Hawaii definitely has a unique cultural perspective that is evident in its artwork, furniture, textiles, jewelry and pop culture collectibles. To best experience the array of vintage goods that the islands have to offer, running the gamut from high-end boutiques to shops for budget travelers, check out these great vintage and antique shops in the state.
The Tin Can Mailman is a great spot in Honolulu’s Chinatown that carries vintage Hawaiian items ranging from aloha shirts to vintage books to old black and white photographs. As is common among antique and vintage shops, the sheer magnitude of items may be overwhelming at first! However, take the time and you could come up with such interesting finds as acid-etched vases by Frank Oda or Dorothy Okumoto white ceramic porcelain.
This shop has two locations on the big island and has been in business for almost 30 years. The first shop carries everything from European art glass to collectible figurines and pottery for those looking for a wide range of antique collectibles. Their second location specializes in Hawaiian items—you can find vintage furniture, paintings, and local vintage books. Even better, their strong online presence and eBay store allows visitors to browse photos and merchandise even after they have returned home from vacation.
For those searching for more high-end pieces, look no further than Bryan Booth Antiques & Restoration. Bryan has been restoring antique furniture for more than two decades. At his Hilo shop you can find vintage writing desks, sideboards, wing chairs and bookcases, all beautifully restored with care. Prices will depend upon the items and its rarity, but you will truly find some gems here.
Pagoda’s goods are mostly purchased from around the island of Kauai via estate sales, second hand shops or consignment. Yelp enthusiasts describe owner Liane’s merchandise as “high quality and near mint-condition.” She is very knowledgeable about all her inventory and customers have been excited to walk away with Chinese teapots and teacups, vintage quilts, beautiful mirrors or even vintage parasols! After hiking and enjoying Kauai’s amazing beaches and natural scenery, be sure to stop in here—you won’t regret it!
Antique Alley is joining forces with Kailua-based Antiques and Treasures to open up a new shop in Honolulu after almost 30 years in business. With experience as an appraiser for Antiques Roadshow, A. Paké Zane and his wife have been curating antiques and collectibles for years. The shop houses a collection of interesting items, ranging from décor to instruments to maps. Take care while browsing, as the shop is fairly small and packed full of treasures, and make sure to ask Paké any questions, as he knows the history and stories behind every item.
This husband and wife team carefully curate artwork and fashion items at their small boutique in Paia. A bit more expensive than many other spots on our list, many items arrive from India and other parts of Asia. A great place for jewelry hunters and textiles, this shop is very well maintained and takes pride in its rare and unique pieces.
Another quirky vintage shop in the Chinatown neighborhood of Honolulu, Hound & Quail is the spot for oddball wonders, like a taxidermy ostrich or vintage medical texts. Definitely a winner on our list for most interesting variety of curiosities, this shop also hosts events in their space, like wine tastings and art classes. It is growing in popularity with the hip Honolulu crowd, but Mark and Travis are touted to be genuinely friendly and down to earth folks.