Unique Hawaii Gifts That Capture the Spirit of the Islands

Need a gift for your family member who is challenging to shop for? Or a friend obsessed with all things nature? Look no further than gifts inspired by the rich culture and natural beauty of Hawaii. Hawaii gifts are a fantastic option to step up your gift-giving game and give a present that will last forever!

A Brief History of Hawaii

Hawaii’s history began around 1,500 years ago with the arrival of the Polynesians, who cultivated a complex society and vibrant culture. Hawaii initially developed around a caste system and had four distinct chiefdoms: Hawaiʻi, Maui, Oʻahu, and Kaua’i. In 1778, Captain James Cook became the first European to discover Hawaii, introducing new Western influences and ways of living.

Eventually, in 1810, King Kamehameha I united the four separate chiefdoms. Hawaii was then ruled as a single kingdom until foreign pressures and political and economic change led to the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893. Hawaii was (controversially) annexed in 1898 and became the 50th US State in 1959.

The Hawaiian Spirit of Aloha

Despite many changes throughout history, Hawaiian culture has remained deeply rooted in Polynesian customs that emphasize the spirit of aloha, or living in harmony with people and the land. Popular traditions such as the hula dance or the gifting of leis emphasize the profound appreciation for Hawaii and the people who live on the islands. Practices like canoe building, fishing, or taro farming further highlight this connection with Mother Nature.

With the environment being such an essential aspect of Hawaiian culture, it’s no wonder that many popular Hawaii gifts come right from nature. Hawaiians believe that nature possesses healing powers, so these gifts are more than just appealing to look at. They can also help with physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

What are Some Hawaii Gift Ideas?

Whaler’s Locker in Maui offers a wide selection of Hawaii gifts, so you are sure to find something meaningful. You can also ensure that our products are of the highest quality, with many of our pieces being handmade. Some of our favorite collections include:

• Shark Tooth Necklaces
• Scrimshaw Knives
• Healing Crystals
• Maui Hooks
• Fossils (ammonites, trilobites, and more!)

Stunning Shark Tooth Necklaces

With over 3,000 teeth in their mouth, sharks are said to have one of the most powerful jaws of any animal. Every shark tooth varies in size and shape based on the shark type and the food they eat. Sharks tooth necklaces symbolize protection and strength and have remained one of the most popular Hawaii gifts for decades.

Whaler’s Locker has a wide range of shark tooth necklace options, from Megalodon teeth to fossilized Great White Shark pendants. The one-of-a-kind pieces make the perfect gift option for anyone who loves the ocean or values the strong symbolism behind the shark tooth necklace.

Historic Scrimshaw Knives

Scrimshaw is a type of art that traditionally involves carving or engraving designs in bone or ivory into the byproducts of whales, such as bones or cartilage. It originated on whaling expeditions when sailors would learn to carve in their free time and then sell the products for a little extra money or give them as gifts to loved ones back home. Today, scrimshaw art is a common practice, often featuring natural horn or synthetic materials, and scrimshaw knives have become a desired gift.

The scrimshaw knife collection at Whaler’s Locker has many unique pieces that make a personal yet functional gift option. Many of the pieces are made by Doug Fine, a local artist from Maui, and truly capture the essence of Hawaii. These knives make an excellent Hawaii gift for anyone who values the rich history and beauty of this art form.

Helpful Healing Crystals

Many believe that certain crystals have healing powers for our mind, body, and spirit. With the ability to improve your mood, eliminate anxiety, promote focus, and manifest your desires, it’s clear why healing crystals have become such a well-liked gift. These gifts come directly from Mother Nature, so they are a perfect Hawaii gift to appreciate the beauty the world can create.

Healing crystals come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, with each type of crystal possessing different healing powers. At Whaler’s Locker, some of our most notable healing crystals include:

• Agate: Release anger and anxiety
• Amethyst: Used for healing and purifying  
• Carnelian: Boosts energy and passion
• Charoite: Promotes positive transformation
• Chrysoprase: Bolsters clarity and creativity
• Jasper: Provides support during stressful times
• Obsidian: Aids in release and grounding
• Pyrite: Attracts wealth and abundance
• Quartz: Enhances spiritual growth
• Selenite: Alleviates stress and anxiety
• Sodalite: Improves intuition and insight

Magnificent Maui Hooks Necklaces

The Maui Hook symbolizes the importance of the ocean in Hawaiian culture and is also a crucial tool for survival and prosperity as it has practical fishing applications. According to Polynesian mythology, the demigod Maui used the Maui Hook to fish the Hawaiian Islands out of the ocean. Beyond symbolizing an appreciation of the ocean, the Maui Hook can symbolize energy, prosperity, strength, and good luck.

Nowadays, many people wear the Maui Hook as jewelry, especially as a necklace. A Maui Hook necklace can be a great Hawaiian gift for anyone who feels deeply connected to the Hawaiian culture or is aligned with the symbolism of the hook. Whaler’s Locker has an impressive selection of Maui Hook necklaces ranging in shapes, sizes, materials, and colors.

Ammonites, Trilobites, and Other Fossils

Fossils make the perfect gift option for any nature lover! An interesting fact about fossils is that they can be the actual animal or plant or an imprint of the animal or plant.

Whaler’s Locker offers a wide variety of fossils, so you will surely find something for anyone. Our most popular fossils include ammonites, trilobites, and mosasaur, megalodon, and great white shark teeth. Each fossil is entirely authentic, with no replications ever sold, so you will be giving a truly unique Hawaii gift.

Hawaii is an incredible place with a rich culture and history. If you are looking for the perfect gift for anyone who appreciates nature, look no further than our curated suggestions of Hawaii gifts! Finding the perfect gift is a great way to show your love for the important people in your life.