Kauai's South Shore is not only the ideal place for sun, sand, and surf, it's also an incredible area for exploring and enjoying island-inspired shopping. We've created a short list of our favorites, just to give you a peek at what the Koloa/Poipu area has to offer, including a couple of events you may want to check out the next time you're on Kauai. Read on to discover the best places to shop on Kauai's South Shore.
The Shops at Kukui'ula
photo courtesy of The Shops at Kukui`ula
The
Shops at Kukui`ula is nestled in the heart of Poipu and has been referred to as the island's premier shopping and dining destination. With architecture reminiscent of Hawaii's plantation past, The Shops at Kukui'ula is home to dozens of unique stores and boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and gorgeous art galleries. There are so many specialty places to visit but a few "must-sees" include:
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Malie Organics. A leader in natural and organic beauty products,
Malie was founded on Kauai and inspired by Kauai's natural bounty. Hawaiian botanicals are the foundation of every product, combining plant science with the time-honored traditions of local artisans.
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Tommy Bahama. A fashion staple across the world that encourages shoppers to "live the island life" every single day. Made from sustainably sourced fibers,
Tommy Bahama offers clothes essential for enjoying the sunshine and forgetting all about deadlines and demands at home.
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Martin & MacArthur. One of the premier makers of Koa furniture and beautiful home accessories for more than 50 years. Koa wood is legendary in Hawaii and is known for its rich deep colors and varied grain patterns.
Martin & MacArthur honor the beauty of this amazing tree by offering exquisite handmade pieces to be handed down among generations.
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Ha'upu Outpost. Surfing, hiking, fishing, or any outdoor adventure should begin at Kauai's premier outdoor retailer. Whether you are looking for non-toxic, reef-safe sunscreen, a sturdy hiking shoe that feels like a sneaker, or a locally designed fishing lure,
Ha'upu Outpost has all your needs to enjoy the beauty of the Garden Isle.
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Latitudes Art Gallery. Bring the island beauty back with you to enjoy every day by purchasing a breathtaking art piece
from local photographers Steve Munch and Stephanie Hogue. Stunning, picturesque photos from Latitudes are the perfect touch to any room decor.
On Wednesdays, The Shops at Kukui`ula, in partnership with the Kauai County Farm Bureau hosts the
Kauai Culinary Market from 3:30-6:00 pm where visitors enjoy fresh produce, ono (delicious) treats, and live local music. This is truly a must-see event!
The Warehouse 3540
photo courtesy of Hanako
The Warehouse 3540, is located just a short drive west of Koloa Town, in the community of Lawai. This creative community marketplace is filled with small, locally owned and operated businesses along with the island's best coffee, 'Kind Koffee Kauai', and an array of gourmet food trucks.
.. Refill Kauai. Make the transition to a more sustainable lifestyle by visiting this unique and forward-thinking shop. Essential cleaning and body care products are offered at Kauai's first refill station. Purchase a glass bottle and refill as needed or bring your own container and simply pay by the ounce. We have a shared kuleana (responsibility) to reduce waste and take care of the island.
.. Hanako. Kauai style for every occasion can be found at this locally-owned treasure. Handmade with Aloha, Hanako offers beautiful Tahitian pearls, Hawaiian shell jewelry, and island fashion for sunny days and cooler, starry nights.
.. Sugar Skull. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a piece of art on a plate. Considered one of Kauai's best cake designers, Sugar Skull offers edible delights that will leave you craving more.
.. Kahana'nanea. Connecting the designs of handmade soaps to the beautiful surrounding of Kauai is the mission of this local boutique. Native-grown produce is used in production and guests can select from many different scents such as mango, papaya, and bananas. Kahana'nanea offers a luxurious treat for your skin.
Poipu Shopping Village
photo courtesy of Kauai Juice Co.
Poipu Shopping Village is located in a lovely garden setting, just a short walk from a number of popular resorts in the Poipu Beach area. Here you will find a familiar cup of your favorite Starbucks coffee, as well as live music and story-telling by renowned musician Keola Worthington, accompanied by the award-winning, Halau Ka Lei Mokihana O Leina`ala center stage, every Monday and Thursday at 5:00 pm.
The ever popular Kauai Juice Co. is where you will find fresh-pressed juice and elixirs made from local ingredients, healthy grab-and-go options, and an assortment of locally made products. Kauai Juice Co. makes healthy living both easy and delicious.
.. Keoki's Paradise. One of Poipu's most popular restaurants, Keoiki's Paradise is located in a beautiful setting beneath giant banyan trees. Open for lunch and dinner daily, Keoki's Paradise offers a vast array of island-inspired menu items, including their famous Hula Pie!
.. The Anuenue Cafe cooks up arguably one of the best breakfasts on the south shore served up in a beautiful outdoor setting, from 8-12 everyday, except Wednesday.
.. By the Sea is home to Kauai's largest assortment of OluKai slippers. Designed with both durability and comfort, they are perfectly designed for island life.
Old Koloa Town
photo courtesy of the Poipu Beach Foundation
Old Koloa Town is home to the first sugar mill of the Hawaiian islands and bridges the past and present with its quaint shops and restaurants, all housed within restored and renewed plantation-era buildings. Here you will find an eclectic mix of vendors including gourmet nuts, fine art studios, handmade jewelry, surf shops, groceries, and artisanal shave ice.
.. Fish Eye Kauai. Remember that unforgettable snorkeling adventure with an underwater art piece from Scuba Tom. Even if you do not leave with a print, walking the gallery at Fish Eye Kauai is a mini art museum experience. Browse the local artist's work capturing Kauai's awe-inspiring sites.
..The Wine Shop & The Tasting Room. The O’Connell Family opened The Wine Shop in December of 2006 in the heart of Koloa Town on Kauai. Their vision for the shop was simply to provide an amazing assortment of wines to guests and residents on the Southside of the island. Over the last 13 years the store has evolved expanding its offerings to include wine, champagne, spirits, beer, gourmet items and gift baskets, as well as a place to get your marriage license.
The Tasting Room is a hip new restaurant in Koloa Town where you can sample the best in wines while enjoying gourmet bites. Created and designed by the O’Connell family, it is the perfect venue to enjoy an extensive wine list (by the glass/bottle/wine flight), full bar and innovative small plate menu.
..Dark Horse Coffee Roasters takes pride in developing close relationships with small town farmers all over the world. Stop by Dark Horse Coffee and try one of their signature Espresso drinks before beginning your South Shore shopping adventure.
Work with an expert to find a home in paradise
Oftentimes, the best way to find out about the particulars of an area is to speak to those who know it best. And this doesn't apply to just shopping. If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Kauai, there is only one person you should turn to, Realtor Susan Higgins.
Susan is an expert in all things Kauai and has extensive experience in Kalaheo, Kapaa, and Poipu real estate. For years, she has been assisting those looking for an investment property, those looking to make Kauai their permanent residence, and local residents looking to sell their homes or purchase new homes for sale. Contact Susan Higgins today to find Poipu, Kalaheo or Kapaa homes for sale and more!
