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The islands have a magical way of making anyone who visits a life-long Hawaii lover, even if you’re only here for a few days at a time. From the lush green mountain ranges down to the sparkling blue coastlines, strolling through paradise will have you wishing that you could share this vacation experience with everyone back home. Instead of just showing off a few photos from the trip, why not surprise your friends, family, or coworkers with their own little piece of Hawaii too?

While it’s rare for anyone to head home completely empty-handed, it’s always best to plan ahead so you don’t accidentally overspend, forget someone important, or run out of luggage space after purchasing everything. Once you’ve got a budget and a list of people in mind, it all comes down to what to get for them.
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So where do you buy great gifts in Honolulu that are affordable and lightweight, yet very Hawaii-esque? Before you take off towards the standard souvenir shops, read on for our top gift suggestions—all of which can be found conveniently at Waikiki Beach Walk®!
 

Cool Hawaii Gear and Apparel

One of the most amazing and memorable things that people notice about Hawaii is the sense of warmth, compassion, and kindness that pervades the community. More than simple friendliness, the aloha spirit is the essence behind Hawaii’s lifestyle. The feeling is so infectious, locals and visitors alike can’t help but to carry the aloha spirit with them wherever they go.

In fact, HiLife Clothing Company’s motto is “take it wherever you go and live it wherever you are.” Deeply rooted in Hawaii’s unique culture and lifestyle, HiLife has been a local favorite since it first began business in 2006. Depicting each Hawaiian Island connected by the branches of a single tree, the HiLife logo is instantly recognizable and has become a symbol in its own right. Check it out on the 1st floor of Waikiki Beach Walk® near Yard House to browse their Hawaii apparel.


Although the iconic Aloha shirt has earned its place in the fashion world as a trendy closet staple, nothing beats the everyday comfort of a simple and stylish T-shirt.

The Basic Paradise tee adds a tropical twist to HiLife’s original logo with the iconic Bird of Paradise flowers that can be found in bloom all around the islands. The brilliant pops of orange and green capture Hawaii’s beautiful natural landscape, making it an eye-catching choice.



Basic Paradise T-shirt ($29)




Sometimes the elements get the best of us, even in paradise. Made of lightweight, waterproof fabric, windbreakers are a fashionable way to layer up, especially when it’s got HiLife’s two-tone black and camo design. Wear it on a rainy night out or to give an outfit that extra boost.

The best part? As a gift, it’s definitely more substantial than your basic T-shirt, but you won’t have to worry about a windbreaker taking up as much space in your suitcase as traditional hoodies and sweatshirts would.
 
 
Script Logo Windbreaker ($58)






Not quite sure about clothing sizes? HiLife also carries a variety of accessories including hats, keychains, and lanyards.

For something a little more special, this thermal tumbler made of stainless steel makes a practical gift that can be used daily.


20 oz Stainless Tumbler ($35)







HiLife | (808) 926-1173 | hilifeclothing.com

 

Personalized Island Ornaments

With Christmas right around the corner, it’s hard not to feel merry, especially when all of Honolulu is covered in festive lights and decorations. Among the typical baubles and tinsel adorning the tree, a custom Hawaiian Christmas ornament is sure to stand out. For a wonderful gift that will be treasured each holiday season for years to come, stop by the Waikiki Christmas Store at Waikiki Beach Walk®.

With over 1,000 ornaments to choose from, there’s a design to fit just about anyone in your life. Once you’ve chosen the perfect ornament, let the store’s friendly staff know what custom text you’d like them to hand-personalize it with. And just like that, you’ve got a one-of-a-kind ornament to make this time of year a little extra special for the ones you love.
 
Waikiki Christmas Store | (808) 924-9627 | santaspen.com

 

Locally Made Bath and Body

Home to an abundance of tropical fruits and flora, nothing invigorates the senses quite like the exotic fragrances of Hawaii. From intoxicating pikake to milky coconut, you can’t help but to notice the many delicious aromas wafting through the atmosphere. Each has its own ability to evoke the sensation of lounging on a sandy beach no matter where you are in the world, making it a lovely gift for those who live far from shore.

With a location on Lewers Street at Waikiki Beach Walk®, ABC Stores is the go-to convenience store for all things Hawaii. It offers an incredible selection of island treasures, including local bath and body products that perfectly channel the essence of paradise. After all, it is “The Store with Aloha.”

For example, this Hawaiian Cologne Sampler set is one of the newest additions to the Forever Florals Hawaii line. The four signature scents come with a convenient rollerball applicator and at 0.25 oz each, it slips right into any handbag with ease.
 
Fragrances

• Plumeria: a flower popular in lei-making that’s sweeter than a rose
• Passion Pineapple: a vibrant and juicy fruit that smells as good as it tastes
• Pikake: a subtle, refreshing flower with a heavenly aroma
• Gardenia: a romantic blossom reminiscent of a sultry summer evening

Another line made right here in Hawaii, Island Soap Company blends botanicals with immense hydration to leave skin feeling silky smooth whether you opt to gift a hand and body lotion or an individually boxed soap.