ποΈ Shopping
12 spots
The Big Island's shopping is refreshingly local β artists' galleries in Holualoa, Hilo's farmers market, and small-town shops where the owner is usually behind the counter.
12 spots
The Real Deal: Local Markets and Artisan Finds
Skip the touristy stuff and head straight to Hilo's farmers markets β the Wednesday and Saturday downtown market is where locals actually shop for everything from rambutan to handmade soaps. The Kohala Coast has some beautiful galleries tucked into resort areas, but honestly, you'll find more authentic Hawaiian crafts at places like Volcano Art Center near the national park. Waimea's got this cool mix of paniolo (cowboy) culture and upcountry artisans that you won't find anywhere else.
Kona Coffee: Don't Get Fooled
Here's the thing about Kona coffee β most of what you'll see in Kona town is overpriced tourist packaging of mediocre beans. Drive up to the actual coffee farms in the Kona Coffee Belt above town, places like Holualoa or mountain-side Kealakekua, where you can taste before you buy and get the real story. The small family farms will give you better coffee and better prices than any of those glossy shops near the pier.
Practical Shopping: Where to Stock Up
For groceries and everyday needs, Hilo has the best selection and prices β hit up KTA Super Stores or Foodland. The Waimea KTA is solid too and less hectic than Hilo. On the Kona side, prices jump up significantly, but the Costco in Kona can save you money if you're staying somewhere with a kitchen and feeding a group.
Unique Big Island Specialties Worth Seeking Out
The Hamakua Coast is famous for its macadamia nuts β stop at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center, but also look for smaller local producers. Volcano area has incredible local honey varieties that reflect the diverse microclimates, and Hilo is your best bet for finding authentic Hawaiian salt, fresh poi, and other traditional foods that locals actually eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy authentic Kona coffee at good prices?
Skip the tourist shops in Kona town and drive up to the actual coffee farms in Holualoa and the mountain areas above Kealakekua. You'll get better coffee, better prices, and can often tour the farm and taste different roasts before buying.
What's the best farmers market on Big Island?
Hilo Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays is the real deal β it's where locals shop, not just tourists. You'll find everything from exotic fruits to local crafts, and the prices are much better than anything you'll find in resort areas.
Where should I grocery shop to save money?
Hilo has the best grocery prices on the island, especially KTA Super Stores and Foodland. If you're staying on the Kona side, the Costco in Kona can save you significant money, especially if you're feeding a group or staying somewhere with a kitchen.
What are the best unique souvenirs that actually come from Big Island?
Look for Hamakua macadamia nuts, local volcano-area honey varieties, and authentic Hawaiian sea salt from Hilo area producers. The Volcano Art Center near the national park has genuine local crafts, not imported stuff.
Are the resort shops worth visiting or should I shop elsewhere?
Resort shops are convenient but overpriced and mostly carry generic Hawaiian souvenirs made elsewhere. The Kohala Coast resorts do have some nice art galleries, but for authentic local products and reasonable prices, you're better off shopping in Hilo, Waimea, or driving to actual farms and local producers.