Pineapple Dole Whip Float - I know you can get these in Disneyland but why not get an authentic one on the Pineapple Plantation in a little souvenir cup! It's so yummy and pineapple is a staple of Hawaii so you might as well indulge!
Acai Bowl - these are pretty specific to Hawaii. It's hard to find them anywhere else and the acai bowls are tart and tasty. Sort of like a parfait and Jamba Juice smoothie all in one.
Surf/Paddle Board/Snorkel/Scuba - I suggest doing at least one of these activities while in Hawaii. The clear water and abundance of coral life really makes this worthwhile. And it's a great way to get exercise while enjoying Hawaii!
Shaved Ice - Shaved ice is another one of those local foods that just somehow tastes better in Hawaii. It's a light dessert or afternoon snack and since it's just syrupy water, you don't feel too guilty for having one...or two.
Poi - I had no idea what poi was until we were on our luau bus but the tour guide suggested that we try it, even if we don't like it. According to wiki (and because I'm too lazy to describe it by myself):
Poi is a Hawaiian word for the primary Polynesian staple food made from the corm of the taro plant (known in Hawaiian as kalo). Poi is produced by mashing the cooked corm (baked or steamed) until it is a highly viscous fluid. Water is added during mashing and again just before eating, to achieve a desired consistency, which can range from liquid to dough-like.I'll be honest, it doesn't look like the most appetizing thing but we dipped our Kahlua pork in it and it doesn't taste like too much of anything at all. It's kind of like an extra dipping sauce.
Mai Tai - If you're 21+, mai tais are the drink to have. Actually, any of the fruit cocktails are delicious but mai tais have Polynesian flavors in them and really help capture the spirit of Hawaii. (See what I did there, SPIRIT?)
Macadamia Pancakes - We had some macadamia pancakes in a local breakfast place and they were amazing. The pancakes were light and fluffy with little macadamia nuts spread throughout and it was the perfect mixture of soft and nutty. I really want to get the recipe for those pancakes but I know it just won't be the same without the Hawaiian sun peeking over my shoulder while I eat them.
Luau - Luaus are SO much fun. It's part tourist-y, part cultural, and lots of food. Though I would highly suggest doing your research before picking a luau (the one we picked gave me some bug bites and an upset stomach), the night is worth it.
So here's my list of things that are needed for every Hawaii trip! I'd love to hear your suggestions because I know I'm going to be making a trip back sometime in the near future!
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