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Hawaii, where the beaches are stunning, the sunsets are spiritual, and the locals have mastered the art of giving side-eye while still throwing a shaka. While many dream of island life, Hawai‘i isn’t just a postcard—it’s a home, with deep cultural roots, serious aloha, and more than a few pet peeves when it comes to how outsiders act. If you’re looking to mildly annoy someone from the Aloha State (and maybe get politely unfriended), here are 11 subtle ways to do it.
Say “Ha-WHY-ee.”
It’s Ha-vai-ee (or Hawai‘i, if you’re really listening). Mispronounce it and watch the smile fade real quick.
Call the mainland “the real U.S.”
Hawai‘i became a state in 1959—not 5 minutes ago. Please catch up.
Say “I could totally live here!” after a 6-day vacation.
Oh yeah? Can you also handle shipping costs, high rent, and five types of mold?
Assume everyone surfs.
Some do. Some don’t. But none of them are there to be your personal beach tour guide.
Refer to everything as “Hawaiian.”
Unless it’s a person of Native Hawaiian descent, it’s not “Hawaiian.” It’s just pineapple on pizza, and no one asked for that.
Complain about “island time.”
Relax. That’s the point. You’re not late. You’re on a different rhythm.
Trash talk spam.
You just insulted the state delicacy. Prepare to be fed five varieties of Spam musubi as punishment.
Act like hula is just “a tourist dance.”
That’s a sacred tradition, not something you do with a plastic skirt at a luau buffet.
Treat locals like staff at a resort.
No, Keoni does not want to take your picture. He’s just trying to get to work, braddah.
Ask if they know someone in “Hono… lulu?”
First, say it right. Second, there are 1.5 million people here. It’s not a village.
Use “Aloha” without understanding it.
It’s not just “hello.” It’s love, respect, and a whole way of life. Use it with intention—or not at all.
Despite all that, Hawai‘i locals are some of the kindest, most community-centered people you’ll ever meet—if you come with humility, respect, and a willingness to learn. So take off your shoes, don’t touch the turtles, and remember: aloha is given, not assumed.
The post 11 Subtle Ways to Instantly Annoy Anyone from Hawaii appeared first on When In Your State.