Visit historic sites like the Iolani Palace, Pearl Harbor Memorial, etc
Hike to beautiful waterfalls and mountain tops
I recommend checking out these pages on my blog for more ideas:
See the turtles at Black Sand Beach on Big Island, but don’t get too close.
8. Preparation is key: What to know before you go to Hawaii
Hawaii is a unique place, with a halo-halo (mix) of cultures, eco-systems, and people. So it’s important to respect the people and the land, a concept called malama.
Simple preparation like learning simple Hawaiian words, knowing what to wear, and being aware of the environment will help you feel more like a part of the island.
Check out these articles to help you prepare for your trip:
I’ve updated this article since I published it, and Hawaii is always changing its guidelines. Be sure to check out their website for the latest on covid testing and travel to Hawaii.
We had to get tested for covid so we went to Walgreens. I suggest going to your local local Costco and Walgreens. Try to plan ahead because the testing slots can fill up quickly. 🙁 And don’t forget to upload the results onto the Hawaii Safe Travels website before you leave!
*Whew* Let’s take a deep breath because you’re finally going to Hawaii. You’re done planning a Hawaii vacation and it’s time to go! This is exciting and your experience will be unforgettable!
Don’t forget to take pictures, malama the ‘aina, and HAVE FUN!
Love,
Lei
Let’s hear it from you!
Was this guide helpful? Do you have any more questions about planning your trip? Please let me know in the comments and mahalo for your kokua!
Save this for later!
Don’t forget to pin this so you can come back to it. 🙂
My dear friend and fellow blogger, Kara Paul, author of Roaming Near and Far, wrote this delightful travel article. I know you’ll enjoy her work as much as I have, and the helpful details + insights she provides! Please enjoy the beautiful Lili’uokalani Gardens as Kara tells us all about it! All photos were taken and provided by Kara.
If you want to get a real flavor of life on the Big Island, one of the places you have to visit is Lili‘uokalani Gardens in Hilo. At 24.67 acres, it is the largest authentic Japanese ornamental garden outside of the country of Japan. This is a local park that is heavily frequented by local residents and children, as well as often visited, at least briefly, by tourists.
Lili‘uokalani Gardens is in many ways akin to the heart of Hilo. It’s a picturesque gathering place with beautiful gazebos, stone sculptures, torii bridges, stone bridges, and banyan trees. Located by the ocean and near to Mokualoa (“Coconut Island”), it’s the perfect backdrop for pictures, picnics, exercise, and exploration. Don’t be surprised to see the occasional wedding or a wedding couple taking pictures before heading to their reception at one of the local hotels. The park is a place for sunshine, the smell of the ocean, and fresh air–provided it isn’t flooded due to the torrential rains that sometimes pass through Hilo!
Getting to the Park + Parking
Getting to Lili‘uokalani Gardens isn’t very hard and best of all, is a free local attraction open year-round. The official Google address is 189 Lihiwai St #151, Hilo, HI 96720. The Park is located along the famous Banyon Drive of Hilo and is also ADA accessible. Occasionally, the park closes for maintenance or fire ant abatement.
You can walk from any of the hotels along Banyan Drive, or take a car to get there. There also is a limited bus schedule. Recently, before I moved away, Hilo started a bikeshare program, which has a bike station at the park as well as some downtown Hilo locations. By using a credit card, you can easily rent a bike to get from Downtown Hilo to Lili‘uokalani Gardens and vice versa.
Unless there is a special event, large wedding, or a huge Pokemon Go event, there should be ample street parking, as well as parking stalls next to the gardens, and a small parking lot on the makai (ocean) side of the park. Hilo weather changes all the time, so consider bringing an umbrella!
Time
The nice thing about this park is you really can spend as much time as you want here. Some people walk their dogs at the park, while others relax for hours, reading a book or catching up with old friends. Due to its proximity to Mokualoa (the “island of life” usually called “Coconut Island” by locals), many people walk over a long bridge to Coconut Island. At Coconut Island, families like to have parties, play on the beach, or jump off the diving tour. Interestingly, Mokuola once had a temple dedicated to healing.
Throughout my time in college and life in Hilo, I enjoyed going to the park to hang out with friends and spend time with my then-boyfriend (now husband). I’ve even attended a couple of weddings there–including that of my brother- and sister-in-law!
I have so many happy and sad memories attached to that place….pleasant memories of laughs and good times, and bittersweet memories of times spent with some people I really cared about who are no longer my friends. It provided a place to relax and recharge when I felt stressed or depressed. It also became a place to enjoy when I wanted to take pictures or hang out with a good friend.
