Islands

If I could give this shop less than one star, I would. I’m a librarian and mother. Certainly not a threat to anyone. I like to read books, and this weekend I spent money that I had saved all year long to take my daughters on vacation to p-​town. On our way back, we stopped in Hyannis because my husband has fond childhood memories of this place, particularly this store. From the moment we walked in we were HOUNDED by three young women who apparently fancied themselves as store security. They were at every turn, blocking our way, and hovering down our necks as we browsed. I saw a few items that I really liked, one little purse in particular, but I noted the name and decided to purchase it on line as I wouldn’t give this store my money. I did, however, purchase a rubber duck for my thuggish, threatening 10 month old infant. Before I left, one of the young women rushed over to make sure that the price I told the man at the store’s register was correct. He was the only nice person in there and did not want to take the item out of my daughters hand. I would not recommend this store for any reason.

Two stars because the saving grace of this store is its quality merchandise. That’s it.
You might have a better experience with this place if you fit the stereotypical, middle-​aged to older look, and if the sales people deem you worthy of service. If not, forget it– you’ll be better off spending your money elsewhere.
Being from Hawaii, I was excited when I saw this store. Islands! I walked in, walked past a sales lady just standing there waiting to greet and help customers, who blatantly ignored me. Ok, not a big deal. I walk to the back of the store and start browsing merchandise. Less than a minute later, I see another customer walk into the store. The sales lady immediately perks up and rushes to greet and help her. Hmmm. OK, not that big of a deal.
A bag catches my attention. I pick it up and because I’m a sucker for textiles, I look for the little cloth tag that lists the material type. The sales clerk walks by me, stops, then says «If you’re looking for the price tag, it’s right there.» HMM. I pause and say «Actually, I’m looking for the materials tag.» Without another word, she buzzes away off to help someone else.
My experience at this store was extremely poor. The only time she attempted to «help» me was to explain where the price tag was, as if I was only there for the price. There was no greeting, no other attempt to help me, and no good bye when I left, not even from the other sales clerk. The store was not busy and during my visit, I observed that the only people who received an offer of assistance were those who did not look like me. I travel frequently and have NEVER had an experience like this before.

My Husband and I make several trips to Islands each year. While my husband loves rockin’ the Charlie Sheen, pre-​breakdown, look, we keep coming back for a reason.
The owner and his wife remember us, and always strike up conversation the minute we enter the store. While I’ve never purchased anything from there for me (I only wish I were that tiny!!), Husband never leaves with less than 3 new shirts. They have a fantastic selection, and to be honest, when we decided on a beach wedding, Islands dressed the entire male party.
I’d give it a 5… but when you’re buying Tommy Bahama, it tends to get expensive, fast. And, to be selfish, they cater to mostly men’s fashion. :)

Walking into Islands is like stepping into the Caribbean for a moment. The store is full of flip flops, Hawaiian shirts, sunglasses and t-​shirts. They have a great collection of Maui Jims, Quiksilver, Eliza B and Island Company. It’s a bit more upscale than the typical surf shop and certainly worth checking out!