The Big Island of Hawaii isn’t just about volcanic landscapes and breathtaking scenery; it also offers some truly engaging shopping and market tours that let you connect with the island’s local culture and crafts. Unlike typical souvenir stores, these tours focus on authentic experiences—whether that’s exploring sacred sites, tasting local flavors, or discovering handmade treasures. We particularly love the Private Big Island: History & Local Shopping Tour, which combines heritage sites with charming shopping stops, offering a well-rounded taste of the island’s past and present.
If you’re eager to learn about Hawaii’s history while shopping for unique souvenirs or sampling local treats, these tours are a great way to spend a half or full day. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise, staying in Kona, or just want a personalized experience, each of these options provides a different flavor of Big Island’s vibrant local scene. Below, we’ve broken down the best options for shopping and market tours on Big Island, emphasizing what makes each one special.
1. Private Big Island: History & Local Shopping Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Private Big Island: History & Local Shopping Tour offers a personalized journey that blends cultural heritage with local shopping. Priced at $1,595 per group (up to 4 people), this 8-hour tour is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth experience tailored to their interests. Starting with visits to sacred sites like Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, you’ll walk amidst ancient fishponds and learn about traditional Hawaiian practices from a knowledgeable guide. The tour also includes stops at Kings’ Shops, where you can stroll through the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve, home to hundreds of mysterious carvings that tell stories of ancient Hawaii.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of heritage storytelling with shopping in charming towns like Hawi & Waimea, where local artisans and small boutiques await. The inclusion of admission tickets to significant sites and a visit to the Hāmākua Macadamia Nut Company for tastings adds to the value. Though the price is on the higher side, the private nature means you can spend more time exploring your interests without feeling rushed. This tour is perfect for history lovers who also want to pick up authentic Hawaiian products.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want a private, flexible tour that marries cultural insights with local shopping and scenic landscapes.
$1,595.00 per group (up to 4)
2. Kona Port: Private History & Farmer’s Market Excursion
Number 2 is the Kona Port: Private History & Farmer’s Market Excursion, which provides a streamlined, hassle-free experience specially designed for cruise travelers or those arriving at Kona Airport. For approximately 6 hours and at $1,095 per group, this tour guarantees direct pickups and flexible scheduling aligned with your ship’s timetable. It hits key highlights like Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, where you’ll walk among ancient fishponds and learn about traditional Hawaiian life. The tour also includes a visit to the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve—a site teeming with carved symbols that speak to the island’s past.
The highlight here is the visit to Hāmākua Macadamia Nut Company, where you can sample and purchase local treats. This tour’s smaller size and private setup make it ideal for travelers who prefer avoiding crowds and want a personalized experience. It’s a good fit for those with limited time or cruise schedules, as it ensures seamless transfers and efficient sightseeing.
Bottom line: Perfect for cruise visitors or those needing a short, enriching tour with a focus on Hawaiian history and local flavors without the fuss.
$1,095.00 per group (up to 4)
3. Private Big Island: History & Local Market Tour (Up to 12)
Our third pick, the Private Big Island: History & Local Market Tour, is designed for larger groups—up to 12 people—making it a good choice for families or friends traveling together. For around $1,195, this 6-hour tour combines heritage sites with the lively experience of a local market. It starts with visits to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park and Pu’ukohola Heiau, where you get a glimpse into Hawaiian culture and craftsmanship. But what we love about this tour is the stop at a bustling local market, where you can sample island foods, buy handmade crafts, and experience the vibrant community atmosphere firsthand.
The tour’s emphasis on local markets provides a more authentic, everyday Hawaiian experience—ideal if you love browsing local produce, arts, and souvenirs. The guide’s storytelling and the opportunity to interact with local vendors make this tour lively and engaging.
Bottom line: A good pick for groups who want a mix of cultural sites and real, local shopping in a lively environment.
$1,195.00 per group (up to 4)
How to Choose
When selecting a Big Island shopping and market tour, consider your priorities: If you want a comprehensive, private experience that blends history with shopping, the Private Big Island: History & Local Shopping Tour offers the most flexibility. For cruise travelers or those on a tight schedule, the Kona Port: Private History & Farmer’s Market Excursion provides a quick, efficient way to see key sites and taste local treats. If you’re traveling with a larger group and want a more casual, community-focused experience, the Private Big Island: History & Local Market Tour combines cultural visits with vibrant local markets.
Think about your interests—whether it’s heritage exploration, sampling island flavors, or shopping for handmade crafts—and match that with your available time and budget. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Big Island’s shopping and market tours offer a wonderful way to connect with the island’s soul. Whether you opt for a private heritage journey, a quick port excursion, or a lively market experience, you’ll find memorable ways to take home more than just souvenirs—you’ll bring home stories and flavors that truly embody Hawaii. We encourage you to book early and tailor your choice to what excites you most about this unique island.