Hilo International Airport (ITO)
Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) offers a more intimate and laid-back shopping experience than larger airports, but international travelers still have the opportunity to enjoy duty-free shopping when departing from select international flights. KOA’s duty-free offerings, while smaller in scale compared to major hubs, provide a curated selection of premium goods tailored to meet the needs of international passengers.
Duty Free Stores allow eligible travelers to purchase products without paying certain local taxes and duties. These shops are reserved for passengers flying internationally and typically offer reduced prices on high-demand items such as cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, and local souvenirs.
KOA’s duty-free services are managed by DFS Hawaii and are located within the international departure area of Terminal 2. Open during international flight operations, the store features a selection of popular travel retail categories:
Fragrances and Skincare Products: Travelers can browse a small but curated collection of top-brand perfumes and skincare items, ideal for gifting or personal indulgence.
Liquor and Spirits: A rotating selection of international and local spirits is available, including premium whiskey, vodka, and Hawaiian-made rums like Kōloa Rum, offered at tax-free rates.
Local Hawaiian Products: KOA’s duty-free store also features items that reflect Hawaii’s unique culture and flavor, including bags of Kona coffee, chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, kukui nut oils, and locally crafted souvenirs.
Duty-free purchases at KOA are reserved for international travelers. A valid passport and same-day international boarding pass must be presented at the time of purchase. Travelers should also check customs allowances for their destination country to ensure they are within import limits.
Plan Ahead: KOA’s duty-free store operates only during international departures. If you’re on a domestic or inter-island flight, duty-free shopping will not be available.
Ask About Promotions: Occasionally, DFS Hawaii offers seasonal discounts or gift-with-purchase promotions. Inquire with store staff to take advantage of these deals.
Leave Room in Your Carry-On: Make sure you have space to pack your purchases securely, especially if you’re picking up liquor or fragile items.
While KOA’s duty-free selection is limited, travelers staying in the Kona area before or after international flights can explore local shops and galleries in Kailua-Kona. Stores such as Island Naturals, Kona Farmers Market, and specialty boutiques on Ali‘i Drive offer local crafts, gourmet foods, and handmade souvenirs not found at the airport.
Though modest in size, the duty-free shopping at Kona International Airport provides international travelers with an opportunity to purchase Hawaiian gifts, premium spirits, and personal luxuries at tax-free prices. Reflecting the Big Island’s relaxed and welcoming spirit, KOA’s duty-free offerings are convenient, culturally unique, and perfect for capturing a small piece of Hawaii to take home.