Big Island Shopping Guide & Tips

Cheryl Lee • August 29, 2025

Treat yourself and your loved ones with a special gift from the Big Island. Below are some local retailers offering unique island finds. 

Kohala / Waimea / Kona  


Lehua Jewelers

Prized Hawaiian Heirloom Jewelry, with its elaborate, island-inspired scrolls, is designed and showcased here. Find bracelets, rings, pendants and earrings, custom work and gemstone jewelry. In Waimea, LehuaJewelers.com


Hamakua Macadamia Nut Factory 
Sample and browse 100% Hawaii-grown mac nuts—glazed and multiple flavors—plus chocolates, confections, coffees and specialty items. In Kawaihae, HawnNut.com


Discount Fabric Warehouse
Find hundreds of brightly colored fabrics depicting tropical flowers, foliage and cultural motifs. The expert staff will also guide you with all your sewing needs, plus quilting and craft supplies. In Kona and Hilo, DiscountFabricWarehouse.com


Menehune Coffee
Shop and Savor 100% Kona Coffee, coffee blends, flavors, beans and more. Two Kona locations: Menehune Coffee Shop in Kailua and Menehune Coffee Restaurant in Captain Cook—both serve specialty coffee drinks, breakfast, lunch and decadent desserts. MenehuneCoffee.com


The Original Donkey Balls Store
Walk in the door and the fragrance whisks you into the world of gourmet chocolate treats created with fun names. This chocolate factory also offers nuts, coffee, brittles and rubs. Located in Kainaliu-Kona, DonkeyBallStore.com


Hamakua / Hilo  


Aloha Grown
Find dramatic graphics and original designs on apparel, accessories and gifts touting themes centered on supporting the ‘aina (land,) sustainable food production and sharing aloha. In Downtown Hilo, Waimea, Kailua-Kona, AlohaGrown.com


Hilo Farmer’s Market
Meet island growers of fresh produce and tropical floral products, plus artisans, crafters and food vendors. Open daily, with major market days Wed. and Sat. in Downtown Hilo, HiloFarmersMarket.com


Big Island Candies 
Known for chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies, this long-time confectionary offers an assortment of baked goods and chocolates in exquisite packaging at its flagship Hilo factory gift shop. You might view treats being made weekdays before 3:30pm. Enjoy free samples, BigIslandCandies.com




By Cheryl Lee August 29, 2025
Whether you prefer sit-down with a view or a quick bite, we offer choices based on cuisine, ambiance and location.
By Cheryl Lee August 29, 2025
Get out and explore! All points of interest contain This Week Map coordinates and are free unless noted.
By Cheryl Lee August 29, 2025
Makalei Golf Clulb is an upland course in Kailua-Kona with staggering views and challenging holes-so much you'll forget your handicap and just relish the stunning scenery.
Hawaii’s diverse national parks, from volcanic craters and sacred coastal sites to historic landmark
By Cheryl Lee August 9, 2025
Plan your visit to Hawaii’s national parks with tips on history, best times, fees, and must-see attractions across the islands.
By Cheryl Lee July 18, 2025
Isle of windswept beaches, no traffic lights
By Cheryl Lee July 18, 2025
Residents of the Valley Isle say “Maui no ka oi,” meaning “Maui is the best!” It could be because of the long stretches of white sand beaches …or the idyllic offshore views of neighboring Lana‘i, Kaho‘olawe, Moloka‘i and the tiny islet of Molokini.
a big dark storm rolling in off the shore of waimea hawaii
By Gavin Hillman June 23, 2025
Many wonder if Hawaii has a dangerous hurricane season - and generally no, they don't. This guide goes over everything you should know about hurricanes in Hawaii.
By Gavin Hillman June 17, 2025
If you're planning a trip to Oahu, there's one thing you absolutely can't miss — the beaches. Oahu is home to some of the most famous and diverse coastlines in the world. Whether you want to snorkel with tropical fish, surf world-class waves, take long walks on soft sand, or simply relax under the sun, there's a beach on Oahu for you. In this guide, we'll take you through the top beaches to visit on Oahu , what makes each one special, and tips for getting the most out of your beach days.
By Gavin Hillman June 17, 2025
Hawai‘i’s breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, and rich cultural traditions make it one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the world. But before you pack your bags and book that long-awaited trip, it’s essential to understand the current travel requirements and restrictions for visiting the Hawaiian Islands. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about traveling to Hawaii in 2025, including passport and ID rules, airline requirements, health-related protocols, inter-island travel, and tips for a stress-free island getaway. 
a sea turtle swimming through clear blue water
By Gavin Hillman June 6, 2025
Want to see some Sea Turtles during your time on Oahu? Check out our full guide to turtle watching on Oahu! From the best spots to guided tours here is everything you need to know!