From one-of-a-kind wearables to small-batch treasures, consider this your guide to the items Hawai‘i’s creatives swear by.
This season, we turned to the people who are quietly defining Hawaiʻi’s creative landscape — designers, filmmakers, writers, artists, chefs — and asked them what feels worthy of giving this year. Their answers arrived, as expected, with the attentiveness of those who have long considered not just what they make, but the reasons behind why they make it. And so, this year’s guide is less a holiday gift list than a glimpse into how Hawaiʻi’s creatives give: a study in taste and intention and the joy of a gift well-chosen.
The items in our gift guide were independently chosen. Product prices and availability may be subject to change.
It’s giving zebra morey eel on an acid trip. Drapey yet structured, the Island-Boy Striped Pareo shifts easily from at-home lounging to beachwear. Or style it à la Dries Van Noten S/2 2026: wrapped around the waist as a bold accent to your pants.
—Alexis Cheung, Writer
Sustainability and shopping local matters. These upcycled vintage denim and military jackets from Holly Kaiʻakapu are one-of-a-kind, hand-embellished with vintage materials. Each is a wearable vintage work of art.
—Natalie Fonda, Owner, Fonda’s Daughter
These soaps from Indigenous Soap Co. travel easily and come in different, unisex scents that don’t overpower. Made with local ingredients, too. Just very lovely and beautiful.
—Robynne Maii Chef, Owner, Fête; Executive Chef-Partner, Mille Fête
These jacquard throw blankets from Salvage Public are perfect for anyone: new homeowners, expecting parents, or friends refreshing their space. I love how they carry on a Hawaiian tradition in a modern, accessible way, echoing our Tūtū’s quilts and their cherished meaning.
—Meleana Estes, Founder, HIE
For the daydreaming cinephile in your life: a stunning 346‑page chronicle from grassroots film initiative kekahi wahi, which maps the rich, underground genealogy of Hawaiian experimental and non-narrative film from the ’70s to the 2020s. Filled with essays, reflections, stills, production notes and scores, this book is a nourishment for the senses, the subconscious, and our imagined futures.
—Christopher Makoto Yogi, Filmmaker
Touring Ossipoff’s Personal Cabin
I feel that receiving experienced-based gifts from loved ones is one of the greatest ways to really say “I see you.” Plus, we all have enough clutter lining our homes lately, this is a way of sharing in the generosity and spirit of what a gift offers — connection.
—Tahiti Kulia, Creative Director
A Cutting Board Worth Displaying
This cutting board from Mōmi Vintage crafted out of maple and cherry wood is my go-to for a charcuterie spread or when hosting friends for dinner.
—Lindsey L.K. Higa, Wardrobe Stylist
I’ll always choose the gift of poetry, and this anthology is a favorite. Centering the voices of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) poets and artmakers, We the Gathered Heat is a collection alive, at once ancestral and contemporary, and guided by the vision of collective liberation that thrums under every line.
—Megan Kamalei Kakimoto, Author, Every Drop Is a Man’s Nightmare
A Wardrobe Essential, Forged by Fire
I wear this logo zip hoodie from Night March almost every day. It’s perfect for rainy weather and always gets compliments. Like getting a warm hug from a lava flow.
—Dane Nakama, Artist
These rings from ʻOpihi o Nā Lani are stunning. Sturdy statement pieces that are lovingly made.
—Ciara Lacy, Filmmaker
I love this cookbook and have actually already gifted it to a couple of my close friends. Living away on the mainland now, it’s nice to be able to create locally-inspired dishes and drinks that remind me both of home and some of my favorite restaurants.
—Erin Lau, Filmmaker
Print on a Print by Nakeʻu Awai
Staple designs from the best vintage Nakeʻu Awai pieces — like this pattern of brown hala leaves printed on maize palaka — are back in production. Go right to the source by ordering direct from Nakeʻu’s website.
—Donnie Cervantes, Curator, Aupuni Space
Mix and match goodies from Farm Link’s first grocery store. I’ll tuck in an ‘ulu pancake mix; dried apple bananas; Hawai‘i coffee beans or māmaki peppermint tea; Mānoa Chocolate’s bar made from cacao beans grown in Mililani (yes, really!); and Hawaiian Krunch granola, and Hawaiian Krunch granola, with dehydrated bits of canoe crops.
—Martha Cheng, Writer
Doubling as a grill and a fire pit, the Takibi Fire & Grill is the perfect centerpiece for gathering around and talking story late into the night. It’s designed in Japan and made from stainless steel, so it’s sure to last forever.
—Kevin Serai, Home Cook, Cabagges World
All of the cutlery sets and serving utensils from Sabre Paris would make for an amazing gift, but I particularly love these chopsticks in their signature enamel colors. They’re the perfect little luxury!
