Shop Till You Drop
The shopping scene on the Big Island isn't as varied as on Oahu or Maui. But good shopping centers can be found in pockets here and there. Along Ali'i Dr. in Kailua-Kona, shopping complexes occupy both sides of the street. You'll find lots of little shops in many surprising places as you walk or drive about the island. The little town of Holualoa above Kailua-Kona, for example, is home to several art galleries, and the bigger town of Waimea/Kamuela is also a pleasant shopping destination. Many of the expensive hotels, too, have stores on the premises. Apart from these, here are a few more Big Island shopping suggestions:
Ali'i Gardens Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 A.M.-5 P.M. 75-6129 Ali'i Dr., Kailua-Kona 334-1381 www.aliigardens.com
Keauhou Shopping Center 78-6831 Ali'i Dr., Keauhou-Kona 322-3000 www.keauhoushoppingcenter.com
Kona Coast Shopping Center 74-5586 Palani Rd., Kailua-Kona 326-2262 www.konashopping.com
King's Shops Waikoloa Beach Resort 250 Waikoloa Beach 886-8811
Waimea Center 65-1158 Mamalahoa Hwy., Waimea 885-4139
Prince Kuhio Plaza 111 East Puainako St., Hilo 959-3555 www.princekuhioplaza.com
Hilo Shopping Center 66 Kekuanaoa St., Hilo 935-6499
Volcano Art Center Hawaii Volcanoes National Park 967-8222
RAINY DAY FUN
The flagship Hilo Hattie's store is in Honolulu, but you can also find branches on the other islands. The Big Island has two, and there's a shuttle that runs from many of the hotels. Kailua-Kona: 75-5597 Palani Rd. 329-7200. Hilo: Prince Kuhio Plaza 961-3077. www.hilohattie.com
With all there is to see and do on the Big Island, there are plenty of reasons to return—and many do, over and over again. It would take months just to sample the great restaurants alone. As you explore the island, savor its natural beauty and its fascinating heritage, and you'll likely gain a sense of the aloha 'aina, “love of the land,” that its inhabitants have felt for over a millennium.
