Discover the best Honolulu souvenirs, including foodie and non-foodie gifts.
Introduction: Take a Piece of Honolulu Home
If you’re visiting Honolulu and looking for the perfect souvenirs to remember your trip, you’re in for a treat. Honolulu offers a vibrant blend of cultural influences, stunning landscapes, and unique traditions, all of which are reflected in the souvenirs available in the city. Whether you’re a foodie or prefer non-foodie keepsakes, you’ll find a variety of authentic Hawaiian souvenirs that capture the spirit of Honolulu. In this guide, we’ll explore the top shops, hidden gems, and must-buy gifts that will let you take a piece of the island home.
Foodie Souvenirs in Honolulu: A Taste of the Island
Honolulu is known for its unique culinary offerings, influenced by diverse cultures, from traditional Hawaiian flavors to Asian and American fusion. These foodie souvenirs are perfect for anyone looking to bring a taste of Honolulu back home.
1. Hawaiian Coffee
No trip to Honolulu is complete without indulging in Hawaiian coffee. The islands are renowned for their rich, smooth coffee, with Kona coffee being one of the most sought-after varieties. Grown on the slopes of the volcanoes, Kona coffee has a distinctive flavor profile that’s both earthy and aromatic. You can find bags of this delicious coffee in many local markets and coffee shops around Honolulu.
Where to Buy:
- Hawaii Coffee Company – Offering various roasts of authentic Hawaiian coffee.
- Kona Coffee Purveyors – A great spot for Kona coffee beans and blends.
2. Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are an iconic Hawaiian treat, known for their rich flavor and buttery texture. These nuts are grown locally and are often roasted, salted, or coated in chocolate. Perfect as a snack or as a gift, macadamia nuts are one of the most popular foodie souvenirs in Honolulu.
Where to Buy:
- Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory – For a wide range of macadamia nuts, from chocolate-covered to savory varieties.
- The Nut Roaster – A local favorite with several delicious flavors of macadamia nuts.
3. Hawaiian Sea Salt
Hawaiian sea salt is harvested from the Pacific Ocean and often flavored with local herbs or volcanic clay. It’s an ideal gift for anyone who enjoys cooking or adding a touch of the islands to their meals. You can find sea salts in various flavors like black lava salt or red salt, all of which add a distinct Hawaiian flair to any dish.
Where to Buy:
- Salt Farm – Known for producing authentic Hawaiian sea salts.
- Aloha Salt Co. – A great spot for beautifully packaged Hawaiian sea salts.
4. Local Honey
Hawaiian honey is another deliciously unique souvenir. The islands have a variety of native flowers that produce distinctive honey flavors. Popular varieties include Macadamia nut honey and Lehua honey, both of which are sweet and floral with distinct notes that capture the essence of Honolulu’s landscapes.
Where to Buy:
- The Honolulu Farmers Market – A perfect place to pick up locally sourced honey.
- Maui’s Best Honey – Known for its high-quality honey produced on the islands.
5. Hawaiian Beer and Spirits
Hawaii has a vibrant craft beer and spirits scene, with local breweries and distilleries offering products that reflect the island’s tropical essence. Look for unique blends of rum, whiskey, and craft beers, many of which are infused with local fruits and flavors like pineapple, passionfruit, and hibiscus.
Where to Buy:
- Honolulu Beerworks – Try the locally brewed beers and pick up a six-pack to take home.
- Kuleana Rum Works – A great spot for picking up locally made rum, including flavors infused with tropical fruits.
Non-Food Souvenirs: Memorable Keepsakes from Honolulu
Beyond the delicious edible treats, Honolulu boasts a diverse array of non-foodie souvenirs that beautifully capture the island’s vibrant culture, rich art scene, and stunning natural beauty. From handcrafted jewelry to intricate art pieces, these items are more than just keepsakes—they embody the essence of Hawaii. Whether you’re seeking something unique to display in your home or a thoughtful gift for loved ones, these souvenirs offer a deeper connection to Honolulu’s spirit and heritage. They’re the perfect way to take home a piece of the island that goes beyond the taste of its cuisine.
1. Aloha Shirts
Aloha shirts, or Hawaiian shirts, are a symbol of Hawaiian culture and are one of the most iconic souvenirs from Honolulu. With their bright colors, floral prints, and relaxed fit, they embody the laid-back island lifestyle. These shirts are available in various fabrics, designs, and sizes, making them a perfect memento of your time in Honolulu.
Where to Buy:
- Hilo Hattie – Known for its vast collection of Aloha shirts and Hawaiian-themed clothing.
- The Aloha Shirt Store – A local shop offering a wide range of designs and styles.
