The Big Island of Hawaii has a vibrant community of artisanal individuals and independent business owners. Visitors can find many unique shops and boutiques offering locally made products. From farmer’s markets and art galleries to specialty stores and outdoor shopping centers, there are countless opportunities to discover one-of-a-kind treasures while exploring the island. Whether you’re looking for handmade jewelry, organic honey, or gourmet sea salt, these artisanal shops and boutiques are well worth a visit.
The Artisanal Scene On Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii boasts a vibrant artisanal scene that will impress any visitor. From coffee to art and craft items, the island has a wealth of offerings created by skilled craftsmen and women using traditional methods. The coffee produced on the island, in particular, has earned worldwide recognition for its exceptional quality and unique flavor.
Local artists and artisans also ply their trade on Big Island, offering various handmade items ranging from jewelry and pottery to paintings and sculptures. Visitors can explore the island’s markets and galleries to discover these treasures and gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Big Island’s artisanal scene is worth exploring.
Unique Artisanal Shops And Boutiques Around The Big Island
Now that you know about the vibrant artisanal scene on Big Island, let’s look at some of the unique shops and boutiques that can be found around the island. From eco-friendly clothing stores to gourmet food shops, these establishments offer something for everyone.
Hilo Farmers Market
The Hilo Farmers Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for locally-grown produce and handmade crafts. The market is open daily and features over 200 vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade jewelry and pottery.
One of the unique things about the Hilo Farmers Market is the variety of products on offer. Visitors can find everything from exotic fruits like rambutan and dragonfruit to fresh seafood and baked goods. The market also features several artisans selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, including wood carvings, clothing, and jewelry.
In addition to the variety of products, the Hilo Farmers Market is also a great place to experience the local culture. Visitors can listen to live music and watch hula performances while sampling delicious food and drinks. The market is a hub of activity, with a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Big Island.
Volcano Art Center
Located in Volcano Village, the Volcano Art Center is a gallery that features a wide range of art, including paintings, pottery, and woodwork. Many of the pieces are inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, and visitors can find unique works of art that reflect the culture and history of the Big Island.
The Volcano Art Center also offers workshops and classes for those interested in learning more about the various art forms on display. Visitors can learn to paint, sculpt, or make pottery while surrounded by the stunning natural scenery of Volcano Village.
The Volcano Art Center organizes various events throughout the year, such as art shows and festivals, in addition to its gallery and workshops. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet local artists and immerse oneself in the lively art culture of the Big Island.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
The Kona Coffee Living History Farm is a historic farm in Captain Cook that offers visitors a glimpse into the world of coffee farming. The farm has a gift shop where you can purchase locally grown coffee and handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Visitors to the farm can take a guided tour and learn about the history and process of coffee farming on the Big Island. The tour includes a visit to the historic farmhouse and a walk through the coffee fields, where you can see the coffee plants up close and learn about the various stages of the coffee-making process.
The Kona Coffee Living History Farm is a great place to learn about the unique culture and history of coffee farming on the Big Island. It’s also a great spot to pick up some locally grown coffee and other handmade souvenirs to take home with you.
Hana Hou Hilo
Hana Hou Hilo is a boutique in downtown Hilo that features a unique collection of locally made clothing, jewelry, and home decor items. The shop is a great place to find one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the culture and style of the Big Island.
In addition to the collection of handmade products, Hana Hou Hilo also hosts regular art shows and events. These events showcase the work of local artists and provide a platform for the creative community on the Big Island.
Hana Hou Hilo is a great place to support local artisans and discover unique pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for a new piece of jewelry or a handmade home decor item, you’re sure to find something special at this charming boutique.
Big Island Bees
Big Island Bees is a family-owned business in Captain Cook that produces organic honey and beeswax products. Visitors can tour the farm and shop for honey, beeswax candles, and other handmade items in the on-site store.
The tour of the farm includes a visit to the bee hives and a guided tour of the honey-making process. Visitors can learn about the importance of honeybees to the environment and the unique qualities of the honey produced on the Big Island.
Visitors can also check out the on-site store, where they can purchase various honey and beeswax products such as raw honey, flavored honey, beeswax candles, and skin care products aside from the tour. These items make excellent souvenirs or gifts for loved ones they will leave back home.
Waimea General Store
The Waimea General Store is a store in Waimea that offers a wide range of artisanal products, including handmade soaps, jewelry, and ceramics. They also feature many locally made food products, including jams, sauces, and spices.
The store is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs that reflect the culture and style of the Big Island. Visitors can browse the collection of handmade items while enjoying a cup of coffee or a snack from the on-site cafe.
The Waimea General Store offers artisanal products and organizes events and workshops regularly. These activities provide a wonderful opportunity to discover more about the local culture and connect with fellow travelers and community members interested in supporting the area.
Kona Coast Trading Co.
The Kona Coast Trading Co. is a boutique in downtown Kailua-Kona that offers a unique collection of handmade jewelry, clothing, and accessories from local artisans. They also have a selection of vintage and antique items.
The collection at Kona Coast Trading Co. is curated to reflect the culture and style of the Big Island. Visitors can find unique pieces that reflect the beauty of the surrounding landscape, including jewelry made from shells and other natural materials.
Kona Coast Trading Co. not only has a variety of handmade items but also hosts events and workshops for those interested in learning more about the art of jewelry-making and other creative endeavors. These events also allow for the support of local artisans.
Kona Sea Salt
Kona Sea Salt is a family-owned business in Kealakekua that produces gourmet sea salt using traditional Hawaiian methods. Visitors can tour the salt-making process and shop for flavored sea salts in the on-site store.
During the salt-making tour, you will visit the salt ponds and witness a demonstration of the traditional methods used to harvest and produce salt. The tour also includes information about the distinctive qualities of sea salt and its significance in Hawaiian culture and cuisine.
Apart from taking the tour, visitors can also purchase different flavored sea salts from the store located on the premises. These flavors consist of garlic, chili pepper, and smoked sea salt. Adding these sea salts to your kitchen can enhance the taste of your meals with a distinctly Hawaiian flavor.
Which Of These Artisanal Shops Will You Visit?
Overall, the Big Island of Hawaii offers a wealth of artisanal shops and boutiques that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the local community. From farmer’s markets and art galleries to specialty stores and outdoor shopping centers, there are countless opportunities to discover one-of-a-kind treasures while exploring the island. Whether you’re looking for handmade jewelry, organic honey, or gourmet sea salt, these artisanal shops and boutiques are well worth a visit.