—Anna Archibald, Home Cook, Cabagges World
Let’s revive the mixtape, but instead a USB loaded with your MP3 favs and filled with love notes. Make your own playlist or choose from one of Māhū Mix’s pre-made mixtapes, curated by some of our favorite DJs.
—Hera, Artist and Producer, Māhū Mix
For fiction lovers, Oʻahu local Mariah Rigg’s quietly haunting debut collection, Extinction Capital of the World, joins ranks with the most moving storytellers writing in — and about — contemporary Hawaiʻi.
—Zoë Eisenberg, Writer & Filmmaker
Come and Taste The Rainbow! Take a flavor journey to the islands with our gourmet macadamia nuts. Always slow-roasted in small batches to perfection.
Ahualoa Family Farms
These Manini Shorts from For Simple Sustainability are the perfect pair of fun shorties to lounge around the hale in, and the best part? Each one is handmade from vintage, sustainable fabrics. Extra points for their incredible size range and commitment to conscious style.
—Sam Feyen, Photographer
I can’t think of a better gift to give someone in Hawaiʻi or anywhere humid than the gift of cooling down. I love using the cooling wipes or spray to bring down my body temperature while I’m painting a mural or post-workout. A perfect stocking stuffer.
—Shar Tuiʻasoa (Punky Aloha), Artist
The perfect stocking stuffer, this bite-sized compilation of 108 teachings truncated from Tibetan Buddhist Chödrön’s larger works have the potential to alter your relationship to being alive. I love flipping the book open to a random page, like pulling a tarot card, and seeing what emerges.
—Mitchell Kuga, Writer, Editor, and Proprietor of Small Kine Gift
I love that scent — like these incense sticks from APFR — is the strongest trigger for emotional memory and nostalgia. Who doesn’t want their home to smell beautiful?
—Taylor Okata, Creative Director & Stylist
Not only are these lei tassels from Tidal Theory’s Mohala Collection made by hand right across the street from our Chinatown store, but they are such a unique idea. I love how this honors the tradition of lei making and giving.
—Roberta Oaks, Designer
Made by my childhood friend’s mom, Laura, who has been designing and screen printing them in Waimea since I was little, these are my go-to omiyage for when I travel. Available online or IRL at Waimea General store, where you can find a few more prints and colors to choose from.
—Nani Welch Keliʻihoʻomalu, Photographer
An expansive scholarly book, David Chang’s The World and All the Things Upon It: Native Hawaiian Geographies of Exploration upturns the notion that Europeans were the only ones “discovering” the world in the 19th century. It shows the many ways Native Hawaiians were agents of global exploration, including Kaʻiana, the Kauai chief portrayed by Jason Momoa, whose story is far more complex than Momoa is able to account for on screen.
—Marika Emi, Founder, Tropic Editions
The person in your life who drives the cherished restomod likely nerds out over every detail, but have they thought about the key that ignites that obsession?
—Taylor Niimoto, Managing Designer, NMG Network
For someone who’s always on the go, these VitaShots from Drip Hawaiʻi VitaShot is a thoughtful way to give a little energy and renewal. My personal favorite is the Glutathione, which targets the skin, immunity, and detoxes with the mother of all antioxidants.
—Ara Laylo, Vibe Lord, Box Jelly
Street Style, But Make It ʻĀina
I’m such a fan of Rocket Ahuna’s designs and these Camo Cargo Pants are really the best gift for everyone. Plus, the unique camo print of native lāʻau found in Kauaʻi’s Limahuli Valley was also made by a Hawaiian designer!
—Aja Toscano, Creative Producer
This CD of Songs of Liliʻuokalani by The Galliard String Quartet is the epitome of beautiful string music: wonderfully composed, expertly executed, and infused with the musical creativity of our late Queen Liliʻuokalani. It is a rare find and you cannot stream this album online.
—Kaipo Dudoit, Actor
Distinguished by timeless tropical scrollwork & breathtaking artistry, this collection is a keepsake your loved ones will treasure forever.
Maui Divers Jewelry
Designed and made in Hawai‘i, each piece from Roberta Oaks’ new camp style collection combines bold and vintage-inspired prints, making it a great gift for anyone who loves a fun, locally-made aloha shirt.
—Paul Strouse, Photographer
A Handwritten Note
There is nothing better than taking a pause and writing (or reading) a hand written note. I’m a sucker for any gift that is real in the sending or the receiving! You can find some unique local cards at the Honolulu Musem of Art, Roberta Oaks, Mori at HiSAM, and Fishcake.
—Maile Meyer, Founder, Nā Mea Hawaiʻi and Native Books
In world where rapid consumption is encouraged, I believe a gift should be paired down to the bare essentials: yummy, simple, thoughtful, sharing. Li hing mui is the perfect combination of these elements. Grab some wet, seedless li hing at Kay’s Crackseed — my favorite for years — to share with your loved one.
