The Hawaii Store plays a vital role in fulfilling the Center’s mission by preserving and showcasing the diverse cultures, arts, and crafts of Polynesia. It supports the educational growth and development of everyone at Brigham Young University-Hawai’i and the Polynesian Cultural Center. Additionally, The Hawaii Store embodies a spirit of love and service that enhances and uplifts the experience of all visitors to this unique place.

The Hawaii Store began as Shop Polynesia. In the early 2000s, it expanded online and eventually rebranded to its current name, The Hawaii Store. This transition marked a significant step in its mission to bring the rich and diverse heritage of Polynesia to a broader audience through the digital landscape. The rebranding also helped in aligning its name more closely with its roots, emphasizing the connection to Hawaiian culture and the spirit of aloha.

Throughout these changes, The Hawaii Store has maintained a strong commitment to quality and authenticity, ensuring that each product not only represents the craftsmanship of Polynesian artists but also carries the essence of the region’s traditions. This blend of past and present, tradition and innovation, allows The Hawaii Store to serve as a bridge connecting visitors and enthusiasts with the cultures of the Polynesian islands.

You can find island-made and hand-crafted products in The Hawaii Store website like Hawaiian clothing and jewelry, imported Polynesian handicrafts and ukuleles. The site also features a fine mix of food items and souvenirs. It stands out from other stores because all the products people see will always be tied to the experience they had at the Center. This connection makes every item from The Hawaii Store not just a purchase, but a keepsake with deep emotional and cultural significance.

You are not merely buying products but you’re taking home pieces of the Polynesian Cultural Center. Whether it’s a beautifully crafted ukulele or a traditional Hawaiian dress, each item reflects the rich heritage and arts of Polynesia. The convenience of online shopping ensures that these unique treasures are accessible to everyone, allowing the cultural journey to continue long after the visit.

Nephi Setoki, ecommerce manager, said, “I think most people that come to the website are former guests. Many of the things we sell have extreme sentimental value because it reminds them of the experience. That’s what makes it unique.” He elaborated that the connection visitors feel with the Polynesian Cultural Center doesn’t end when they leave, it extends through the items they purchase.

Moreover, these items often become cherished keepsakes, evoking memories of time spent in Hawaii and at the Center. This emotional bond makes The Hawaii Store more than just a retail outlet, it is a bridge between past moments and future enjoyment for visitors, uniquely tying them to the Center through the products they buy.

Setoki said the goal of The Hawaii Store is to be branded as the official online store of the Center. “Similar to Disney, you won’t remember everything you saw, but you remember seeing the items. You would normally access that through disney.com, trying to find the items you want to buy. Though The Hawaii Store hasn’t gotten that same level of awareness in people’s minds, there’s still work that needs to be done to get that position correctly in the mind of guests that The Hawaii Store is the official online store of the Center.”

The goal is not just to make the store known but to create a lasting impression that ties the online shopping experience with the cherished memories made at the Center. By consistently offering unique, high-quality products and fostering a strong brand connection, The Hawaii Store aims to become parallel with the overall experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Karizza Llanera, ecommerce specialist, said the top selling products of the Store are Hawaiian shirts and dresses and fine jewelry. Llanera noted that the intricate craftsmanship and unique designs of the fine jewelry are what attract many visitors to these items. Moreover, the Hawaiian shirts and dresses are made from high-quality materials that ensure comfort and durability, allowing customers to enjoy a piece of Hawaii in their daily wear.

Llanera said, “I think most of the customers of The Hawaii Store have visited the Center. They have seen the culture and some products we sell. With the help of Google search and SEO, when people type Hawaiian apparel, we aim that we’re on the top search results.”

She emphasized the importance of search engine optimization in making sure that visitors can easily find the products that resonate with their experiences at the Center. Llanera pointed out that maintaining a strong online presence not only drives sales but also keeps the connection alive between the visitors and their memories of Polynesian culture.

The experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center holds deep sentimental value for all of us, not just in terms of memories but also in the products we take home. Setoki said, “After the visit of guests, it’s the sentimental connection that remains strongest. Guests often think, ‘I’ve been to Polynesian Cultural Center and loved it. I’ll wear this shirt I got there until it’s worn out.’”

As you browse through the items on The Hawaii Store website, you are often taken back to your cherished moments at the Center, making your purchases even more meaningful. Each item, whether it’s a Hawaiian shirt, an intricately designed piece of jewelry, or a handcrafted ukulele, acts as a tangible reminder of the vibrant cultures and warm hospitality you experienced. For many, wearing or using these items allows them to relive and share their experiences, keeping the spirit of the Polynesian Cultural Center alive in their everyday lives.

The Hawaii Store offers a wide range of products, including Hawaiian apparel, jewelry, decor, ukuleles and more. Shipping costs a flat rate of $10, depending on the size and weight of the items, while orders of $89.99 or more qualify for free shipping. Emphasizing customer satisfaction, The Hawaii Store often has seasonal discounts and special promotions, providing great value for anyone looking to bring a piece of Hawaii into their homes. For further details and to explore the full product range, visit thehawaiistore.com.

Antoniette Caryl Yee-Liwanag, a Filipina, currently resides in the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii. She speaks Tagalog, Kapampangan, English, and Spanish, which helps her connect with people from various backgrounds while working at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Her blog explores exciting journeys of food, travel and culture. Though it may seem unusual, she enjoys the simple hobby of keeping her home spotless, reflecting her love for order and detail.