Historic Charm Meets Island Retail
Situated on the sunny south shore of Kauai, Old Koloa Town is a historic gem that offers a unique shopping experience. With its plantation-era charm, this quaint town is not only a gateway to the island’s sugarcane past but also a hub for locally-owned shops, art galleries, and eateries that reflect the vibrant culture of Kauai. If you’re looking for a memorable shopping adventure, Old Koloa Town has plenty to offer.
A Stroll Through History
As you wander the main street of Old Koloa Town, you’ll immediately feel a connection to Kauai’s rich history. The town dates back to the 1800s, when it was the site of Hawaii’s first successful sugar plantation. The town’s plantation-style buildings, many of which have been beautifully restored, are home to a variety of unique stores. Here, you won’t find the big-box retailers or flashy malls, but rather a collection of locally-owned shops offering everything from handmade crafts to locally sourced products.
Local Boutiques and Specialty Shops
Old Koloa Town is filled with a variety of boutiques and specialty stores where you can find one-of-a-kind items. Divine Planet gift shop is a must-visit for those seeking Hawaiian souvenirs and gifts, offering everything from t-shirts to island-inspired home decor. Sister Sister, in the courtyard, offers a curated selection of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. For a more casual look, Crazy Shirts offers island wear with unique Kauai-inspired designs, while surf clothing and accessories can be found at the friendly Billabong surf shop.
Old Koloa Town is a vibrant destination for art lovers, home to several galleries that showcase the island’s creativity. Christian Riso Fine Art Gallery offers captivating ocean and island-inspired paintings. Hawaiian Artisans emphasizes traditional craftsmanship, featuring local artists skilled in woodwork, jewelry, and other Hawaiian crafts. Fish Eye Kauai focuses on ocean photography, providing stunning underwater views of Kauai’s marine life. Each gallery brings a unique perspective on the island’s artistic heritage, making Old Koloa Town a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
The Village
Across the street from Koloa’s main street offerings is The Village, a new retail and office development with a variety of homegrown shops and eateries. Shopping at The Village offers a charming experience with its open-air design inspired by Kauai’s plantation-style architecture. The lush, historical setting, complete with vintage sugar mill equipment, adds a nostalgic touch to the modern shopping experience. It is a perfect spot to enjoy Koloa’s relaxed vibe while supporting local merchants.
At The Village’s Del Sol retail shop, everything changes colors in the sun using Spectrachrome technology, from sunglasses and shirts to nail polish and more. Featuring premium brands including OluKai and OOFOS, Flip Flop Shops is the place to go for “slippahs” and casual footwear. Emperors Emporium has a large selection of products made in Hawaii with a focus on all types of jewelry from necklaces and bracelets to toe rings. The Village Market, with an upscale feel, offers specially curated products from local artists, artisans and designers. Find fresh island produce and organic grocery items at the affordable Hoku Foods Natural Market. In the market for an e-bike for purchase or rental? Kauai E-Bikes has you covered with a fleet of environmentally friendly bikes to explore Kauai’s South Shore.
Hawaiian Treats and Local Flavors
Shopping in Old Koloa Town is not just about clothing and souvenirs – it’s also about indulging in the flavors of Kauai. Koloa Mill Ice Cream & Coffee offers creamy treats that will cool you down after a day in the sun, while The Wine Shop is the perfect place to pick up a bottle of local wine or gourmet snacks to enjoy during your stay. If you’re looking for something sweet, Kauai Gourmet Nuts is a small but popular shop offering a selection of macadamia nuts, nut butters and sweet mixed nuts. It’s the perfect spot to find gifts for the foodie in your life or to bring a taste of Kauai back home with you. And for a refreshing break, Kauai Juice Co. really hits the spot.
Read more about Old Koloa Town in the Fall/Winter 2024 issue of Kauai Magazine.