—Anuhea Nihipali, Writer
Simple and supremely delicious, these Pau Hana Co. drink mixers that are equally as good without the alcohol. Just add sparking water! If I had to choose a fave flavor, it’s probably Pineapple Lime Lemongrass.
—Roger Bong, DJ & Founder, Aloha Got Soul
I love everything from Oshan Essentials — I use their Moha / Lihau Gelèe, whether I’m in New York or Hawaiʻi. But my all-time favorite is their ʻAnapa Reflective Face Luminizer. They collaborated with my sweet pal Risa, and I’ve been using it since their beta testing a few years back.
—Nadia Cheung, Chef, Pica Pica
On my wish list is a set of hard surf racks from Go Bananas. I made the mistake of purchasing a cheap pair online earlier this year. They sounded like a jet engine in the wind and lasted a month before coming loose.
—Nāpali Souza, Co-Founder, Salvage Public
As a procrastinator, I need more things to tell me where I need to be, at what time, and what task to prioritize. Not saying it’ll always get me to the finish line, but with a clock like this, I’m sure I’d pay more attention!
—Matt Bruening, Designer
I’m obsessed with this Rose Balm from Kiiks, the all-natural beauty line by Kiko Mizuhara. Made with Japan’s native Hamanasu rose, it smells just like a real rose and doubles as both fragrance and moisturizer. I can personally vouch for this — I’ve already bought it 3 times!
—Ren MacDonald-Balasia, Floral Artist, Renko Floral
Pocket-sized and capable of making a lot of really weird sounds, the NTS-1 digital kit from KORG is perfect for when you need a moment of creativity to break up all the boring desk work.
—Naz Kawakami, Editor-in-Chief, Monster Children
On the top of my wishlist is Kūikawā Edition’s thrownet-inspired key chains made with Tahitian pearls. This Hāna girl is continuing the practice taught to her by her tūtū kāne, and I love watching the pair of them Instagram.
—Joelle Perry, Designer, Mai’åna
Twelve months of cute dogs wearing fresh flower lei — what’s not to love? An affordable gift that also does some good for others. Made by volunteers to support Hawai‘i’s oldest dog park, this compact calendar (hangs 8″ x 12″ open) offers matte, easy-to-write pages and tracks holidays, astrological seasons, moon phases, and mercury retrograde just in case!
—Adam J. Kurtz, Owner, Small Kine Gift
Spend $750 or more to receive a complimentary palaka travel cube set or a curated box featuring a selection of premium items from our merchants when you spend $5,000 or more.
Royal Hawaiian Center
Shar Tuiʻasoa is one of my absolute favorite Pasifika artists. I love everything she does, but in particular her prints of Wāhine with tita buns and pua are the perfect gift for anyone — but especially me!
—Bryson Chun, Filmmaker
Looking for a locally made statement piece? Reina Young’s handcrafted Chunk & Fluff bags are bold, colorful, and irresistibly cute. Each adds texture and personality to any outfit. Plus, her pom pom charms are the perfect playful touch.
—Aly Ishikuni, Founder, Art + Flea
Fresh ‘awa is a revelation. While most are dried roots mixed with water, Puʻu o Hoku grows theirs on Molokaʻi, chops it fresh, and sells it frozen. It’s pricier but far more flavorful — think earthy ‘olena and ginger instead of plain dirt.
—Jesse Arneson, Creative Director & Partner, Welcome Stranger
An Everyday Statement Bracelet
I have one, and I never take it off. This G Chain Bracelet from M33Ms works on every occasion, from casual everyday to fancy dinners. I don’t even remember that I have it on. Also works unisex!
—Risa Hoshino, Makeup Artist
I love that Laulima celebrates Hawaiʻi’s native species. What better way to adorn yourself or your home? My favorite, the Cloud Forest blanket, feels like being wrapped in ʻŌhiʻa and ʻIʻiwi. Native-owned, each purchase supports local conservation.
—Tiare Ribeaux, Filmmaker, Artist
Going Mahjong
Mahjong has become my way of connecting with family, friends, and community. This book by Nicole Wong makes it easy to do the same. It’s the kind of gift that brings people together, whether you join your local club or start your own game night at home. I found mine at Native Books in Chinatown, but you can also pick one up at Small Kine Gift in Kaimukī!
—Cassie Louie, Founder, Bad Luck Club
A small family-run store that was founded over 100 years ago, they take custom orders for hats and bags as well as have items in stock. It’s the perfect place to pick up beautiful handmade objects to give as gifts, and I always make sure to pick up a treat for myself too.
—Ben Perreira, Stylist
Sailing with the locally-owned, eco-friendly Royal Hawaiian Catamaran offers a beautiful evening coasting along Oʻahu’s south shore.
