"The Inspiration"…read more Curating their inventory to fit the local need. Family owned and operated. Cozy and welcoming, it's a place with unique offerings. They lock into the local community to make the whole town feel complete. It's a special, one-of-a-kind place. These are the mom 'n pop stores I grew up with on the Big Island of Hawai'i. Some are still around. Mom 'n pop stores, the inspiration behind Kalepa's Store at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. Ko Olina-O'ahu. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ "My Storytelling" It's the weekend and my parents are taking my siblings and I to a kiosk in Kaiko'o Mall. To enjoy Icee from Kaiko'o Seeds N'things, as we choose bags of cracked seed from this mom 'n pop store. Household appliances weren't purchased from corporate retailers like today. My family and most of East Hawai'i years+ ago were loyal to mom 'n pop stores like Modern Appliance. Next door, Kay's Lunch Center had the most delicious Korean fried chicken made by "mom", and slices of homemade cream pies by "pop". ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Kai Store since 1948, Chika Nakano since 1975, Optical Dispensers, Hilo Siam Thai Restaurant (see my Yelp review), and Leung's Chop Suey House since 1975. Doris Place since 1948 on the west side and Hirano Store since 1969 in Mountain View. These are some of the mom 'n pop stores currently still in-business on the Big Island of Hawai'i. Since my childhood. And of course, the Hasegawa General Store since 1910, still serving the local community in Hana-Maui. Featured in the Disney animated film, Lilo & Stitch. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ "Disney Storytelling" A story is shared with intricate details. Culturally significant, extremely immersive. The Disney way - through storytelling. The culture of the Hawaiian people is displayed in the most creative way by Disney Imagineers. Unlike any resort in Hawai'i. Unique architecture and design, awe-inspiring artwork and murals throughout. Multi-sensory excellence at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. Home to Kalepa's Store. The only place to purchase official Disney merchandise and exclusive Aulani items in Hawai'i. (Visit my Yelp review of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.) ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ "Elevated Perspective" Joyful suspension, relaxed excitement. A rental car made the drive possible from Waikīkī on my first visit. Fourteen months later, a last minute window of opportunity became available for another visit to Kalepa's Store. I've learned to look upwards for hidden high level details and architectural Disney magic. As I entered Kalepa's Store, I found the most meaningful key designing element. Framed photos of actual mom 'n pop stores in Hawai'i. Some are now closed, others are currently still in business. It brought personality, warmth, meaning and an authentic deep connection to the rich history of my home-state. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Retail exclusivity is why I'm here. Unique Aulani logo items, clothing and accessories that cannot be found inside the Disney theme parks and online. Bags of Disney Parks Main Street Popcorn like those found at Disneyland are found along with my favorite, Gummi Disney Character Bites. Guest service excellence at Kalepa's Store. Individual attention, personalized conversations, strong engagement from the cast members. We laughed and reminisced about our past trips to Disneyland, Disney vloggers we watch. Photo ops were taken, care was extended. I felt valued. That the drive from Waikīkī was worth every minute, that my choice to be here as a local Hawai'i resident was appreciated. I'm departing Kalepa's Store, Aulani logo shopping bags in both hands with orange tissue paper puffs. All smiles, I'm content. Parking validation is extended since my purchase reached a certain dollar amount. It's now time to enjoy the resort property for just a while longer... ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ "Future Inspired" Mom 'n pop stores. Independent, family-owned, a unique role in the local community. But they struggle to compete with larger corporations, big box retailers and e-commerce platforms who have buying power. My visit to Kalepa's Store at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa opened my eyes. It made me realize my unique role in my local community, how important my choices are. Where I shop, where I dine, where I choose to take my business as a consumer. It matters to help keep money circulating nearby for the vitality of mom 'n pop stores and small businesses in my community, on my home-island. In Hawai'i. Even though I'm employed by a corporation, I've recently decided on making small, gradual changes in some of my habitual spending. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ "Be Inspired" I implore you to do the same while you visit, shop, casually meander and enjoy the most unique resort property in Hawai'i. Like I did. Stay for hours, return for a second time, or become an overnight guest. Immerse yourself in the details. Embrace the magic of Disney and the rich history of Hawai'i at Kalepa's Store. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. Become inspired.

