Hawaii,  Travel and Lifestyle

A Unique Hawaii Gift or Souvenir: Martin & MacArthur

So you are on vacation here on Oahu and you want to find something really special to take back home as a gift or perhaps as a souvenir of the amazing trip that you had here. Where do you go? Our vote is for Martin & MacArthur. Let me tell you why.

Featuring high-quality, handcrafted koa wood products that embody the spirit of Hawaii, Martin & MacArthur features the work of the finest local craftsmen. Established in 1961, this renowned brand specializes in creating stunning pieces from indigenous Hawaiian koa wood. Known for its exceptional beauty and durability, koa wood is a cornerstone of Martin & MacArthur’s exquisite craftsmanship. In the words of founder Jon Martin, “It’s the most varying wood in the world. Koa comes in all shades and a variety of beautiful grains. To me, this fancy hardwood that grows only in Hawai’i is the most magnificent wood on earth.”

The Art of Handcrafted Koa Wood Products

At Martin & MacArthur, each item is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who combine traditional woodworking techniques with contemporary design. A rare find in today’s world of fast, mass-produced items, the koa pieces at Martin & MacArthur are still crafted with meticulous care. Their offerings range from elegant furniture to unique home decor items, including:

  • Koa Wood Bowls
  • Jewelry Boxes
  • Custom Furniture

Every piece reflects a dedication to quality and artistry, making Martin & MacArthur a leader in the field of handcrafted koa wood products.

You may also find a unique offering of other items as well-Disney Fine Art, fine jewelry, paintings, even beautiful glasses sand-etched with local designs of plumeria, hibiscus, and bird of paradise (pieces that we personally own and love).

Celebrating Hawaiian Culture and Sustainability

One of the standout features of Martin & MacArthur is its commitment to sustainability and Hawaiian heritage. The brand sources its materials responsibly, ensuring that each product not only showcases the natural beauty of Hawaii but also supports local conservation efforts. With most of the koa coming from the Big Island of Hawaii, care is taken to harvest wood only from previously dead and fallen trees. Not only do the owners of Martin & MacArthur personally hand-select koa wood used for their pieces, they also support the reforesting of koa trees for future generations to enjoy. This dedication to cultural and environmental integrity makes Martin & MacArthur a brand you can feel good about supporting.

Why Choose Martin & MacArthur?

  1. Exceptional Quality: Each item is made with care, ensuring durability and timeless beauty.
  2. Unique Designs: Their products are inspired by the rich landscapes of Hawaii, making them perfect for any home.
  3. Cultural Significance: By choosing Martin & MacArthur, you are supporting a brand that honors Hawaiian traditions.

Visit Martin & MacArthur

While you are here on Oahu, stop by one of the Martin & MacArthur stores to take home a piece made out of beautiful koa wood. I recently visited the Ala Moana Center store (very convenient with parking for locals) to pick up a few pieces myself and made a note to add it to my list of go to shops for special gifts. Visit any of their locations (several are located right in Waikiki as well as on the Big Island, Kauai, and Maui) and enjoy the quiet luxury of prized koa wood in gorgeous jewelry boxes, watches, and even pens, just to name a few small items that would be convenient to pack to take home. You (or the recipient of your gift) will be forever grateful to own such a unique piece of Hawaiian history. “Gracious Hawaiian Living” indeed.

Sunshine and aloha!

Hawaii Girl Life 🌺☀️