2. Handcrafted Jewelry
Hawaiian jewelry, especially pieces made from locally sourced materials like seashells, coral, and pearls, makes for an elegant and meaningful souvenir. Popular items include beautiful handmade bracelets, necklaces, and rings that feature symbols of Hawaiian culture, such as the honu (turtle) or the plumeria flower.
Where to Buy:
- Lana’i Gallery – Known for its stunning selection of handcrafted Hawaiian jewelry.
- Tiffany & Co. at Ala Moana Center – For high-end, luxury Hawaiian jewelry designs.
3. Hawaiian Quilts
Hawaiian quilts are beautifully designed, hand-stitched works of art that incorporate tropical patterns and colors. These quilts reflect the Hawaiian tradition of quilting, with each design often holding symbolic meaning. Whether you’re looking for a small pillow or a large bedspread, a Hawaiian quilt makes a unique and personal souvenir.
Where to Buy:
- Hawaiian Quilt Collection – Specializes in quilts that are both beautiful and meaningful.
- Made in Hawaii Festival – Local craft fairs often feature hand-stitched Hawaiian quilts.
4. Local Art and Prints
Hawaii is home to many talented artists who draw inspiration from the islands’ breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. You can discover one-of-a-kind prints, paintings, and sculptures that capture everything from dramatic sunsets and lush mountains to native flowers and ocean life. These artistic pieces are not only beautiful but also deeply connected to the essence of Hawaiian culture. Whether it’s a vibrant painting or a delicate sculpture, each item serves as a thoughtful gift or a meaningful keepsake, allowing you to carry a piece of Honolulu’s natural beauty and spirit with you long after your visit.
Where to Buy:
- Hawaiian Modern Art – For contemporary Hawaiian art and local artisan creations.
- Gallery of Hawai’i Art – A great spot to find both traditional and modern Hawaiian artworks.
5. Ukuleles
The ukulele is a symbol of Hawaiian music and culture. Whether you’re an experienced musician or a beginner, buying an ukulele in Honolulu makes for an authentic and memorable souvenir. You can find ukuleles in various sizes and designs, many of which are handcrafted by local artisans.
Where to Buy:
- Roy Sakuma Ukulele – Known for its high-quality handcrafted ukuleles.
- Maui Music Ukuleles – Offers a great selection of handcrafted ukuleles from local artists.
Hidden Gems in Honolulu: Where to Find Authentic Souvenirs
While the main shopping districts in Honolulu are filled with souvenir shops, some of the best finds can be discovered in hidden gems around the city. These off-the-beaten-path locations offer authentic Hawaiian souvenirs that are unique, handcrafted, and often made by local artisans.
1. The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
For a truly local shopping experience, the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet is a must-visit. This open-air market offers a vast selection of souvenirs, including handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, and food items. You’ll find local artisans selling their wares at great prices, and it’s a great place to hunt for unique, one-of-a-kind gifts.
Where to Buy:
- Aloha Stadium Swap Meet – A vibrant marketplace with everything from vintage Hawaiian shirts to handmade jewelry.
2. Kapiolani Community College Farmers Market
This farmers market is more than just a place to buy fresh produce. It’s also an excellent spot to find unique local products, including handmade crafts, jewelry, and food items. Many of the vendors are small, family-owned businesses offering artisanal goods that reflect the culture of Honolulu.
Where to Buy:
- KCC Farmers Market – A great place to discover locally made goods and authentic Hawaiian souvenirs.
Conclusion: Take a Piece of Honolulu Home
From delicious local food items to handcrafted jewelry, Honolulu offers a wide variety of souvenirs that will help you remember your trip for years to come. Whether you’re looking for foodie souvenirs, non-foodie gifts, or hidden gems, the city has something for everyone. So, take home a piece of Honolulu’s rich culture and heritage, and share the island’s spirit with your friends and family.
Contact Information
For more information on where to buy the best souvenirs in Honolulu, check out the following local markets and shops:
- Hawaii Coffee Company
- Hilo Hattie
- Website: https://www.hilohattie.com
- Address: 131 Hilo Hattie St, Honolulu, HI 96819
- Phone: +1 808-833-5777
- The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
- Website: https://www.alohastadiumswapmeet.net
- Address: 99-500 Salt Lake Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96818
- Phone: +1 808-483-7878
- Kapiolani Community College Farmers Market
- Website: https://hfbf.org/farmers-markets/kcc/
- Address: 4303 Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, HI 96816
- Phone: +1 808-382-0007
- Roy Sakuma Ukulele
- Address: 3311-A, 10th Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
- Phone: +1 808-735-0010
Happy shopping, and aloha!