What it is
This is the only Target big-box retail store on the island of Kauai. Located in the Kukui Grove Center in Lihue, it serves as a primary one-stop shop for both residents and visitors. The store occupies the space of a former Kmart and offers the typical wide range of products found in Target stores nationwide, including groceries, clothing, electronics, housewares, and beach/outdoor gear. It opened in October 2021.
Visitor experience
For visitors, this Target is a key logistical hub, especially upon arrival at the nearby Lihue Airport. It's an essential first stop for those staying in condos or vacation rentals to stock up on groceries, snacks, beverages (including wine, beer, and spirits), sunscreen, and other vacation necessities. The store is generally described by shoppers as clean, well-stocked, and having friendly staff. In addition to retail, the store contains a Starbucks and a Pizza Hut Express for quick food and drink options. Shoppers can find a variety of goods, from clothing and electronics to local-themed souvenirs and Hawaiian pretzel rolls.
Logistics
Location: 4303 Nawiliwili Rd, Lihue, HI 96766, within the Kukui Grove Center, Kauai's largest shopping mall.
Hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Holiday hours may vary and should be confirmed. The in-store Starbucks has shorter hours, typically closing at 8:00 PM.
Parking: Ample free parking is available in the large lot serving the Kukui Grove Center.
Services: The store offers in-store shopping, Order Pickup, Drive Up (curbside), and Same Day Delivery via Shipt. There is no in-house pharmacy.
Duration: A quick stop can take as little as 20-30 minutes, while a full grocery and supply run could last over an hour. It's typically used as a quick stop or a half-day anchor when combined with other shopping at Kukui Grove.
Safety and cautions
Bag Policy: All of Hawaii has regulations restricting single-use plastic bags. Visitors should bring their own reusable bags or expect to pay a mandatory fee for each paper or reusable bag provided at checkout.
Pharmacy: This Target location does not have a pharmacy. Visitors needing prescriptions filled will need to go to another establishment, such as the Longs Drugs also located in the Kukui Grove Center.
Editorial take
Who should prioritize it: Visitors staying in accommodations with kitchens (condos, vacation rentals), families, and budget-conscious travelers will find this Target indispensable for stocking up on supplies at mainland-competitive prices. It's the most efficient one-stop shop on the island for groceries, alcohol, beach gear, and any forgotten essentials. Its proximity to the Lihue airport makes it a perfect first or last stop.
Who should skip it: Travelers looking for unique, locally made crafts, produce, or artisanal foods should focus their time on farmers' markets and local boutiques. While this Target may carry some Hawaii-specific products, it is fundamentally a standard American big-box store.
Source notes
- Target Official Store Page: Provides current hours, available in-store services, and product categories.
https://www.target.com/sl/lihue-kauai/3400 - Kukui Grove Center: The official website for the shopping center, confirming Target as an anchor store and listing other available retailers.
https://www.kukuigrovecenter.com/ - Wanderlog: A travel planning site with aggregated visitor reviews that provide context on the shopping experience, hours, and typical use cases for tourists.
https://wanderlog.com/place/details/1995857/target - Malls and Retail Wiki (Fandom): Offers historical context about the location, including its opening date and its replacement of the former Kmart store.
https://malls.fandom.com/wiki/Kukui_Grove_Center - Honolulu.gov (Bag Ban Information): Provides official details on the plastic bag ban, which is relevant context for all retail shopping in Hawaii.
https://www.honolulu.gov/opala/recycling/plastic-bag-ban.html
