Hawaii—the Aloha State, where the ocean is always close, the sunsets are magical, and the spirit of “Aloha” is more than just a greeting. Whether you’re from Honolulu, a quieter town on one of the other islands, or a tucked-away spot in the countryside, if you check off most of these signs, you’re a true local. Let’s see how many of these apply to you!
You’ve said “Aloha” so many times that you don’t even notice it anymore.
“Aloha” isn’t just a word—it’s a way of life. Whether it’s used as a greeting, farewell, or expression of love, you’ve greeted everyone from strangers to old friends with Aloha so much it’s become second nature.
You’ve explained that “local style” isn’t just about food—it’s a lifestyle.
When you say “local style,” you’re talking about the way of life that’s unique to Hawaii. It’s about the food (plate lunches, loco moco), the laid-back attitude, and that sense of connection to the land and sea. You’ve probably had to explain it to tourists who think it’s just about surfing and hula.
You’ve spent time at the beach—and you’ve probably been asked, “Which beach?”
The beach is a part of life in Hawaii, and you’ve spent hours at your favorite one, whether it’s Waikiki, Lanikai, or some secret spot that only locals know. And when someone asks you, “Which beach?” you’ve probably thought, “You mean the one that’s right there?”
You’ve had a plate lunch—and you know that nothing compares to it.
The plate lunch is the quintessential Hawaii meal, and you’ve eaten enough of them to know that no one makes them like the locals. Whether it’s the ono (delicious) fried chicken, teriyaki beef, or spam musubi, plate lunch is an art form.
You know that “shaka” is more than just a hand gesture—it’s a symbol of positivity and connection.
The “shaka” is the universal sign of Hawaii. You’ve flashed it at strangers, friends, and drivers as a sign of peace, good vibes, or just to say “all good.” You know it’s all about the good energy, not just the gesture.
You’ve spent a day hiking up a volcano—and you secretly wish you could live there.
Whether it’s Diamond Head on Oahu or Haleakalā on Maui, you’ve hiked to the top of a volcano and marveled at the beauty of the island below. The landscape of Hawaii is unmatched, and you’ve probably spent a quiet moment thinking, “I could live here forever.”
You’ve tried to explain to someone that “Hawaiian pizza” isn’t really Hawaiian.
Hawaiian pizza might have pineapple on it, but it’s not something you’d find on a menu in Hawaii. You’ve probably had the debate with someone from the mainland, letting them know that real “Hawaiian” food is a bit different—think spam, poi, and fresh fish.
You’ve gone to a luau, and you know it’s more than just a tourist event.
While luaus may be marketed for tourists, you know that they’re a true part of Hawaiian culture. You’ve experienced the food, the entertainment, and the spirit of the gathering—and probably even danced a little hula yourself.
You’ve explained that Hawaiian time is a real thing—and you’ve learned to embrace it.
Being on “Hawaiian time” means that time isn’t rushed; it’s relaxed. You’ve embraced the island pace, where being late is part of the culture, and rushing through life just isn’t an option.
You’ve had a plate of loco moco—and you’ve secretly wished you could eat it for breakfast every day.
Loco moco—a perfect combination of rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and brown gravy—is comfort food at its finest. You know that no other breakfast (or lunch or dinner) can quite compare, and you’ve eaten it more times than you care to admit.
You’ve watched a Hawaiian sunset—and you’ve realized that you can never see another sunset the same way again.
The sunsets in Hawaii are iconic, and you’ve spent countless evenings watching the sun dip into the Pacific. Whether it’s from a beach or your backyard, you know that the colors of the sky during sunset are an experience you’ll never get tired of.
You’ve told someone that “ohana” means family—and you’ve lived by it.
“Ohana” isn’t just a word—it’s a concept that you live by. It’s about treating everyone like family, offering hospitality and warmth to all, and knowing that community comes first. You’ve probably told someone that “ohana” extends far beyond just blood relatives.
If you’ve nodded along to these signs, you’re definitely a true local. Whether it’s the food, the beaches, or the spirit of aloha, Hawaii has a special place in your heart. So, next time someone asks where you’re from, flash a shaka, say “Aloha,” and invite them over for a plate lunch or a sunset viewing!
