Located in the Wailua Homesteads on Kauai’s East Side, the Wailua Country Store is reestablishing itself as both a neighborhood gathering place and a convenient stop for those exploring nearby attractions.
Originally established in 1995, the store has long served the “upcountry” Wailua community. Its roots are tied to Kauai’s ranching history, with connections to a generational operation started in the 1930s by Manuel Sanchez. In its early years, the store focused on everyday goods along with locally raised meat sourced from nearby ranch land.
In 2023, the store was purchased and revitalized by Naomi Nicholson and her family, who have focused on creating a welcoming space centered on community and local products. Today, the Wailua Country Store offers a mix of essentials and locally sourced items, including fresh baked bread, coffee, sweets, gifts, beverages, and grab-and-go meals.
The store continues its connection to local agriculture by offering grass-fed beef from Wailua Meat, operated by William Sanchez, maintaining a direct link to its original foundation.
Beyond shopping, the store functions as a community hub. A book share cabinet outside invites visitors to exchange books, while a bulletin board provides space for local announcements, services, and events. Seasonal additions, including a holiday photo display in November, reinforce its role as a place where residents gather and connect.
A customer loyalty program adds further value, tracking purchases by phone number and offering rewards such as 15% discounts and $5 off at checkout.
For tourists, the location adds to its appeal. The store sits just minutes from popular East Side destinations including Opaekaa Falls, the Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain) Trail, and the Kauai Hindu Monastery. It is also along the route to Keahua Arboretum, making it a convenient stop for snacks, drinks, or a quick meal before or after exploring these areas.
For both residents and visitors heading into the Wailua interior, the Wailua Country Store offers a practical and welcoming place to stop—combining everyday convenience with a strong sense of community rooted in Kauai’s past and present.
