Hawaiian Marketplace

If you thought you couldn't find the spirit of Aloha in the middle of the desert, think again: The 80,000-square-foot Hawaiian Marketplace brings a taste of island-style shopping to Vegas.

Modeled after the International Marketplace in Honolulu, the outdoor shopping center features lush tropical plants, bright colors and larger-than-life Hawaiian statues.

If you're looking for somewhere to either a) grab last-minute souvenirs b) find an outfit for the club tonight c) get a massage or tattoo or d) all of the above, then this is your one-stop shop. The minute you step under the huge awning (which helps keep everything cool in the hot months, in addition to the misters) of Hawaiian Marketplace, you'll find just about every kiosk you can think of. Jewelry? Check. Sarcastic souvenir T-shirts? Check. Sarongs, personalized poker chips, wind spinners and knock-off (but cute) designer purses? Sounds like you're going to need a bigger suitcase! 

These stand-alone hut vendors take up the middle of the marketplace so you can easily find gifts steps away from each other. Visitors can also get temporary black tattoos made with fruit dye.The tattoo salon offers ample shading and comfortable seating.

Whether you forgot to pack some of your essentials or want to stock up on snacks for your hotel room, Lali Smoke and Snack Shop sells phone chargers, food, as well as hookah and tobacco products. 

XTC Boutique sells the latest fashions for men and women. If you plan on going out all night, XTC carries plenty of sparkly dresses, dress shirts and more. Ladies can also purchase hair feather accessories here. And for women who like to take their time shopping, there are couches for the guys if they're tired of standing. 

Hawaiian Marketplace offers plenty of food choices for hungry shoppers, including Kapit Bahay (Filipino fast food), Tamba (an Indian cuisine restaurant) and Zingers, which offers burgers and an all-day breakfast menu at reasonable prices. There are also plenty of tables in the middle of the marketplace. Hawaiian Marketplace holds live outdoor performances throughout the day. 

If you've been walking on the Strip all day, the Hawaiian Marketplace also offers foot massages for a reasonable price. Driving? There's a small parking lot next door to the shopping center. If you're looking for more parking, try the Polo Towers public parking lot or better yet, valet park at the Polo Towers' side entrance and you'll be just steps away from the stores. If walking a few extra minutes doesn't bother you (and if you're on a roll with shopping), Showcase Mall's parking garage offers parking for only $3.

Vegas may be a long way from Hawaii, but the Hawaiian Marketplace captures that feel of the tropics in the desert.

-- Review by Jeannie Borbe