Hidden behind the beautiful palm-lined beaches and resorts are some rare independent bookstores in Hawaii that offer endless delights. Read on to learn about 10 of them.
1. Talk Story Bookstore
Proudly considering itself the westernmost bookstore in the US, Talk Story Bookstore is a relatively new destination for bibliophiles in the city of Hanapepe. Since its establishment in 2004, the store has been offering an eclectic collection of not just the latest titles but also some rare and out-of-print books, making this store a particularly great choice for book collectors. They currently offer books in genres such as mysteries, nonfiction, fiction, books in the Hawaiian language, and much more. The store also comes with a section on vintage vinyl records.
The store allows you to make purchases online as well as at their brick-and-mortar store. Contact them right here.
2. Kona Stories Book Store
A staple in the local Kailua-Kona community, Kona Stories Book Store boasts a vast collection of more than 10,000 volumes of not just the latest bestsellers but also some rare all-time classics. This store deals with a very wide range of genres, including Hawaiiana, fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, educational books, and much more. The store also boasts a very good selection of books published by local authors, making it a great place for tourists to get to know the locals.
You can buy books either at their brick-and-mortar shop or through their online store. You can find their website here.
3. Kona Bay Books
As the largest bookstore in Hawaii, Kona Bay Books offers more than just a vast selection of books both old and new but also a great collection of CDs and DVDs. The store is located in Kailua-Kona, and it boasts an expansive collection of books in all genres, including art, history, culture, fiction, architecture, travel books, and much more. There is also an absolutely delightful section dedicated to the history of Hawaii and the culture of the local people, which allows tourists to immerse themselves in the local way of life. The store’s staff is particularly helpful as well as knowledgeable, and there is a parking lot for disabled people nearby.
At the moment, the store allows both online shopping and in-store shopping. You can contact the store here.
4. da Shop: books + curiosities
Hidden in a serene corner in Honolulu, da Shop: books + curiosities is a bookstore with plenty of interesting titles and objects to keep you enthralled. Boasting an eclectic collection of unusual and rare books on the history and cultures of Hawaii, the store is your go-to destination if you wish to learn more about the local people and the land. The genres of books available at the store include local literature, local history, cookbooks, children’s books, classics, contemporary fiction, and much more. The store sells more than books, as there is also a collection of odds and ends for book lovers. For those who don’t know yet what to buy, the store does come with some excellent curated collections.
The store allows both in-store shopping and online shopping. For more information, reach out to them through the link here.
5. Logos Bookstore of Hawaii
As one of the largest Christian bookstores in Hawaii, Logos Bookstore of Hawaii, located in Honolulu, caters to a particular niche, but it also does come with a good selection of books in other genres such as finance, personal growth, etc. The main focus of the store is on its vast collection of books on spirituality, bibles, biographies, books on biblical heroes, and children’s books. The store also features a section of gifts and music CDs for customers looking for them, so don’t hesitate to browse their stock.
The store allows both online shopping and offline shopping. You can check out their website right here.
6. Basically Books
Basically Books is much more than just a bookstore. It is a local cultural hub in Hilo that offers not just the latest bestsellers as well as rare hidden gems but also a place for people to meet and greet. The store features a large and carefully curated collection of books in all genres, including rare books about the history and botany of Hawaii. Other popular genres include children’s books, cookbooks, mythology, and others. The store also hosts events from time to time, and you might even join a book club to share your thoughts about your favorite books with others!
You can buy books and other products from their brick-and-mortar store or order them from their website. Contact the store here.
7. Idea’s Music and Books
Music and books tend to go together, and Idea’s Music and Books, a little store located in Honolulu, has both of these delightful products in their stock. Boasting an eclectic collection of new books as well as old books on various genres, including books about local arts and lifestyles, the store will keep you busy for the whole day. The store will also be a delightful destination for comic fans thanks to its expansive section of comics, which also includes rare oldies. The store also offers a wide range of CDs and DVDs for you to enjoy.
The store does not allow online shopping for now. You will have to make purchases directly at their brick-and-mortar store. You can reach out to the store through the link here.
8. Na Mea Hawaii
Tucked behind the busy rhythm of Honolulu is Na Mea Hawaii, a business that promotes local Hawaiian culture and heritage. More than just a bookstore, Na Mea Hawaii is where you can find local artisan crafts, as well as art prints and specialty foods and drinks, making this place a haven for tourists or those interested in the stories of the land. The store also features a unique collection of books about the mythology and the legends of the locals. There is also a very good selection of books published by local authors. If you love Hawaii and would enjoy a truly unique cultural experience, Na Mea Hawaii will be a very good choice.
The store allows both in-store shopping and online shopping. Check out their website here.