Best souvenirs to buy in Hawaii
Aloha kakou! You’ve made it to the place where Ua Mau ke Ea o ka’Aina i ka Pono (the life and land is perpetuated with righteousness), been lei’d, and said Aloha to the sun. Now you’ve got to decide what to bring home with you to the mainland to remember you trip to the 50th state in the union.
Don't want another t-shirt or key chain? Tired of dusting spoons and shot glasses? These unique Hawaiian souvenirs are nau wale no (just for you). They will let you share your experience with hoaloha, hoapili, and ohana (friends and family) without creating clutter like typical souvenirs.Purchase a photo album to contain all of your favorite moments captured during the vacation. Local venders sell these all over Waikiki, as do many of the touristy gift shops. Many of the photo albums are made from natural items found along the islands, like banana leaves and sea shells. The photo album will make a great personalized coffee table book. It’s an unique way to hold those photos that may otherwise stay on your digital camera.Bring back a local bottle of wine or some 100%Kona coffeewith you. Purchasing one or both off these drinks enables you to continue to taste your Hawaiian vacation long after you’ve left the islands. It can also be a great way to share your experience with friends and family when you return. Kona coffee is delicious at breakfast, and has an unmatched taste compared to the standard fare available in your grocery store.The Volcano Wineryis just one of the wineries that sells specialty Hawaiian wines, like Macadamia Nut Honey and Hawaiian Guava, that you won't find elsewhere.If you’re an entertainer, koa wood serving items are another great souvenir to bring back. Koa is a flowering tree that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Koa items are usually made right in Hawaii, from Hawaiian plants, unlike many typical souvenirs that are made overseas. They sell cups, cutting boards, serving dishes, salad sets, and coasters. They are beautiful wood pieces will last for years, and are useful around the house.While you’re in Hawaii you will learn about embracing the Aloha, and there’s no better way than to purchase your own Aloha attire. Shirts and dresses are available in a variety of styles throughout Hawaii. Most locals wear them everywhere. There are fancy ones for formal occasions, and simple ones for a stroll on the shores of Oahu. What better way to remember the welina (warm affection) of the locals than to dress like them?Hilo Hattieis one of the most popular tourist attractions for Aloha attire.Last, but certainly not least, an ukulele is a must have souvenir. The ukulele is an Hawaiian adaptation of the European cavaquinho. They have novelty ones for those less musically inclined, and perfect for young children to strum on. Those who are more musically inclined can purchase professional grade ones at music shops. You can bring home the 4-string guitar cousin, and strum Israel "Iz" Kamakawiwo’ole’s rendition of, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” whenever you miss your tropical getaway.These souvenirs will help you remember your visit to Hawaii Mau Loa (forever) or until you are able to kip hou mai (come visit again). Aloha `oe!
