Kailua-Kona's oceanfront Ali'i Drive isn't just about the daily shopping strip — the real magic happens during the monthly Kokua Kailua Village Stroll. This pop-up market takes over the waterfront one Sunday per month from 1-6pm, transforming the usual tourist scene into a genuine local community event. You'll find everything from handmade soaps and natural deodorants to locally-grown fruits and kids' Hawaiian outfits, plus live music echoing off the ocean. Between the monthly strolls, the regular shops and galleries along this mile-long stretch offer their own treasures — just skip the made-in-China stuff for the real local goods. The sunset views from the seawall make this as much about the scenery as the shopping.
💡 Insider Tip
Come early or late to avoid parking headaches — there's a pay lot nearby but it fills up fast. Don't buy from the first stall you see; compare prices between vendors since the same items often show up at multiple booths.
Most shops 9 AM – 9 PM
Varies
Metered street parking or free lot by Kailua Pier
Late afternoon into sunset
