8 Best Places to Shop in Waikoloa, Big Island

C.J. Kale is an accomplished, award-winning photographer famous for capturing extraordinary images of lava flowing through the curl of a wave. Not a believer in using any photo manipulation or special effects, Kale produces work that is as authentic as it gets. He and gallery partners Linda and Don Hurzeler showcase their fine images of the beauty of Hawaii and other scenic places around the world.

In business since 1924 and the oldest and largest jeweler in Hawaii, this impressive retailer specializes in crafting stunning pieces that reflect the beauty of the islands. You will see sand, sun, and sea in their signature Wave collection—pendants set with diamonds and inlaid with shimmering blue iridescent opal. If you can't afford gold and diamonds, consider one of their charming Puka Bead build-a-bracelet creations, an affordable option.

The Waikoloa branch of this fashion veteran offers really sweet matching aloha outfits for the entire family in tropical batik prints. Handbags, shoes, robes, jewelry, and lotions are also sold here.

The iconic Hawaiian quilt is a work of art that is prized and passed down through generations. At this store, the oldest quilt retailer in Hawaii, you'll find everything from hand-quilted purses and bags to wall hangings and blankets. More than likely, a friendly Hawaiian tutu (grandma) will be in the shop talking story. You can even get a take-home kit and sew your own Hawaiian quilt.  

Lakeside restaurants and cafés, surf shops, designer boutiques, a nine-hole putting green, a farmers' market, a weekly Polynesian fire-knife show, and free morning petroglyph tours are just a few of the reasons to visit this conveniently located outdoor shopping center. Probably the best large center on the Kohala Coast, its roster of stores includes Martin & MacArthur, Tori Richard, and island jewelers Na Hoku, as well as high-end retailers Tiffany & Co. and Michael Kors. Gourmet offerings abound at A-Bay's Island Grill, Foster's Kitchen, and the more casual Island Fish & Chips. Shuttles run from the resorts to the center daily from noon to 8, although A-Bay's stays open until midnight, a rarity on the coast.

Among the fine jewelry at this boutique is a wide selection of high-end pearl jewelry, including Tahitian black pearls, South Sea white and golden pearls, and chocolate Tahitian pearls. It also sells freshwater pearls in the shell, black coral (the Hawaii state gemstone), and diamonds. Creations in 14-karat gold showcasing Hawaii themes such as traditional heirloom designs and flora and fauna are also on display. Prices are high but so is the quality.

The largest shopping complex on the Kohala Coast houses fashionable clothing stores, jewelry boutiques, galleries, gift shops, and restaurants such as Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Kuleana Rum Shack, and Romano's Macaroni Grill. Island Gourmet Markets, Starbucks, and an affordable food court are other options. Waikoloa Luxury Cinemas offers the ultimate movie experience and includes a restaurant called Bistro at the Cinemas, which is a worth a stop even if you don't hit a show with dinner.

The dressy clothing available here has been a tradition in Hawaii since 1959 and remains popular among locals and visitors alike. The store offers rayon, cotton, and silk aloha shirts for both men and boys, men's shorts, and clothing for women and girls. Prices may be high, but you're buying the best.