Some places just speak to you.

For most of my life, that place was the East Coast. I used to daydream about waking up in a preppy New England town, dressed in houndstooth plaid and cable knit. Wearing penny loafers to the library as I scan the shelves, looking for a dusty, leather-bound title. Prancing around on an ivy league lawn, cruising through an autumn season full of pumpkins and foliage before waking up to a winter wonderland. I’d wear a fair isle knit sweater on Christmas, bake cookies, and sit in front of a burning fireplace.

Though I still love the East Coast, and those dreams will never fade, there’s also a new place I love. One that involves Hawaiian Airlines, a free sandwich, and a cookie. Catching a wave or letting it run. Runs to shaved ice shacks and local hole in the walls. Long, slow days in the sunshine. No pressure to do anything or be anyone.

So here are the things I come to when I crave the Hawaiian vibe. Mahalo!

Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.

Based on the 1989–93 ABC series Doogie Howser, M.D., Disney’s version stars a budding Hawaiian teenage doctor as she navigates the ups and downs of turning sixteen. Fun, lighthearted, but also warm and comfy, like your classic family-centric Disney show, this one has been on repeat for me.

Lilo & Stitch

I actually got a chance to watch the live action when it came out a couple of months ago. Though it wasn’t terrible, I couldn’t help but miss the classic animated series. Sometimes, stories are animated for a reason. The voice acting, the warm “ohana” storytelling, Stitch’s signature craziness and Lilo’s cute plump nose and sandals, make this a classic summer watch.

Guy: Hawaiian Style

I absolutely cannot leave Hawaiian food out of this post. Before travel vlogs, we had Food Network stars give their specials. Call me old fashioned, but this is the content I definitely prefer.

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BONUS: a small candle business

Whenever I’m on the island, I try to pick up some candles from Jules and Gem. You cannot go wrong with any of their scents!