Lili‘uokalani Gardens really can be anything and everything for you.
Amenities
Lili‘uokalani Gardens is conveniently located by Suisan Fish Market. If you’re craving a poke bowl or want to buy fresh seafood, walk a few blocks to the fish market. The garden also sits by Hilo Bay Cafe, a restaurant overlooking Hilo Bay known for its “contemporary, locally-inspired dishes” and more.
A hop and a skip away is the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, which has Wai’oli Lounge and the Queen’s Court. The Naniloa Hotel, which has Hula Hulas Restaurant, also sits a few blocks away.
There’s a popsicle place in the park (once a coworker shared their popsicles), and the nearby Banyan Mini Mart. Finally, there are men’s and women’s restrooms at Lili‘uokalani Gardens, but don’t expect much from a park bathroom.
As with any new place you visit, exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
The History
The park has been around for over 100 years.
Queen Lili‘uokalani donated five acres of land along Waihonu, a five-acre traditional fish pond, for a public park in 1907. Ten years later, the Committee on Public Lands and Internal Improvements made the designated area 17 acres. The park was dedicated in 1917 as a tribute to the first Japanese immigrants of Hawai‘i, who had come in 1868 to work in the sugar cane industry. The park’s ground was broken in November 1917, which was the same month the beloved Queen Lili‘uokalani died. The park, named in her honor, opened in 1919.
Many women were instrumental in helping ensure the park became the beautiful place that it is today. One woman, Laura Kennedy, the wife of the president of the Hilo Board of Trade, went on a business trip to Japan. She wanted the park in Hilo to reflect the impressive landscaping at Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto. Hence she and her husband donated time, resources, and money to bring her vision to fruition.
Other Events
The park has weathered two tsunamis, both the year before it opened, and four years after it opened. It also has a traditional teahouse named Shoroan (Pine Ocean Breeze), built in 1972. However, you can see it from the outside (unless one day you somehow get invited to a tea ceremony there). Arsonists destroyed the tea house in 1994, so the community later rebuilt it. Over the years, additional changes increased the park’s size to what it is today.
If you visit at the right time, be sure to catch a hula festival at the park sometime near Queen Liliuokalani’s birthday, September 2nd.
Although I no longer live in Hilo, Lili‘uokalani Gardens will always have a special place in my heart due to how many memories I’ve had there, and the mesmerizing moments of beauty, whether the sun peeking through the banyan trees casting beautiful shadows, or seeing Downtown Hilo twinkling a warm welcome at night. Don’t miss finding your Lili‘uokalani moment in Hilo, Hawai‘i.
About the Author
Kara Paul was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, but recently relocated to Montana with her husband. She is the author of the blog Roaming Near and Far. You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. Kara seeks to inspire women and couples to find adventures and to travel despite fears and anxiety.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is one of the Big Island’s greatest gems. It has frequent sea turtles resting along its shores, which is a sight to see! With the beautiful black sand, sparkling blue water, and tons of picture-taking opportunities, you don’t want to miss out on this beach. Located on the southern coast of the Big Island, the Punalu’u Black Sand beach has a place to swim, relax, and enjoy the honu (the sea turtles!).
Getting to the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach + Parking
Both Google and Apple maps will take you straight there. There is a small parking lot with no fees or charges. If the lot is full, you can park on the street outside the lot.
Time
You can stay here as long as you like! Some people stay here for about 20 minutes to walk along the lava rocks and/or the black sand to see the turtles. Some people stay here a whole day! It’s really up to you.
Amenities
There is a place to rinse off and a public bathroom, but don’t use any chemicals or shampoo, as the runoff from the showers goes into the ocean and the chemicals can harm the turtles who frequent the area.
There are no food trucks or places around here. I’ve seen a little pop-up stand, so there might be locals who sell things there occasionally, but the last couple times I went it was empty. So don’t rely on food places at this beach and make sure to bring water. The closest town is Na’alehu, which has Punalu’u Bakery (you should definitely stop here!), a farmer’s market, and some other small gas stations and stores.
I love Punalu’u Black Sand beach because of the turtles and the unique black sand. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this beach! I hope you enjoy!
E komo mai! 🌺 I am the author of Aloha State of Mind, a self help book that teaches you how to create paradise wherever you are. My blog, Naturally Aloha, focuses on all things Hawaii: culture, values, food, lifestyle, and more. I hope my writing inspires you to carry aloha with you everywhere! Learn more…
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