Introduction
Hawaii offers far more than stunning beaches and volcanic landscapes – it's a shopper's paradise filled with unique treasures you can't find anywhere else. Whether you're searching for authentic Hawaiian souvenirs, local delicacies, or handcrafted artisan goods, the islands provide countless opportunities to bring home a piece of paradise.
From traditional Hawaiian crafts passed down through generations to modern interpretations of island culture, knowing what to buy can make your Hawaiian vacation truly memorable. This comprehensive guide reveals the best things to buy in Hawaii that locals recommend and visitors treasure long after their trip ends.
Traditional Hawaiian Souvenirs Worth Buying
Authentic Hawaiian Shirts (Aloha Shirts)
Genuine Hawaiian shirts represent more than just vacation wear – they're wearable art pieces that tell stories of island culture. Look for shirts made by local manufacturers like Reyn Spooner or Tori Richard, which use traditional patterns and high-quality fabrics.
What to look for:
- 100% cotton or silk materials
- Traditional Hawaiian motifs (hibiscus, palm trees, ocean waves)
- Local brand labels
- Reverse print designs (pattern on the inside)
Where to buy: Local boutiques in Waikiki, Lahaina, or Hilo offer the best selection of authentic designs.
Koa Wood Products
Koa wood, native only to Hawaii, creates some of the most sought-after souvenirs on the islands. This beautiful hardwood features unique grain patterns and rich golden-brown coloring that darkens with age.
Popular koa wood items:
- Jewelry boxes and trinket containers
- Picture frames and decorative bowls
- Cutting boards and serving platters
- Traditional Hawaiian instruments (ukuleles)
- Custom furniture pieces
Price range: Small items start around $25-50, while larger pieces can cost several hundred dollars.
Hawaiian Quilts and Textiles
Hawaiian quilting represents a unique fusion of Polynesian and Western traditions. These intricate textiles make meaningful gifts that showcase island artistry.
Types available:
- Full-size bed quilts ($300-1,500)
- Wall hangings and decorative pieces ($50-300)
- Pillow covers and small accessories ($25-75)
- Table runners and placemats ($40-100)
Local Food and Beverage Specialties
Hawaiian Coffee
Kona coffee, grown on the Big Island's volcanic slopes, ranks among the world's finest coffee varieties. The unique combination of volcanic soil, tropical climate, and careful cultivation creates a smooth, rich flavor profile.
Best Hawaiian coffee types:
- 100% Kona Coffee: Premium grade, smooth with low acidity
- Ka'u Coffee: Emerging region with unique floral notes
- Maui Coffee: Grown at high altitudes with complex flavors
- Molokai Coffee: Small-batch production with distinctive character
Buying tips: Purchase directly from coffee farms or reputable retailers. Avoid blends labeled "Kona blend" which may contain only 10% Kona beans.
Macadamia Nuts and Chocolate
Hawaii produces some of the world's finest macadamia nuts, and local chocolatiers create incredible confections using island-grown ingredients.
Top picks:
- Mauna Loa macadamia nuts (various flavors)
- Hawaiian Host chocolate-covered macadamias
- Honolulu Cookie Company shortbread cookies
- Big Island Candies chocolate-dipped treats
- Local honey varieties (lehua, ohia, wildflower)
Hawaiian Sea Salt
Traditional Hawaiian sea salt, particularly the prized red and black varieties, adds unique flavors to cooking while connecting you to ancient Hawaiian traditions.
Varieties to try:
- Alaea Red Salt: Mixed with volcanic clay, adds earthy flavor
- Black Hawaiian Salt: Activated charcoal creates striking appearance
- Traditional White Sea Salt: Pure, clean ocean taste
- Flavored Salts: Infused with local ingredients like seaweed or herbs
Handcrafted Artisan Goods
Hawaiian Jewelry
Authentic Hawaiian jewelry incorporates traditional designs and locally-sourced materials, creating wearable pieces of island culture.
