Hawaii may just be another state in the U.S., but the island lifestyle is worlds away from what we typically experience on the mainland. If you are planning a vacation Hawaii, get ready to sample some of the local cuisine that you can't easily find in other places. We have a few of the Hawaii island favorites to get you started.

For Breakfast

Begin your vacation Hawaii with a steaming rich cup of Kona coffee, made fresh for you from the Big Island. The Kona region is the only place in the world that grows these robust beans that offer just a hint of spice, making Hawaii the premiere spot for a delightful cup.

For Lunch

If you feel your stomach start to rumble during your trip to the Hawaii island, stop in one of the local merchants for a bit of Spam musubi. As the name suggests, this tropical delicacy really is made with the canned meat, set on a rice cake and tied together with a piece of seaweed.

For Snack

When the heat starts to bite in the middle of the afternoon, grab your shave ice from a shop or vendor on the street. The ice is shaved ultra fine so it can easily absorb all the sweet, fruity flavors of the syrup. Most vendors offer a wealth of flavors so you can find the perfect addition for your vacation Hawaii.

For Dinner

Heading to an authentic luau? Don't be surprised if you are served poi – a paste made from mashed taro root that is eaten with the fingers rather than a spoon. Poi is a standard on any Hawaii island, but it is a taste that must be cultivated for most.

For Dessert

A favorite in the tropics is coconut pudding, known by the island natives as haupia. The traditional way to serve haupia is cut into chilled squares and placed on a ti leaf. Haupia is the perfect end to a perfect day in paradise.

No vacation Hawaii is complete without at least a sampling of some of the favorite island cuisine. No matter which meal you are ready for, you can find traditional Hawaii island food that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.