Hawaiian Candy: 7 Addictive Treats You Must Try

Most people leave Hawaii with a tan, but the smart ones leave with a suitcase full of 'crack seed.' There is a secret side to Hawaiian candy that defies everything you know about sweets. From a salty plum powder that locals put on everything to chocolates that actually use island-grown volcanic nuts, these aren't just treats—they’re a local obsession. If you haven't tried these 7 addictive snacks, you haven't truly tasted Hawaii.

Why Hawaiian Candy Is So Popular With Locals

Walk into any ABC Store, Don Quijote, or Longs Drugs in Hawaii, and you'll notice that the candy aisles are massive. And they aren’t filled with the same brands you'd find in a mainland CVS. Instead, you'll see rows upon rows of local Hawaiian candy brands, unique flavors, and treats you probably haven’t heard of.

So what makes Hawaiian candy so addictive? It starts with the islands' multicultural influence. Hawaii's candy culture is a delicious blend of Native Hawaiian traditions, Japanese confectionery techniques, Filipino flavor preferences, Portuguese sweets, and American classics, all mixed together to create something entirely unique.

Locals grow up with these flavors. Li hing mui (a salty, sweet, and sour Chinese plum powder) gets sprinkled on everything from gummy bears to shaved ice. Hawaiian-made chocolate uses locally grown macadamia nuts and tropical fruits. And many popular Hawaiian sweets use real fruit flavors like guava, passion fruit (lilikoi), and mango instead of artificial substitutes.

There's also nostalgia attached to these treats. Many Hawaiian candy brands have been around for decades, passed down through generations. Locals have memories of buying candy at the corner store after school or receiving special treats from their tutu (grandmother). That emotional connection keeps these candies popular year after year.

What Makes Hawaiian Island Candies Unique

When people talk about Hawaiian island candies, they're usually talking about candy made in Hawaii, candy that uses Hawaiian ingredients, or candy that reflects the islands' unique cultural blend.

Hawaiian island candies stand out because they are usually made with local ingredients you can't find elsewhere. Macadamia nuts, grown primarily in Hawaii, are a staple in many confections. Kona coffee from the Big Island flavors chocolate truffles and toffees. Tropical fruits like pineapple, coconut, guava, and lilikoi (passion fruit) show up in gummies, hard candies, and chocolate fillings.

The quality is different too. Many Hawaiian candy brands are small-batch operations that prioritize freshness and authentic flavors over mass production. They're not trying to compete with Hershey's or Mars, they're creating something that represents the islands' spirit and taste.

Hawaiian candy tends to lean into bold, sometimes unusual combinations. You'll find sweet and salty playing together (like chocolate-covered potato chips with Hawaiian sea salt), sour and fruity colliding (li hing everything), and umami notes sneaking into unexpected places.

Traditional Hawaiian Candy You'll Still Find Today

While Hawaii's modern candy scene is diverse and innovative, some traditional Hawaiian candy has remained popular for generations.

Coconut candy is one of the oldest Hawaiian sweet treats, with roots in Native Hawaiian and Asian confectionery traditions. You'll still find chewy coconut candies and coconut mochi at local stores and farmers' markets. These candies use real coconut milk and shredded coconut, giving them an authentic tropical flavor that mass-produced coconut candy can't match.

Kulolo is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from taro and coconut that's sometimes formed into candy-like squares. While it's more of a dessert than candy in the modern sense, it represents island Hawaiian candy before Western influence.

Another traditional favorite that's stuck around is haupia candy, based on the classic Hawaiian coconut pudding dessert. You can find haupia-flavored chocolates, gummies, and other confections that capture that creamy coconut taste locals love.

What's interesting is how these traditional flavors have been adapted into modern candy formats. Today's Hawaiian candy makers take these classic tastes and turn them into chocolate bars, gummies, hard candies, and more, making them more accessible while keeping the authentic flavors alive.

Li Hing Mui Candy: Hawaii's Most Addictive Flavor

If there's one flavor that defines candy in Hawaii, it's li hing mui. This salty-sweet-sour powder, made from dried Chinese plums, is absolutely everywhere in the islands, and locals are borderline obsessed with it.

Li hing mui candy comes in countless varieties. There are li hing gummy bears, li hing dried mango, li hing sour belts, li hing rock candy, li hing popcorn, and even li hing Skittles. Basically, if it's a candy, someone in Hawaii has probably tried coating it with li hing powder.

The flavor is hard to describe if you've never tried it. Imagine salty, sweet, tangy, and slightly bitter all happening at once. It's intense, and it's definitely an acquired taste, but once you're hooked, you're hooked. Many people who grow up in Hawaii crave it when they move to the mainland and can't find it.

The most popular li hing mui candy brands in Hawaii include Crack Seed Store favorites, Li Hing Mui Gummy Bears from Hawaiian Island Candies, and dried fruit coated in li hing powder from local candy makers. You can also buy pure li hing powder to add to your own snacks, which many locals do.

