20 Irresistible Hawaiian Made Objects That Deserve a Spot in Your Suitcase

What would a trip to the Islands be without souvenirs to bring home?  With some careful though, your purchases can be a wonderful part of your memories of the trip. So, let’s put away the dancing hula girls, and imitation lava rocks, and take a look at 20 irresistible Hawaiian made objects that deserve a spot in your suitcase.

1. Kona Coffee Some of the most wonderful coffee in the world is grown on the Big Island in Hawaii.  The growing conditions on the Kona side of the Big Island are perfect for growing rich tasting coffee beans that do not leave a bitter after taste. The best part about this gift is most retailers in Hawaii are set up to be able to send you more, after you get home. 
2. Aloha Shirts There is perhaps nothing that says Hawaii like aloha wear.  Practically everyone comes home with a Hawaiian shirt.  If you want a real lasting memory, however, get some aloha wear from a company like the Kamehameha Garment Company. 
3. A Hawaiian Cook Book There are lots of wonderful books created locally, which will help you recreate the foods you experienced on the islands.  This is a wonderful way to remember your trip. 
4. A Watercolor Painting Take the time to invest in the art of a local painter. You can get a picture of almost anything.  Tapa cloth pictures are also wonderful to bring home. 
5. A Professional Photo Instead of just depending upon the ability of your digital camera, or a local tourist willing to take your picture, get a professional picture made.  The price will surprise you. 
6. A Hawaiian Photo Album Scrapbooking vacation photos has become a very popular way to remember vacations.  While you are in the Islands, get a hand made scrap book, from a local artist, to hold your cherished pictures of the trip. 
7. A Coconut Nativity Set  Every Christmas, you can remind yourself of your trip to Hawaii with a genuine Hawaiian original: the Coconut Nativity Set.  They are very artistic, and a fun, unusual addition to anyone’s Christmas decorations. 
8. Muumuus  This is one for the ladies.  Muumuus can be quite stunning. They are designed to flatter the figure of most any woman.  Make sure you get a 100 percent cotton version though, and you will have a cool wearing summer friend for years.
9. Stoneware Dinnerware set Many Hawaiian Hotels and Resorts are now offering replica dinnerware.  Imagine a special dinner back home on dinnerware from the Islands.  The nice thing is, you can have this type of item shipped home. 
10. Poi Christmas Ornaments  One of the more eclectic choices on our list is the Poi Christmas Ornament.  It is amazing how beautiful the artwork can be. In addition, the hardened poi will last for years. 
11. Beach sandals A good pair of beach sandals from the Islands can be a real life saver, while walking along the beach. Many of the beaches in Hawaii are made from lava rock, and can cut feet. Bring home a pair, and you can remember the islands every summer for a long time. 
12. Plumeria Cutting Plumeria grows very well on the Mainland.  It takes no time to get the plant big enough to produce flowers.  It will grow very large over the years, giving you a chance to restart the plant.  At the end of the summer season, pull your plant out of the soil, place it in a dark storage bag, and store it in a cool, dry place.  The next spring, just replant and water, and it will be off and running again.  This is our top pick for the smells of Hawaii. 
13. Pukka Shell Foot Jewelry  This is our pick for the Romantic in the crowd. Pukka shell foot jewelry is stunning. It is also made from shells unique to the Islands.  Many artisans in Hawaii make special “wedding foot wear” to accent wedding night apparel. 
14. Bali Lime Papaya soap by Pacifica  There are lots of natural soap products made in Hawaii. This particular brand has the smell of the Islands down pat. It is also not a very sweet smell. 
15. Wooden Art by the Le Family  This is a pick for the art collector in the group. The Le family makes some wonderful artwork that really touches the spirit. 
16. A bottle of Hawaiian wine  Not many people realize that there is some really good wine made in Hawaii.  Bringing some back to the States can help you remember the fun of your vacation on another special occasion.  This is a definite taste appeal pick. 
17. Turtle bracelets Turtle jewelry is in hot demand in the Islands.  The beauty and artistry of the small carvings can be breath taking.  You can really bring home a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry here. 
18. A CD of Hawaiian music from the artist.  This is the pick for stimulating the hearing.  Bring home a CD from a local artist. Many times, they will be for sale right on the streets. 
19. Macadamia Nuts This pick is definitely all about taste pleasure.  You can buy Macadamia nuts in the States, but they are never as good, and as fresh. It is like eating the pineapple in Hawaii, only it will last much longer.  Bring some home, and put them away for a special meal.
20. Hawaiian Hot Sauces  Finally a pick for the adventurous in the crowd.  Hawaiian hot sauces are made from natural growing plants from the Islands.  Try one made with sweet onions and papaya for a great hot, sweet combination.

With some thought and planning, your suitcase can come home full of some wonderful memories of your trip to Hawaii.  In addition to making some beautiful memories, you have the chance to help support the local artisans of the Hawaiian Islands.

Aloha,

Mike