5 Local Hawaiian Swimwear Brands to Shop From

While beach attire may be the first item in your vacation luggage for Hawaii, fresh new swimwear may be the perfect gift to yourself for your island getaway. And supporting local Hawaiian swimwear brands is a great way to embrace the island vibes. With many sustainable local designers, you can also adopt the spirit of Hawaii, with their eco-friendly practices that show their love for the land and sea.

Explore these stylish, earth-loving swimwear options, perfect for lounging on the best beaches in Oahu or snorkeling with the family.

1. Kalo Kini Swimwear

Origins: Brainchild of Mariah Toledo-Tavares in 2013, Kalo Kini is a nod to her young years soaking up her natural surroundings on her family's heritage farm in Waipi'o Valley.
Style: Functional, flattering, and suitable swimwear for the whole family, Kalo Kini Swimwear has bold Hawaiian-inspired prints, including Plumeria, Hibiscus, and Monstera leaves. You can also find rashguards, beachwear apparel, and more on their site.
Sustainability: Reusable bags are available to avoid single-use plastic.
Where to buy: On their website or at their store in the heart of Honoka'a town on The Big Island.
Price range: $40-$125

2. Sundaze Bikinis

Origins: Launched in 2016 in Oahu, Sundaze offers global shipping. Their brand seeks to spread positive, active lifestyles "with a love for the beautiful world...through conservation and sustainability efforts."
Style: Bikinis and handcrafted one-pieces for sexy, barely-there, stylish fashion. An extensive range of flat colors allows shoppers to select their favorite tone, from earthy terracotta to a stand-out red.
Sustainability: They use high-quality fabric recycled from ocean plastic for swimwear and packaging.
Where to buy: Online, pop-up shops, or at local markets around Oahu.
Price range: $60-$90

3. Coconut Ave

Origins: Determined to make an impact in the eco-fashion industry, Coconut Ave was started by Mahealani, a Graphic Designer, and Kelly, a communications graduate. Their collection of products includes beautiful swimwear and support organizations that "protect and preserve Hawai'i's coastal and marine environments."
Style: All swimwear is made with exclusively designed prints and solid colors in various designs, from minimalist to fuller coverage, functional for active beach sports. They also sell men's board shorts.
Sustainability: Uses the highest quality of eco-fabrics, focusing on minimal waste production.
Where to buy: Online, or take a trip to The Big Island to visit their store in Hilo at the Bayfront or the Waikoloa Queen Shops.
Price range: $80-$160

4. Manakai Swimwear

Origins: Founded in 2015 by Kelly Chapman, this O'ahu-based brand focuses on creating sustainable, functional, and stylish swimwear for women and men.
Style: Offers versatile, inclusive pieces with tropical prints and neutral tones. The fabrics are soft and comfortable and allow freedom of movement. They aim to create "unique designs and empower women to embrace their beauty."
Sustainability: Uses quality sustainable raw materials and ethical production facilities in the US.
Where to buy: Available at select boutiques in Honolulu, like Mahina, or visit their website.
Price range: $98-$198

5. Issa de Mar

Origins: Born in O'ahu in 2013, Issa de' Mar designers Marissa Eveland and Melissa Jasniy are friends who combined their sewing and design expertise. From hand-sewing to competitive surfing, their long-time passions grew into a successful brand that captures the carefree essence of island life.
Style: Combines classic silhouettes with edgy details like lace-up backs and high-cut bottoms. Their rashguard vests and surf suits are unique and perfect for a more active day in the water. They also sell kiddie gear to match their mamas.
Sustainability: Committed to ethical practices, though not fully sustainable.
Where to buy: Shop their online store or browse one of their retailers.
Price range: $84 - $180

Whether you're sipping cocktails on our sundeck, or planning to strut your new Hawaiian swimsuit beside your love following your ultimate Hawaiian elopement, these local brands will have you looking pololei loa (just right). Embrace the aloha spirit, and take home a stylish reminder of your Hawaiian adventure!