There’s something about walking into an old crack seed store that instantly transports you back in time. The smell hits first—salty, sweet, sour, and a little funky, in the best way possible. Glass jars line the shelves like treasure chests, each filled with colorful and mysterious treats. As kids, we’d head to our neighborhood crack seed shop with a few dollars clutched in our hands, ready to score a paper bag of rock salt plum or li hing mui. You’d point to what you wanted behind the glass and the auntie would scoop it out with metal tongs and weigh it on a little scale. No frills. Just pure, nostalgic joy.
Crack seed is more than just a snack—it’s a cultural touchstone in Hawaiʻi. These intensely flavored preserved fruits came to the Islands with Chinese immigrants in the 1800s. Over time, they became a favorite among locals of all backgrounds, especially for kids who craved that puckering punch of li hing powder. Today, crack seed is considered one of the most iconic Hawaiian snacks, even if it’s getting harder to find the real deal stores.
Asian food, dried plum (Shutterstock)
What Is Crack Seed, Anyway?
The name “crack seed” refers to a traditional Chinese method of preserving fruit by cracking the seed to let the flavor soak in. In Hawaiʻi, the term has evolved to include a whole category of preserved snacks—dried mango, lemon peel, rock salt plum, li hing mui (dried plum with licorice), shredded dried squid, and even gummy bears dusted in li hing powder.
These snacks are salty, sour, sweet, or spicy—and sometimes all at once. They’re addicting. Part of the magic is in the textures: chewy dried mango, soft and sticky plums, crunchy wet li hing. You can’t really explain the appeal. You just have to try it. Crack seed’s bold flavors are an acquired taste, but once you’re hooked, you’re hooked for life.
How It’s Made: The Unique Flavor of Crack Seed
Traditional crack seed starts with fruit—typically plums, mangos, cherries, or lemons. They’re dried and then soaked or coated in a mixture of licorice, salt, sugar, and other flavorings. Some varieties are “wet,” meaning they come in syrup or sauce, while others are dry and shelf-stable.
Many have a distinct red hue thanks to the li hing (pronounced lee-hing) powder made from dried plum skin, sugar, and salt. In recent years, creative variations have emerged, like li hing gummy bears, li hing sour belts, and even li hing margaritas. The snack has gone modern, but the traditional roots remain.
Crack Seed Stores: Hard to Find, But Not Gone
Once common in local strip malls and town centers, crack seed stores are harder to find these days. Supermarkets and drugstores still carry packaged versions, but there’s nothing like the experience of walking into a dedicated store where you can see, smell, and sample everything before you choose. Luckily, a few legendary spots have stood the test of time.
Here are some of the best crack seed stores keeping the tradition alive:
1. Crack Seed Store – Kaimukī, Oʻahu
Located in the Kaimukī Shopping Center, this tiny gem has been around since 1940. You’ll find all the old favorites—rock salt plum, sweet sour lemon, shredded squid, and even seedless crack seed for the newbies. They also have modern twists like li hing gummy worms and arare (Japanese rice crackers).
Website: crackseedstorehawaii.com
Address: 3221 Waialae Ave #11, Honolulu, HI 96816
2. Lin’s Hawaiian Snacks – Honolulu, Oʻahu
Known for their wide selection and top-notch quality, Lin’s also ships online. Their mango is especially good—sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of chewy. It’s a great place to pick up omiyage (gifts) before heading home.
Website: linsmarkethawaii.com
Address: 401 Kamakee St, Honolulu, HI 96814
3. 5-Spice – Hilo, Big Island
This local favorite is tucked into a small spot, but it’s packed wall-to-wall with all the good stuff: traditional dried plums, wet li hing mango, sweet sour lemon, rock salt seed, dried cuttlefish and more.
Website: yelp.com
Address: 2064 Kilauea Ave Hilo, HI 96720
4. Wholesale Unlimited – Multiple Locations
Wholesale Unlimited Hawaii is a go-to spot for local Hawaiian snacks, including a huge variety of crack seed. From li hing gummy bears to wet seed, arare, shredded cuttlefish, and classic rock salt plum, this shop is stocked and affordable. It’s great for first-timers or anyone buying in bulk for omiyage (gifts). With multiple locations across Oʻahu, it’s one of the easiest ways to get your crack seed fix without hunting down specialty stores.
Website: wholesaleunlimitedhi.com
Address: 1130 N. Nimitz Hwy. #A100, Honolulu, HI 96817
Exploring Other Hawaiian Snacks
Hawaiian snacks are a delightful fusion of cultures and flavors, creating a unique and delicious taste experience that reflects the islands’ rich heritage. Hawaiian snacks are incredibly versatile and can be easily created with a few simple ingredients. They are perfect for enjoying at home or on the go, and come in a wide range of flavors and textures to satisfy any craving.
For those with a sweet tooth, haupia is a must-try. This traditional Hawaiian coconut milk dessert is creamy, sweet, and utterly satisfying. It’s often served at luaus and other celebrations, making it a beloved part of Hawaiian culinary traditions.
How to Shop at a Crack Seed Like a Local
Shopping at a crack seed store can feel overwhelming if you’re not used to it. There are rows of jars with names like “wet li hing mango,” “rock salt plum,” and “sweet sour peach.” Everything looks sticky, salty—or both. But once you know how to shop like a local, it becomes part of the fun.
Here’s how to navigate the experience like a pro:
- Look at the Labels
- Most jars have flavor descriptions—sweet, sour, spicy, or salty. They’ll also tell you if the item is “wet” (preserved in syrup or sauce) or “dry” (lighter and less messy). Dry snacks are a great choice for beginners or anyone traveling.
- Ask for Help
- Don’t be shy! The aunties and uncles behind the counter are usually more than happy to help. Tell them what you’re craving—like “something sweet but not too sour” or “chewy with a little kick”—and they’ll point you in the right direction.
- Try a Mix
- Many crack seed stores allow you to build your own custom mix by weight. That way, you can sample a little of everything—li hing mango, dried lemon peel, sweet sour plum, arare—all in one bag.
- Check the Color
- Li hing snacks are usually a reddish color thanks to the plum powder. If it looks dark and sticky, that’s a good clue it’s the “wet” kind—stronger flavor, chewier texture, and often more intense.
- Don’t Forget the Modern Stuff
- Crack seed isn’t just dried fruit anymore. A lot of stores carry trendy options like li hing gummy bears, li hing sour belts, apple rings, popcorn, and even pretzels. Great for keiki (kids) or anyone with a sweet tooth.
- Watch the Price by the Pound
- Crack seed is often sold by weight and can get pricey if you’re scooping with abandon. If you’re trying to stay within budget, just ask the staff for a set amount—like “$5 worth of li hing mango”—and they’ll portion it out for you.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a tasty snack, Hawaiian snacks are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Enjoy the taste of Hawaii and bring a little bit of the islands home with you with these delightful treats.
