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Molokai has one main commercial area: Ala Malama Street in Kaunakakai. There are no department stores or shopping malls, and the clothing is typical island wear. Local shopping is friendly, and you may find hidden treasures. A very few family-run businesses define the main drag of Maunaloa, a rural former plantation town. Most stores in Kaunakakai are open Monday–Saturday 9–6.
This vibrant shop on the Ala Malama strip sells quirky souvenirs like funny T-shirts, jewelry, and local products. They have a café counter offering sandwiches, smoothies, and salads. The owners act as informal area guides, helping visitors find their way around and arrange services that they may need.
This beloved community insitution creates custom-made kites you can fly or display. Appliqués are sewn onto the kites in the small workroom in the back, and designs range from Hawaiian flags to Hawaiian animals like pueo (owls)—with a little bit of mermaid fun in between. Also in stock are paper kites, mini kites, and wind socks. The adjacent gallery sells locally made crafts, Hawaiian books and CDs, jewelry, and other souvenirs.
Prices are fair for the contemporary aloha apparel that makes up one of Hawaii’s better-known clothing lines. This shop on the Ala Malama shopping strip fits in with the Hawaiian pride that permeates Molokai’s culture. The modern designs and bold colors adorn light cotton fabrics and accessories, and the apparel comes in a variety of sizes. This is your best option if you're looking for matching family wear.
Don't let the name fool you—along with a surprisingly good selection of fine wines and liquors, this store also carries cheeses and snacks that are the perfect accompaniments for a sunset experience.
The island's best-stocked supermarket has a slogan ("Your family store on Molokai") that is truly credible. Sun-and-surf essentials keep company with fresh produce, meat, groceries, and liquor. Locals say the food is fresher here than at the other major supermarket.
At this colofrul local favorite, you'll find soaps and lotions; a small collection of 14-karat-gold chains, rings, earrings, and bracelets; and a jumble of Hawaiian quilts, pillows, souvenirs, books, and postcards. Aloha wear, muumuu, T-shirts, and beach togs are also available if you're clothes shopping.
This small market that’s been open since 1938 has a little bit of everything and is a good stop for provisions, drinks, and other goodies before visiting the western or northern part of the island. This multigenerational mom-and-pop store is run by the same family as Molokai Wines and Spirits.
The stand at the most diverse working farm on Molokai is the place to purchase fresh, reasonably priced produce, herbs, and gourmet farm products. They also ship to the U.S. mainland, so if you fall in love with their offerings, you can sign up for the subscription service or randomly order papayas and pineapples when the mood strikes.
A small downtown shop, this arts and crafts co-op has locally made folk art like dolls, clay flowers, silk sarongs, and children's items. The shop also carries rotating original art by more than 100 Molokai artists and giclée prints, as well as jewelry, locally produced music, and Saint Damien keepsakes.
Across from Kanemitsu Bakery, this one-stop shop offers fancy and casual island-style wear, including Roxy and Quicksilver for men, women, and children.