—Samantha Hook, Leather Artist, Hook & Hide x Tidal Theory
If I could gift anything, it’d be one of Ari South’s new palaka outfits. They’re comfortable, cute, and well-made. I love my jumpsuit for errands or events, and yes, every piece has pockets (my ultimate weakness).
—Hayley Cheyney Kāne, Miss Hawaiʻi 2024
Based out of the North Shore, Hula Eyewear’s sunglasses are hand-crafted from Mazzucchelli Italian acetate with polarized CR39 lenses. Just clean design, no gimmicks.
—Shiloh Perkins, Photographer
Conveniently downtown, Itani Athletic’s “Work In” program is a mobility-first reset for desk-bound creatives: an easy, welcoming way to stay limber between deadlines.
—Zen Yoshifuku, Brand Director, Sig On Smith & Kaiao Space
If you know you know; comprising sustainable and local ingredients — mac nut, lilikoʻi, Waialua honey ginger, and more — these amber bottles of magic lift any coffee, cocktail, baked good, or tea into a new dimension with just a splash. No artificial extras, just the ʻono taste of home.
—T. Kira Madden, Writer
This holiday season, The Kahala Hotel & Resort’s signature chocolate covered macadamia nuts and exclusive matching Palm Tree Hello Kitty make the perfect gift.
Signature by The Kahala Hotel & Resort
Kealopiko’s All Aloha line is printed, cut, and sewn on Molokaʻi, and my family is always proud to support local. We love doing custom, family match orders, where we get to sift through their pattern library. Plus, who could say no to matching with their kid?
—Scott Na‘auao Creative Director & Partner, Welcome Stranger
These signet rings from Anna Kikue is the kind of gift that feels both intimate and entirely your own. The letterforms — rooted in the old English script of Hawaiian bracelets and the fluid brushstrokes of East Asian calligraphy — make each piece quietly, beautifully bespoke.
—Kapono Chung, Creative Director
Essays to Sow Mutual Emergence
This new collection of writings by Manulani Aluli Meyer contains many seeds of truth and love, each seed a gift to cultivate within our own lives, our own practices of caring for other, and for self.
—Lise Michelle Suguitan Childers, Book Seller, Native Books
One of the small things that helps me balance my life and work.
—TK Yamada, Founder, Try Coffee
A Tutuvi print is practically a rite of passage for any discerning creative: her bold patterns and saturated palettes have become a kind of IFYKYK shorthand. This new women’s-cut aloha shirt, in particular, has me hooked, available to shop IRL at Nā Mea Hawaiʻi, Bishop Museum’s Shop Pacifika, and the Honolulu Museum of Art gift shop.
—Eunica Escalante, Managing Editor, NMG Network
Lāʻī Protection, Everywhere You Go
We already invest in our favorite museums, small shops, farmer’s markets, ʻawa spots, crack seed stores, coffee shops, bakers, and restaurants. Gifting a Ti Leaf Key Chain from Tidal Theory carries that care forward as a meaningful reminder of the protection that lāʻī provides.
—D. Kauwila Mahi, Artist, Activist, Archivist
Top of my wish list? Milwaukee’s M18 Table Saw. I make a lot of stuff in my garage and many of them end up being gifts for other people. A solid table saw means cleaner cuts — and better gifts.
—Moses Goods, Actor
One of my go-to brands when it comes to outfitting friend and families during the holidays. Kanaka-owned and driven, and I love the way Fitted fuses the culture and the contemporary. This Claws Cause design is a particular favorite.
—Alika Tengan, Filmmaker
A gift should carry meaning, and for me that’s a bento cake from Kuʻumeli Bakery — something handcrafted, heartfelt, and beautifully local. I love the Banana Chantilly Cake with a pua kenikeni lei design, a sweet taste of home.
—Ioane Goodhue, Actor, Bliss Models & Talent
An Emotionally Intelligent Card Game
These story cards from acclaimed couples therapist Esther Perel helps get the conversation with new people or old friends into places it normally wouldn’t. Good times.
—Rechung Fujihira, Co-Founder, BoxJelly
I made it a priority a few years ago to only give living things, handmade things, or specialty food items. Plants — especially from Maui’s Native Nursery — remain my favorite because they transform gift-giving into an act of care and reciprocity with the land.
—Lauren Shearer, Lei Maker, Flora + Fauna
A great gift! Single varietal, 100% Kona-grown, handpicked, processed using a wine yeast-fermentation, direct from our small family farm.
Ulu Kona Coffee Farm
Through a partnership between
Farm Link Hawai‘i and Lydia House, a nonprofit service center supported by the Lili‘uokalani Trust, the charitably inclined can purchase a local produce box to be donated to a Native Hawaiian youth in need.
—Lauren McNally, Editorial Director, NMG Network