Authentic Hawaiian shopping guide and local tips

Your Complete Shopping Guide

Shop like a kamaʻāina - insider tips for authentic Big Island treasures

Written by a Local Expert

Shop Like a Kamaʻāina: Spotting Authentic Products

Navigating the world of souvenirs can be tricky. My golden rule is this: If it feels too cheap, it probably is. True craftsmanship takes time and quality materials. The price reflects the aloha and the skill that went into it. Always look for the story behind the product.

Decoding the Labels: The Legal Lines in the Sand

✅ "Made in Hawaii" - The Official Seal

This is an official designation from the State of Hawaiʻi. For a product to legally use this label, 51% or more of its total value must be added within the state. Seeing this seal is a strong indicator that you are supporting a local business.

What to Look For:

• Official "Made in Hawaii" logo with seal
• Company registration information
• Local business address
• Specific island of origin when possible

☕ "100% Kona Coffee" - Know the Difference

This is one of the most important distinctions for a visitor to understand. By law, a product labeled "Kona Blend" is only required to contain a minimum of 10% Kona coffee beans. The other 90% is typically made up of cheaper, lower-quality beans from other parts of the world.

🏷️ The Label

Must say "100% Kona Coffee" explicitly. Anything else like "Kona Roast" or "Kona Style" is a blend.

💰 The Price

Authentic 100% Kona coffee is premium. Less than $20 per pound should raise suspicion.

🌱 The Source

Buy directly from reputable farms like Greenwell or Hula Daddy, or trusted farmers markets.

Identifying Authentic Hawaiian Jewelry

Authentic pieces are crafted from high-quality materials like gold, silver, and precious stones, with clear attention to detail. Reputable jewelers will often provide a certificate of authenticity.

💎 Heirloom Jewelry

This iconic style dates back to the Hawaiian monarchy and Queen Victoria's court. These cherished pieces typically feature:

• Hand-engraved designs
• Old English lettering
• Plumeria flowers or maile leaves
• Given for major life events

🎨 Ask About the Artist

At galleries like Na Hoku or Maui Divers Jewelry, ask about local designers they feature. They are proud to share:

• Artist background and training
• Design inspiration sources
• Cultural significance of pieces
• Care and maintenance instructions

Judging Koa Wood and Other Crafts

🪵 The Right Questions to Ask

Essential Questions:

• Is this solid Koa or a veneer?
• Where was the wood sourced?
• Can you tell me about the artist?
• How was this piece finished?

What to Look For:

• Maker's mark or signature
• Smooth, quality finish
• Natural wood grain patterns
• Proper weight and balance

Trust the Source: The best way to ensure authenticity is to buy from dedicated art galleries in Holualoa and Volcano, or directly from an artisan's studio tour.

Town-by-Town Shopping Snapshot

🌞 Kailua-Kona

Vibe: Bustling, historic, with charming waterfront energy.

Top 3 Stops:

• Kailua Village Farmers Market (Aliʻi Drive)
• Kailua Village Artists Gallery (oldest co-op)
• Aliʻi Drive Boutiques (Blue Water Fantasies, Pueo)

🌿 Hilo

Vibe: Historic downtown with creative, authentic, bohemian soul.

Top 3 Stops:

• Hilo Farmers Market (absolute must-do Wed/Sat)
• Big Island Candies (world-famous cookies)
• Downtown Boutiques (Simply Sisters, Island Nation)

🤠 Waimea / Kamuela

Vibe: Cool, green, sophisticated with rich paniolo heritage.

Top 3 Stops:

• Saturday Farmers' Markets (community heart)
• Gallery of Great Things (200+ local artists)
• Waimea General Store (unique gifts & local items)

🌋 Volcano

Vibe: Mystical, quiet, deeply creative, inspired by volcanic power.

Top 3 Stops:

• Volcano Art Center Gallery (in National Park)
• 2400 Fahrenheit (hand-blown glass studio)
• Kilauea Kreations (Hawaiian quilts & fabrics)

🎨 Holualoa

Vibe: Charming, walkable village completely dedicated to art and coffee celebration.

Top 3 Stops:

• Gallery Stroll (dedicate time to wander main galleries)
• Holualoa Ukulele Gallery (one-of-a-kind Hawaiian music shop)
• Donkey Mill Art Center (gallery shop supporting local artists)

Take Home the True Spirit of Hawaiʻi

As you explore the shops, galleries, and markets of the Big Island, I hope you'll see that every purchase can be more than just a transaction. It can be a powerful way to practice mālama—to care for and preserve the culture and community that make this island so unique.

By seeking out authentic, locally made goods, you're not just acquiring an object; you're supporting a local family, sustaining a cultural tradition, and carrying a piece of the island's true aloha spirit home with you. It's the difference between a trinket that collects dust and a treasure that holds a story.