Shopping on Lanai, Hawaii

Explore Funky Gift Shops, Clothing Boutiques and Art Galleries

Aug 2, 2008

On the tiny, laid-back island of Lanai, visitors can stroll the six-block downtown area of Lanai City and shop at locally owned boutiques and galleries for fun souvenirs.

Admittedly, Lanai is not a shopping mecca. Outside of the overpriced gift shops at the two upscale Four Seasons resorts, there are just a handful of boutiques, art galleries and clothing stores on the island.

But the locally owned stores are full of unusual merchandise and only-in-Hawaii souvenirs that make great gifts for friends and family back home. Plus, shop owners are known for their friendly, laid-back nature. It's a treat just to chat with the locals about life on languid Lanai.

Here's a peek at some of the shops that are found in Lanai City, in the six-block area surrounding Dole Park:

Dis 'n' Dat Shop

Dozens of wind chimes hang from the ceiling at this darling little shop, home of the original Hawaiian "slippah" jewelry. These little flip-flop charms are encrusted with crystals and come in all sorts of colors and designs. Other whimsical items here include handmade, one-of-a-kind ceramic fish Christmas tree ornaments -- each one is totally different. Plus bookmarks, journals, home decor, and tons of other types of jewelry. Corner of Kiele and 8th streets.

The Local Gentry

This small clothing store sells not only hip, island designs for women, but also aloha shirts for men and gift items for babies, too. Clothing is generally on the pricey side, but look for the sale rack outside. This is wher you need to go if you forgot to pack a cute dress or strappy sandals for dinner at the Lanai City Grille or one of the Four Seasons' elegant restaurants. On Ilima at 7th Street.

Gifts with Aloha

This store is part art gallery part gift shop. Dozens of Lanai artists, as well as artists from other islands, are represented here. You'll find original painted pieces, alongside prints, postcards and notecards, as well as other artwork made of ceramic, glass and wood found on Lanai, such as Koa and Cook Island Pine. Other items that make fine mementos of a trip to Lanai include hand-quilted pillows and bedspreads, festive pareos, jewelry, Hawaiian CDs and more. Corner of Ilima and 7th streets.

Lanai Beach Walk

This new shop offers loads of beachwear and casual clothing for men and women, and is the island's only Crocs (rubber sandal) dealer. Corner of Fraser and 9th streets.

Mike Carroll Gallery

Perhaps the island's best-known artist, Mike Carroll sells oil paintings and prints of many well-known sights on Lanai: Hulopo'e Bay, Kalokahi Church, Sweetheart Rock and the typical plantation-style homes. Other subjects are tranquil gardens, florals, still lifes and images of island life. Corner of Koele and 7th streets.

The copyright of the article Shopping on Lanai, Hawaii in Hawaii Travel is owned by Kara Williams. Permission to republish Shopping on Lanai, Hawaii in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.