If you're new to li hing, start with something familiar coated in it, like gummy bears or dried mango. The familiar base helps you adjust to the unique flavor. Don't be surprised if you love it or hate it on the first try, that's totally normal. But give it a second chance, because li hing mui candy has a way of growing on you.

Chocolate-Covered Macadamia Nuts From Hawaii

When most people think of Hawaiian candy, chocolate-covered macadamia nuts are probably the first thing that comes to mind. This classic combination is one of Hawaii's most famous food exports.

Macadamia nuts are primarily grown in Hawaii, making them a natural choice for local chocolate makers. The nuts have a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with smooth chocolate. Hawaiian chocolate candy makers typically use premium chocolate, often with higher cocoa content than mainland candy bars, and locally roasted macadamia nuts.

The most well-known brand is Hawaiian Host, which has been making chocolate-covered macadamia nuts since 1927. Their signature purple boxes are iconic in Hawaii and make popular gifts and souvenirs. But there are many other excellent local Hawaiian candy brands making this treat, including Mauna Loa, Big Island Candies, and Menehune Mac.

Beyond the classic milk chocolate version, you'll find dark chocolate macadamia nuts, white chocolate varieties, and creative combinations like chocolate-covered mac nuts with sea salt, Kona coffee, or coconut. Some Hawaiian candy makers even coat mac nut clusters with li hing powder or tropical fruit flavors for a uniquely island twist.

What makes Hawaiian-made versions superior to mainland imitations? Freshness is key. The macadamia nuts are roasted locally, often in small batches, and the chocolate is made on the islands. You can taste the difference between a fresh box from Hawaii and one that's been sitting on a shelf for months.

Gummy, Chewy, and Tropical Candy in Hawaii

Hawaii's gummy and chewy candy selection is where things get really fun. This is where you'll see the most creative flavor combinations and the strongest cultural influences.

Tropical fruit gummies are huge in Hawaii. Unlike mainland fruit gummies that often taste artificial, many popular Hawaiian sweets use real fruit juice or puree. You'll find guava gummies, lilikoi (passion fruit) gummies, lychee candies, mango chews, and pineapple everything. Brands like Squish and Hawaiian Candy Company specialize in these tropical flavors.

Mochi candy is another huge category. These Japanese-inspired chewy candies come in dozens of flavors and are wildly popular with locals. You'll find individual mochi candies, mochi crunch (crispy versions), and even mochi ice cream bites. Flavors range from traditional (strawberry, grape) to uniquely Hawaiian (li hing mui, haupia, guava).

Don't overlook the dried fruit and crack seed category either. While technically not candy, crack seed (preserved fruits, often from Chinese tradition) is a beloved Hawaiian snack that blurs the line between fruit and candy. Li Hing mui dried mango, sweet sour plum, and preserved lemon peel are incredibly addictive Hawaiian candy snacks that locals munch on constantly.

Gummy bears coated in li hing powder are a great example of how Hawaii takes familiar candies and makes them uniquely local. The combination of fruity, gummy sweetness with salty-sour li hing creates a flavor explosion that's become a must-try candy in Hawaii.

Hawaiian Paradise Candies Inspired by Island Fruits

Hawaiian paradise candies that feature the islands' incredible tropical fruits are among the most sought-after treats for both locals and visitors. These candies capture the essence of Hawaii in ways that go beyond just coconut and pineapple.

Guava candies, whether hard candies, gummies, or chewy strips, have that distinctive sweet-tart tropical flavor that screams "Hawaii." Liliko'i (passion fruit) shows up in chocolate truffles, hard candies, and caramel chews, bringing its tangy, aromatic quality to each bite.

Pineapple, of course, is everywhere, but Hawaiian-made pineapple candy tends to taste closer to actual fresh pineapple rather than the artificial flavor found in mainland candies. Look for pineapple macadamia nut clusters, pineapple gummies made with real juice, and even pineapple-flavored chocolate bars.

Coconut candy comes in many forms beyond the traditional chewy squares. You'll find coconut caramels, coconut patties (similar to Mounds but fresher), coconut brittle, and coconut combined with other tropical flavors like mango or pineapple.

Less common but absolutely delicious are candies featuring lychee, POG (passion fruit-orange-guava blend), dragonfruit, and even breadfruit. These tropical Hawaiian candy flavors give you a taste of fruits you might not encounter anywhere else.

Many local Hawaiian candy makers create gift boxes or assortments featuring these tropical flavors, making them perfect for anyone who wants to experience the full range of Hawaiian paradise candies in one package.

Hawaiian Candy Company specializes in tropical fruit gummies and li hing products. Their li hing gummy bears are legendary among locals.

Menehune Mac creates premium chocolate-covered macadamia nut products in small batches with unique flavor combinations like dark chocolate with Hawaiian sea salt.

Asahi Confectionery makes mochi candy and other Japanese-inspired sweets that are hugely popular in Hawaii's Asian community.

These Hawaiian island candies brands represent decades of tradition, quality ingredients, and authentic island flavors. When you buy from these companies, you’re not getting cheap imitations made elsewhere and slapped with Hawaiian-themed packaging.

