The Best and Worst Costco Items for Your Hawaiian Vacation

Costco Hawaii stores are not only popular among locals but also attract a significant number of visitors. According to management, one-third of all Costco Hawaii sales are made by tourists. To help visitors make the most of their Hawaii vacation, here is a list of recommended items to look for and some items to avoid.

One surprising item that visitors won’t find at Costco Hawaii stores is ukuleles. Although they used to sell them occasionally, they are no longer in stock.

First on the list is flower lei. Costco regularly stocks lei with prices starting as low as $5 each. They also offer more interesting and exotic lei starting at around $15. It’s a great place to pick up a lei to honor someone on their birthday, anniversary, or any personal milestone. However, if you’re looking for something more unique, Costco may not be the best choice.

For surfing and bodyboarding enthusiasts, Costco offers a great selection of surfboards and bodyboards. Visitors can pick up a board in Hawaii and take it home with them. However, Costco does not have a board loan program, so if the board has been used, visitors are out of luck. The prices for bodyboards at Costco are also a great value compared to other stores.

Candies, nuts, and chocolate-covered macadamia nuts are popular items available at Hawaii Costco stores. They come in bulk cases for gifting or in bags for personal consumption. Macadamia nuts are primarily grown on the Big Island of Hawaii and are available in 6-packs at Costco.

Fresh local sushi and Hawaiian poke are also popular choices at Costco. Visitors can enjoy reasonably priced and high-quality sushi and poke prepared in-store. Poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish of diced raw fish, has become a global phenomenon.

Hawaii Costco stores offer locally grown pineapples from Maui. While more interesting pineapples can be found at farmers markets, Costco provides year-round availability and affordable pricing.

Hawaiian-style car seat covers are another popular item among residents and visitors. These covers can be easily slipped onto car rental seats and come in beautiful Hawaii-themed motifs.

Costco also offers a wide selection of Hawaii beer, wine, and spirits, as well as sunglasses and various local products. Visitors can find everything from macadamia nuts and coffee to chips, snacks, and cookies.

For seafood lovers, Hawaii Costco stores offer local seafood such as Kauai Shrimp, Hawaii-caught ahi, ono, and swordfish, depending on the season. These are perfect for a vacation rental BBQ.

Costco also has everything you need for the beach, including Hawaiian design towels, reef-friendly sunscreens, snorkeling gear, swim goggles, and bathing suits.

Lastly, visitors can find a variety of Hawaii souvenirs at Costco, including t-shirts, apparel, hats, and more.

While Costco offers a wide range of products, there are some items that visitors may want to avoid. Milk products, produce, soft drinks, bottled water, and anything sold in large quantities may not be suitable for vacationers. These items can either spoil quickly or be too much to consume during a short stay.

As for Costco gas, it all depends on the situation. If there is a small price difference compared to neighboring gas stations and there isn’t a long line, it may be worth considering. However, if there is a long line, the potential savings may not be worth the time and hassle during a vacation.

In conclusion, Costco Hawaii stores offer a variety of items that are popular among both locals and visitors. From flower lei and surfboards to candies, sushi, and local products, there is something for everyone. However, visitors should be mindful of certain items that may not be suitable for their vacation needs.

What factors should visitors consider before purchasing perishable items at Costco in Hawaii

Local farmers markets or specialty stores, Costco’s pineapples are still a good option for those who want a taste of the island’s famous fruit.

Visitors looking for souvenirs or gifts should check out Costco’s apparel section. They have a variety of Hawaiian-themed clothing, including aloha shirts, dresses, and accessories. These items are affordable and can be a great way to bring a piece of Hawaii back home.

One item to avoid at Costco Hawaii stores is sunscreen. While they do carry sunscreen, it’s generally more expensive compared to pharmacies or other retail stores on the island. It’s best to purchase sunscreen elsewhere to save some money.

Lastly, visitors should be cautious when buying perishable items at Costco. The quantity of perishable goods at Costco is often larger, which may not be suitable for travelers who have limited storage or who are staying for a short period of time. It’s important to consider the quantity and storage requirements before purchasing perishable items at Costco.

In conclusion, Costco Hawaii stores offer a wide range of popular items for both locals and tourists. From flower leis to surfboards, candies to fresh sushi, and Hawaiian-themed apparel, there is something for everyone. However, it’s important to be aware of items that are not available or may not be the best value at Costco. By being informed and making smart choices, visitors can make the most of their shopping experience at Costco Hawaii stores.