Field Guide: Laie

When you feel like getting out—way out—of town, take a drive north to this sleepy town.

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Photo by David Croxford

Morman Temple

We couldn’t write about Laie without mentioning something Mormon. This architecturally stunning structure, constructed in 1919, was the first Mormon temple built outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. At the time, it was also the first built outside of America, because Hawaii wasn’t a state then. Thousands visit the temple and its grounds each year. Although non-Mormons are not allowed inside the temple itself, tours of the peaceful property are given each day. 55-600 Naniloa Loop, 293-2427.

Photos by David Croxford

After a hot day at the beach, check out the cool treats at this Laie fixture. Owner Angel Ho’s expansive menu of ice cream, shave ice, frozen yogurt and smoothies has kept locals and tourists alike coming back for the past 12 years. Visitors are especially known to come back each year for “Angel’s Halo,” a shave ice concoction with condensed milk topped with a ring of whipped cream. “They tell me they drive all the way from Waikiki just for this,” Ho says. 55-510 Kamehameha Highway, Suite 4, 232-2233.

Photo by David Croxford

Mahinalani Gift Shop at the Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is Laie’s main tourist draw, but its Mahinalani Shops of Polynesia is not a typical souvenir store. Rather than hawking synthetic lei and cheesy postcards, the gallery-like shop recently invited local vendors to sell their Hawaii-made products such as handmade replicas of museum artifacts, tiki figures, bowls, koa paddles, tapa cloth and more. Plus, you can visit without paying admission. 55-370 Kamehameha Highway, 293-3333

Did you know?   If you’re looking for a cold beer in Laie, you may be out of luck. This “dry” town doesn’t sell a drop of alcohol (and stores are closed on Sundays). The nearest source is Kahuku Superette, 56-505 Kamehameha Highway, for beer or any other icy beverages.

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