Fun Finds to Make Back to School “Cool”
Sure, you probably have already gathered essential school supplies, checked off the book list and/or picked out a new outfit for that first day of classes, but we scouted several Kailua Shops to find colorful and fun, stylish and sporty accessories for all ages to add a touch of “cool” to “back to school.”
Island Inspired Accessories for Her
Fighting Eel takes everyday accessories to a stylish new level: backpacks with roomy compartments and an internal padded laptop sleeve; lunch bags with hours-long insulation; and quilted iPad and laptop sleeves made with durable rip-stop fabric – all available in exclusive Fighting Eel prints.
Playful Meets Practical at SoHa Keiki
SoHa Keiki’s proprietary line of kids’ gear is available in a variety of adorable Hawaii-inspired prints like surfboards and smiling sunbursts, and they are crafted to withstand energetic keiki lifestyles. Backpacks feature a spacious main compartment with multiple pockets to organize books and supplies – like SoHa Keiki’s pencil cases, composition books, and spiral notebooks. Matching lunch bags are lightweight but durable and keep meals cool with advanced insulation technology. Machine-washable sleep mats in comfy, cotton prints are thoughtfully designed with a removable pillow and roll up straps – ideal for daycare, school, or sleepovers.
Ocean Lifestyle Brands to Suit All
Drop into Hawaiian Island Creations to find Kailua Town’s largest selection of top surf brands and other ocean-lifestyle apparel for women, men, and kids. Check out the collections of footwear, backpacks, and other accessories from favorite brands like Billabong and Dakine, Roxy and RVCA. Budget-conscious shoppers will appreciate HIC’s monthly deals and promotions, too.
Welcome to the Neighborhood
Find Health-Centric Cuisine at Vietnam Deli
Joining Kailua Town’s diverse lineup of eateries, locally owned Vietnam Deli offers healthy, fresh-daily Vietnamese cuisine and vegan dishes. Owner and Executive Chef “Frank” Thanh Hung Nguyen, a Saigon native who moved to Hawai‘i seven years ago, opened the restaurant to bring his popular concept, The Ripple of Smiles (formerly located in Kaimuki), to the Windward community. Signature items include their flavorful pho, house spring rolls, bánh mì sandwiches, manapua bao, vermicelli plates, and house-made sauces made from scratch using wholesome ingredients.
Lau Hala Shops | 573 Kailua Road #102
Ocean’s End Opens Standalone Boutique
Waimanalo-raised designer and artist Dani Gosiaco has brought together her two brands – Ocean’s End and Beach Park Tattoo – under one creative roof. The unique concept blends retail, custom tattoos, and curated piercings in a space that celebrates art, culture, and community. Known for its custom-made vegan leather accessories, Ocean’s End features a signature collection of purses, crossbody bags, and minis – each designed with intention and crafted to reflect the brand’s creative spirit. Beach Park Tattoo, relocated from its former Hekili Street studio, offers custom tattoos, specializing in black and grey, fine line, and color work, alongside bespoke piercing services using fine jewelry.
Straub Building | 602 Kailua Road #103
REMAX Hawai’i Relocates Offices
REMAX Hawai‘i (formerly BHGRE Advantage Realty) is not new to the Kailua neighborhood but has moved its office from Kailua Town Center to Hahani Plaza. Rooted in a “client first” philosophy, this locally owned real estate company has served communities across O‘ahu and Maui for more than two decades. Today, the company’s new partnership with RE/MAX elevates its access to global resources and connects local clients with international buyers and sellers.
Hahani Plaza | 307 Hahani Street #319
Eye Center of Hawai’i Opens Kailua Office
One of Hawai‘i’s leading eye care providers expands its services to Windward Oahu with the August 13 opening of offices in Kailua Town. Eye Center of Hawai‘i, founded in 2001, offers comprehensive diagnostic, medical, and surgical services to Hawaii families, including screening and treatment for common eye diseases, vision loss analysis, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and routine eye exams. The center leads the way in laser cataract surgery technology and other state-of-the-art services, including glaucoma, retina issues, low vision, sports vision, and LASIK.
Straub Building | 602 Kailua Road #201
