I grew up in Hawaii but now live in the Great Northwest.
I love it here, but I miss the look of Hawaii. I miss the way the rain forests looked on the Pali. But I digress.
In my garden, in Washington State, I grow hibiscus bushes, banana trees, elephant ears, and even ginger. My wife calls me "The Hawaiian version of the Beverly Hillbillies." My neighbors put up with my garden well enough.
There are limitations, but you can grow a zone-denial garden, and Hot Plants for Cool Climates walks you through the process step-by-step. The book is well written, covered with pictures to help you see what you are getting into, and just about always right.