This store is always busy no matter what time it is. People come here to pick up their Disney…read moremerchandise. I love to check out the different designs of their bags. I've bought a few over the years. I didn't see anything that I liked this time around. They did have those popular Disney x Aloha print bags near the entrance. People were buying everything in the store. They were standing in line holding clothes, mugs, toys, headbands with the ears and snacks. I really liked the Disney ears, but they were $40 something each or $30 each when you buy 3. I decided not to get them, even though they were so cute.

This is one of the two stores located at Aulani Resort. This store would be the higher end of the…read moretwo. While it's smaller, I could tell that they sold higher quality items. They sell clothes, sunglasses, mugs and Dooney x Disney bags. Some of their Dooney bags were 40% off. I also loved the matching family set of clothing they had on the mannequins at the front by the entrance.

So many exclusive Disney items here at Disney Aulani that's not sold online! When I went April '26…read morethey even had some items discounted like 40% off Aulani Dooney & Bourke items and 30% off Tommy Bahama items. We only bought stuff we were actually going to use and it was hard not to buy extra things because they were cute or exclusive. If you're a DVC member it's 10% off purchase. Bought: - Mickey Mouse wreath with sand dollars (cashier gave it in an unopened box which I put in a carry on bag grocery bag) - Plumeria Mickey light up necklace - Aulani sterling gold 18k bracelet - Leighton Lam Designs necklaces in plumeria, monstera, and hibiscus design (all online on brand site) - malie plumeria lotion was heavenly

Great place to get souvenirs. The owner mostly support local artist, local creator, local artisan,…read morelocal craftsman/craftswoman/craftsperson, or local maker in Hawaii. Great store.

Souvenir collectors stop here! These's a lot of reasonably priced items to choose from: wood…read morecarvings of sea life with meaning - Honu, hammerhead sharks, and manta rays. Hawaiian adage license plates and a nice seascape under the Milk Way printed on metal. A couple of things that attracted my attention were maps of islands either as a group or singly done on layers of carved wood. Tempting but I passed. We picked up a couple of reasonably priced items to take back with us.

Sure you can purchase a cheaper T-shirt but will it still be your "go to," softest, most favorite…read moretee thirty years later?! I still own some. These LAST and assuredly honor the Island vibe. Loved introducing this brand to my grandsons! Jennifer was exceptional with recommendations, sizing advice, offering "ship to home" for missing size (it was waiting for us when we got home!!) and multitasking since there were many of us! This location is small but mighty. Every inch of real estate is packed with exceptional Island clothing, jewelry, socks, stickers .... It's fun and you're investing in a T-shirt that will outlive you, it's so well made!

I have not had such a horrible experience with a retail store in a long time. Be advised that their…read moreshirts have major shrinkage. The "resolution" offered by customer service was nowhere near satisfactory. They also made a pro mouse they did not follow through with. I would absolutely not shop here. Getting home from vacation with shorts you cannot wear and they won't resolve is extremely disappointing.

This newly opened market with food vendors needs more reviews and recognition! Came here after…read morefinally having Sunday off. There's a variety of food trucks, tents, crafts and gifts to shop through. Went over to the Minasa tent to try their ube churros, 3 for $12. Pretty pricey for 3 small churros that was definitely just a long regular churro cut into 3 pieces, but support local businesses anyway. The ube churros was sooooo goood and crunchy, would definitely order again. Made my way over to RissazKillaKonez, so many different soft serve flavors, I got a cappuchino, pretty good on a hot sunny day, ice cream was melting so fast though. Lastly, saw this crispy beef jerky tent. Beef jerky is my fave snack, I like all kinds, store bought or local made. For $14 I got a teriyaki crispy jerky after trying a bunch of samples and to be honest, it's not the best. It's bland, it isn't that "crispy", practically just hard jerky that breaks apart easily. Comparing this crispy beef jerky to the one in swap meet, swap meet is 1000 times way better and more flavorful, melts in your mouth type crispy jerky.

Just went here and NOTHING! CLOSED!!! This listing should be updated so others won't come here!…read moreSuch a shame and waste of time!

I've been to several SoHa Living locations in Waikiki, Ko Olina, and now Kapolei and I can honestly…read moresay they're consistently beautiful! The decor and presentation always stand out. Everything is styled so well, it honestly makes me want to live in a beach house. They have the cutest kitchen tools and home decor. I'm especially obsessed with their aprons, the prints and Hawaiian designs are just my style. I usually stop by just to window shop and see what's new, but so far... I've taken home three aprons and I'm absolutely in love with them!

