Lihue Airport (LIH) on the island of Kauai offers limited but convenient duty-free shopping options for eligible international travelers. While LIH is much smaller than Honolulu’s international gateway and does not feature large luxury boutiques, international passengers departing from Kauai can still purchase select tax-free items such as fragrances, spirits, cosmetics, travel gifts, and Hawaiian-made products.
Duty-free shopping at LIH is available only during scheduled international departures, which vary seasonally.
Duty-free stores allow eligible travelers to purchase certain products without paying local taxes or import duties. These shops are accessible only to passengers holding a same-day international boarding pass and a valid passport.
Common duty-free product categories include:
• Fragrances and cosmetics
• Liquor and spirits
• Tobacco products
• Travel-sized gift sets
• Local Hawaiian items such as coffee, chocolates, and macadamia nut products
Duty-free operations at LIH are typically coordinated with international carriers and are located near the departure gates used for international flights. Because LIH handles far fewer international departures than Honolulu, the selection is smaller but still offers popular essentials and gift items for travelers heading abroad.
Duty-free shops at LIH may offer:
• Fragrances and skincare from well-known brands
• Liquor and spirits, including Hawaiian-made rum and specialty items
• Tobacco products (availability may vary)
• Hawaiian gifts such as macadamia nuts, local chocolates, and Kauai coffee
Store hours align with international flight schedules, and availability may vary depending on the season.
Duty-free shopping at Lihue Airport is available only to international outbound passengers.
Travelers must:
• Present a valid passport
• Show a same-day international boarding pass
Passengers should also review duty-free allowances and import limits for their destination country to ensure compliance with customs regulations.
• Arrive Early – Duty-free locations open only when international flights are scheduled, so arriving early ensures enough time to browse.
• Ask About Specials – Staff may offer bundle pricing, seasonal promotions, or travel-exclusive items.
• Consider Packing – Liquids purchased duty-free must remain sealed until arrival at your destination. Request secure packaging to avoid leaks or damage during travel.
Because duty-free services at LIH are limited, travelers seeking a wider selection of souvenirs or Hawaiian-made products may consider nearby shopping locations such as:
• Kukui Grove Center (Lihue) – Kauai’s main shopping mall offering apparel, gifts, and dining
• Anchor Cove and Harbor Mall near Kalapaki Bay – Souvenir shops, local art, and island apparel
• Local markets around Lihue and Kapaʻa – Fresh coffee, crafts, and locally made treats
Duty-free shopping at Lihue Airport (LIH) provides international passengers with a convenient opportunity to purchase select tax-free items, including fragrances, liquor, cosmetics, and Hawaiian gifts.
Although more modest than Honolulu’s duty-free offerings, LIH’s duty-free options allow travelers to take home a taste of Kauai and the Hawaiian Islands before continuing their journey abroad.