Yes, we love our aloha shirts, board shorts and slippers. But, Hawaiʻi is also a huge force in the creative movement. Drawing on native intelligence of the natural environment and harnessing inspiration from history and culture, it’s not hard to see why Hawaiʻi is a hot spot for fresh design, original style and all around feel good fashions. Here are a few local fashions that we love.

All Things Aloha

Aloha clutches. Aloha t-shirts. Aloha hats. Aloha is not just a fad; it’s a way of life. Staples at surf shops, pop-up events and boutiques, aloha apparel isn’t hard to find in the islands.

Pineapple Popularity

The pineapple plantation era of days gone by is commemorated with Hawaiʻi’s iconic fruit adorning everything from yoga tops to surf boards. Scour boutiques like Lily Lotus in Kaimuki and Soha Living in locations across the islands to find your very own pineapple apparel and home furnishing.

Beautiful Beach Bangles

Ocean inspired bangles have become quite trendy. Sea glass, shells and pearls adorn dainty bangles perfect for stacking or to be worn solo. Wire jewelry spelling out “aloha” and curved into creative designs has also come onto the fashion scene, and artists are getting more creative by the minute.

Geometric Shapes

Hawaiians of old printed their clothing and their skin with geometric shapes representative of elements of nature. Today we see many of these same patterns replicated and used in modern ways. Native luxury line designer Manaola, who has been featured in Honolulu Fashion Week, is a prime example of a modern designer drawing on traditional detail. Also look for authentic designs inspired by native Hawaiian plants and cultural motifs from shops such as Sig Zane and Kealopiko.

Flower Crowns

Call it a flower crown or a head wreath, here in Hawaiʻi we call it a haku lei or lei poʻo.  These beautifully hand-woven lei worn upon the head will make any woman feel like a princess.  They are sold in flower shops in Chinatown, and Paiko  in SALT at Our Kakaʻako will occasionally hold workshops where you can make your own.

The post Local Fashions We Love appeared first on Hawaii.com.

The Ethnically Diverse History of Kapaa Town

Steeped in history, ancient Hawaiians once lived throughout this historic community and cherished reef fishing along its coast. In fact, you’ll likely find residents carrying on the tradition of their ancestors as you explore the area.

By the late 1800s, however, Kapa‘a was dominated by Makee Sugar Company, a business venture initiated by a group of individuals, which included King David Kalākaua. The sugar operation drove many people of various ethnicities to the island including Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, and Filipino.

Discovering Eateries and Treasures in Kapaa Town

You’ll find remnants of this cultural influx as you stroll through town, like the sprawling Hee Fat Building, which served as a former rice processing plant. Along the main highway where several buildings from this era still stand, you’ll discover many eateries, as well as stores that sell lovely Kaua‘i-made treasures.

The town really lights up, however, during its Art Walk every first Saturday of the month from 5-9 p.m. All stores stay open late, and even more, food is offered along with plenty of entertainment.

Soaking in Mother Nature Along Kapaa’s Royal Coconut Coast

Soaking in Mother Nature is also a must in Kapa‘a town. The Royal Coconut Coast, graced with trees of the same name, spans the entire east side. It is home to Ke Ala Hele Makalae or “the path that goes by the coast.” Stroll or ride a rented bicycle along this passageway that stretches about nine miles from Wailua to Ahihi Point. You’ll encounter panoramic ocean scenery, as well as witness native wildlife including monk seals and, during winter months, humpback whales.

Seaside Indulgences in Kapaa Town

Before leaving town, grab some shave ice or other local snack at one of the many food trucks that have proliferated here in recent years. Or, swing by the farmer’s market held every Wednesday at 3 p.m. and pick up some locally grown tropical goodies. Whatever you do, make sure to take advantage of the many seaside indulgences that abound in this quaint beachside town.

The post Shopping and Eating Seaside in Kapaa Town appeared first on Hawaii.com.

The Made in Hawaii Festival honors and features all things Hawaiiana — island made and island proud. This year will mark the annual event’s 23rd installment and promises to be a festive time of food, fun, and community fellowship.

Get the Made in Hawaii Festival Event Details

Hosted by the Hawaii Food Industry Association, and made possible by the generosity of its sponsors First Hawaiian Bank, the Made in Hawaii Festival is a dazzling 3-day showcase of nearly 400 exhibitors, each presenting a smorgasbord of items unique to and produced in Hawaii. Attendees of this exciting event, which will be held August 18-20 (Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at the Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, can look forward to introductions to a wide range of Hawaii-made merchandise, including homegrown edible items, books, art, gifts, fashions, plants, crafts, produce and more.

Don’t Miss the Live Cooking Demonstrations and Music

Also to be enjoyed are live cooking demonstrations and entertainment by local island celebrities, the cream of the crop when it comes to both local cuisine and music! A few recognized names that will lend their names and incredible talents within the culinary realm include but are not limited to: Executive Chef Collin Hazama of Royal Hawaiian; Chef Ray German of Fish House at Four Seasons Resort Oahu; Executive Chef Russell Siu of 3660 On The Rise; Executive Chef Marc Freiberg of Mariposa at Neiman Marcus; Executive Chef Lee Anne Wong of Koko Head Café.

Not to be outdone are the locals who literally rock the stage when it comes to musical entertainment at the Made in Hawaii Festival. Representing the best of the melodic mele include such talents as Blayne Asinga, Maunalua, Natalie Ai Kamauu, Chad Takatsugi, Waimanalo Sunset Band, and more. And should you find yourself in need of a little laughter therapy? The hilarious Hawaii favorite Frank DeLima will be bringing giggles and smiles in ready supply.

See You There!

With an entire weekend of ʻono treats, island entertainment, and more than ample aloha to bless your heart, there’s just no reason not to join in the party! We look forward to seeing you there!

For more information, visit www.madeinhawaiifestival.com or www.hawaii.com/event/made-in-hawaii-festival.

Hawaii.com Marketplace

The post Made in Hawaii Festival – Get Your Unique Island Treasures and Goodies appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Lightening your wallet’s load is easy to do on the south shore of Kaua‘i where not only the weather is delightful, but so is the shopping.

The Shops at Kukuiula

The Shops at Kukui‘ula is the premiere location to find Hawaiian keepsakes in Po‘ipū. At art galleries like Red Koi you’ll fall in love with original paintings created by local artists that serve as lifelong reminders of your adventure in paradise. Martin and MacArthur also offers artwork with a wooden flare — products are crafted with koa, Hawai‘i’s esteemed native tree. The store is also well-known for its koa wood rings, which make ideal symbols of eternal love, especially if you’re swapping vows on island.

You’ll also find aloha wear and casual surf apparel at this plantation-style shopping center. And if you’re on a budget but still want something that reminds you of the surf and sand, check out SoHa Living with its beachy home décor. Ladies with a penny-pinching taste for fashion might also like to explore Mahina with its casual sundresses and inexpensive jewels, perfect for a day at the beach or an evening under the stars.

Poipu Shopping Village

Another mall you might like to check out on the south shore is Po‘ipū Shopping Village. Fish Eye Kaua‘i is an example of a local gallery you’ll find here, featuring photos of marine life by “Scuba Tom,” as well as handmade jewelry and original paintings. You can also delight in a treasure trove of stores with Hawai‘i inspired t-shirts and gifts that make great souvenirs.

Resort Shopping in Poipu

Don’t forget, nearly every resort along Po‘ipū Road also offers some kind of retail outlet. Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort, for example, has a tiny boutique at its famed Anara Spa. You wouldn’t think to stop here but the clothes, scattered on just a few racks, are fashionable with some made by local designers. This is also one of the few spots you’ll find brand name nail polish, as well as fragrant facial and body products.

Spouting Horn

Another unexpected location to discover keepsakes is Spouting Horn. You could be pleasantly surprised at some of the jewelry that vendors sell here. While most of the products aren’t from Hawai‘i, you might still encounter a tropical treasure. And if you walk across the street to the National Tropical Botanical Garden’s South Shore Visitors Center, you may find even more gifts you love. What’s more, by purchasing a trinket here, you’re supporting a good cause.

Pop Up Markets

Last but not least, don’t forget to check out any markets happening while you’re in town, especially during the holidays. They pop up from time to time at various venues and are some of the best places to find locally crafted goods with the same quality you’ll find in stores, but at a fraction of the price.

The post Shopping in Sunny Poipu appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Known for its carefree beach community and small-town charming vibe, Kailua, O‘ahu, is rich with an abundance of shopping, ocean activities and gifting options.

Suit Up

All the essentials you need for a day at the beach are easily found in Kailua. Prepare for spending several hours in the Pacific Ocean, resting on powder-soft sand or bicycling through the community at beach-inspired boutiques and markets. For the bargain-hunter, Aloha Swim provides a variety of brands and sizes at affordable prices, especially when marked down and on clearance. Modern and unique styles designed to showcase the chic beach girl’s figure are at San Lorenzo Bikinis. And swim gear for him and her, made by authentic Hawaiian surf designers, can be found at Hawaiian Island Creations.

Vitamin Sea

From exhilarating water sports to casual snorkeling, no beach day would be complete without getting in the water. Kailua is plentiful with dive shops, surf shops and adventure stops to equip you with water gear. Aaron’s Dive Shop offers snorkel sets, scuba equipment and accessories for purchase. Kailua Beach Adventures has an impressive selection of various styles of hats, rash-guards/sun shirts and swimwear. Windward Watersports also provides an array of seaworthy items for rent, including snorkel gear for all ages.

Clothing for Him & Her

There is an abundance of specialty boutiques harnessing the sun-kissed lifestyle of Windward O‘ahu. Global Village welcomes a variety of customers from adults to children. You’ll find apparel, home decor, keepsakes and specialty gifts for friends and family. For unique, trendy styles and yoga wear, Mahina is well-regarded for its soft, comfortable, breezy sundresses and relaxed clothing for women. Can’t decide which store is right for you? Olive (for women) and Oliver (for men) are owned by a husband and wife duo who specialize in clothing and accessories for their respective gender.

Share Aloha

After all the shopping and adventuring, you’ll want to grab something to eat. Kailua is replete with fantastic eateries from sandwiches to shave ice and plate lunches to fresh salads. You should take note that some of these stops are also hidden gems to find edible gifts, Hawaiian made treats and collectibles. Kailua General Store is famous for its vintage finds and novelty items. Kalapawai Market is perfect for a quick grab-n-go bite and a well-stocked inventory of Hawaiian blend coffee beans, taro chips and fine wines.

When you get to Kailua, you will see the pace is slower, the activities are meant for exploring and adventuring and the community is bursting with a unique culture all its own.

The post Shopping Guide: Kailua appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Souvenir Central

The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet is the perfect place to find unique items and Hawaii-inspired souvenirs for friends and family. From painted coconuts, scented candles, faux flowers for your hair to colorful trinkets and Hawaiian roasted macadamia nuts the number of souvenirs on-site is both impressive and can be a bit overwhelming. Often the artists and artisans are selling their creations in-person for you to browse and enjoy. Also, souvenirs can be very affordable and great for the bargain hunter. Here’s a tip, the more you purchase could qualify you for added discounts.

Uniquely Hawaiian

In Hawaii, our culture is part of our identity. With that we share some artifacts inspired by our location, music and history. At the Swap Meet you’ll find local artisan creations aimed at showcasing our island culture with handmade jewelry, carefully constructed Hawaiian instruments and original prints. This open-air market is an ideal resource for authentic instruments including Polynesian drums, ʻukulele, feather ʻ ‘uli’uli and the Hawaiian gourd or ipu. Uniquely Hawaiian casual apparel is abundant here with one-of-a-kind logo wear available on t-shirts, caps and jackets. Aloha lifestyle attire from an array of designers features surf shorts, aloha shirts and floral dresses for women of all shapes and sizes.

The Finer Things

From silver, gold, platinum, seashells, pearls and hand-carved wood, you’ll discover a large selection of fine jewelry and accessories in an impressive selection of styles, sizes and prices. Something simple like the hand carved wooden hook to platinum rings with sparkling diamonds, the colorful pieces and handcrafted pieces are a feast for the jewelry shopper. If you’re looking for something that won’t break the bank but is inspired by the jewelry brands you see at mega malls, it’s likely you’ll find something similar but at a highly discounted price. If you’re looking to indulge in the finest accessories embrace the traditional Hawaiian Heirloom style of jewelry or seek out the vintage antique collections on-site too.

The Aloha Stadium swap meet is open every Wednesday and Saturday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. and Sundays from 6:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., often rain or shine. With the endless number of rows featuring all types of vendors, make sure to give the site a good walkthrough be-fore committing to any large purchases because you could find better deals along the way; and be sure to bring cash as not all the vendors accept credit cards.

See also: Aloha Stadium Swap Meet – with map

The post Shopping Guide: Aloha Stadium Swap Meet appeared first on Hawaii.com.

A Unique Surfer’s Enclave Amidst Plantation-Era Buildings

But what might be news to many is that the shopping in this unique enclave is also a magnetic attraction. For a small town, Hale‘iwa boasts a wide range of retail options. The stores here are mostly housed in aesthetically adorable plantation-era buildings within two main complexes. The North Shore Marketplace and Hale‘iwa Town Center run the retail gamut from surf gear shops to art galleries, and offer goods for purchase like unique clothing, jewelry, souvenirs and more.

World-Class Art Galleries

Start your Hale‘iwa shopping safari with a stop at any of the numerous art galleries in the area. Hale‘iwa Art Gallery has been a North Shore staple for more than two decades, while Tabora Gallery, Wyland Gallery and Wys Gallery (the new installment owned by the famed artist’s nephew) each display their own brands of eclectic artwork.

Surf Inspired Apparel

When you’ve settled on the perfect artwork to adorn your home, shift that focus to outfitting your body with something equally dazzling and gorgeous. Choose from Growing Keiki, a cutesy kids boutique where you can pick up everything you need for your little ones, Pakaloha Bikinis offer-ing swimwear and accessories, Patagonia for all your outdoor adventure needs, and Silver Moon Emporium or V Boutique for stunning women’s wear.

Souvenirs from Iconic Haleiwa Shops

Need something to bring back to your loved ones? You’re in luck, as Aloha General Store, Whalers General Store, Matsumoto’s General Store, Kai Ku Hale and Polynesian Treasures each offer their own smorgasbord of specialty gifts and souvenirs. And if the island treasure you are seeking to snag just happens to be something that sparkles and shines, Maui Divers Jewel-ry won’t disappoint.

Surf Boards and More

The remaining niche — surf goods and gear — is unsurprisingly among the most amply offered in Hale‘iwa. Stores like Raging Isle Sports, Surf N Sea, and Tropical Rush (the latter two of which also offer various water adventure rentals on-site) cater to wave riders sharing the sun-shine and stoke.

Shopper’s Delight

These are just a few of the main retail names in this exciting town. Venture here and you will be delighted to find a myriad of other boutiques and shops sprinkled along this charming stretch of Kamehameha Highway.

And when you tire of shopping ‘til you drop among this treasure trove of island trinkets, the town offers amazing coffee shops, as well as local eateries offering super ‘ono grinds (delicious food)!

The post Shopping Guide: Haleiwa appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Don’t plan to visit Chinatown. Just head in the general direction of Beretania and River streets and let it come to you. Don’t bother to resist its tendency to overwhelm. Surrender to its earthy aromas, unique architecture, noodle and dim sum factories, markets fresh with local produce, galleries, restaurants, bars, lei stands, herbal medicine shops, and throngs of people. Great shopping and dining. In total, these are Chinatown’s premiere attractions.

First Friday Festivities

Chinatown turns up the heat the first Friday evening of each month when crowds turn out to wander galleries, museums and studios, and live music, street entertainment, cafes and bistros add to the party mood. The popular ongoing event is called First Friday.

Flowers and Lei Stands

If you take a stroll down Maunakea Street and around the corner to N. Beretania, you’ll be hit by the sweet smell of thousands of flower blossoms being strung for leis. Most of the lei stands are owned and operated by families who have been in the business for several generations. Nearby on Nu’uanu, north of Hotel Street, so many art galleries and trendy clubs have been established that the area has become Honolulu’s hottest arts and entertainment draw.

Chinese New Year

A good time to get a full blast is during the Chinese New Year’s Celebration. It goes on for days, but early February is generally a good time to check in. Events and parades (complete with multiple lion dances) are scheduled the entire week of Chinese New Year.

History

This 25-acre marketplace dates back to the 1800s when immigrant Chinese families began to establish family stores in the area. It grew with the arrival, in 1852, of the first wave of contract laborers who came to Hawaii to work on the sugar plantations. Eventually, many of these laborers left the fields and established businesses in Chinatown. Today Chinatown remains firmly steeped in its history, a place where anything can happen and often does.

Historic sites worth mentioning are the Sun Yat-sen Statue, 65 Beretania Street at the end of River Street, next to the Chinese Cultural Plaza, and the Kuan Yin Temple at the entrance to Foster Gardens. This temple is dedicated to the Chinese deity of compassion. The Hawaii Theatre Center, 1130 Bethel Street., was proclaimed the “Pride of the Pacific” when it opened in 1922 as a showplace for vaudeville, plays, musicals and silent films. In May 1996, the theatre reopened as a multi-purpose performance center, following years of disuse and a complete restoration.

All this and more is packed into 25 acres bordered by King, Smith, Beretania and River streets.

The post Shopping and Eating in Chinatown appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

Located just a hop, skip, and jump away from Waikiki, yet a world apart in terms of character and charm, Kaimuki is an eclectic neighborhood.  

A Little Bit of History

Kaimuki is the area located just mauka (on the mountain side) of Diamond Head. King Kamehameha III gave the land of Kaimuki to future King William Lunalilo in 1848. The land was then sold for $2,325 in 1884 and again for $20,000 in 1898. In the early 1900’s, Kaimuki developed into a high-class residential neighborhood. First came the families and then came the businesses. The neighborhood of Kaimuki has seen many changes in its 100 plus years of history. Today the area is a casual walking district skirted by beautiful historic homes perched up on the Maunalani Heights hillside.

Kaimuki is  filled with niche shops, specialty boutiques and unique eateries dotted along its main thoroughfare of Waialae Avenue. So grab a parking spot at either of the area’s two main self-pay lots (Kaimuki Plaza or Kaimuki Municipal), or see if you can nab that rare spot on the street, and join us in discovering this exciting Oahu enclave.

Where to Eat in Kaimuki

Inside the Koa Pancake House after the morning breakfast rush. Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

And as far as ono grinds go, Kaimuki lacks for nothing when it comes to a healthy collection of culinary options.

Old Favorites

Two of the oldest establishments in Kaimuki, Okata Bento (30+ years) and Crack Seed Store (70+ years). Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com.

Kaimuki’s Crack Seed Store has been serving up Li Hing Mui, Icees and other specialty goodies for over 70 years. Okata Bento, an unassuming, hole-in-the-wall eatery has been around for over 30 years and is still cooking their food to order. Okata Bento tops our “cheap eats” list offering a cheeseburger complete with lettuce, tomato and onions for only $2.50, including tax.

New Faces in Town

Photo courtesy of Kaimuki Superette.

One of the new faces in town is Kaimuki Suprette, where patrons are transported back to the old-fashioned curb markets of our grandparents’ generation. Saunter up to the suprette’s counter and order among its deli-style items sourced from local farmers and ranchers.

Cool Treats

Via Gelato is a cool, inviting reprieve from the hot Hawaiian sun. Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

Kaimuki gets hot, but there are sweet treats to cool you off. Does an acai bowl from Aloha Crepes sound good? Or try the “handmade in Hawaii” flavors at Via Gelato. There are also fresh fruit shave ice cups available at Country Shave Ice, another fun hole-in-the-wall eatery.

Noteworthy Restaurants

You can find Koko Head Cafe on Mahina Ave. tucked between Koko Head Ave. and 12th Street. Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

More noteworthy Kaimuki restaurants include Koa Pancake House, a local breakfast favorite; Jawaiian Irie Jerk Restaurant, featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives; Big City Diner, a popular casual restaurant; Koko Head Cafe with its modern-global fusion brunch menu, brain child of emerging celeb Chef Lee Anne Wong; and 3660 on the Rise, an award winning Euro-Asian Island restaurant with a recently revamped menu.

Coffee Talk cafe is located at the highest point of Waialae Avenue, the main street that runs through Kaimuki. Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

When driving through Kaimuki, there is one place that really stands out, Coffee Talk. Coffee Talk is a spacious cafe with a friendly vibe, great selection of drinks, baked goods and light meal options. Many consider Coffee Talk to be the heart of Kaimuki.

Novelty Shopping in Kaimuki

Shopping in Kaimuki also offers novelty finds that are a welcome reprieve from the run-of-the-mill tourist gift shops of Waikiki.

A Jewel of a Find

Lily Lotus offers women’s clothing, jewelry and other accessories, artwork and knick-knacks. Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

Kaimuki is a great place to shop for jewelry, especially shell, pearl and bead styles with outfits to match. Look for boutiques like Lily Lotus and Drift. Want to pick out a new pair of earrings and sip a cool drink? Try Jewel or Juice, which offers an array of jewelry, acai bowls, juice, teas and blended coffee drinks. Or you can make your own new pair of earrings. The name of local store Bead It speaks for itself. Featuring a wide array of baubles, beads, and gems, this place has everything one could need for creating their next bejeweled masterpiece.

Other Fun Finds

You can’t miss HI Bred Kollective. They have the coolest storefront on the street. Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

Other fun finds include Surf ‘N Hula Hawaii, a Hawaiiana vintage collectibles store. Two doors down is a novelty art shop, HI Bred Kollective. Kaimuki Goodwill store is a great place to stock-up on some super affordable gently-used aloha shirts—perfect souvenirs to pack in your suitcase.

Vintage Tori Richard aloha shirts can be found at the local Goodwill. Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

There’s also Gecko Books & Comics. Look for the dragon mural on the outside wall! One last fun find: a very small farmers market that boasts some of the best local fruits in season. Look for the “aunties” with their fruit and vegetable tables right across the street from Gecko Books & Comics on the corner of 12th Ave. and Mahina Ave. They’re there every day except for Sundays.

These mangoes are as delicious as the look. Try the farmers market for local fruits and veggies. Photo: Napua Heen/ Hawaii.com

And after such a pleasant day spent in the slower-paced Kaimuki, one just might be brave enough to venture into the city for some Waikiki nightlife!

The post Discover Kaimuki, Oahu’s Eclectic Neighborhood appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Hawaiian hardwood cutting boards at the Sunday morning market. (Photo: Napua Heen, hawaii.com)

Oahu farmers markets are sprouting up everywhere offering fresh produce and homemade treats with local flavor. Here are ten shopping stops worth making.

Kailua Farmers Market

609 Kailua Rd., Located in parking lot by Longs
Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Kailua Elementary School
Sundays, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Kailua has two farmer’s markets during the week. Whether you decide to visit its larger market on Thursdays in front of Whole Foods or its smaller, but still charming Sunday morning market at Kailua elementary school, both feature some of the best local products the island has to offer.

Pearlridge Farmers Market

Pearlridge Center, Pearlridge Uptown next to Macy’s
Saturdays, 8:00 am – 12:00 noon

(Photo: Napua Heen, hawaii.com)

You’ll find vendors from the West side here who showcase sweet treats like mochi (Japanese sweet rice cakes) and trendy tropical infused lemonades.

KCC Farmers Market

Kapiolani Community College 4303 Diamond Head Rd.
Saturdays, 7:30 am – 11:00 am

Located in the parking lot of Kapiolani Community College, this large sprawl of local vendors is like an outdoor shopping mall for the foodie and many make this their hotspot for Saturday brunch.

Honolulu Farmers Market

777 Ward Ave.
Wednesdays, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

If you’re in the area to watch a show at the Neil Blaisdell Center on a Wednesday evening, this is the place to go to grab something fast, fresh and flavorful.

Ala Moana Center Farmers Market

Mall Level 2, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd.
Sundays, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

A recent addition to the Oahu Farmers Market scene, Ala Moana Center’s weekly farmers market is located on the mall’s second level, fronting Genki Sushi. Featuring more than 20 local vendors selling Hawaii-grown produce, Hawaii-made products, baked goods, prepared foods and more.

Haleiwa Farmers Market

Beautiful Waimea Valley 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy
Thursdays, 2:00-6:00 pm

It’s worth the drive to North Shore for the views alone, but you won’t be disappointed by the market’s array of locally grown produce and handmade crafts located at Waimea Valley.

Kakaako Farmers Market at Ward Village

Ward Warehouse
Saturdays, 8:00 am – 12:00 noon

If you’re in the area to watch a show at the Neil Blaisdell Center on a Wednesday evening, this is the place to go to grab something fast, fresh and flavorful.

King’s Village Farmers Market

131 Kaiulani Ave, Honolulu
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm

If you don’t have a lot of time, but are in Waikiki and searching for something delectable before you head to the beach, check out this small, but bountiful market.

Waialua Farmers Market

Waialua Sugar Mill, 67-106 Kealohanui St.
Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 12 Noon

For a casual country experience, head out to the Old Waialua Sugar Mill on a Saturday to pick up North Shore goodies, affordable produce and while you’re here check out the historical mill and North Shore Soap Factory.

Manoa Farmers Market

Located in the heart of China Town at Kekaulike St. between N. King St. and N. Hotel Street.
Mondays to Saturdays, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

If you’re hiking up Manoa Falls, stop by this small community market to peruse an array of tropical fruits and vegetables.

Kekaulike Farmers Market

Located in the heart of China Town at Kekaulike St. between N. King St. and N. Hotel Street.
Mondays to Saturdays, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

This Chinatown location is perfect for bargain hunters and adventurous foodies looking for fresh meats, seafood, and Asian produce.

The post Oahu Farmers Markets appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Farmers gather at different markets every day of the week except Sunday on Kaua‘i. They sell everything from beans and lettuce to flowers and papayas. You can even sip the water of an ice-cold coconut and have it opened for you afterwards to enjoy the meat inside at plenty of these markets. Not only is it a rewarding experience to eat locally-sourced food, it is one of the best ways to support Kaua‘i farmers and help keep the island as sustainable as possible.

Kaua‘i Community College Farmers Market in Lihu‘e

One of the largest weekly farmers’ markets, also boasted as one of the best, is located at Kaua‘i Community College in Lihu‘e. The market starts at 9:30 a.m. and closes at 1 p.m. which gives people plenty of time to stop by on their weekend. While it is always wise to go as early as possible to get the best selection of food, this market also has a nearly endless supply of other edible items like honey, dried bananas, coffee and nuts. There are even food trucks here if you want to enjoy a smoothie or lunch made with farm fresh ingredients.

Culinary Market at The Shops at Kukui‘ula in Po‘ipu

Another farmers market that offers a rich mix of food including pasta, soup and pies is the Culinary Market at The Shops at Kukui‘ula in Po‘ipu. The market occurs every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. and there is even a Wine and Beer Garden where you can watch a local chef create cuisine while listening to live music.

Hanalei Farmers’ Market

The Hanalei Farmers’ Market (HFM) occurs every Saturday, 9:30 am to 12 noon on the beautiful grounds of Hale Halawai ‘Ohana O Hanalei (Hanalei’s Community Center) which is located behind Hanalei Poi and close to the much photographed little green church, Wai`oli Hui`ia Church. There is a soccer field between the church and Hale Halawai. HFM currently has 23 farmer vendors who offer an abundant variety of fresh produce, including lots of organic lettuce. Some of the farmers also offer fresh juices (mango, lilikoi, soursop), specialty breads (banana, mango), goat cheese, chocolate covered bananas, microgreens, herbs, organic fruit leathers and teas, natural health supplements/remedies and much more. A few farmers offer fresh cut coconuts and big vibrant bouquets of cut flowers. HFM has five wonderful food vendors who are very popular with market visitors: Waring Bali, Po’okela Sausage Co. (locally sourced meat), Tambor Acai, Lighthouse Kombucha and Dave’s Breakfast Burritos. The market also has approximately 25 artisan vendors who offer a diverse array of beautiful and unique Kauai made items including jewelry, clothing, hats, stationary, carvings, paintings, lahala baskets, tapa cloth, photography, wood art, puzzles, soaps and more. We have a Hanalei Farmers’ Market booth set up at the entrance that features iconic HFM merchandise for sale. All proceeds from sales help support Hale Halawai ‘Ohana O Hanalei (Hanalei’s Community Center). HFM staff greets market visitors as they gather around the entrance prior to the start of market and then welcome them with lots of aloha into the market at 9:30. Parking is provided for visitors around the soccer field (not inside) with ample ADA parking. HFM team members help direct customers to the best possible parking space.

Namahana Farmers Market in Kilauea

Many of these markets are independently hosted and have arts and crafts for sale as well like the Namahana Farmers Market at Aniana Hou Community Park in Kilauea on Mondays and Saturdays.

Kaua‘i Sunshine Markets

There are also Kaua‘i Sunshine Markets presented by the county that, while they don’t have as wide of a selection and mostly consist of produce, are great options if you happen to be in the right place at the right time. Find times and locations here: kauai.gov/Kamaaina/SunshineMarkets/tabid/214/Default.aspx.

Just ask your concierge or any kama‘aina (local resident) to help direct you to the most optimal farmers market to suit your needs.

The post Farmers Markets on Kauai appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Photo courtesy of Big Island Candies.

Souvenirs are a fantastic way of bringing back a piece of your vacation for your friends and family to enjoy for themselves. Instead of racking your brain to figure out which souvenirs to purchase, below are some of our favorite recommendations.

Kona Coffee Purveyors 100% Kona Peaberry

Photo courtesy of Kona Coffee Purveyors.

One of the smoothest cups of joe you can buy, peaberry coffee is robust in flavor. Peaberry is a rare coffee bean formed from two coffee beans fusing together within a coffee cherry. The result is a denser bean with a fuller body and taste. Kona Coffee Purveyors is a single estate coffee.

Big Island Candies Signature Shortbread Cookies

Photo courtesy of Big Island Candies.

These shortbread cookies are a souvenir staple. They include flavors that are unique to Hawaii, such as macadamia nut and coconut, and also have options with no nuts in case of allergies. These shortbread rectangles are sold plain, dipped in chocolate or even dipped in green tea. You can choose from a variety of different boxes, like their School of Fish keepsake, which has a variety of their signature shortbreads.

Lilikoi Butter

Lilikoi butter found in Foodland supermarket.

Smooth and tangy, lilikoi butter is ideal for toast or warm cornbread. It is an exotic alternative that will give your friends and family a taste of paradise. Lilikoi, or Hawaiian passion fruit,  butter is made from lilikoi juice,  butter, sugar, and eggs.   You can find it in local grocery stores in Hawaii.

Macadamia Nuts

Mauna loa chocolate covered macadamia nuts found in Longs Drugstore.

A classic in Hawaii, macadamia nuts come in a variety of flavors, meaning there is bound to be one that your friends and family will enjoy. Local grocery stores carry flavors such as Wasabi and Maui onion, as well as Hershey’s kisses with macadamia nuts in them.  Enjoy the taste of aloha!

The post Souvenir Ideas: Bringing Home a Taste of Hawaii appeared first on Hawaii.com.