Where to Shop, Eat, & Live in Kalaheo | Kaua’i Lifestyle

Perched up-country on the south shore of Kaua’i, sits the quaint town of Kalaheo. Visitors often pass through this charming town on their way to visit popular destinations such as Kaua’i Coffee or Waimea Canyon. Don’t be too quick to just pass by. This little town has a lot to offer.

Shops and Food

Kalaheo Cafe – A local favorite for sure. This cafe has been around for more than 25 years and serves up a hearty and delicious menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also just pop in for coffee and baked goods to go.

Brick Oven Pizza – Known for their pizza but many come for the pasta, sandwiches, and dinner buffet (currently on Mondays and Thursdays).

The Right Slice – This popular pie shop bakes up some serious sweet and savory pies. You can also find them set up at the weekly Culinary Market at the Shops at Kukui’ula where I always see a line. They recently added a pie vending machine at Ha Coffee bar in Lihue as well. Definitely worth a stop.

Pacos Tacos – One of many locations on Kaua’i, you’ll find this Mexican eatery on the Kukui’olono golf course which closes at 5:30pm daily. The views alone are worth the trip.

Kaua’i Kookie – Home of the original “kookie,” this Kaua’i staple has an array of baked goods, packaged cookies, and savory food items such as plate lunches and has a small market area.

Kalaheo Steak and Ribs – Looking for a night out with a little entertainment? This paniolo style restaurant often has live music and karaoke.

Medeiros Farms – Located off of Papalina Road, this small shop offers local meats and eggs. Whole chickens are currently restocked on Wednesdays.

Kaua’i Coffee – On over 3,000 acres, Kaua’i Coffee is the largest coffee farm in the U.S. It’s also an easy place to kill some time. Enjoy a walking or open-air truck tour of the grounds or just explore the tasting room and gift shop. They also have ice cream to keep your keiki busy.

Aloha Exchange – One of my favorite shops for gifts on the island. They have an array of outdoor gear, clothing, and they put their signature label on many items.

Kalaheo Music and Strings – Musical instrument store that specializes in Ukuleles. A nice selection including their own Kaua’i ukuleles that the owners designed themselves. Want to learn how to play? No problem, they offer lessons too.

Creative Ohana – Cute shop with a variety of crafts from local artists.

Warehouse 3540– Down the road a bit in Lawai (still technically Kalaheo), the Warehouse is a unique collection of local artisan boutiques not to be missed. This is also a great place to stop for lunch as most days they have a variety of food trucks parked out front… Kickshaws, Kaua’i Poke Co, Uncle Bobby’s, and the Fresh Shave. Every second Saturday of the month Warehouse 3540 is open late and has live music from 5-9pm.

Living in Kalaheo

There are many things that I love about living in Kalaheo…

Convenient location – 20 minute drive to Lihue, 15 minutes to sunny Poipu beaches, and 15 minutes to Salt Pond Beach Park in Hanapepe.

Cooler temps – Often referred to as cool Kalaheo, this upcountry town which sits at about 700 ft elevation stays a few degrees cooler than a lot of low lying communities. In fact, you’ll find that some houses in this area even have fireplaces. Plentiful tradewinds and occasional passing showers make it a comfortable place to live all year long.

Activities – Start your morning off with a class from the Yoga Garage, Kalaheo Yoga or Organic Functional Fitness… just down the hill. The Kukui’olono golf course and park has great golf rates and some scenic walking paths, some of which boast ocean views.

Neighborhoods – With many homes and neighborhoods on both the makai (ocean) side and mauka (mountain) side of Kalaheo, it’s a good idea to explore and see what area feels the most like home to you. Many Kalaheo homes will have beautiful ocean and mountain views. A newer community on the makai side, Kakela Makai, is known for the breathtaking views of the ocean. Check out what real estate is currently available in Kalaheo by clicking here.

If you’re thinking of buying real estate in Kalaheo or anywhere on Kaua’i, I would love to help you. Please contact me any time.