Top Hawaiian Souvenirs
It’s hard to find someone who has visited Hawaii without bringing back unique gifts or souvenirs. Whether for loved ones or as keepsakes for themselves, most visitors to the Hawaiian Islands make it a point to fill their bags with all sorts of items before heading home.
Hawaiian gifts, like the islands themselves, are unique and diverse. The skilled local artisans have been crafting their art for centuries, often expressing their cultural diversity and spirit of Aloha through various mediums.
So, what are the best things to buy in Hawaii?
Unique Hawaiian Gifts & Souvenirs
There are so many beautiful things to buy in Hawaii that it can be overwhelming to choose. However, if you’re looking for uniquely Hawaiian souvenirs, the list below offers some ideas. All of these are high-quality products made locally with Hawaiian resources.
1. Lei Garlands
Leis are iconic Hawaiian gifts. These beautiful garlands, worn around the neck, can be made from flowers, shells, seeds, paper, or beads.
Leis are perfect for special occasions such as birthdays or graduations and are often given to welcome visitors to the islands, which is why you’ll see many tourists wearing them upon arrival. Fresh flower leis can be found at local lei stands and florist shops throughout Hawaii and can be safely transported in plastic containers.
2. Natural Seashells
Seashells are some of the most beautiful and affordable gifts you can bring back from Hawaii, often available for free if you collect them yourself. If beachcombing isn’t for you, seashells can also be purchased inexpensively in stores.
3. Hawaiian Jewelry
Hawaii is home to many jewelers and artisans who create stunning beach-inspired jewelry. You’ll find everything from fine gold and silver items to coral, mother-of-pearl pendants, and seashell necklaces. Some stores offer a unique experience where you can select an oyster, have it opened to reveal a pearl, and then have it mounted into a piece of jewelry.
4. Natural Hawaiian Bath & Body Products
Hawaii offers a range of plant-based, natural products like soaps, creams, and lotions with scents of vanilla, coconut, and jasmine. Look for organic spa-quality aloe lotions, bath salts, and scrubs infused with essential oils.
5. Old Lahaina Rum
Maui is home to a local rum distillery, and their Old Lahaina Rum is a great souvenir, especially if you enjoy Mai Tais, a classic Polynesian cocktail.
6. Sarong/Pareo
Sarongs, also known as Pareo, are large rectangular pieces of fabric worn traditionally in the Pacific Islands. They can be used as beach cover-ups or stylish garments and make for great souvenirs.
7. Hawaiian Spices
Hawaiian cuisine is renowned for its unique flavors, often thanks to local spices made from roasted Kukui nuts, seaweed, and sea salt. Hawaiian Rub, an all-purpose seasoning, is particularly popular.
8. Hawaiian Honey
The Big Island of Hawaii produces one of the rarest honeys in the world, made from the nectar of the Kiawe tree’s yellow flowers. This honey makes for a special gift that can’t be found anywhere else.
9. Aloha Shirts
Aloha shirts, made famous by celebrities like Elvis Presley, are a popular and iconic Hawaiian souvenir. They vary widely in price depending on quality and fabric.
10. Koa Wood Carvings
Koa wood carvings are unique to Hawaii, with each piece featuring deep, rich colors and varied grain patterns. Koa wood is exclusive to Hawaii, making these carvings a special keepsake.
11. Hawaiian Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts, though not originally from Hawaii, have become a signature product of the islands. Freshly harvested nuts are available year-round, making them a popular and tasty souvenir.
12. Kona Coffee
Kona coffee is renowned for its rich flavor and is a highly sought-after Hawaiian gift. Be cautious of blends, as they may contain only a small percentage of Kona beans. Authentic Kona coffee can be quite expensive.
13. Ukulele
The ukulele, synonymous with Hawaiian music and culture, is a popular souvenir. While some ukuleles are fully made in Hawaii, others may be assembled with imported parts.
14. Tropical Flavor Cookies
Honolulu Cookie Company offers a variety of tropical-flavored shortbread cookies that are a delicious reminder of your Hawaiian vacation.
15. Hawaiian Quilts
Hawaiian quilts are known for their bright colors and intricate designs. While full quilts can be expensive, smaller items like hot pads, bags, and table runners are more affordable.
16. Nautical Wind Chimes
Wind chimes, particularly those made from seashells and other nautical materials, are charming and inexpensive souvenirs.
17. Artwork
Hawaii boasts a vibrant art scene, with local artisans creating everything from oil paintings to wood carvings. These unique pieces can be a beautiful memento of your visit.
18. Exotic Fruit Jellies
The Hana Collection offers gourmet tropical fruit jellies made from real fruit. These all-natural treats come in a variety of flavors, making them a delightful gift.
19. Pineapple
While pineapple isn’t native to Hawaii, it has become closely associated with the islands. Fresh pineapples, often available from the Dole Company, can be a refreshing souvenir.
20. Poi in a Bag
Poi is a traditional Hawaiian staple made from taro root, known for its unique flavor and cultural significance. It’s often sold in ready-to-mix bags, making it easy to prepare at home. Poi in a Bag is a wonderful souvenir for food enthusiasts looking to experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
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Best Places to Shop for Hawaiian Gifts and Souvenirs
Hawaiian goods can be found throughout the islands in malls, independent shops, craft stores, and artist galleries. For the best deals, outdoor markets, craft fairs, and swap meets are excellent options, offering lower prices due to reduced overhead costs. Some popular shopping locations include:
- ABC Stores
- Aloha Wear
- Walmart
- The Shops at Wailea
- Hilo Hattie
- Ala Moana Center
- Kings’ Shops
- Princeville Center
- Kahala Mall
Always look for authentic souvenirs and products marked “Made in Hawaii.”
Allowed Hawaiian Souvenirs in the U.S. Mainland
- Beach sand
- Coconut
- Coffee (roasted or green)
- Fresh flowers, leis, and foliage (except any citrus flowers)
- Fresh pineapple
- Treated fruit, such as papaya, banana, dragon fruit, longan, lychee, and starfruit (must be treated at a USDA-approved facility and packed in sealed and stamped boxes)
- Rocks and stones
- Seashells
- Seed leis and seed jewelry
- Wood (including driftwood and sticks)
A Final Word on Hawaiian Souvenirs and Gifts
Despite visiting Hawaii many times, we still enjoy browsing the shops and markets for beautiful arts and crafts. Hawaii offers a unique shopping experience, and buying items directly from local artisans ensures authenticity and supports the local economy.