Oh, Hawaii! You were everything I've ever needed and more.

This past June, my husband and I traveled to the gorgeous islands of Maui and Oahu for our honeymoon.

After a lot of back and forth, we finally decided on Hawaii for our honeymoon - and it definitely did not disappoint.

Of course, food was a significant consideration during our decision process, and my affinity for Asian cuisine made Hawaii a no-brainer. And of course, the beautiful sunsets, beaches, and culture helped a little with that decision too.

I know I can't be the only foodie out there. So, I decided to compile a list of the best foods you have to eat in Hawaii - especially if it's your first time visiting the 50th state.

Keep in mind that Hawaii is an ethnic melting pot. Many migrant workers have settled in Hawaii over the years, bringing with them their cultural traditions from Portugal, Japan, China, and the Philippines. Thankfully, all of these tasty Hawaiian foods are an integral part of Hawaiian culture today.

So here's to exploring different cultures, trying new things, and creating memories of a lifetime! In no particular order, here are 5 of the most delicious foods you have to eat in Hawaii.

Discover the Best Foods to Eat in Hawaii

Poke

Poke is a dish made initially by Hawaiian fishermen as a way of preserving and seasoning raw fish. This dish consists of fresh, diced fish seasoned and marinated with soy sauce, sea salt, kukui nuts, and limu (a type of seaweed). Traditional Hawaiian Poke usually consists of tuna or octopus. However, more modern variations can include salmon and other non-traditional toppings like avocado, carrots, and pineapples. Whether you opt for a traditional or modern-style poke, you won't go wrong.

The Best: Ono Seafood - Oahu, HI

Honorable Mention: Tin Roof - Maui, HI

Shave Ice

This delicious, frozen treat was the first thing I made sure to get as soon as we landed in Maui. With origins from Japan, shave ice (not to be confused with a snow cone or mispronounced as shaved ice) is almost precisely what it sounds like - but not. This refreshing Hawaiian treat of finely, shaved ice can have various flavoring syrups and toppings. As simple as it may seem, this Hawaiian treat is hard to get right. After having shave ice every single day of our 10 -day honeymoon, I've come to a realization. The difference between mediocre shave ice and the best-I've-ever-had has a lot to do with the flavoring syrups, as well as the toppings offered. The natural, fruit-based syrups are the gold standard. If you're traveling to Hawaii soon, try my favorite combo for me - strawberry, pineapple, and passionfruit (lilikoi) with a haupia (coconut-creme) topping. It's everything!

The Best: Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice - Maui, HI

Honorable Mention: Matsumoto Shave Ice - Oahu, HI

Hawaiian Shrimp

If you think you've had garlic shrimp, pineapple shrimp, or whatever-shrimp plenty of times, I can guarantee that you haven't had it like this before. I'm not exactly sure how the Hawaiians do it, but this is the best shrimp I've ever tasted. Also, I have to mention that you most certainly have to get it from one of Hawaii's famous shrimp trucks. I can't vouch for the restaurant versions. Every shrimp truck has different variations, but the menu offerings are pretty similar. My absolute favorite is the Hawaiian scampi from Geste Shrimp served with a side of rice, cabbage, and mac salad.

The Best: Geste Shrimp Truck - Maui, HI

Honorable Mention: Jenny's Shrimp Truck

Spam Musubi

Okay, I have to be honest. When I saw the word spam come up, I convinced myself this would be the one item I would have to leave Hawaii without trying. I don't know if it was my misperception of spam or my fear of eating things from a can, but... I was entirely wrong about this Hawaiian meal. Spam Musubi can come in a variety of combinations, but the main components consist of grilled/pan-fried sliced spam, seasoned rice, and nori packaged as a portable snack or meal. It is offered all around Hawaii in convenient stores and served hot or cold.

The Best: Musubi Cafe Iyasume - Oahu, HI

Honorable Mention: Oyako Tei - Maui, HI

Malasadas

This fluffy, cloud-like treat came to the Hawaiian Islands by way of Portuguese immigrants who came to work at sugar and pineapple plantations. Malasadas are a Portuguese style doughnut usually coated in sugar or cinnamon sugar. Some variations come filled with different tropical options such as guava or lilikoi (passionfruit). Whichever you choose, keep in mind that these are best served fresh and hot.

The Best: Leonard's Bakery - Oahu, HI

Honorable Mention: Maika'i Lani Malasadas

Bonus: Coffee

Did you know that Hawaii is only 1 of 2 US states that grow coffee? The only other being California. Most US states don't have the appropriate climates to grow coffee beans. Considering is exclusivity, it's worth trying Hawaiian coffee while visiting this tropical state.

The Best: Island Vintage Coffee - Oahu, HI

Honorable Mention: MauiGrown Coffee - Maui, HI

I hope this list inspired you to try a bit of Hawaiian food and culture while you're visiting. If you tried any of the foods (or places) listed, let me know what your favorite thing was. I'd loved to hear about your experience.