Big Island

Residents like to complain that there isn't a lot of great shopping on the Big Island, but unless you're searching for winter coats, you can find plenty to deplete your pocketbook.

Dozens of shops in Kailua-Kona offer a range of souvenirs from far-flung corners of the globe and plenty of local coffee and foodstuffs to take home to everyone you left behind. Housewares and artworks made from local materials (lauhala, coconut, koa, and milo wood) fill the shelves of small boutiques and galleries throughout the island. Upscale shops in the resorts along the Kohala Coast carry high-end clothing and accessories, as do a few boutiques scattered around the island. Galleries and gift shops, many showcasing the work of local artists, fill historical buildings in Waimea, Kainaliu, Holualoa, and Hawi. Hotel shops generally offer the most attractive and original resort wear, but, as with everything else at resorts, the prices run higher than elsewhere on the island.

High prices are entirely too common at the island's resort spas, but a handful of unique experiences are worth every penny. Beyond the resorts, the Big Island is also home to independent massage therapists and day spas that offer similar treatments for lower prices, albeit usually in a slightly less luxurious atmosphere. In addition to the obvious relaxation benefits of any spa trip, the Big Island's spas have done a fantastic job incorporating local traditions and ingredients into their menus. Massage artists work with coconut or kukui (candlenut) oil, hot-stone massages are conducted with volcanic stones, and ancient healing techniques such as lomilomi—a massage technique with firm, constant movement—are staples at every island spa.

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  • 1. As Hawi Turns

    Housed in the 1932 Toyama Building, this landmark North Kohala shop stocks sophisticated women's resort wear made of hand-painted silk or high-quality cotton in tropical designs by local artists. There are also plentiful vintage treasures, jewelry, gifts, hats, bags, and toys, plus handmade ukuleles by local luthier David Gomes.

    55-3412 Akoni Pule Hwy., Hawi, Hawaii, 96719, USA
    808-889–5023
  • 2. Basically Books

    The legendary shop stocks one of Hawaii's largest selections of maps, including topographical and relief maps, and Hilo's largest selection of Hawaiian music (feel free to ask for advice about your selection). It also has a wealth of books about Hawaii, with great choices for children. If you need an umbrella on a rainy Hilo day, this bookstore has plenty of them.

    334 Kilauea Ave., Hilo, Hawaii, 96720, USA
    808-961–0144
  • 3. Big Island Candies

    A local legend in the cookie- and chocolate-making business, Big Island Candies is a must-see for connoisseurs of fine chocolates. The packaging is first-rate, which makes these world-class confections the ideal gift or souvenir. Enjoy a free cookie sample and a cup of Kona coffee as you watch through a window as sweets are being made. The store has many interesting products, but it is best known for its chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies. 

    585 Hinano St., Hilo, Hawaii, 96720, USA
    808-935–8890
  • 4. Gallery of Great Things

    You might lose yourself exploring the trove of fine art and collectibles in every price range at this gallery, which represents hundreds of local artists and has a low-key, unhurried atmosphere. The "things" include hand-stitched quilts, ceramic sculptures, vintage kimonos, original paintings, koa-wood bowls and furniture, etched glassware, Niihau shell lei, and feather art by local artist Beth McCormick.

    65-1279 Kawaihae Rd., Waimea (Hawaii County), Hawaii, 96743, USA
    808-885–7706
  • 5. Hula Lamps of Hawaii

    Located near Costco in the Kaloko Light Industrial complex, this one-of-a-kind shop features the bronze creations of artist Charles Moore. Inspired by the vintage hula-girl lamps of the 1930s, Moore creates art pieces (both dancing and non-dancing) sought by visitors and residents alike. Mix and match with an array of hand-painted lampshades.

    73-5613 Olowalu St., Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740, USA
    808-326–9583
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  • 6. Kilauea Kreations

    Beautiful hand-stitched Hawaiian quilts grace the walls here, quilting kits and books are plentiful, and the vast inventory of tropical fabrics is amazing. The friendly proprietors also offer fine art, photography, cards, and cool souvenirs you won't find anywhere else. A second location, Kilauea Kreations II in downtown Hilo, features a larger store and collection of fabrics as well as classroom space.

    19-3972 Volcano Rd., Volcano, Hawaii, 96785, USA
    808-967–8090
  • 7. Kimura's Lauhala Shop

    Originally a general store built in 1914, this shop features handmade products crafted by local lauhala weavers, who use the leaves of the hala tree. Among the offerings are hats, baskets, containers, and mats, many of which are woven by the proprietors. Owner Alfreida Kimura-Fujita was born in the house behind the shop, and her daughter Renee is also an accomplished weaver. The shop is closed Sunday–Tuesday.

    77-996 Hualalai Rd., Holualoa, Hawaii, 96725, USA
    808-324–0053
  • 8. Kona Wine Market

    Near Costco, this longtime local wine store carries both local and imported varietals (with more than 600 high-end wines), specialty liquors, champagnes, 150 craft beers, gourmet foods, and cigars. There are even some accessories for home brewers. As a bonus, the market delivers wine and gift baskets to hotels and homes, and it offers complimentary tastings Fridays from 3 to 6.

