The Kukuiula Village shopping center in Poipu is one of my favorite places in Hawaii to enjoy a leisurely afternoon of shopping and eating; two of my favorite things! If you’re here on you’re Hawaii Vacation the authentic plantation-style architecture, live music and lush tropical vegetation will encourage to take it all in.
Fresh tropical flowers add a refreshing touch to where you are staying.
Exotic plants and bright flowers spring from the center of the paved walkway that’s dotted with benches. Colorful shops on either side include Kauai’s only gourmet grocery store and cafe. The cafe serves sandwiches, salads, crepes and fish tacos with house made corn tortillas. Savor the Fungi Pizza on their lanai. Fire roasted and whisper thi,n it’s topped with caramelized onions, sautéed local mushrooms, mild fontina, salty parmesan and sprinkled with fresh thyme. Josselin’s Tapas Bar & Grill serves island-style sangria and elegant pupus at reasonable prices while Merriman’s offers fine-dining with ocean views and Lappert’s ice cream provides a quick snack.
Monkeypod Jam uses fruit grown on Kauai.
Every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. there is a gourmet farmers market with a beer and wine garden, live Hawaiian music and chef demonstrations.
There are 25 vendors and some sell produce and tropical flowers but it’s the food artisans that make it unique. Sweet handcrafted fruit spreads such as the papaya coconut cream or lilikoi (passionfruit) curd showcase Kauai’s fruit. Take fresh baked pies, cupcakes, Moloaa Bay coffee and bread back to your room for a delicious breakfast. Hawaiian sea salt blends and honey make great souvenirs. Gift stores sell jewelry handcrafted on Kauai and clothing boutiques feature tropical batik fashions. Bikini Planet sports the largest swimwear selection on the South shore and Bungalow 9 offers contemporary beach apparel, accessories and jewelry.
There are several galleries and one of my favorites is Halelea. It’s a boutique within a gallery specializing in original handcrafted work by local artists.
“ Lei Maker” by Pepe, one of the paintings at Halalea Gallery.
Paintings, photography, koa furniture, jewelry and clothing are on display. There will be a trunk show on June 12 showcasing gorgeous jewelry made by Veronica. Every third Thursday, from 6 to 8 p.m. join Helelea for Art Night featuring live music, wine tastings and the opportunity to meet the artists.
Kukuiula Village is a wonderful way to enjoy the high-quality products Kauai has to offer. With so many uniquely Kauaian goods, you may have to buy more luggage!
Photos by Dan Lane..