I just want to share this store remained open when the wet & rainy weather occurred a couple weeks…read moreago. Majority of stores were closed because the electricity & power went out. But NO! Not this store, they kept their employees there to work in darkness & no power, no AC & having to use their phones to ring up customers. If the owners of this store care about their staff they would treat them better. And if you have them work in these conditions compensate them accordingly! Ever thought they might've been going through tough times in their homes too such as no electricity or power? So inconsiderate, greedy and no Aloha!!

Rainbow Craft Company is a great wholesale spot for shells, some lei (not flower), and other items…read morethat you'd find at the swap meet. We shop here to get supplies to make art with the items, but there are carved paddles and other touristy stuff as well. Tip: The location isn't always open - make sure to call and see when the owner will be in the warehouse. He is very very friendly and you can't beat the prices!

This business is awesome. There's a wide selection of carvings, shells, baskets and more. They are…read morenot always open so you need to call in advance to make sure. It's not really a store but a warehouse. I used to go to the old location in Mapunapuna. The new location is in Waikele.

Came here to see all the great sales mmmm hmmmm perfume clothes like the one level no need to go up…read moreand down the stairs Marie

This shopping center is MASSIVE!…read more Admittedly, I have become a town snob with age. Rarely do I venture outside the "Honolulu" district (Hawaii Kai to Salt Lake is my radius ring) unless a special occasion calls for it. I blame gas prices but really, it's laziness. What brought me out to the 96707 was a new store that popped up just a hop away. Plus I've heard great things about KMA. So why not kill two birds with one stone? I love the array of shops and restaurants! Kapolei in general is bustling with so many shopping centers, you can make a day out of it! I grabbed a shirt from Spencer's, fashion jewelry at Lovisa, and even checked out the movies that day. Will check this place out again with my husband and young boys. There's a bubble play area and a big grassy lawn for active kids. Part two to be continued!

What a beautiful experience! Ordering process was so smooth! Owner, Justin, picked up immediately…read moreto answer my questions. He accommodated same day order which was just a 5 hour notice. Pick up was at a house in Ewa. The decor box, wood keychain, and the overall opening experience was opening like an high end item. Everything was so professionally made. Although the items may have been tossed around in the bag, the chrysalis kept intact. The live butterfly crawled onto finger for a good 20-30 seconds before flying away. It was a perfect moment. Justin explained the butterfly is best to keep its wings closed together in the flat box than fluttering in a cube box for its own well-being. Butterfly release was more time sensitive for live butterfly. Will be a returning customer again soon.

What an amazing, beautiful experience watching our chrysalis' morph into beautiful Monarch…read moreButterflies. The presentation is outstanding and the instructions are very clear. These will make great gifts for any age. And when they emerged, they didn't just fly away. They stayed in my wife's hand for minutes. It was beautiful.

I truly enjoy going aisle by aisle here. It can honestly get a little overwhelming because there…read moreare way too many things I love all in one place! It's so hard to pick just one thing. This is definitely the kind of place where I have to be careful, or I'll break the bank. I'm grateful for the easy bathroom access too. The bathrooms are conveniently located right by the front entrance on the left side of the building. I'm grateful for the hot, ready to go meals. I'm grateful for the delicious 3D ice cream. I'm grateful that I can find so many Asian snacks, foods, and little treats that I love. One of my favorite things is the convenience of being able to buy something you love, microwave it right there, and then just chill and enjoy your food in their huge dining area. Sometimes it's the simple things like that that make me happy. I love where I live. I love being able to have access to places like Don Don Donki and finding little pieces of home, comfort, and happiness in the things I enjoy. I'm just grateful!

I really like this grocery store, especially if you're looking for a quick meal. They have a great…read moreselection of hot foods, and if your food isn't quite hot enough, there's a microwave conveniently located right after the self-checkout area so you can heat it up before heading out. I do love their poke bowls there. One thing I really appreciate is the amount of seating. There are plenty of tables indoors, plus outdoor seating if you'd rather enjoy your meal outside. It makes it a nice spot to relax instead of rushing out the door. I also noticed the condiments are available near the self-checkout area, which is a nice convenience. A few other helpful things I took note of: there are three ATM machines in the dining area if you need cash, and restrooms are available both near the main entrance and in the dining area. I took a few photos for reference to help future shoppers. Also I forgot to add, you now can enter from both sides of the store. Overall, it's more than just a grocery store, it's a great place to grab a quick bite, meet up with a friend, or even have a casual small business meeting. Definitely a convenient spot that offers a lot more than just groceries!