One of the main attractions in tiny Kilauea Town; apart from the volcano itself, is this quaint shop. It is known for its authentic Hawaiian quilts, handmade by locals and featuring unique patterns. Customers can buy finished quilts or for considerably less money, invest in a quilt kit, complete with pattern and cut fabric. The store also sells wall hangings, pillow cases, Aloha shirts and other textile specialties. They regularly host events and shows. Do check their Facebook page for upcoming events.
A mainstay on the tourist and restaurateur circuit is this century-old fish market, which is best known for its morning fish auction. Local fishermen display their catches to dozens of wholesalers and restaurant owners. All kinds of fresh fish are auctioned off while curious tourists look on. The auction is held every morning except Sunday. The market is a great place to buy fish without having to bid. The selection and quality are both good and the prices tend to be low. In addition, a number of specialty seafood items are available.
Located at the corner of Mamo Street and Kamehameha Avenue in Historic Downtown Hilo, this vibrant market comes to life all year round. This place witnesses the participation of over 100 local farmers and artisans showcasing crafts, gift items, tropical flowers and fruit. It's a definite must-see.
Located in the heart of historic downtown Hilo, this boutique it at the center of Hawaiian fashion. The designer boutique offers exclusively the designs of Hilo born Sig Zane who is cherished among islanders for his unique prints and collection of highly sought after fashion for adults and children alike. His creations are abstract deigns of island flora and fauna along with traditional Polynesian art. The shop is a quiet respite with hardwood floors, clean contemporary lines and subdued lighting. Islanders know that regular visits to his boutique are required to be able to find the newest styles and prints.
Tourists come here to stock up on locally made Poha and Ohelo berry jams, but locals know the real lure of the place: coffee at 75 cents a cup. That may seem only reasonable in the home of Kona coffee, but at neighboring places it ranges from USD1.50 to USD2.50 a cup. Coffee by the pound, soft drinks, liquor, snacks and other necessities and sundries can be purchased here. The store is also a gas station and general hang-out spot. Kilauea General Store is family owned and authentic, taking pains to promote local artists and crafts.
One of the main attractions in tiny Kilauea Town; apart from the volcano itself, is this quaint shop. It is known for its authentic Hawaiian quilts, handmade by locals and featuring unique patterns. Customers can buy finished quilts or for considerably less money, invest in a quilt kit, complete with pattern and cut fabric. The store also sells wall hangings, pillow cases, Aloha shirts and other textile specialties. They regularly host events and shows. Do check their Facebook page for upcoming events.
If it is candy that you're after, there is more than enough to satisfy at Big Island Candies. The hand-dipped chocolate macadamia nuts are a Hawaiian classic. Peanut butter bars and almond wafers are among the other tempting treats. While candy is the main attraction, it is not the only one. Buttery shortbread, rich Kona coffee, Mochi balls and a variety of other local specialty items are also available. Adventurous eaters will want to sample some of the local munchies: try the Li Hing Mui cookies (made with sour plum powder) or the Ika (dried squid). Definitely worth a visit for their sweet treats which are noteworthy as gifts as well.
A mainstay on the tourist and restaurateur circuit is this century-old fish market, which is best known for its morning fish auction. Local fishermen display their catches to dozens of wholesalers and restaurant owners. All kinds of fresh fish are auctioned off while curious tourists look on. The auction is held every morning except Sunday. The market is a great place to buy fish without having to bid. The selection and quality are both good and the prices tend to be low. In addition, a number of specialty seafood items are available.
Located at the corner of Mamo Street and Kamehameha Avenue in Historic Downtown Hilo, this vibrant market comes to life all year round. This place witnesses the participation of over 100 local farmers and artisans showcasing crafts, gift items, tropical flowers and fruit. It's a definite must-see.
Ok heads up, this is a secret spot. Locals and islanders have known this place to be the place to stop for that special hostess gift or omiyage (souvenir) for neighbor island residents. The reputation of this Japanese mochi store is much larger than the store itself. Located mid-block on Kilauea Avenue just mauka of the Hilo Farmer’s market site, the offering here centers around one item - the fresh strawberry mochi. Buttery soft, the subtly sweet mochi is filled with fresh Kamuela strawberries. They have an assortment of other fancy mochi, but it’s the strawberry that makes islanders salivate.
Located in the heart of historic downtown Hilo, this boutique it at the center of Hawaiian fashion. The designer boutique offers exclusively the designs of Hilo born Sig Zane who is cherished among islanders for his unique prints and collection of highly sought after fashion for adults and children alike. His creations are abstract deigns of island flora and fauna along with traditional Polynesian art. The shop is a quiet respite with hardwood floors, clean contemporary lines and subdued lighting. Islanders know that regular visits to his boutique are required to be able to find the newest styles and prints.