On Kuhio Highway, hidden behind Chocolat Hanalei, a local couple has assembled the best the community has to offer in terms of art, handmade wares, and specialty gifts, and the kind of souvenirs you will not regret bringing home.
5-5190 Kuhio Hwy
Hanalei, HI 96714
+1-808-826-7888
"First we bake, then we surf" is the motto at this cute little bakery on the North Shore. Artisan breads and gluten-free bakeds goods are sold behind a tidy wooden counter, along with great coffee by the cup. Pick up a few snacks en route for an impromptu beach breakfast picnic.
5-5161 Kuhio Hwy. #4
Hanalei, HI 96714
+1-808-826-6717
As you drive toward the North Shore, look out for the very yellow, somewhat makeshift-looking hut, an old-fashioned fruit stand selling tropical and exotic fruits — everything from rambutan to good, old-fashioned mango.
5-2719 Kuhio Hwy.
Kilauea, HI 96754
+1-808-828-1092
Those looking to plink, plink, plink to their heart's desire can get a quick education from the guys running this shop (a.k.a. Larry's). From beginner models to real-deal custom strummers, there is no instrument and sound more closely tied to an island nation.
5330 Koloa Rd.
Koloa HI 96756
+1-808-742-1500
Bright Side, Blu Umi, and Island Art galleries keep their doors open late on Fridays to showcase the work of up-and-coming and established local artists who paint in the great outdoors, make handicrafts, or sculpt abstractions. Vendors selling Hawaiian barbecue set up on the streets to give the otherwise very sleepy town a festive vibe.
Hanapepe Rd.
Hanapepe, HI 96716
Besides stacks and stacks of new, used, rare, and out-of-print books, locally made gifts and ephemera, they also carry pretty much the only selection of vintage Hawaiiana vinyl on the island. The spot feels old-timey and charming on a sleepy little retail stretch in Hanapepe.
3785 Hanapepe Rd.
Hanapepe, HI 96716
+1-808-335-6469