Popular styles:
- Hawaiian Heirloom Jewelry: Gold bracelets with Old English lettering
- Puka Shell Necklaces: Classic beach jewelry using natural shells
- Tahitian Pearl Jewelry: Lustrous black pearls in elegant settings
- Coral and Shell Accessories: Natural materials crafted into unique pieces
- Jade and Volcanic Rock Jewelry: Incorporating local stones and minerals
Traditional Hawaiian Instruments
Ukuleles
The ukulele, while originally from Portugal, became deeply embedded in Hawaiian culture and makes an excellent souvenir for music lovers.
Quality levels:
- Student Grade: $50-150, good for beginners
- Concert Grade: $200-500, better sound quality
- Professional Grade: $500+, made with premium koa wood
Recommended brands: Kamaka, KoAloha, and Kanile'a represent the finest Hawaiian ukulele craftsmanship.
Other Traditional Instruments
- Ipu (gourd drums)
- Pu (conch shell horns)
- Ili ili (stone castanets)
- Bamboo nose flutes
Hawaiian Art and Prints
Local artists create stunning works that capture the essence of island life, from traditional Hawaiian themes to contemporary interpretations.
Art forms to consider:
- Original paintings by local artists
- Limited edition prints and posters
- Photography showcasing Hawaiian landscapes
- Traditional tapa cloth artwork
- Scrimshaw and carved bone pieces
Beauty and Wellness Products
Natural Hawaiian Skincare
Hawaii's tropical environment produces ingredients perfect for natural skincare products that harness the healing power of island botanicals.
Key Hawaiian ingredients:
- Kukui Nut Oil: Moisturizing and healing properties
- Noni: Anti-aging and skin-repairing benefits
- Awapuhi (Wild Ginger): Natural hair and scalp treatment
- Coconut Oil: Versatile moisturizer and hair conditioner
- Plumeria and Pikake: Natural fragrances in soaps and lotions
Recommended brands:
- Maui Soap Company
- Hawaiian Bath & Body
- Island Soap & Candle Works
- Bubble Shack Hawaii
Hawaiian Perfumes and Fragrances
Capture the essence of tropical flowers with authentic Hawaiian perfumes made from locally-grown botanicals.
Popular scents:
- Plumeria (frangipani)
- Pikake (jasmine)
- Tuberose
- Gardenia
- Maile (native Hawaiian vine)
Modern Hawaiian Fashion and Accessories
Contemporary Hawaiian Fashion
Modern Hawaiian designers create stylish clothing that blends traditional island aesthetics with contemporary fashion sensibilities.
Trending items:
- Resort wear and vacation dresses
- Surf-inspired clothing and accessories
- Hawaiian-print activewear
- Beach bags and totes
- Flip-flops and sandals from local brands
Surf and Beach Gear
Hawaii's world-renowned surf culture produces high-quality beach and water sports equipment.
Popular purchases:
- Surfboards (custom or production models)
- Rashguards and board shorts
- Beach towels with Hawaiian designs
- Snorkeling gear and accessories
- Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs)
Where to Shop for the Best Hawaiian Products
Local Markets and Farmers Markets
KCC Saturday Market (Oahu): Features local artisans, food vendors, and fresh produce every Saturday morning.
Maui Swap Meet: Offers a mix of local crafts, clothing, and souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Hilo Farmers Market (Big Island): Known for fresh tropical fruits, local crafts, and authentic Hawaiian products.
Specialty Stores and Boutiques
Ward Village Shops (Oahu): Upscale shopping center with local boutiques and artisan stores.
Whaler's Village (Maui): Beachfront shopping with a good selection of Hawaiian-made products.
Historic Kailua-Kona (Big Island): Charming downtown area with local shops and galleries.
Department Stores and Chains
ABC Stores: Convenient locations throughout Hawaii, though prices may be higher than local shops.
Walmart and Target: Offer basic Hawaiian souvenirs at lower prices, but with less authenticity.
Local Costco: Great for bulk purchases of macadamia nuts, coffee, and other local specialties.
