Tucked away on a Kapahulu Avenue corner, just outside the bustle of Waikiki is an eclectic shop that’s part island, part vintage and part East meets West. Peggy of Peggy’s Picks finds treasures on her travels abroad and locally through estate sales. You never know what unique items you’ll discover while browsing the shop. Some are small enough to fit into visitors’ pockets and suitcases, while others are big enough to fill your living room. Locals often find both antique and modern Bali furnishings, such as screens and cabinets. I was taken with a small apothecary console – a dozen tiny drawers for organizing. The selection of hand-carved wooden pieces is nice and includes gift items such as bowls and serving ware.Put on a happy face, and while you’re at it, add some Aloha to your attire.
Collect tikis, frogs, cats or horses? You’ll find these wooden figures and miniatures along with many more creatures both real and mythological. As a photographer, I’ve found many fantastic props from wooden bowls to giant reproduction seashells to use in my portraits.
Peggy’s also has a small but varied assortment of vintage aloha shirts and vintage women’s clothing at affordable prices. You’ll also find new textiles and accessories such as pareaus, sandals, lightweight scarves and hair ornaments. The jewelry counter has a varied selection of rings, pendants and earrings. Local artists are represented with matted fine art prints available for purchase.
Items are very reasonably priced, and unlike most tourist shopping areas, there’s no pressure to buy; just friendly faces willing to assist you. The shop is small and can be described as cluttered – every square inch is taken up while some of the area used for display. Don’t be afraid to peek behind items and into shelves or to kneel down for a closer look at stuff on the ground. Remember, the containers are for sale too! The longer you look, the more you’ll find to take home.Look high and low. There are treasures hidden in every nook and cranny.
If you want a truly original gift or souvenir to take home from your Hawaii vacation, then stop by Peggy’s Picks at the address below. Parking is very limited, with just two spaces available and minimal street parking. They’ve got some cool Christmas-themed stuff, too, like island-style and vintage ornaments. One of our family’s favorites is a scale-model angels’ horn that my kids enjoy holding for their holiday portraits!It’s not too late to tack on that last holiday ornament to your Christmas tree. Or stock up for next year!
PEGGY’S PICKS • 732 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu, HI 96816 • Open 11am-7pm, Monday-Saturday • 808-737-3297 • Limited parking; Near bus route
