Big Island Style Shopping Escape

There’s a whole new take on Big Island style at Queens’ MarketPlace in Waikoloa Beach Resort, where girlfriend groups, bridal parties, sisterhood reunions and family can get away to play, shop, dine out and wiggle their newly-painted toes in the sand. With some of Hawai‘i’s hottest new stores and salon options, shoppers can come away from “Ladies Day” with fashionable finds and a fresh new look.

The fun, open-air Queens’ MarketPlace features stylish, locally owned and operated stores geared toward wahine who love to look good. Smart fashionistas enjoy the cute amd flirty new looks in Mahina, where co-owners Joe Wilmot and Jody Curtin collaborate to create the feel of a high-end boutique with exceptionally beautiful clothing that is also affordable for the working woman. Persimmon’s sleek and sassy style expresses personality in women’s clothes, shoes and accessories that include jewelry handcrafted in Hawai‘i, in addition to a unique line of Filthy Farmgirl soaps and other hard-to-find gift items. For the little surfer girl in every woman, some of the best names in swimwear, boardshorts, pareu, slippers and more are ready and waiting to hit the beach, from Quiksilver, Local Motion and Volcom to the brand-new Kona Surf & Sandal.

To avoid the shop-till-you-drop syndrome, Queens’ MarketPlace offers plenty of opportunities to re-energize, from Starbucks to the Food Court’s varied selections, a tucked-away Wine Bar and Romano’s Macaroni Grill or Charley’s Thai for a leisurely lunch in a cool environment. From happy hour through after-dinner drinks, Sansei Seafood, Steak and Sushi Bar offers the food, atmosphere and service that friends love to enjoy together.

The ladies (and men, too) can complete their day of beauty with a relaxing makeover and mani-pedi at Hearts & Stars Salon, the new Hawai‘i-based studio from Jason Harsin and friends. Featuring Harsin’s exclusive line of hair products inspired by island ingredients and massage therapies to soothe away everyday cares, Hearts & Stars finds a way to bring out the beauty in every body.

In the evening, free entertainment is part of the experience at Queens’ MarketPlace, with free family movies under the stars at the Coronation Pavilion. Currentrun films from animated to action-adventure are fun and popular entertainment for local residents and visitors alike. Plus, monthly mini-concerts starring exceptional musicians like Ekolu Mea Nui (Sonny Lim, Kevin Kealoha and Kunia Galdeira), Pomai Longakit, Kahulanui and more share Hawai‘i’s many talents in an intimate outdoor setting.

– Originally posted at http://thepacificedge.com/2014/07/18/queens-marketplace