If you’re reading this, chances are good that you’re currently sitting in paradise and making the rest of us very jealous. Thankfully, the only thing better than visiting Hawaii is being the person that brings home a piece of the aloha spirit by way of Hawaiian souvenirs.
I’m sure your never-ending photos of perfect palm trees and glorious sunsets have your friends (and you?) tempted to book a one-way flight to this sliver of paradise, but until that dream is realized the best we can all do is bring home the best souvenirs from Hawaii to prolong paradise until we return.
I’ve visited Hawaii more than twenty times over the years and have come to realize the importance of bringing home great souvenirs from Hawaii (people have high expectations!).
And since my mission is to make you look like the rock star (that you are), today I’m sharing my personal favorite Hawaiian souvenirs to bring home, let’s get to it!
Best Hawaiian Souvenirs
First, let’s cover edible souvenirs from Hawaii
#1. The BEST Hawaiian souvenir: Maui Gold Pineapple
What is more iconic of Hawaii than the sought-after Maui Gold pineapple? I swear, there’s something in Hawaii’s soil that makes these SO much sweeter (and tastier) than they are on the mainland.
I mean seriously, you bite into one of these bad boys and you’ll never be the same — RIP old you.
Also, who doesn’t love receiving an edible souvenir from Hawaii? I suggest swinging by Costco because they sell them by the unit ($3 per pineapple) while other stores sell pineapples by weight ($1/pound).
And since Costco’s pineapples weigh 6-7 pounds each, they’re a great deal!
Tip: Few folks know that you can carry pineapples directly on the flight (or checked luggage). The reason? Pineapples are too acidic to harbor pests. During our last visit to Hawaii we packed seven pineapples into our checked luggage and carried two more on the flight, no need to buy the expensive boxed ones at the airport.
#2. Chocolate covered macadamia nuts
What’s better than large rich and buttery Hawaiian macadamias? Macadamias dressed in creamy chocolate, of course. Don’t board your flight without boxes of these delectable treats in tow!
There’s two brands to choose from — Mauna Loa and Hawaiian Host. I personally prefer Mauna Loa and grab the 6-pack from the ABC stores or Costco on my last day in Hawaii because if I purchase them sooner, they wouldn’t make it home.
#3. Honolulu Cookie Company cookies
The first time my parents visited Hawaii they brought back Honolulu Cookie Company shortbread cookies and I swore to myself that someday I would visit Hawaii and continue the tradition.
Since then, every time I visit Hawaii I never fail to pick up several boxes of these tasty Hawaiian souvenirs.
There’s TONS of Honolulu Cookie Company stores peppered throughout the islands, you can pick up a box directly from a store or swing by Costco for a better deal. Up to you!
#4. Kona coffee beans
Who among is not weak in the presence of coffee? Kona coffee is one of the best Hawaiian souvenirs because it starts the day on the right foot.
Bring back a bag for your friends and give them something to remember you by for a week or two.
Hawaii has a great climate for growing coffee because of the humidity and volcanic soil.
I suggest Kona coffee specifically, but each of the Hawaiian islands produces their own beans — hard to go wrong regardless of which you choose.
My personal favorite Hawaiian coffee brands are Hawaii Roasters and Hawaii Coffee Company.
Tip: If you have a favorite cafe in Hawaii, pick up a mug and prolong your vacation mindset with two Hawaiian souvenirs in one!
#5. Bottle of Hawaiian rum
If ever there’s ever been a Hawaiian souvenir that doesn’t need an explanation, it’s Hawaiian rum. During our last visit to Hawaii we decided to make our own mixed drinks and ended up trying a handful of delightful Hawaiian-made rum.
Two clear standouts were KoHana and Koloa — we brought back a bottle of each.
Pair the rum with a fresh Hawaiian pineapple and make some tasty island drinks at home!
#6. Hawaiian honey
I don’t know about you, but I love honey and can definitely taste a difference with honey from Hawaii — which is why it’s such a great Hawaiian souvenir!
Hawaii’s honey has an interesting twist that changes the flavor profile and makes it unlike any honey I’ve ever tasted had before.
The most popular type is Hawaiian honey is called Lehua honey, which has a delicate spreadable texture and sweet aroma. The Lehua blossom produces smooth crystalized honey – spread it on warm biscuits and I guarantee you’ll never be the same!
