Souvenirs

Question

What's the best please for cheap souvenirs? More like shot glasses, magnets, something Hawaiian? Any specific places in Kona? Or the farmers market in Hilo?

Answer

When looking for inexpensive Hawaiian souvenirs like shot glasses, magnets, keychains, and other small items, there are several options on the Big Island that balance affordability and variety.

In Kona:

Kona Inn Shopping Village: Located near the Kailua-Kona harbor, this area has multiple small gift shops offering a range of souvenirs from magnets to apparel at reasonable prices.
Hawaiian Moons Kona: A locally owned gift shop with a mix of fun souvenirs, Hawaiian-themed items, and small keepsakes.
ABC Stores: Found in downtown Kona, these are convenience stores with a wide variety of budget-friendly souvenirs, including shot glasses, magnets, T-shirts, and snacks.
Kona Farmers Market (downtown): Open Wednesday through Sunday, vendors sell handmade items, local crafts, and affordable souvenirs, perfect for small keepsakes.

In Hilo:

Hilo Farmers Market: Open daily with peak activity on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Here you can find inexpensive souvenirs like magnets, postcards, T-shirts, and other small Hawaiian-themed gifts, often handcrafted or locally made.
Downtown Hilo shops: There are small gift shops along Banyan Drive and the main streets offering budget souvenirs. Prices may be slightly higher than the market but the selection is good.

Additional Tips:

Farmers markets often offer more unique and locally made items, which can make your souvenirs feel more authentic.
If convenience is important, ABC Stores in both Kona and Hilo offer predictable selection and are good for last-minute gifts.
Compare prices between markets and stores; some items like magnets and shot glasses may be cheaper at markets but more themed or polished in gift shops.

Overall, for a mix of affordability and Hawaiian flavor, the Kona Farmers Market and downtown Hilo Farmers Market are top choices, with ABC Stores and local shops filling in any gaps.