When Jamie W and I heard that Josh Spencer, the owner of LA's legendary Last Bookstore (review:…read morehttps://yelp.to/PBt2J99ygG) had opened a bookstore in Honolulu, we decided to look for it on our recent Oahu adventure. It turned out to be in Downtown close to Chinatown. While it doesn't have the scale of the Last Bookstore, this store shares some of the unique design elements of its SoCal progenitor like curving shelves and large vinyl collection. A broad scan of the books on display reflects titles that seem more avant garde than more commercial curations with sections devoted to science fiction, horror, true crime, and rock music. Jamie found an existential book about his favorite band called "Queen and Philosophy" (Photo 9), while I bought an intriguing manga cosplay history book called "Otaku Japan" (Photo 5). We probably could've spent another hour in here, but we had manapua on our minds. RELATED - Exploring Hawaii? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://yelp.to/n9JWu5nlzl

I stopped by Skull-Face Books & Vinyl while walking through Chinatown and it quickly stood out as…read moreone of the more unique independent shops in the area. The store blends two cultures that often go hand in hand: underground literature and vinyl records. The space itself feels very curated. Instead of a large commercial bookstore layout, the shop has a smaller, more intentional selection of titles and records that reflect niche interests, counterculture themes, and independent publishing. It feels like a place built for people who enjoy digging through shelves to discover something unexpected. One of the highlights is the mix of books and vinyl. The store carries everything from rare or independent books to records that span multiple genres, which creates an environment where music and literature intersect. Browsing through the collection feels more like exploring a curated archive than a traditional retail store. The atmosphere fits well with the Chinatown neighborhood. Bethel Street has a strong creative and artistic identity, and Skull-Face Books & Vinyl contributes to that scene with its alternative aesthetic and independent spirit. What stood out most to me was how personal the shop feels. Independent stores like this often reflect the personality of the people behind them, and that character comes through clearly in the selection and layout. Overall, Skull-Face Books & Vinyl is a great place to explore if you are in Chinatown and enjoy independent bookstores, vinyl records, and creative spaces that feel a little different from mainstream retail shops.

If you are a long-time Hawai`i resident who enjoys reading and a sweet deal, you've probably…read moreperused the donation shelves at your local library branch, and possibly attended the famous annual summer Friends of the Library of Hawai`i (FLH) book sale at McKinley Cafeteria, where the volunteer organization sold donated and library-withdrawn books at bargain basement prices. Profits support the State of Hawai'i's 51 Public Libraries. In more recent years, FLH opened a year-round used bookstore: Village Books and Music, first at the old Pier One, then a terrific space in Ward Centre next to Sedona. Due to the imminent demolition of Ward Center, the establishment shuttered the Ward location on 5/31/26, and will be reopening in mid-July at 610 Ward Ave., a.k.a. "Obama Building." While not as extensive as more famous used bookstores, e.g. NYC's "The Strand" and Portland's "Powell's Books," I thought there was a lot to love about Village Books and Music, where you could find books, but also CDs, vinyl records, games, puzzles, nostalgic Hawai`i memorabilia, and even art. While admittedly not all genres are well-stocked, when I've visited, I was impressed with the poetry section, which is small, but nicely curated, featuring a number of renowned BIPOC poets and local poets: look carefully, and you can find some signed editions in great shape. If you're looking for local Hawai`i writers or Hawaiian/Pacific materials, this store is worth browsing. And what a win-win: you get literary goods on the cheap AND you support the amazing Hawai`i State Library System: a worthy community hub committed to egalitarian public education!