#7. Hawaiian fruit jam, especially lilikoi (passion-fruit)
Fruits just taste better in Hawaii, don’t they? Unfortunately, most fresh fruits aren’t allowed to be brought over without clearing customs (which requires per-packaging and a hefty price tag).
Thankfully, fruit jam is customs-approved which makes it an easy Hawaiian souvenir to bring back!
My personal favorite jam to bring home from Hawaii is passion fruit (lilikoi) because it’s hard to come by on the mainland!
Take advantage of this perfectly tart and refreshing fruit during your time in Hawaii by stocking up on some delicious lilikoi jam to share with family and friends.
We came across lilikoi jam at fruit stands, farmers markets, grocery stores and even along the Road to Hana. Doesn’t matter too much where you get it, just make sure to pick up a jar … or ten.
#8. Macadamia nuts
Hawaii’s macadamia nuts are known the world over for great reason, they are buttery perfection. It’s no wonder these little treats are some of the best Hawaiian souvenirs you can bring home, who can resist them?
Thankfully, macadamia nuts grow in abundance in Hawaii. In fact, Hawaii was the site of the world’s first commercial macadamia nut farm. The most popular brand is Mauna Loa and they sell these decadent nuts in cans and bags.
Macadamia nuts come in a wide array of interesting flavors (chocolate covered, roasted, salted, savory, etc.) Try a few flavors you wouldn’t normally get back home, expand your comfort zone because you never know what you might end up loving!
If I may offer a suggestion: Pick up more bags and cans than you think you’ll need. These are an irresistible snack and you’ll want to keep some around the house for yourself!
#9. Hawaiian sea salt
Like the other tasty made-in-Hawaii souvenirs mentioned above, Hawaiian sea salt is a great souvenir to bring home from Hawaii!
You don’t need to a be a professional chef to appreciate the quality and taste of Hawaiian sea salt. It is more flavorful than traditional salt plus you can get various flavors!
My personal favorite is the fresh herb flavored sea salt and I am known for sprinkling it over popcorn on a weekly basis.
If you’d like to stick with a more traditional Hawaiian souvenir, I suggest getting the iconic pink sea salt from Hawaii. Plus, this is once of the most inexpensive Hawaiian souvenirs you can get your hands on!
Non-edible souvenirs from Hawaii
#10. Hawaiian-themed birdhouse
Birdhouses are a unique Hawaiian souvenir guaranteed to bring happiness long after you’ve left the island. Especially if you live in the gloomy Pacific Northwest where rain is guaranteed from September through May.
During one of my trips to Hawaii, I came across a local artisan that specialized in making birdhouses. I was lucky enough to buy one on the spot, because I’ve found it hard to come across birdhouses made in Hawaii after that.
However, I was able to find this adorable birdhouse online and will link it here, if you’re interested.
#11. Classic Hawaiian shirt
There’s probably a scientific fact somewhere in the world that claims Hawaiian shirts can boost your mood (I believe it!).
I mean, everyone knows that folks donning Hawaiian shirts have their minds on a beautiful beach in Hawaii and it’s hard to be mad when you’re thinking about that!
Join the club and pick up a colorful Hawaiian shirt during your visit as a reminder to yourself that Hawaii is always a good idea. Hard to think of a more iconic Hawaiian souvenir if you ask me.
Get a matching set for a close family member or friend and invite them over for tropical drinks while you show them photos from your trip.
Pro tip: The price and quality of Hawaiian shirts varies greatly. I personally suggest swinging by Costco There because they have a wide selection of Hawaiian shirts and many are less than $30.
If you’re in the mood for higher quality Hawaiian souvenirs, I suggest checking out Tommy Bahama.
#12. The most iconic souvenir from Hawaii: Hula girl
Who doesn’t want a Hula girl sitting atop their dash? It’s the perfect Hawaiian souvenir and will serve as a constant reminder to return to Hawaii soon! This hula girl is solar powered and works overtime when needed, perfect for the windowsill!
#13. Koa wood products
We received a set of Koa wood bowls as a wedding gift and I cherish them to this day! Koa wood is only found in Hawaii and produces very intriguing pieces because of the interesting wavy patterns in the grain.
If you have a special occasion to celebrate (or commemorate) this gift will fit the bill.
What’s more, if you take care of the piece, it will become a quality Hawaiian souvenir that will last for years to come.