    73-5613 Olowalu St., Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740, USA
    808-329–9400
  • 9. Lava Light Galleries

    C. J. Kale is an accomplished, award-winning photographer famous for capturing extraordinary images of lava flowing through the curl of a wave. Not a believer in using photo manipulation or special effects, Kale produces work that is as authentic as it gets. He and gallery partners Linda and Don Hurlzeler showcase their fine images of the beauty of Hawaii and other scenic places around the world.

    69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa, Hawaii, 96738, USA
    808-756--0778
  • 10. Mrs. Barry's Kona Cookies

    Since 1980, Mrs. Barry and her family have been serving yummy homemade cookies, including macadamia nut, white chocolate–macadamia nut, oatmeal raisin, and coffee crunch. Packaged in beautiful gift boxes or bags, the cookies make excellent gifts. She even makes cookies for the family dog. Stop by on your way to Costco or the airport and pick up a bag or two or three—or just ask Mrs. Barry to ship your stash instead.

    73-5563 Maiau St., Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740, USA
    808-329–6055
  • 11. Sugar Coast Candy

    Located on the bayfront in downtown Hilo, this beautifully decorated candy boutique is a blast from the past, featuring an amazing array of nostalgic candies, artisan chocolates, and wooden barrels overflowing with saltwater taffy and other delights.

    274 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo, Hawaii, 96720, USA
    808-935–6960
  • 12. Two Ladies Kitchen

    This hole-in-the-wall confections shop has made a name for itself thanks to its pillowy mochi. The proprietors are best known for their huge, ripe strawberries wrapped in a white mochi covering, which won't last as long as a box of chocolates—most mochi items are good for only two or three days. To guarantee you get your fill, call and place your order ahead of time. 

    274 Kilauea Ave., Hilo, Hawaii, 96720, USA
    808-961–4766
  • 13. Waimea General Store

    Since 1970, this Waimea landmark at Parker Square has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Although specialty kitchenware takes center stage, the shop brims with local gourmet items, books, kimonos, and Hawaiian gifts and souvenirs.

    65-1279 Kawaihae Rd., Waimea (Hawaii County), Hawaii, 96743, USA
    808-885–4479
  • 14. Westside Wines

    Tucked away in a small downtown Kona retail center below Longs, this nifty gourmet wine and spirits shop offers restaurant-quality "wine list" wines at affordable prices. It's also the place to find large-format craft beers, Champagne from France, single-malt whiskies, organic vodka, small-batch bourbon, rye whiskey, fresh bread, and artisan cheeses from around the world. George Clooney's Casamigos tequila is the store's house tequila. A certified wine specialist, proprietor Alex Thropp was one of the state's top wholesale wine reps for decades. Wine tastings take place Friday and Saturday afternoons from 3 to 6.

    75-5660 Kopiko St., Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740, USA
    808-329–1777
  • 15. 2400 Fahrenheit

    At the end of Old Volcano Road near Volcano Village, this small gallery and studio has hand-blown glass inspired by the eruption of Kilauea and the colors of the tropics. You can see the artists in action Thursday through Sunday from 10 to 4, and other days by appointment.

    Old Volcano Rd., Volcano, Hawaii, 96785, USA
    808-985–8667
  • 16. Ackerman Galleries

    Kapaau-based artist Gary Ackerman features his oil paintings and multimedia art in an impressionistic and abstract style at this small gallery. 

    54-3878 Akoni Pule Hwy., Kapaau, Hawaii, 96755, USA
    808-889–5138
  • 17. Alii Gardens Marketplace

    The outdoor stalls at this mellow, parklike market, open daily except Monday, offer tropical flowers, produce, soaps, kettle corn, coffee, coconut postcards, cookies, jewelry, koa wood, clothing, antiques and collectibles, handmade lei, silk flowers, and kitschy crafts. The made on-site barbecue is a real hit. A food kiosk also serves shave ice, fish tacos, coconut water, fresh-fruit smoothies, and hamburgers. Free parking and Wi-Fi are available.

    75-6129 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740, USA
    808-937--8844
  • 18. Bamboo Gallery

    The real draw of the Bamboo Restaurant is its attached art gallery, which tempts browsers with elegant koa-wood furniture and an array of gift items, such as hand-sewn crafts, boxes, jewelry, and even upscale aloha shirts.

    55-3415 Akoni Pule Hwy., Hawi, Hawaii, 96719, USA
    808-889–1441
  • 19. Blue Ginger

    The Waikoloa branch of this fashion veteran offers really sweet matching aloha outfits for the entire family in tropical batik prints. Handbags, shoes, robes, jewelry, and lotions are also sold here.

    69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa, Hawaii, 96738, USA
    808-886–0022
  • 20. Coconut Grove Marketplace

    The meandering oceanfront marketplace includes gift shops, cafés, restaurants (Outback Steakhouse, Humpy's Big Island Alehouse, Thai Rin, Lava Java, Foster's Kitchen, Fumi's Kitchen), sports bars, sushi, boutiques, crystal stores, Jack's Diving Locker, a running shop, and several art galleries. At night, locals gather to watch outdoor sand volleyball games held in the courtyard or grab a beer and enjoy live music. Directly adjacent is Ali'i Sunset Plaza, which is served by the same large parking lot. 

    75-5795–75-5825 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740, USA

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