Shopping Tips for Hawaii Visitors
Authentication and Quality Checks
Verify authenticity:
- Look for "Made in Hawaii" labels
- Ask about the origin of materials
- Purchase from reputable local businesses
- Be wary of mass-produced items marketed as "Hawaiian"
Quality indicators:
- Solid construction and finishing
- Natural materials over synthetic alternatives
- Local brand recognition and reputation
- Appropriate pricing (extremely cheap items are often imported)
Budget-Friendly Shopping Strategies
Money-saving tips:
- Shop at local farmers markets for the best prices
- Compare prices between tourist areas and local neighborhoods
- Look for end-of-season sales at resort shops
- Consider shipping larger items home to avoid baggage fees
- Buy directly from artisans and producers when possible
Shipping and Transportation
Getting purchases home:
- Many stores offer shipping services to the mainland
- Consider shipping costs versus airline baggage fees
- Pack fragile items carefully in carry-on luggage
- Check TSA regulations for food items and liquids
- Some items (like fresh fruit) cannot be transported to the mainland
Seasonal Shopping Considerations
Best Times to Shop
Peak season (December-March): Widest selection but higher prices and crowds.
Shoulder season (April-May, September-November): Good balance of selection and pricing.
Off-season (June-August): Best deals but potentially limited inventory.
Holiday and Festival Shopping
Aloha Festivals (September): Special cultural items and traditional crafts available.
Merrie Monarch Festival (April, Big Island): Excellent time to find authentic hula and cultural items.
Christmas season: Unique Hawaiian holiday decorations and gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most authentic Hawaiian souvenirs to buy?
The most authentic Hawaiian souvenirs include koa wood products, traditional Hawaiian quilts, genuine Kona coffee, Hawaiian sea salt, and handcrafted jewelry using local materials. These items represent genuine Hawaiian culture and craftsmanship rather than mass-produced tourist trinkets.
How much should I budget for Hawaiian souvenirs?
Budget $200-500 for quality Hawaiian souvenirs, depending on your preferences. Small items like coffee or macadamia nuts cost $10-30, while authentic koa wood pieces or Hawaiian quilts range from $100-500. Handcrafted ukuleles and jewelry can cost $200-1,000 or more for premium pieces.
Can I bring Hawaiian food products back to the mainland?
Most processed Hawaiian food products like coffee, macadamia nuts, chocolate, and packaged goods can be transported to the mainland. However, fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants are generally prohibited due to USDA regulations. Always check current restrictions before traveling.
Where can I find the best deals on Hawaiian products?
Local farmers markets, neighborhood shops away from tourist areas, and direct purchases from artisans typically offer the best prices. Avoid hotel gift shops and airport stores, which charge premium prices. Costco and local supermarkets offer good deals on bulk items like coffee and snacks.
What Hawaiian products make the best gifts?
Kona coffee, macadamia nut products, Hawaiian sea salt, and small koa wood items make excellent gifts. They're authentic, reasonably priced, easy to transport, and appeal to a wide range of recipients. Hawaiian skincare products and specialty foods also make thoughtful presents.
Are there any Hawaiian products I should avoid buying?
Avoid items labeled "Made in China" or other foreign countries that are simply sold in Hawaii. Be cautious of extremely cheap "Hawaiian" shirts, jewelry, or crafts that may be mass-produced imports. Also avoid purchasing coral, shells from protected areas, or any items made from endangered species.
Conclusion
Shopping in Hawaii offers incredible opportunities to bring home authentic pieces of paradise that will remind you of your island adventure for years to come. From traditional koa wood crafts and genuine Kona coffee to contemporary Hawaiian fashion and artisan-made jewelry, the islands provide unique treasures that can't be found anywhere else in the world.
Remember to shop smart by purchasing from reputable local businesses, verifying authenticity, and comparing prices across different venues. Whether you're looking for meaningful gifts for loved ones or special mementos for yourself, Hawaii's diverse shopping landscape ensures you'll find the perfect items to commemorate your tropical getaway.
The key to successful Hawaiian shopping lies in seeking out authentic, locally-made products that support island artisans and businesses while providing you with genuine pieces of Hawaiian culture to treasure forever.