The Growing Keiki in Haleiwa
As a mama and an auntie, I was looking for high-quality children's clothes and souvenirs, and I wanted items that were locally-sourced, if possible. And I found The Growing Keiki -- the mother-lode of beautiful children's clothing most of which is designed and made in Hawaii. On their racks are darling examples of Hawaiian shirts, t-shirts, hats, and the most precious sundresses imaginable. They also have children's books about Hawaii, toys, and baby items. If you have children in your life, The Growing Keiki is a fabulous spot to find truly Hawaiian souvenirs.
Not headed to Hawaii soon? The Growing Keiki has a limited online shopping experience, and they take orders over the phone, too!
“Full fathom five thy father lies;
Of his bones are coral made;
Those are pearls that were his eyes:
Nothing of him that doth fade,
But doth suffer a sea-change
Into something rich and strange.
Sea-nymphs hourly ring his knell:
Ding-dong.
Hark! now I hear them,—ding-dong, bell.”
Full Fathom Five in Waialua
First of all: any shop named for a Shakespearean reference is worth a second look. But it would be easy to miss Full Fathom Five. Tucked into the corner next to a junky souvenir shop, Full Fathom Five doesn't pop from the outside, but it is worth the adventure for inside sparkles with custom-made sea glass jewelry and locally-sourced art.
I purchased several pieces by Hawaiian artist Doug Miller. I was looking for small items, and found the perfect gifts: turtles and crabs made from recycled soda cans, seed pods of the Hale Koa tree, mother of pearl, and surfboard resin. They are beautiful! And I love that they were easy to pack.
But Full Fathom Five's biggest draw is their sea glass jewelry. Artist Christine Pagano works in the gallery creating one-of-a-kind pieces using sea glass from local beaches. And, if you are so inclined, you can have her create a custom piece for you using sea glass you find. We picked up a bunch at Laie Beach Park, and had our budget not been limited, I would have asked her to weave her magic for me. Next time!
Check out Full Fathom Five's jewelry selection on their website and make a point to visit on your next trip to the North Shore.