Hilo Hattie - Store of Hawaii

Nimitz Store – Although the dimmed entrance for the Main Hilo Hattie store off Nimitz Highway was not as inviting from afar, I was greeted with a warm smile and shell lei from “Kalani”--thats him in the photo!. Without a clue of what was behind the double doors, I proceeded to find a little lobby with a 40XL Aloha Shirt hanging on the wall (made in Hawai‘i of course!) along side was the well deserved bragging rights voting Hilo Hattie as #1 for Aloha wear. The retail portion of the store provided a neatly organized variety of Island designed wear, accessories, home products, and munchies. I was also impressed to find an athletic section supporting the University of Hawaii. GO BOWS! The staff there was very visible and didn’t loiter over you like a hawk as you browse through the apparel.

Although I didn’t purchase any items from the floor, I did have a voucher for a free beach towel and t-shirt compliments of Outrigger Hotels & Resorts, so I proceeded to the cashier. “Kanoe,” the cheery cashier was eager to help me with a smile. She promptly handled my free order, extended her “Mahalo” and sent me on my way.

Outside, three empty trolley buses waited for their passengers to finish their shopping. I notied a sign “FREE Shuttle” and thought to myself “wow, I should really play tourist more often and take advantage of the free services!” A friendly “hello” from the tour bus operator encouraged me to step up and peer into the comfortable bus. He agreed to let me capture the moment with a photo taken by another tour bus operator! How sweet!