Missing Hawaii? 9 Comforting Things to Do When You’re Feeling Homesick

Missing Hawaii hits hard—whether you grew up in the islands or just visited once and fell in love. It might sneak up on you while watching a sunset that doesn’t quite compare, or when craving spam musubi and realizing your local store doesn’t stock it.
The good news? There are plenty of small ways to reconnect with the islands—right from your home. Here are 9 things you can do when you’re homesick for Hawaii.

1. Start Your Day Hawaiian-Style

Brew a fresh cup of Kona coffee and treat yourself to a few chocolate-covered macadamia nuts. These flavors instantly bring you back to lazy mornings in paradise. Bonus: Add a slice of mango or papaya to your breakfast plate.

2. Create a Hawaiian Music Playlist

Hawaiian music can lift your spirits instantly. Stream artists like Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole (Braddah Iz), Ekolu, or Na Leo Pilimehana. Build a playlist that blends classics with modern island reggae.

3. Recreate Local Comfort Food

Nothing tastes like home more than local dishes. Cook up:

• Kalua pork (use a slow cooker + liquid smoke)

• Chicken long rice

• Loco moco
  Or, make it simple: mix li hing mui powder into lemonade for a nostalgic kick.

Don’t feel like cooking? Snack on Li Hing Mango, Arare, or Dried Ika—shipped from Hawaii right to your door.

4. Bring the Islands Indoors

Add a tropical plant like an orchid, ti leaf, or fern to your home. They don’t just look good—they purify the air and create a relaxing vibe. Even a small plumeria or monstera leaf in a vase makes a difference.

5. Watch Movies or Shows Set in Hawaii

Streaming is the easiest escape. Rewatch:

• Blue Crush

• 50 First Dates

• The White Lotus

• Finding ‘Ohana
  Spot familiar beaches and scenic shots that bring back memories (and plan your next trip while you're at it!).

6. Treat Yourself to a Hawaiian Snack Haul

Can’t find your faves at the local store? Order directly from Snack Hawaii. Choose from:

• Li Hing Mui Gummy Bears

• Smoked Cuttlefish

• Island-style popcorn mixes

• Dried plum or lemon peel snacks

They ship fast and give you that instant island taste.

7. Connect With Other Locals

If you’ve moved to the mainland, chances are you’re not alone. Join Facebook groups like Living in Vegas from Hawaii or search for Hawaiian cultural clubs in your city. Reconnect, swap stories, and even share snacks.

8. Light a Hawaiian-Scented Candle

Scents like plumeria, coconut, pikake, or mango can spark island memories. Many small Hawaiian brands offer candles and oils that recreate the smells of local beaches and backyard barbecues.

9. Make a Hawaiian Care Package

Whether it’s for yourself or someone you love, building a custom snack box filled with your island favorites is a fun way to keep the aloha spirit alive. Add personal touches like:

• A postcard from home

• Your favorite li hing snack

• A playlist QR code
  It’s comfort food + comfort vibes in a box.

Missing Hawaii is tough—but a little aloha goes a long way. Start by ordering your favorite snacks or building a custom care package today at Snack Hawaii.