(Visited 04/24/26 FR @ 5:00pm and 04/25/26 SA @ 1:00pm): This old town was cool like a koala!…read more
Old Kōloa Town was an original plantation-era shopping village in the heart of historic Kōloa Town, which I came upon while I explored the area, the shops, and specifically Mucho Aloha Brewhouse. Kōloa Town was the home of Hawai'i's first successful sugar mill, so this quaint outdoor shopping emporium catered to this important time in history to try and meld the two times and worlds together. Otherwise a sleepy town, Old Kōloa Town attracted visitors and tourists for its smattering of businesses that ranged from art galleries, local souvenirs, restaurants, and more. Did this old town hold enough coolness to warrant future returns!?
PURCHASE(S)
Mucho Aloha Brewhouse ($98.00): My mandatory visit to a nearby brewery.
Mango's ($16.00): Some dessert onsite and also something for later.
Kaua'i Island Brewing Co. ($87.00): My first experience while in town, it was so nice I went twice!
EXPERIENCE
A slow-paced town where my legs casually led me along the main road and pathways as I stepped into one storefront after another https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=144&select=WqrC5FX_CFg_bHOJm2Yn5Q to see what was inside possibly for that must-have gift or something to be wowed by. I gave the respect each business deserved, admired and held their wares in some cases, curiously people-watched, and eventually was a patron at one specific business within the Old Kōloa Town shopping complex as well as two other nearby businesses in town. Iconic roosters https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=144&select=G1mYSbhamHS-3nlBBlMmzw roamed everywhere (please don't feed them), and the gentle wind blew against me as I stood waiting for the bus to take me back to my hotel.
SERVICE
Generally speaking, all of the employees I came in contact with were friendly and helpful. The only business I actually spent money and time at was Mucho Aloha Brewhouse, and the service was efficient and straightforward.
PARKING
(Varied; N/A this instance): I took the bus, so this wasn't an issue for me. Otherwise, there appeared to be some onsite parking with spots along the main drag of Koloa Rd. and other side streets - 'nuff said.
ATMOSPHERE, DÉCOR, AMBIENCE
A cluster of businesses divided into buildings paired with other non-associated stores and food trucks in town, you had various options that helped separate you from your money, from art, clothing, restaurants, trinkets, and more. Each shop had its distinct feel, but the overriding theme was the Hawaiian aloha spirit. Each storefront had plenty of natural lighting while various electric ceiling lights filled in the rest. TVs and background music (if applicable) varied by merchant. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=144&select=QQmaC7rAXbteMyjTfkSJ3g
ATTIRE
Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt, boardshorts, and flip-flops.
OVERALL
Old Kōloa Town - both the shopping complex and the actual town - was a lot of fun and I would definitely visit it if I were in the area. There were still many places to spend my money, the vibe was totally chill, and I could possibly spend an entire day just putzing around. I found complete value based on the prices, service, and experience noted above (TOTAL paid experience was around $201.00 BEFORE any discounts, points usage, and/or tip). And, at least the stores I shopped at accepted my credit card of choice... AMEX! 5.0 STARS