Market
Hilo Hattie
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Hilo Hattie in Lihue is a vibrant marketplace that captures the spirit of Hawaiian hospitality. Located along Kuhio Highway, this store is a one-stop shop for authentic Hawaiian gifts, from colorful aloha shirts and muumuu dresses to handcrafted jewelry, ukuleles, and locally made food items like macadamia nuts and Kona coffee. The atmosphere is festive, often featuring live Hawaiian music that adds to the island vibe. Visitors can watch artisans at work, such as shell lei makers, and sample free Hawaiian treats like Kona coffee and pineapple. The store is designed to be an immersive experience, with friendly staff sharing stories about Hawaiian culture. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs that support local craftspeople. The market also has a snack bar serving plate lunches and shave ice, making it a convenient stop for a quick taste of island flavors. While it's a commercial operation, the focus on local products and cultural demonstrations gives it an authentic feel that appeals to visitors wanting to bring a piece of Hawaii home.
Don't miss
- Watch live demonstrations of shell lei making and other Hawaiian crafts.
- Sample free Kona coffee and macadamia nuts at the tasting bar.
- Browse a huge selection of aloha shirts, dresses, and Hawaiian-print fabrics.
- Enjoy live Hawaiian music performances on select days.
- Pick up unique souvenirs like hand-carved tikis, ukuleles, and locally made jams.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Hilo Hattie
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Hilo Hattie with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inTraditional Airport Lei Greeting on Lihue Kauai4.5★ · 57 travelers15 minutesFree cancellationFrom$51 per personSee dates →
Best full dayHilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach4.8★ · 2,866 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$169 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleKauai Lei Greeting at Lihue Airport4.9★ · 199 travelers15 minutesFree cancellationFrom$58 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Allow extra time for browsing, the store is larger than it appears from the outside.
- Check the store's schedule for live music and craft demonstrations to plan your visit.
- Complimentary gift wrapping is available for purchases, making it easy to send gifts home.
- Try the free samples of pineapple and macadamia nuts, they're a tasty preview of local flavors.
A bit of history
Hilo Hattie began as a small store in Hilo on the Big Island in the 1960s, named after a famous Hawaiian entertainer. Over the years, it expanded into a chain of retail stores across the islands, known for its wide selection of Hawaiian apparel and gifts. The Lihue location continues this tradition, emphasizing local craftsmanship and cultural experiences.
Common questions
Is Hilo Hattie a chain or a local store?
It's a Hawaiian chain with several locations, but each store emphasizes local products and cultural experiences. The Lihue location is known for its friendly staff and wide selection.
Can I find authentic Hawaiian-made items here?
Yes, many items are made in Hawaii, including jewelry, clothing, and food products. Look for 'Made in Hawaii' labels.
Is there food available?
Yes, there's a snack bar serving plate lunches, poke bowls, and shave ice. You can also sample Kona coffee and macadamia nuts for free.
Do they offer shipping?
Yes, the store can ship purchases to the mainland U.S. and some international destinations. Ask at the checkout counter.
Is the store open every day?
Yes, typically 7 days a week, but hours may vary on holidays. It's best to call ahead or check the website.
Can I return items I bought?
Returns are accepted within a certain period with a receipt. Check the store's return policy at the time of purchase.
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