Oahu, Hawaii is a top destination for many adventure and thrill seekers thanks to its gorgeous beaches and beautiful sceneries. People from all over the world travel here to experience the vibrancy of Honolulu, the beautiful Manoa Waterfalls, and the Kuala Ranch tour. There are tons of attractions to choose from when you choose to go to Oahu, Hawaii. The party life is awesome in Oahu, Hawaii. The locals are known for being the sweet and hospitable and the food is also one of kind. Shopping in Oahu is interesting since there are tons of things that you can buy in this city that you simply won’t find anywhere else. Here’s a list of what to buy in Oahu, Hawaii.
1. Handcrafted luxurious soaps
We all know that skincare is very important. There are tons of soaps out there that promise better skin but most of them don’t deliver on their promise. Oahu produces many organic and interesting luxurious soaps that you simply don’t want to miss. Locally produced Oahu soaps are all artisan-made, healthy, cruelty-free, and sustainably-created products. Not only are you giving your skin a treat when you buy these soaps, but you are also helping the environment thanks to their sustainability.
2. Shortbread cookies
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Not many people are aware that Hawaiians are actually big on shortbread cookies. These munchies are known for being the delicacy preferred by many locals and especially those who suffer from a chronic sweet tooth. The signature Hawaiian shortbread cookie has tons of variations that you should definitely never miss. These cookies are known for representing the famed Hawaiian hospitability and warmth. It also represents the American dream since most of the people who own shortbread cookie shops in Hawaii are immigrants who work hard to pursue their dreams. Do yourself a favor and bring home these classic delicacies for the whole family to love and cherish.
3. Hawaiian sea salt
Alternative medicine is all a rage nowadays. One of the things organic mavens go gaga for are Hawaiian sea salt. Hawaiian sea salt is an unrefined sea salt that has been mixed with an iron oxide rich volcanic clay called ‘alaea’, which gives the salt its characteristic brick red color. Many believe and attest of its healing capabilities. It’s organically harvested in Hawaii and it’s said that you won’t be able to find quality Hawaiian sea salt anywhere else. The benefits of Hawaiian sea salt include creating your own facial masks, lowering sodium content, and when used for cooking it gives your food a smooth and rich flavor.
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4. Quaint magnets
Of course, you have to bring something exciting for your friends and families back home after your thrilling Hawaiian adventure. Nothing beats a good souvenir than magnets with turtles on surfboards. What do turtles represent in the Hawaiian culture? The green turtle in Hawaii is known as the Honu. The Honu is a symbol of good luck as it appears in the form of a guardian spirit or Amakua. Bringing home souvenirs of turtles mean that you are bringing Hawaiian luck with you when you go back home.
5. Koa wood sculptures
Aside from Honu, there are tons of other symbolic materials that can be found in Hawaii that you should definitely bring home. Koa is a treasured and valuable hardwood that represents integrity and strength. There are tons of beautiful Koa wood sculptures in Oahu that will definitely make your home more beautiful. Bringing home a piece of Koa wood can also mean that you have something that will represent strength and humility. Go crazy and shop around Oahu to get the best sculpture to bring back home.
6. Woven baskets
It might not be obvious but there’s a deeper meaning to the woven baskets that you will see in shops of Oahu. Not known to many, but weaving is one of the oldest skill in Hawaii. Not everyone can weave beautiful woven baskets. Owning a woven basket created by an artist in Hawaii is a huge deal. Aside from this, the woven baskets produced by Hawaiians are beautiful and intricate – they are simply the best in the game. Do yourself a favor and buy a basket or two and own both art and culture enrolled in one item.
7. Starfish pillows
Of course, when you see a starfish pillow, the first thing that will pop in your mind is how cute it is. And it’s true, Hawaiian starfish pillows are the cutest thing that will surely uplift the mood in your bedroom or in your living room. Some of these pillows are even hand-quilted, meaning they have been created with love and patience. Having a beautiful starfish pillow from Hawaii means that you are bringing back the memories of your endless summer nights at the beautiful island, from the snorkeling sessions to seeing the picturesque sunset by the beach.
8. Hawaiian quilts
Hawaiian quilts are known for their rich history and are an artistic addition to the vibrant Hawaiian culture. Hawaiian quilts are made from kapa moe, which is an indigenous bed cover textile. Kapa is created from the inner bark of trees found in Hawaii. The motifs on the Hawaiian quilts are often a representation of botanical imageries. They are all handmade and woven which means owning a Hawaiian quilt is akin to holding a piece of art. Do yourself a favor and purchase these gorgeous Hawaiian quilts today.
9. Hula accessories and instruments
Hula is a ritualistic dance performed by Hawaiian women and is composed of six basic steps. The movements and steps often imitate natural phenomena. The imagery of the hula dance has been transformed into many things as the island progressed from being a simple and traditional locale to a tourist destination. Today, the hula image can now be seen on many accessories and instruments as a representation of Hawaiian culture. Own a piece of Hawaiian culture when you buy a hula accessory. You and your friends and family will simply love these unique and colorful items.
10. Hawaiian Jewelry
Apart from the coconut drinks, flower leis, and slippers, Hawaii offers more options for souvenirs like their local jewelry that authentically celebrates Hawaiian Heritage. Stunning gold bangles engraved with names and personalized texts can be customized and bought all over Hawaiian jewelry stores. Hawaiian jewelry, from bracelets, earrings, to necklaces are also available in many jewelry stores and accessory shops around Oahu. Get yourself one tunning piece to commemorate your wonderful trip to the gorgeous island of Hawaii.
11. Hawaiian Print Fabric
No trip to Hawaii is complete without getting at least one Hawaiian shirt or fabric. Whether it’s for you and casually rocking the floral look, or a gift to bring with you for your family and friends, the Hawaiian printed shirt is actually a local and traditional design that has been popular in Hawaii for years. Many locals wear these Hawaiian and floral clothing during special occasions as well, from weddings to ceremonies, their shirt is of utmost versatile when in Hawaii, and rather stylish when paired properly.
12. Ukulele
If you’re a musical lad, getting your own ukelele from Hawaii is a great little token to take home. Ukeleles symbolizes a lot about Hawaiian culture and is rather easy to learn to play music on. It’s also a great gift for kids who are keen on learning new skills and making some good music. They come in different designs, sizes, and colors for a wide variety for every type of travelers exploring the island.
Shop for amazing souvenirs at Oahu
Shop for amazing souvenirs at Oahu in Hawaii. Bring home a part of Hawaii to cherish forever. Refer to our list above so that you are sure to know what to buy in Oahu, Hawaii the next time you visit on a vacation.
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