What it is
Big Save Market in Kōloa is a local supermarket and part of the Times Supermarkets chain, which operates throughout Hawaiʻi. It functions as a conventional, no-frills grocery store for the South Shore communities of Kōloa and Poʻipū. For visitors, it's a key resource for stocking vacation rentals, grabbing beach-day supplies, and purchasing affordable, local-style prepared foods. The store offers a full range of departments including produce, meats, a bakery, and a deli, and carries both national brands and local Kauaʻi products.
Visitor experience
Travelers use Big Save primarily for its convenience and value, especially compared to resort-area shops. The store's main draw for a quick visit is its prepared foods counter, known as "Taste of Times The Kitchen," which offers well-regarded poke, plate lunches, sandwiches, and sushi. This makes it a popular stop for an easy lunch or dinner.
The atmosphere is that of a small-town, functional grocery store rather than a polished, upscale market. Aisles can be tight, but the selection covers most visitor needs, from basic groceries and alcohol to local snacks and fresh leis. It serves as a practical hub for travelers staying in condos or anyone seeking an authentic, everyday shopping experience alongside local residents.
Logistics
Location: 5516 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, on the main road in historic Kōloa town, a short drive from the Poʻipū resort area.
Hours: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Holiday hours are reduced, and the store is closed on Christmas Day.
Parking: A free, private parking lot is available in front of the store.
Duration: A quick stop for prepared food can take 10-15 minutes, while a full grocery run could take 30-60 minutes.
Services: The store offers an in-store Bank of Hawaii ATM, a copy machine, fishing supplies, fresh flowers and leis, and sells one-day and monthly Kauaʻi Bus passes.
Payment: Accepts major credit cards and SNAP.
Safety and cautions
Product Freshness: Some online reviews mention checking expiration dates on perishable items like milk. It is advisable for shoppers to verify dates before purchasing.
Bag Policy: While not explicitly stated on the store's site, Hawaiʻi has restrictions on single-use plastic bags. Visitors should be prepared to pay a fee for bags or bring their own reusable ones.
Holiday Hours: The store operates on a reduced schedule for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day, and is closed entirely on Christmas Day. Travelers should verify hours if shopping on a holiday.
Editorial take
Who should prioritize it: Big Save Kōloa is ideal for travelers staying in vacation rentals or condos on the South Shore who need to stock their kitchens. It's also a must-visit for budget-conscious visitors wanting to try authentic, affordable local favorites like poke and plate lunches without the restaurant price tag. Anyone looking for a grounded, non-touristy shopping experience will appreciate it.
Who should skip it: Visitors seeking a gourmet market with curated specialty items or an extensive selection of organic products might prefer stores like Living Foods Market in The Shops at Kukuiʻula. Those needing a large, warehouse-style shopping experience should head to Costco or Safeway in Līhuʻe.
Not to be confused with: Koloa Fish Market is a separate, highly-regarded takeout spot nearby that specializes almost exclusively in fresh fish and poke. While Big Save's poke is popular and convenient, Koloa Fish Market is a destination in its own right for seafood.
Source notes
- Times Supermarket (Official): The official store page lists hours, holiday schedules, and available in-store services.
- URL:
https://www.timessupermarkets.com/big-save-koloa
- URL:
- Wanderlog: Provides a good summary of the visitor experience, highlighting the prepared food options and no-frills atmosphere based on aggregated reviews.
- URL:
https://wanderlog.com/place/details/989528/big-save-market
- URL:
- Kauai Grown: Identifies Big Save/Times as a retailer of locally sourced Kauaʻi products, such as meat from Kaneshiro Farms.
- URL:
https://kauaigrown.org/times-supermarket-big-save-markets/
- URL:
