Welcome to a shopper’s dream on the wind-swept shores of the Big Island. This guide helps travelers uncover the best places to shop in Hilo—where markets braid with coastal galleries and every purchase supports local makers. From color-splashed open-air stalls to curated art venues and gift shops filled with story-driven keepsakes, you’ll learn how to shop with purpose, find one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and enjoy a seamless day on this distinctive Hawaiian coast. Read on for expert tips, practical itineraries, and insights designed to elevate your Hilo shopping experience.
Why Hilo is a shopper’s paradise: markets, galleries, and island-made finds
Hilo is a genuine retail hub where island life meets creative expression. The city blends traditional markets, contemporary galleries, and family-owned stores that emphasize sustainable crafts and island-made materials. If you seek authentic aloha wear, hand-poured candles, locally grown coffee, koa carvings, and artwork that captures Hawaii’s spirit, Hilo delivers. Markets, galleries, and small shops collaborate to create an immersive shopping experience—from gifts to home accents and personal keepsakes that tell a story.
As you explore, you’ll notice a common thread: provenance. Vendors and artists often source native woods, textiles, and edible ingredients from nearby farms and microfarms, meaning purchases support families, preserve traditions, and reduce supply-chain footprints. That awareness adds depth to every find and helps you curate a memorable, responsible shopping journey.
Markets and open-air finds: color, scent, and treasures to take home
Hilo Farmers Market
Begin your market stroll at this beloved hub where farmers, crafters, and cooks gather in a hive of color and aroma. Expect tropical fruit, orchids, freshly baked bread, and handmade crafts. Pro tip: arrive early for the best selection, and bring cash for quicker interactions with vendors who prefer it. Sample local specialties, chat with growers about harvest times, and pick up small-batch treats to nibble on as you wander. The market’s energy is infectious, making it a perfect warm-up for a full day of shopping.
Manono Street Marketplace
Stroll a pedestrian-friendly row where artisans offer jewelry, woven baskets, and island-inspired art. This market emphasizes community vibes and approachable prices, ideal for discovering affordable gifts and unique souvenirs. Pause for live music, and consider bringing home small items you can pack easily—soaps, beaded accessories, or mini prints that capture Hawaii’s color.
Kinoole Farmers Market
Another open-air option, Kinoole brings together growers and craftspeople who showcase seasonal produce, cut flowers, and locally produced goods. It’s a great place to gauge seasonal flavors, stock up on picnic supplies, or secure last-minute gifts from vendors who proudly represent their neighborhoods. Plan a mid-morning visit when the stalls are freshest and the crowds most lively.
Hilo Town Market
A compact, friendly space where neighborhood vendors share curated wares—from small-batch snacks to handmade ceramics. You’ll often find practical souvenirs, such as koa wood items or aloha-themed accessories, alongside culinary treats you can bring home. It’s easy to combine this stop with nearby streets lined with boutique storefronts and local eateries.
Malls and island retailers: familiar comforts with a Big Island twist
Prince Kuhio Plaza
This main shopping center brings together well-known anchors with boutique candidates. Expect a mix of mainstream brands and island-inspired retail pop-ins. It’s a convenient anchor point for planning an indoors segment of your day, especially on hotter afternoons or after a beachside stroll when a cool, air-conditioned break is welcome. Look for locally themed gift items tucked among conventional merchandise—the result is a blend of familiar convenience and island charm.
Hilo Shopping Center
Named for its central role in the community, this hub hosts family-friendly retailers, essential services, and cozy eateries. It’s a reliable stop for essentials, quick gifts, or a casual stroll that pairs well with a broader day of shopping. If you’re after practical buys—carry-on size gifts, books, or home goods—this center delivers without sacrificing local flavor.
Target Store Hawaii-Hilo
A familiar big-box option that delivers practical convenience for travelers needing essentials, seasonal apparel, or quick replacements. While the store itself is standard-issue, you’ll often find island-friendly tweaks and limited-edition items that nod to Hawaii’s culture, making it a useful complement to the day’s more artisanal discoveries.
TJ Maxx
For value-conscious shoppers, this outlet offers a rotating mix of clothing, home décor, and accessories at discounted prices. It’s a good counterpoint to crafts-focused stops, allowing you to pick up everyday pieces—often with unique prints or island-inspired motifs—without breaking your travel budget.
Ross Dress For Less
Another budget-friendly retailer where you can score fashion and home finds at reduced prices. Use this stop to refresh your wardrobe between museum visits and market tastings or to discover giftable items such as casual wear or light outerwear suitable for Hawaii’s breezes.
Longs Drugs Pharmacy
A handy stop for last-minute necessities, sunscreen, aloe, or travel-sized toiletries. The in-store selection often includes locally popular health and beauty items, making a routine pharmacy visit a practical part of your shopping day on the island.
Gallery hopping and island design: art that captures Hawaii’s spirit
Banyan Gallery
Step into a curated space where local artists present paintings, sculptures, and prints inspired by the island’s landscapes and culture. This gallery emphasizes regional artists and offers gallery-wrapped canvases and pieces that range from bold statements to intimate scenes—perfect for a refined gift or a meaningful keepsake.
One Gallery
An intimate venue showcasing contemporary works by island-based creators. Expect a thoughtful selection of abstract pieces, coastal photography, and mixed-media works that reflect Hawaii’s unique light and color. Ask about artist stories to deepen your understanding of each piece’s background.
Wade Morales Photography Gallery
Discover a collection of striking photography that captures Hawaii’s moods—from sunlit shorelines to dramatic skies. Limited-edition prints and gallery-wrapped canvases provide robust options for art lovers seeking a high-impact statement piece or a refined gift for a friend who cherishes the Aloha State.
Extreme Exposure Fine Art Gallery
This venue highlights a broad spectrum of fine art, including contemporary canvases, limited edition lithographs, and collector-grade photographs. It’s an excellent place to explore investment-worthy pieces or conversation-starting wall art that pairs well with modern home décor.
The Exhibit, LLC Gallery of Art and Events
A versatile space blending art with engaging events. In addition to purchasing original works, you can often participate in artist talks or small exhibitions that provide deeper insight into Hawaii’s creative communities.
Sig Zane Hilo Store
Encounter iconic island design rooted in cultural heritage. Sig Zane’s prints and apparel celebrate surf, forest, and shoreline life, offering wearable art that feels both contemporary and deeply Hawaiian. It’s a must-visit for wearable storytelling and thoughtful gifts.
Dreams of Paradise Gallery
A gallery that captures tropical dreamscapes through vibrant canvases and lush photography. If you’re drawn to color-drenched imagery, this is a destination for expressive pieces that radiate island life’s optimism.
Cunningham Gallery
A showcase for a range of local painters and sculptors, Cunningham Gallery emphasizes the Hawaii-born voice in contemporary art. Look for scenes of coastline, volcanic textures, and cultural motifs that translate beautifully into home accents.
Mahiʻai Made
This space highlights edible art and craft—think beautifully packaged foods and kitchen wares crafted by local producers. It’s perfect for edible gifts or culinary souvenirs with a distinctly Hawaiian flavor and a story behind every product.
Gift Shops and Local Crafts: Keepsakes with a Story
Big Island Candies
Indulge in handcrafted confections made from traditional recipes and island ingredients. Boxed assortments and gift trays make ideal presents for travelers or hosts, and the selection often includes seasonal flavors that reflect the region’s harvests.
Sugar Coast Candy
Another sweet destination where you’ll find locally produced treats, often featuring tropical flavors and creative packaging. Perfect for stocking stuffers or a small personal indulgence you can share with friends back home.
The Knickknackery Antiques And Collectibles Hawaiiana
A treasure trove of curios and vintage-inspired finds. For history buffs or décor lovers, this shop offers distinctive pieces with island character—collectibles, Hawaiiana items, and nostalgic keepsakes that tell a story.
Hilo Guitars and Ukuleles
Musical instruments with a Hawaiian heartbeat. If you or a loved one plays, or you simply want a souvenir with real local sound, browse a range of ukuleles, guitars, and accessories—some crafted locally and others imported with care for the island aesthetic.
Hilo Bay Books LLC
A haven for readers and curious travelers alike. This shop blends local authors, travel guides, and regional history with a welcoming vibe—great for finding a well-worn adventure read or a beautifully photographed coffee-table book about Hawaii.
Two Ladies Kitchen
Known for traditional, hand-crafted confections, this shop makes for a delicious stop on any itinerary. Look for local flavors, gift boxes, and seasonal sweets that pair nicely with a cup of coffee or tea during your shopping stroll.
Hawaii’s Trading Post
A marketplace of island-inspired gifts, crafts, and apparel. Expect a broad selection of souvenirs with authentic Hawaiian motifs—perfect for travelers seeking cultural mementos or stylish reminders from the trip.
Aloha Grown
Spotlights on locally farmed and crafted goods, including botanically inspired products, handmade textiles, and small-batch items produced by island farmers and artisans. It’s a compelling stop for sustainable gifts and ingredients you can actually use at home.
Practical tips for a smooth Hilo shopping day
Best times to shop
Most markets surge with energy on weekend mornings when vendors are freshest, but many venues stay lively well into the early afternoon. For fewer crowds and more curated finds, consider a midweek morning at markets and a late afternoon stroll through galleries when light is ideal for photos and conversations with artists.
Getting around and parking
Plan to combine nearby stops to minimize parking challenges. Some areas offer free street parking for short intervals, while larger centers provide shopper-friendly lots. If you’re visiting popular markets, arriving early is the best way to secure convenient parking and a smoother stroll between stalls.
Supporting local and sustainable choices
Prioritize vendors who source locally, use sustainable packaging, or produce items in small batches. A mindful approach yields higher-quality finds and strengthens the island’s communities and ecosystems. Ask vendors about origin stories, materials, and production methods to deepen your understanding and ensure your purchases align with your values.
Real traveler voices: what shoppers are saying
“A day spent hopping between open-air markets and intimate galleries felt authentic and—dare I say—magical. The vendors shared stories about their crafts, and every purchase felt like a piece of the island.”
“I came for souvenirs and left with art that reminds me of Hawaii’s light. The variety was impressive, and the prices were fair for the quality.”
“We planned a mixed day: a little market time, a gallery afternoon, and a few gift shops for keepsakes. It worked perfectly and kept us energized.”
FAQs: Quick Answers for Shopping in Hilo
Is outdoor market shopping year-round in Hilo?
Yes. Most outdoor markets operate year-round, with hours that may shift slightly by season. Weekends tend to be the busiest, and Hawaii’s weather can influence the best windows for shopping. It’s wise to check local listings the morning of your visit for any schedule changes.
Which shops are best for gifts and souvenirs?
Markets are excellent for souvenirs and edible gifts, while galleries and gift shops shine for artwork, textiles, and island-inspired crafts. For practical keepsakes, you’ll find locally made jewelry, ukuleles, ceramics, and prints that embody Hawaii’s spirit without resorting to mass-market souvenirs.
Are prices higher in Hawaii, and how to snag deals?
Prices can be higher for certain goods due to shipping costs and local production. The upside is quality and story-driven value. To save, compare items across markets and galleries, buy directly from makers when possible, and watch for seasonal promotions or bulk gift options at gift shops and discount retailers.
Day-by-Day Plan: A Ready-to-Use Hilo Shopping Itinerary
Alternate Day A: Arts & design focus
Morning: Begin at a premier market to soak in local color and flavors, then traverse to a cluster of galleries that highlight native-inspired design and contemporary Hawaii art. Afternoon: Stop by a specialized gift shop or a craft-focused store to collect wearable art and home accents. Evening: Wrap with a sunset stroll along the harbor and a meal featuring farm-to-table ingredients.
Alternate Day B: Gifts and practical buys
Morning: Start at the market for fresh produce and handmade goods, then visit a well-curated gallery to pick up a meaningful art piece. Afternoon: Explore gift shops and local craft stores for keepsakes and edible treats, finishing with a practical stop at a pharmacy or store for any travel necessities. End with a casual dinner at a local spot that celebrates island flavors.
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Hilo Shopping Adventure
Hilo offers a rich tapestry of markets, galleries, and shops where every purchase supports local makers and Hawaii’s cultural legacy. By pairing open-air discoveries with curated art experiences and thoughtful gifts, you’ll craft a shopping itinerary that’s not only enjoyable but deeply connected to the island. Ready to start planning? Use this guide as your compass, map out a day that balances markets, galleries, and charming gift shops, and let the Aloha spirit guide your finds. For personalized planning, please reach out to our team for tailor-made recommendations and a ready-to-use itinerary designed around your interests and timetable.