Kauai Gift Guide

Whether you’re here on island or searching from afar, I’ve compiled a brief list of gift ideas from some of our favorite local businesses. *Reach out to them individually to inquire about shipping costs and/or booking details for future visitors.

Goods

Blu Umi — located in Hanapepe, this cozy boutique offers sustainable clothing options, locally made jewelry, and Hawaiian-inspired art. If your goal is to While you’re here, be sure to grab a bite from in its sister-eatery Japanese Grandma’s Cafe. Our top picks: Nick Kuchar art, Kris Goto art, and jewelry by The Broken Moon Jewels.

Hanako — located at Warehouse 3540 in Lawai, is your one-stop shop for handmade clothing, jewelry, paddles, and more. This is where you’ll find everything for island-inspired living. If your goal is to gift something that’s truly handmade with Aloha then this is where you should go! Our top picks: the Betty dresses, Monstera jewelry, and Koa paddles.

Navy Dylan — also located at Warehouse 3540 in Lawai, is a non-profit shop and a creative’s paradise. You’ll encounter everything from useful household goods, to funky decor, to unique art supplies for children. If your goal is to stoke the creative fire in someone then this is where you should go! Our top picks: Idea Boxes, wall hangings, and amazing art supplies.

Salt and Sea — located in Poipu, Lihue (December 2020), and Kapa’a, these boutiques feature stylish clothing and accessories for your best beach life. If your goal is to outfit someone for jet setting or basking in the sun then this is where you should go. Our top picks: Mai Underwear, SIE swimwear, and DIFF eyewear.

Small Fry — located at Kukui Grove in Lihue is a carefully curated toy shop with a Hawaiian twist. If your goal is to please a young connoisseur of wooden toys and beautiful books then this is where you should go. Our top picks: Keiki Kau Kau food playsets, Wee Gallery puzzles, and Candylab Toys cars.

Experiences

Gift a photo adventure with Mallory Francks Photography — rethink your idea of a photoshoot by surprising your favorite people with a chance to make some unique memories to capture on camera. Frolic around magical Kaua’i, climb trees, dip your toes in the water, let loose however you please. Mallory will work her magic and snap photographs that will look great on social media, but even better on your walls.

Gift a tour (or membership) to Allerton and McBryde Gardens — we honestly consider the gardens to be one of Kauai’s best kept secrets. The scenery is straight out of your wildest tropical dreams and the wide open space is the best cure for the quarantine blues. Better yet, a membership will also get you into Limahuli Garden & Preserve on the North Shore. We would spend every day on the beautiful grounds of any of these gardens if we could, pack a picnic and plan to stay through the afternoon.

Gift a workshop (or membership) at Small Craft Advisory — there’s no better time that 2020 to pick up (or dust off) a new hobby. Sign up that special someone for printmaking or sewing classes, hosted by the talented Shannon Hiramoto of Machine Machine. There are options for one-on-one lessons, group workshops, or clubhouse sessions. This is certainly the gift that keeps on giving.

Services

Gift a manicure with Bree Palacio Nails. Located at the back of her family’s shop at Kukui Grove, Bree is a true master at the art of gel manicures. Check out samples of her work on Instagram but be prepared to have your mind blown. The color palettes, designs, and her attention to detail are all truly incredible.

Gift a facial (or other spa service) with Hillary of Lau Botanicals. Self care should feel good and look beautiful, Hillary accomplishes the both of best worlds when she brings the spa to your home. Honestly, what’s not to love about organic and plant-derived products applied by a professional?

Gift a house cleaning from Kauai Green Cleaning Services. A clean house is a happy house, need I say more? One of my favorite feelings in the world is walking into our home after these folks finish up. Lea and her team always ensure that they’ve done the job to your expectation and that is the type of service worth splurging on.