Best Candy in Hawaii for Gifts and Souvenirs

If you're heading to Hawaii or ordering Hawaiian candy online to give as gifts, certain treats make better presents than others. The best Hawaiian candy for gifting travels well, represents authentic island flavors, looks appealing, and isn't so unusual that people won't know what to do with it.

Chocolate-covered macadamia nuts top the list. They're universally appealing, undeniably Hawaiian, and come in attractive packaging. Hawaiian Host boxes, in particular, have that classic souvenir look that screams "I went to Hawaii."

Assorted tropical candies make great gifts because they let people try multiple flavors. Look for gift boxes that include guava, lilikoi, mango, and pineapple candies. These famous Hawaiian candy gifts give recipients a full tropical experience without overwhelming them with any single intense flavor.

Shortbread cookies from Big Island Candies are another safe bet. They're fancy enough to feel special, delicious enough to impress, and familiar enough that even picky eaters will enjoy them.

For adventurous people, li hing mui candy makes a memorable gift. Package it with an explanation of what it is, and include a variety, maybe some li hing gummy bears, dried mango, and rock candy. It's a conversation starter and gives people a taste of authentic local culture.

Hawaiian sea salt caramels or coconut patties work well for people who prefer softer candies. They're indulgent, island-inspired, and different enough from mainland options to feel special.

Buy your Hawaiian candy assortment at local stores like Longs Drugs or Don Quijote rather than airport shops. You'll get better prices and often fresher products. If you're ordering online, buy directly from the manufacturers or reputable Hawaiian candy websites like Snack Hawaii.

Where to Buy Authentic Hawaiian Candy Online

Can't make it to Hawaii but still craving authentic Hawaiian candy? Fortunately, many local Hawaiian candy brands ship to the mainland, and several online retailers specialize in island treats.

The best approach is buying directly from the candy makers themselves. Snack Hawaii, Hawaiian Host, Big Island Candies, Mauna Loa, and most other major Hawaiian candy brands have online stores where you can order their full product lines. Buying direct ensures freshness and supports local Hawaiian businesses.

Snack Hawaii is an excellent online source for a wide variety of authentic candy in Hawaii. We carry multiple brands, offer assortment packs, and ship Hawaiian candy snacks across the USA. Our collections include gummy candy, Japanese candy popular in Hawaii, li hing mui candy, and even vegan candy options.

Amazon carries some Hawaiian candy brands, though you need to watch for third-party sellers charging inflated prices or selling older products. Check the seller ratings and look for "ships from and sold by" the actual brand when possible.

Specialty food websites like Goldbely sometimes feature Hawaiian candy makers, especially for premium items like Big Island Candies' shortbread.

For the widest selection of exotic Hawaiian candy and hard-to-find items like crack seed or specific li hing products, Snack Hawaii's candy collection offers the most comprehensive options outside of actually visiting the islands.

When ordering Hawaiian-made candy online, pay attention to shipping times and weather. Chocolate products can melt during hot summer months, so some sellers pause shipping or require expedited delivery during peak heat. Many Hawaiian candy companies include ice packs or recommend cold shipping for chocolate items.

How Hawaiian Candy Became a Global Favorite

Hawaiian candy's journey from local island treats to internationally recognized products is a fascinating story of cultural exchange, tourism, and quality ingredients.

The foundation was laid in the early 1900s when immigrant communities brought their confectionery traditions to Hawaii. Japanese mochi makers, Chinese crack seed vendors, Portuguese sweet bread bakers, and Filipino candy makers all contributed techniques and flavors that would eventually blend into Hawaii's unique candy culture.

The tourism boom starting in the 1950s and 1960s really put Hawaiian candy on the map. Visitors wanted edible souvenirs that reminded them of their tropical vacation, and chocolate-covered macadamia nuts fit the bill perfectly. Hawaiian Host capitalized on this, expanding distribution to hotel gift shops and eventually to mainland stores.

By the 1980s and 1990s, Hawaiian candy had become synonymous with premium quality and exotic flavors. The "Made in Hawaii" label carried cachet; it suggested something special, hand-crafted, and authentic rather than mass-produced.

The internet age changed everything for traditional Hawaiian candy. Suddenly, people who'd tasted li hing mui on vacation could order it online. Hawaiian expats living on the mainland could get their favorite childhood treats shipped directly. Food bloggers and YouTube channels introduced Hawaiian candy snacks to people who'd never visited the islands.

Social media amplified this trend. Instagram-worthy Hawaiian paradise candies with vibrant tropical colors and unique packaging became shareable content. TikTok videos of people trying li hing mui for the first time went viral, introducing millions to this uniquely Hawaiian flavor.

Today, you can find Hawaiian candy brands in specialty stores across the United States and even internationally. Major brands like Hawaiian Host and Mauna Loa have distribution deals with mainland retailers. Smaller candy makers ship worldwide through their online stores.

What keeps Hawaiian candy popular globally is its authenticity. In an age of artificial flavors and mass production, the best Hawaiian candy brands still prioritize real ingredients, traditional techniques, and genuine island flavors. People can taste the difference, and once they do, they're hooked.