A Taste of July: The Best Of Hawaii’s Summer Flavors
July in Hawaii is a feast for the senses, particularly when it comes to local cuisine. Beyond the year-round staples, certain fruits and dishes truly shine during the summer months.
Must-Try Delicacies:
- Fresh Tropical Fruits: July is the peak season for many of Hawaii’s most delicious fruits. Indulge in sweet, juicy lychees and longans, enjoy ripe, fragrant mangoes, and savor the year-round sweetness of pineapple and papaya. Look for roadside stands and farmer’s markets for the freshest picks.
- Shave Ice: A quintessential Hawaiian treat for a hot July day! This isn’t your average snow cone; Hawaiian shave ice has a remarkably fine, fluffy texture. Customize it with an array of vibrant syrups, often with a scoop of ice cream at the bottom and a drizzle of condensed milk on top.
- Poke (Pronounced poh-kay): While available year-round, July’s warm waters often mean a fresh abundance of local fish. This traditional Hawaiian dish of diced, raw fish (often ahi tuna) seasoned with various ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and limu (seaweed) is a refreshing and flavorful staple.
- Garlic Shrimp (North Shore, Oahu): Head to the North Shore’s famous food trucks for a plate of legendary garlic shrimp. Fresh, succulent shrimp sautéed in copious amounts of butter and garlic, served typically with two scoops of rice and a scoop of mac salad – pure comfort food!
- Lomi Lomi Salmon: A refreshing side dish often found at luaus, this Hawaiian specialty is a “massaged” mix of diced raw salmon, tomatoes, and onions. It’s a cool and tangy complement to richer dishes.
- Malasadas: These Portuguese-inspired fried dough balls, dusted with sugar, are a warm, sweet, and irresistible treat. Look for them at local bakeries or food trucks – best eaten fresh!
- Plate Lunch: An iconic Hawaiian meal, the “plate lunch” typically consists of a main protein (like Kalua pig, Huli Huli chicken, or grilled fish), two scoops of white rice, and a scoop of macaroni salad. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that reflects Hawaii’s diverse culinary influences.
Why Choose Aloha Sunshine Tours for Your July Hawaiian Adventure?
At Aloha Sunshine Tours, we are dedicated to crafting personalized and authentic Hawaiian experiences. Our small group sizes ensure you receive individual attention and truly connect with the islands. Our guides are not just experts; many are kama’āina (locals) with deep roots and a passion for sharing Hawaii’s history, culture, and natural beauty. We are also committed to mālama ʻāina (caring for the land) and supporting local communities, ensuring your visit contributes positively to these cherished islands.
Ready to soak up the sun, savor incredible flavors, and create unforgettable memories this July in Hawaii? Let Aloha Sunshine Tours be your guide to an epic summer saga!