: The lyrics emphasize a "dreamy" and "hypnotic" love fantasy, focusing on romantic freedom and the sensory experience of a tropical getaway.
: Critics noted the track's departure from Perry’s previous "purposeful pop" era toward a more sultry, mature sound that blends pop, R&B, and trap influences. Katy Perry - Harleys In Hawaii (Official)
The song was directly inspired by a vacation Perry took to Oahu, Hawaii, with her then-fiancé, . During a motorcycle ride, Perry turned to Bloom and declared her intent to write a song titled "Harleys in Hawaii". : The lyrics emphasize a "dreamy" and "hypnotic"