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#14. Beach towel
Chances are good that you’ll end up using a beach towel when you get back home. Whether you’re using it at an actual beach or as an impromptu picnic blanket, this is a practical souvenir from Hawaii that will serve as a constant reminder of breathtaking sunsets and tropical drinks on the beach.
#15. Hawaiian earrings
One of my most cherished piece of jewelry is a pair of earrings my husband brought home as a souvenir from Hawaii during a work trip. He picked out a lovely turquoise pair made by a local artist and I wear them during very special occasions because I love them so much.
If you’re not into earrings, you can easily pick up Hawaiian jewelry like a necklace, bracelet or ring. These pieces are normally adorned with iconic Hawaiian symbols like sea turtles, palm trees, flip flops and hibiscus flowers.
Regardless of what you choose, jewelry is a great souvenir from Hawaii because it’s lightweight and easy to bring home! The biggest perk? If you don’t lose your jewelry (like yours truly), it will last forever!
#16. A unique Hawaiian souvenir: Ukulele
This is another fun Hawaiian souvenir for kids because it will keep them entertained for hours. We brought home ukuleles for our nephews two years ago and they still play with them to this day (apologies to their mom!).
Ukuleles are iconic souvenirs from Hawaii and the toy versions can be found for cheap at the ABC store. Unless you plan to take your ukulele skills professional, there’s no need to shell out for the real deal unless you absolutely want to.
#17. Fresh Lei
A fresh lei is a great Hawaii souvenir to bring home for someone special. You simply can’t think of Hawaii without picturing these incredible works of art.
Fresh leis don’t last long but they are absolutely sensational. Much like a beautiful bouquet of flowers, they are sure to bring joy to your special someone.
I usually pick up 2 fresh leis from Costco before boarding my return flight home and gift them to whoever is picking me up at the airport as a thank you gift. Needless to say, finding someone to pick me up at the airport is usually a breeze!
Image courtesy Cindy’s Lei Shoppe
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#18. Hawaii-made body products
My coworker brought back some Hawaii-made lotions as a souvenir from Hawaii and I was so impressed by the quality and smells!
There’s a handful of spots you can pick up some made-in-Hawaii body products, like lotions, bath salts, body scrubs and soaps. The smells are sure to conjure up memories from your time on the island.
#19. Hawaiian quilt
If you’re looking for a quality Hawaiian souvenir that will last a lifetime, pick up a unique Hawaiian quilt. It’s worth mentioning that, as with any quality gift from Hawaii, it will not come cheap.
Genuine Hawaiian quilts can be passed down for generations, as such, they can get quite expensive. However, if you’re willing to make the investment, these vibrant works of art are easily one of the best souvenirs from Hawaii.
Also, if a large quilted item (such as a blanket) is out of your budget, I suggest picking up a smaller item, like bags, potholders, pillows, table runners or clothing.
#20. Reusable tote
Totes are some of the best souvenirs from Hawaii because they’re so handy and often come in great colors! I bought two totes during my last visit to Hawaii (one from my favorite shave ice spot and another from Whole Foods).
I’ve since moved to New York City and get compliments on my Hawaiian totes almost daily!I use these practical Hawaiian souvenirs for everyday errands like grocery shopping and carrying packages to UPS.
Totes are very handy and you can never have too many (in my opinion), plus using totes is a great way to reduce your impact on the environment — it’s a win-win!
Best places to buy Hawaiian souvenirs
As you may have gleaned from my commentary, there’s definitely ways to save money on Hawaiian souvenirs if you know where to shop. As such, I’d like to highlight some of the best places to buy Hawaiian souvenirs.
- Costco (personal favorite)
- ABC Stores
- Whalers General Store
- Longs Drugs
- Farmer’s Markets
- Walmart
The Magic of Haleakala National Park
My husband and I created a video about our time in Haleakala National Park, you may notice a few appearances by yours truly. 😉 I hope you enjoy!
Best Hawaiian Souvenirs (Summary)
- Maui Gold pineapple
- Chocolate covered macadamia nuts
- Honolulu Cookies
- Kona Coffee
- Hawaiian Rum
- Hawaiian Honey
- Koa wood products
- Lilikoi Jam
- Reusable tote
- Hawaiian salt
- Beach towel
- Hawaiian earrings
- Macadamia Nuts
- Hawaiian Shirt
- Hula Girl
- Ukulele
- Fresh lei
- Hawaiian birdhouse
- Hawaiian quilt
- Local-made lotion
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Until next time,
Antonina
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