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Explore the legacy of Kamekona’s shrimp truck, the man behind it, and how fans can bring a piece of the Five-0 universe home.
In the hit reboot of Hawaii Five-0, few things became as instantly recognizable—and beloved—as Kamekona’s shrimp truck. While the truck is a fictional creation designed for the series, it has become an unofficial symbol of the show’s charm, humor, and local flavor. More than just a recurring backdrop, the shrimp truck represented the heart of one of the show’s most beloved characters: Kamekona Tupuola.
A Fictional Food Truck That Became a Fan-Favorite Landmark
Kamekona’s shrimp truck doesn’t exist in real life, but fans of the show can’t help but wish it did. Frequently featured throughout the series, the vibrant truck served not only as a setting for comedic relief and heartfelt moments but also as a narrative bridge between crime-solving and community. Situated in scenic locations, including the iconic lagoon area near the Rainbow Tower at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, the shrimp truck grounded the Five-0 team in the culture and daily rhythm of Honolulu.
Though fictional, the shrimp truck’s colorful presence added authenticity and local flair to the series, symbolizing the entrepreneurial spirit and community vibe of Hawai‘i.
👉 Browse Hawaii Five-0 fan gear, inspired by the show: Shop Hawaii Five-0 Collection
Kamekona: The Entrepreneur with a Big Heart
Played by the late and great Taylor Wily, Kamekona Tupuola was more than just comic relief. He was an ex-con-turned-businessman, a confidential informant, and a loyal friend to the Five-0 task force. With a strong sense of humor and a stronger sense of hustle, Kamekona embodied redemption and reinvention.
Kamekona wasn’t limited to just shrimp. Throughout the series, he dabbled in everything from helicopter tours to shave ice stands—always hustling, always growing. His shrimp truck, however, remained the cornerstone of his character and a favorite meeting place for the Five-0 team.
Sadly, Taylor Wily passed away in June 2024, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, heart, and local pride. His portrayal of Kamekona touched millions and brought a uniquely Hawaiian warmth to primetime television.
Real-World Connections: The Man Behind the Truck
Though Kamekona’s shrimp truck was created for the screen, Taylor Wily had real ties to the food truck world. For a time, he operated a real-life shrimp truck called “Big T’s Shrimp Truck” in Honolulu. While the business has since closed, it once served as a fun connection between Wily’s on-screen character and his real-life entrepreneurial interests.
Where Fantasy Meets Fandom: Hawaii Five-0 Merch for Devoted Fans
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the show or newly discovering the magic of Hawaii Five-0, you can still carry a piece of the aloha spirit with you. At The Vending Lot, we offer an exclusive collection of officially inspired Hawaii Five-0 merchandise—perfect for gifting, collecting, or repping your favorite series in style.
Some of our bestsellers include:
🧢 Hawaii Five-0 Unisex Distressed Cap – Laid-back island vibes, perfect for beach days or Five-0 binges.
👕 Hawaii Five-0 Champion T-Shirts & Sweatshirts – Premium quality with classic prints that pay homage to the series.
☕ Hawaii Five-0 Colorful Mugs – Available in multiple colors and sizes to brighten your mornings.
👨🍳 Hawaii Five-0 Cotton Aprons – For the shrimp chef in your life or your next Five-0-themed cookout.
🔥 Don’t miss out: Shop the Hawaii Five-0 Collection now
Why Kamekona’s Shrimp Truck Still Matters
Though it never served real food, Kamekona’s shrimp truck left a lasting impression on fans. It wasn’t just about the shrimp—it was about community, second chances, loyalty, and laughter. Through every plate of garlic shrimp and every wisecrack, the truck served as a hub for relationships that powered the Five-0 team’s spirit.
Kamekona’s shrimp truck reminds us that even in a crime drama, there’s room for humor, heart, and great food—even if it’s fictional.
Honor Kamekona’s Legacy
Whether you’re missing Taylor Wily’s lovable screen presence or reminiscing about your favorite Five-0 episodes, show your love for the series and its unforgettable characters. Visit The Vending Lot’s Hawaii Five-0 Store to browse our full line of exclusive apparel, drinkware, accessories, and more—perfect for superfans and casual viewers alike.
Live Aloha. Shop Five-0. Remember Kamekona.
Mahalo for visiting The Vending Lot, your one-stop destination for officially inspired TV gear with heart, humor, and heritage.