Hawaii is the 50th and most recent state to join the United States, situated in the central Pacific Ocean. An archipelago of 137 islands and atolls, Hawaii is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich Polynesian culture. The eight main islands — Oahu, Maui, Hawaii (Big Island), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe — each offer a distinct personality and experience.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
100% Kona Coffee
Grown on the volcanic slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa on the Big Island, genuine 100% Kona coffee is among the world's finest. Look for '100% Kona' on the label — 'Kona blend' may contain as little as 10% Kona beans.
Price: $25-60 per pound
Where: Kona coffee farms (Big Island), specialty shops, KCC Farmers Market (Oahu)
Macadamia Nuts
Hawaii's most iconic nut, grown primarily on the Big Island. Mauna Loa is the most recognized brand; smaller farms offer premium roasted and chocolate-covered varieties. An ideal edible gift.
Price: $10-25
Where: Grocery stores, gift shops, airport, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm (Hilo)
Aloha Shirts (Made in Hawaii)
The iconic aloha shirt is a Hawaii staple. Look for 'Made in Hawaii' labels for authenticity. Reyn Spooner and Tori Richard are premium local brands. Bailey's Antiques in Honolulu stocks thousands of vintage originals.
Price: $30-200
Where: Reyn Spooner (Ala Moana Center), Tori Richard, Bailey's Antiques (Kapahulu, Honolulu)
Niihau Shell Lei
Made from tiny shells found only on the Forbidden Island of Niihau, these intricate leis are Hawaii's most precious jewelry. Each strand can take months to create and is truly unique.
Price: $100-$10,000+
Where: Bishop Museum Shop (Honolulu), specialty galleries, Hawaiian Kingdom Jewelry
Hawaiian Honey
Local Hawaiian honey reflects the unique flora of each island — lehua (ohia), macadamia blossom, Christmas berry, and wilelaiki varieties have distinctive, exceptional flavors prized by connoisseurs worldwide.
Price: $15-45
Where: Farmers markets, natural food stores, Hawaii Forest and Trail gift shops
Hawaiian Sea Salt
Harvested from ancient salt ponds on Kauai (Hanapepe), Hawaiian sea salt comes in unique colors including red (alaea clay) and black (activated charcoal). Used in Hawaiian cooking for generations.
Price: $8-20
Where: Farmers markets, specialty food shops, Kauai vendors
Locally Made Art and Photography
Hawaii has a vibrant arts scene. Original paintings, fine art photography, and handmade jewelry from local artists make meaningful, non-touristy souvenirs. Lahaina's galleries and Chinatown Honolulu showcase island talent.
Price: $20 for prints to $5,000+ for originals
Where: Lahaina galleries (Maui), Nohea Gallery (Ward Village, Honolulu), First Friday Chinatown arts walk
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
KCC Farmers Market
Oahu's most beloved farmers market featuring local farms, artisan food producers, prepared local foods, and genuine Hawaii-made products. The best place to sample and purchase local produce, honey, coffee, and crafts.
Hours: Tuesday 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Saturday 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Maui Swap Meet
Maui's largest open-air market held every Saturday at Maui College, featuring local vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, aloha wear, and genuine Hawaii-made souvenirs at local prices.
Hours: Saturday 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Hilo Farmers Market
One of Hawaii's best farmers markets, with over 200 vendors on Saturdays selling Hilo's abundant tropical produce including rambutan, lychee, dragonfruit, local flowers, orchids, and Big Island specialty products.
Hours: Wednesday 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Saturday 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Aloha Tower Marketplace Farmers Market
A popular Friday afternoon farmers market at the historic Aloha Tower on Honolulu Harbor, offering local produce, prepared foods, crafts, and live entertainment in a scenic harbor setting.
Hours: Friday 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Kapaa Farmers Market
Kauai's main farmers market featuring the island's incredible agricultural diversity — passion fruit, starfruit, locally grown vegetables, fresh-cut flowers, and Kauai-made artisan products.
Hours: Wednesday 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM