Welcome to a vibrant corner of the Pacific where creativity, craftsmanship, and island spirit come together in a single, unforgettable shopping experience. Hilo on the Big Island blends lush landscapes with a rich tradition of handmade goods, locally sourced flavors, and contemporary art that captures the light and life of Hawaii. This guide, crafted with travelers in mind, maps out where to shop, what to buy, and how to make the most of your time so every purchase tells a story. Whether you’re seeking one-of-a-kind artwork, island-made gifts, or sweet treats that transport you to the coast with each bite, our team has curated a practical, enjoyable plan that reflects our expertise in guiding visitors toward meaningful shopping experiences in Hilo.
As you explore, you’ll notice the emphasis on authenticity and sustainability—values that shape everything from the stalls you browse to the galleries you visit. We treat every stop as an opportunity to connect with makers, understand their stories, and support local economies. This article combines practical tips, curated recommendations, and authentic insights to help you discover the best of Hilo’s markets, galleries, and gift shops while keeping your day relaxed and enjoyable.
Why Hilo is a shopper’s paradise: markets, galleries, and island-made treasures
Hilo stands out for its diversity of shopping experiences. The city’s markets overflow with fresh produce, tropical flavors, and handmade crafts that celebrate Hawaii’s heritage. Nearby galleries and design studios showcase contemporary interpretations of island life, from bold wall art to meticulously crafted jewelry and textiles. And when you’re ready to bring a piece of Hawaii home, the local makers weave storytelling into every item—yet maintain accessible pricing and warm hospitality. This combination creates a shopper’s paradise where every corner reveals a new discovery, every purchase supports someone’s livelihood, and every encounter deepens your connection to the island.
Travelers consistently rate Hilo for its relaxed pace, generous parking, and the ability to walk between markets and galleries in a single day. Our approach emphasizes planning that respects your schedule while allowing ample time to sample local bites, chat with artisans, and compare pieces before purchasing. With this mindset, shopping in Hilo becomes less about consumerism and more about meaningful engagement with Hawaii’s creative economy.
Markets, stalls, and open-air finds: what to expect
Open-air markets in Hilo offer a sensory introduction to the island—color, aroma, texture, and the sounds of hawkers and musicians. Expect a wide range of products: tropical produce, coffee beans, honey, jams, handmade jewelry, carved wood, textiles, and locally produced skincare. Weekday and weekend markets each carry a distinct rhythm, so a well-planned visit often includes both types to capture the full spectrum of offerings. Vendors typically welcome questions about sourcing, production methods, and the stories behind their goods, making every purchase a small, informed investment in local livelihoods.
To maximize your experience, arrive early. Early hours often yield the best selection and shorter lines, especially on weekends when crowds intensify. Bring small bills for vendors who may not accept cards, and bring a reusable bag for convenience and sustainability. It’s common to sample bites at food stalls and bakeries, so budget a portion of your day for tasting experiences as you shop. Finally, allow time to compare similar items—different artisans apply unique finishes and materials, and you’ll appreciate the subtle differences once you’ve seen several options.
Hilo Farmers Market: a sensory journey of produce, crafts, and local flavors
The Hilo Farmers Market is one of the city’s most iconic gathering places, where aisles spill onto the street with stalls that turn fresh, seasonal produce into colorful displays. Beyond produce, you’ll find local crafts, jewelry, and edible souvenirs that reflect Hawaii’s seasonal abundance. It’s a place to observe traditional hawker negotiation styles, sample tropical fruits, and discover small-batch sauces and seasonings you won’t find elsewhere. Plan to spend a couple of hours here if you want to wander slowly, chat with artisans, and pick up a handful of thoughtful gifts or ingredients for a home-cooked island meal.
Tips for a successful visit: arrive early to secure the freshest picks; bring a reusable bag; sample local fruits and pastries; and ask vendors about origin stories and production methods to understand the craft behind every item.
Manono Street Marketplace: artisan stalls and souvenir spots
Manono Street Marketplace offers a curated mix of hand-crafted goods, jewelry, clothing, and small home decor items. The focus here is on quality over quantity, with many stalls featuring limited-edition or handmade-only inventory. It’s an excellent spot to find tasteful souvenirs—things that are both stylish and rooted in island aesthetics. Expect to meet artisans who enjoy sharing the craft behind their products, whether it’s the technique used to weave a basket or the inspiration behind a design motif.
Pro tip: if you’re shopping for someone with particular tastes, this market’s smaller, boutique-like selection makes it easier to find unique, conversation-worthy gifts.
Kinoole Farmers Market: weekly picks with island charm
Kinoole Farmers Market brings together local farmers and crafters on a regular schedule, offering fresh groceries alongside artisanal goods. You’ll find seasonal fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, heirloom crops, and hand-knit items that showcase the region’s agricultural abundance. This market is ideal for travelers who want to stock up on fresh provisions for a beach picnic or who prefer shopping alongside locals who know the best seasonal choices.
Time management matters here: plan for mid-morning to early afternoon during market days, and be prepared for limited parking nearby. The experience is relaxed and friendly, with plenty of opportunities to talk with farmers about cultivation practices and harvest timing.
Hilo Town Market: quick buys and local flair
The Hilo Town Market delivers quick, convenient shopping with a strong emphasis on local flair. It’s the right place for last-minute gifts, wearable art, and compact souvenirs you can tuck into a suitcase without overpacking. Expect a variety of products from handmade soaps to wood-carved trinkets, each carrying a postcard-perfect snapshot of island life. This market is particularly friendly to travelers who want a fast, enjoyable stop that still offers genuine island craft.
Practical advice: identify a few must-have items before you go to avoid impulse buys, and take a moment to chat with vendors about the piece’s backstory to ensure it aligns with your gift-giving goals.
Creators, galleries, and island design: celebrate Hawaii’s artists
Beyond markets, Hilo’s galleries and design studios showcase a vibrant range of contemporary and traditional artwork. From bold, statement pieces to understated, intimate works, these spaces invite visitors to engage with island perspectives through color, form, and texture. Visiting galleries is not only about acquiring art—it’s about meeting the people behind the pieces, understanding the environment that shapes their work, and discovering how Hawaii’s light and landscape influence color palettes and materials. Our recommendations emphasize accessible price points without compromising quality, so you can begin or expand an art collection with confidence.
We encourage keeping a flexible schedule to explore multiple venues on the same day. Pair a gallery stroll with a nearby cafe or makers’ studios to create a culturally rich, multi-sensory experience that captures the essence of Hilo’s creative economy.
Banyan Gallery: contemporary island art with a tropical twist
Banyan Gallery delivers contemporary works that reflect Hawaii’s natural beauty and urban energy in a modern context. Expect a curated selection of paintings, mixed-media pieces, and limited-edition prints by local and regional artists. The gallery often features rotating exhibitions, giving visitors fresh collections on each visit. This is an excellent destination for collectors seeking conversation-worthy pieces or a thoughtful introduction to contemporary Hawaiian art.
One Gallery: curated contemporary art from Hawaii’s shores
One Gallery presents a carefully curated mix of contemporary Hawaiian art across various media, including painting, sculpture, and photography. The gallery emphasizes strong curatorial direction, creating cohesive bodies of work that can inspire or anchor a collection. If you’re looking for a refined, gallery-ready piece to complement modern interiors, this is a reliable stop.
Wade Morales Photography Gallery: Hawaii’s light captured
This photography-focused space highlights the distinct light and scenery of Hawaii through large-format prints and archival materials. Expect landscape and coastal scenes that evoke a sense of place and mood. For travelers interested in capturing Hawaii’s spirit in print form, the gallery offers both limited editions and open-edition works suitable for gifting or personal collection.
Extreme Exposure Fine Art Gallery: bold color, bold statements
Extreme Exposure is known for vibrant, expressive works across painting and mixed media. The gallery challenges visitors with dynamic compositions, bright color palettes, and artworks that spark conversation. It’s a great stop for those who value expressive, contemporary art that adds energy to living or working spaces.
The Exhibit, LLC Gallery of Art and Events: rotating shows and intimate spaces
The Exhibit focuses on rotating exhibitions and intimate gallery spaces that foster direct engagement with artists. Here you’ll find installation pieces and works-in-progress that reveal the creative process. This venue is ideal for visitors who enjoy curatorial programming and a sense of discovery that comes with limited-time shows.
Sig Zane Hilo Store: iconic local apparel and graphic design
The Sig Zane store represents an iconic Hawaiian design language—bold graphics, culturally inspired motifs, and ethically produced apparel. It’s a destination for wearable art that carries a narrative about Hawaiian heritage, place, and people. Consider picking up a piece as a wearable reminder of your island visit, or as a gift that stands out for its storytelling and craftsmanship.
Dreams of Paradise Gallery: unique artworks and handcrafted treasures
Dreams of Paradise blends fine art with handcrafted treasures, showcasing a variety of media—from paints and sculpture to carved wood and textiles. The gallery is known for its welcoming atmosphere and a curated collection that invites lingering conversations with artists and staff about materials, technique, and inspiration.
Cunningham Gallery: a home for fine art and sculpture
The Cunningham Gallery emphasizes fine art and sculpture, often featuring regional artists whose work reflects Pacific landscapes and cultural narratives. It’s a thoughtful stop for serious collectors and first-time buyers alike who want to understand broader artistic trends in Hawaii while supporting local makers.
Mahiʻai Made: island-made goods with stories behind them
Designed to celebrate local food, craft, and design, Mahiʻai Made offers items that connect diners with the land and its people. Expect curated food products, artisanal housewares, and design objects that tell a story about their origins and production methods. It’s a wonderful place to find gifts with a clear sense of place and purpose.
Gifts, treats, and locally crafted keepsakes
Choosing a keepsake in Hilo means choosing a tangible memory of your island adventure. The city’s gift shops, candy makers, and specialty stores curate items that range from delicious indulgences to decorative mementos. Whether you’re shopping for a friend, family member, or yourself, these venues emphasize authenticity, heritage, and the joy of finding something small yet meaningful.
Big Island Candies: chocolatey delights and tropical sweets
Big Island Candies is renowned for its handcrafted chocolates and tropical confections. Their treats blend Hawaiian flavors with classic candy-making techniques, producing bonbons, brittle, and gift boxes that satisfy sweet cravings while offering a sense of place. A bag of locally inspired chocolates can be a crowd-pleasing gift or a personal indulgence with a story attached to every bite.
Sugar Coast Candy: handmade confections with island flavors
Sugar Coast Candy specializes in small-batch sweets that celebrate island tastes. From coconut-infused confections to caramelized nut bites, these treats pair well with coffee from a nearby roaster or as a thoughtful, flavorful gift. sampling a few varieties in-store helps you discover favorites to share or tuck into a travel-ready tin.
The Knickknackery Antiques & Hawaiiana: nostalgic finds
For those who love nostalgia and Hawaiian flair, The Knickknackery offers a curated assortment of Hawaiiana, antiques, and vintage-inspired treasures. It’s a wonderful place to browse for conversation-starting gifts, including retro signage, vintage postcards, and decorative objects that evoke a bygone era while remaining relevant to modern decor.
Hilo Guitars and Ukuleles: music gear and tiny treasures
Music lovers will appreciate this shop’s selection of guitars and traditional Hawaiian ukuleles. Beyond instruments, you’ll find accessories, tuners, and beginner-friendly gear for travelers who want to pick up a musical souvenir or gift. Staff often share tips on tuning, maintenance, and basic chords, making a visit both practical and inspiring.
Hilo Bay Books LLC: local flavor in print and beyond
Hilo Bay Books brings together local writers, guidebooks, and Hawaiian literature in a friendly, easy-to-navigate space. It’s a dependable stop for travelers who want to pick up a well-written guide, a novel set in Hawaii, or a calendar featuring island imagery. If you’re seeking thoughtful reading material or a way to remember your trip, this shop has you covered.
Two Ladies Kitchen: famous macaroni nut shortbread and more
Two Ladies Kitchen is beloved for its macaroni nut shortbread and other island-inspired baked treats. The shop offers bite-sized delights, perfect for sharing with travel companions or taking as a sweet reminder of your Hilo journey. If you have dietary preferences, inquire about available flavors and any nut-free options.
Hawaii’s Trading Post: island-inspired gifts and souvenirs
Hawaii’s Trading Post curates a broad selection of gift items and souvenirs that reflect the archipelago’s geography, flora, and culture. From tasteful trinkets to practical keepsakes, this shop balances everyday practicality with island charm, making it a solid stop for those shopping for friends and family back home.
Retail hubs and familiar brands with a Big Island twist
Shopping centers and well-known brands appear with an island-specific twist in Hilo, offering the comfort of familiar retailers alongside local flavor. These hubs provide reliability for travelers who want predictable availability, a straightforward shopping process, and opportunities to blend brand-name finds with regionally inspired products.
Prince Kuhio Plaza: the island’s premier shopping destination
Prince Kuhio Plaza stands out as one of the island’s largest and most varied shopping centers. It houses a mix of department-store anchors, fashion outlets, and specialty retailers, with occasional local pop-ups that highlight Hawaii-born designers. When you want a broad shopping day with convenience, this plaza is a dependable anchor in your itinerary.
Hilo Shopping Center: mix of retailers and local flavor
The Hilo Shopping Center provides a practical blend of national brands and local shops, making it a useful stop for everyday necessities and last-minute gifts. The center’s layout is traveler-friendly, with easy parking and a range of dining options to recharge between shopping bursts.
Target Store Hawaii-Hilo: everyday essentials with a local touch
Target Hawaii-Hilo offers familiar convenience for travelers needing last-minute essentials, from toiletries to travel adaptors. What sets this location apart is the way it mirrors island life in product selections and seasonal displays, providing a comforting bridge between home and Hawaii.
T.J. Maxx and Ross Dress for Less: fashion finds and bargains
For budget-conscious shoppers who still want quality, T.J. Maxx and Ross Dress for Less in Hilo deliver. You’ll find fashion, accessories, and home items at discounted prices, often with a few island-inspired pieces that can be both practical and unique souvenirs.
Longs Drugs Pharmacy: convenient supplies for travelers
Longs Drugs Pharmacy offers essential travel items, health products, and basic groceries. It’s a reliable stop for picking up sunscreen, allergy medications, or a quick snack while you’re out exploring the city. The store layout makes it straightforward to find what you need without slowing down your day.
Smart planning for a smooth shopping day
Effective planning elevates your shopping in Hilo from a simple errand run to a curated experience. The goal is to balance strolls through markets with reflective gallery visits and deliberate gift shopping, all while enjoying the island’s scenery and culinary stops. Below are practical steps to organize your day, optimize transport, and ensure you leave with items you love and memories you’ll treasure.
Best times to shop: markets by morning, galleries by afternoon
Markets shine in the morning when vendors restock, aromas peak, and energy is high. Galleries and design studios often operate in the late morning through late afternoon, allowing a natural flow from outdoor exploration to indoor, climate-controlled viewing. Scheduling markets first keeps you energized for more intimate experiences later in the day, and it also gives you flexibility in case you want to extend a gallery visit or revisit a stall you loved earlier.
Getting around and parking tips for downtown and beyond
Downtown Hilo and its surrounding neighborhoods are walkable, with ample street parking near most markets and galleries. Some venues offer short-term parking lots or curbside loading zones for easy merchandise transfers. If you’re renting a car, aim to park once and traverse a compact loop to minimize backtracking. For larger marketplaces that spill onto adjacent streets, a light, casual approach to parking—allowing an extra 15 minutes—often pays off with less stress and more exploration time.
Buying local: how to spot genuine island-made goods
To ensure you’re purchasing legitimate island-made items, look for maker labels, production notes, and direct-from-maker contact information. Ask vendors about sourcing practices, whether materials are locally produced, and whether items are handmade or produced in small batches. Genuine island-made goods frequently emphasize sustainable materials, traditional methods, and a story you can verify with the maker. When in doubt, request a business card or a QR code linking to a maker’s story or workshop details.
Frequently asked questions about shopping in Hilo
Is outdoor market shopping year-round in Hilo?
Yes, most outdoor markets in Hilo operate year-round, though hours can vary with seasons and weather. Weekends are especially popular, and some markets may reduce hours during the hottest part of the day or the rainy season. Our planning approach accounts for seasonal variations, encouraging morning visits during peak market days and afternoon gallery stops to maximize comfort and enjoyment.
Which shops are ideal for gifts and souvenirs?
For a broad range of gifts and keepsakes, start with markets for authentic, locally produced items such as crafts, textiles, and edible souvenirs. Follow with gallery visits for artist-made pieces that you can frame or display. Gift shops at retail hubs offer convenience goods and well-curated island-inspired products. To elevate your gifts, select items with a clear maker story and sustainable provenance.
Are prices higher in Hawaii, and how to snag the best deals?
Some goods may carry a premium due to local sourcing and craft processes. However, you’ll often find excellent value when you compare multiple vendors and consider the story behind the item. Look for seasonal promotions, bulk purchase options at markets, and price consistency across a few shops. Our advice is to budget for a few premium buys and a handful of smaller, meaningful keepsakes to maximize the overall value of your shopping day.
Plan your day: a practical 1-2 day shopping itinerary
Whether you’re in Hilo for a short layover or a multi-day visit, a simple, well-timed plan helps you experience the breadth of shopping without feeling rushed. The following itineraries are designed to balance outdoor markets, galleries, and gifts, with built-in time for meals and rest. You can adjust durations based on your pace, interest level, and weather.
Alternate Day A: Arts and design focus
- Morning: Start at the Hilo Farmers Market to experience the energy of island flavors and handmade crafts as vendors stock fresh produce and local goods. Sample tropical fruits, pick up a few treats, and chat with makers about their craft.
- Midday: Walk to nearby art galleries or design studios that showcase contemporary island art. Plan for a gallery-hopping session with short visits to multiple venues to absorb different styles and influences.
- Afternoon: Continue with additional galleries, then visit a maker’s shop or boutique that focuses on textiles or sculpture. End with a relaxed dinner at a local cafe or restaurant featuring Hawaiian-inspired cuisine.
- Evening: If available, catch a small exhibition opening or artist talk to deepen your understanding of the works you’ve seen.
Alternate Day B: Gifts and practical buys
- Morning: Begin at Kinoole Farmers Market or Manono Street Marketplace for a mix of fresh goods and artisan wares, ensuring you’re first in line for popular items and exclusive crafts.
- Midday: Explore gift-focused shops and local boutiques for keepsakes, followed by a quick lunch featuring island flavors.
- Afternoon: Visit retail hubs like Prince Kuhio Plaza for familiar brands with island twists, complementing your purchases with curated local products from adjacent shops.
- Evening: Return to a favorite market or gallery for any last-minute finds, then relax with a stroll along the waterfront or a quiet coffee break to reflect on your haul and the stories behind each item.
Traveler insights: what others are saying about shopping in Hilo
Visitors consistently highlight the warmth of local vendors, the accessibility of parking, and the variety of offerings—from raw artwork to small-batch foods. Travelers often note that shopping in Hilo feels intimate and meaningful, with many encounters that go beyond a simple purchase to conversations about culture, technique, and community. Feedback emphasizes the value of pairing outdoor markets with gallery visits to create a balanced, enriching itinerary that aligns with a relaxed island pace.
Throughout your visit, you’ll likely hear recommendations from locals and fellow travelers about specific stalls, studios, and shops that become highlights of a trip. Our recommendations reflect this communal knowledge, ensuring you encounter reliable sources of quality goods while discovering hidden gems that capture Hawaii’s spirit.
Conclusion: make the most of your Hilo shopping adventure
Hilo offers a one-of-a-kind blend of markets, galleries, and shops where authenticity, craftsmanship, and island charm converge. By planning with an eye toward timing, locality, and storytelling, you can curate a shopping experience that’s as memorable as it is practical. From open-air markets brimming with color to contemporary galleries that showcase Hawaii’s creative voice, every stop contributes to a richer understanding of the place you’re exploring. Ready to start your journey? Let us help you design a personalized shopping itinerary that fits your schedule, interests, and budget, ensuring that every purchase is thoughtful, sustainable, and deeply connected to the island’s people and places.
We invite you to begin planning with our team—contact us to tailor a 1-2 day shopping plan, reserve time with local artisans, or book a guided market tour that highlights the best-kept secrets of Hilo’s shopping scene. Your next great find awaits in Hilo, where culture, craft, and community come together in a celebration of island life.