We love coming to this spot after a meal at the Ward. The kid loves perusing the comic book…read moresection. This is where he's bought comic books every year on vacation. I love book stores in general so I don't mind hanging out checking out all the new books and art they have. We love coming here every year we're in town :)

Awesome place lots to see and purchase at great prices It's location is convenient and staff are…read moreawesome

I've been here, maybe twice befoe picking up some used CD's and books. BookOff is a used book,…read moremovie, gaming, and music store. They are on Cooke Street with 3 dedicated stalls in a shared lot. Entrance/exit is on Cooke. They buy as well as sell. They do offer new collectibles such as Funko Pops and figurines. They also have a sizeable collection of Japanese books, manga, games, movies, anime, and records. They have a discount area in all or most sections...$1 books, music, etc. I am not sure when their buying hours are but I am sure it is posted in-store. Today, I picked up a Heatwave hits collection on CD - I have an older vehicle witha CD player. This was a 70's R&B/disco band with a Philly Soul influence in the harmonies...members from Spain, Switzerland, UK, and USA. Open daily from 1000a till 800p.

If you're a book lover in Hawai'i, Da Shop is hands down one of the best local bookstores you can…read morevisit. Da Shop isn't just a bookstore, it's a community space that supports readers, writers, and local culture. With great selections, special orders available, engaging book events. There's just one small detail I wanted to share. The girl at the front desk has never welcomed me when I walked in. The first time, it honestly bothered me. After noticing it again on another visit, I decided to approach her myself, and she was actually warm, friendly, and excited to talk about books.

Such a cool local book shop. They have a pretty small space, but lots of genres of books to choose…read morefrom. The space feels so welcoming when you come in. The books I purchased cost just as much as any other bookstore, but I think this shop caters more to locals with their selection of books. I'll definitely come back soon!

New location on Rycroft. Huge parking on Rycroft as well. Love to get anointing oils, bibles,…read morehighlighters, and other gifts.

Not just books…read more.. Though they do have wonderful selection on books for all ages I just love the other items they carry here from mugs to toys all are so cute and some specific for all occasions and with that they have a great selection of greeting cards as well. My favorite are the "Little Inspirations" as each one has a wonderful yet simple message that seem to express the cutest moment to help capture the vibe you're looking for and with that is $0.99 so you know I got a few along with some other items including cute gift items. The staff here are always so kind and welcoming browsing around here you'll never know what you'll find all done with such wonderful selection for family and friends and with them on the ground floor facing the parking garage getting there is easy. Thank you!

There are few Anime/Japanese Stationary stores on the island and JQ is one of them. It's one of my…read morego-to spots when I'm in town to buy collectibles or gifts for friends who love anime. Located inside a small plaza near Ala Moana (Piikoi st.) They share a private parking area with Cho Dangs Honolulu and Nijiya Market. They have a wide variety of items that changes constantly and something new available at the shop. Once you set your eyes on something rare, I recommend buying it instead of waiting because I guarantee you it will not be there the next time you visit. I also advise that the store can get really expensive because these are mostly imported goods from Japan. So spend wisely! Sales and discounts are also provided, but on rare occasions. The employees are also very helpful and nice. They will support your purchase just not your wallet (lol).

Very cool store with a lot of unique items that you can't find easily. The staff was friendly and…read morethe prices were reasonable.

New name...same store. The new Jelly's with a new name brings back a ton of memories from when I…read morewas a kid. Love this place is still around! The selection of vinyl records, CDs and comic books is varied. You can spend hours here sorting through their stock just to see what you could possibly find. Many treasures and if you can sift through their stock. There is an organized chaos to their offerings. Some items require staff assistance and since they don't hover..you need to ask for what you need. Prices for the used books are okay. Love they have tons of sheet music for musicians or dabblers. They carry lotsa cool little action figures as well as funko pops! Parking is located in the front. Very easy to find.

This is a little late and might be a little moot since they're closing on 9/21. But I didn't even…read moreknow about this place until I saw an article that they were closing. Run by the same people who did Jelly's. I feel like anyone in the 80s and 90s will know them. It's pretty much the spiritual successor! I got hit by a wave a nostalgia stepping into the place. Tons of old comics and vinyl records, lots of books of various subjects lining their shelves. Even have figurines and CDs, DVDs and the like. They are currently having a closing sale with lots of things marked down 50% or more! If you have a chance make sure you stop by. I wish they could have continued to stay in business