Where to Shop in Wallis & Futuna

Shopping in Wallis & Futuna isn't about hunting for designer brands or browsing air-conditioned malls. Here, shopping becomes a cultural journey where you'll discover the incredible artistry of local craftspeople who've been perfecting their skills for generations.

From what we've experienced, the real treasures are the handmade items created by talented locals. You'll find women crafting delicate flower garlands and shell necklaces, whilst skilled weavers create beautiful fala mats from natural leaves. The intricate tapa (bark cloth) art form is particularly fascinating, where artisans hand-paint these traditional pieces.

Don't miss the opportunity to pick up authentic scented oils, carved wooden treasures, or even sample the traditional kava (though that's strictly a men's craft). For a complete overview of what to look for, check out our 10 Best Souvenirs & Gifts From Wallis & Futuna LINK#TTD092.

Ready to discover the best shopping spots? Let's explore the best places to shop in Wallis and Futuna, plus all your practical shopping needs.

The Best Places to Go Shopping in Wallis and Futuna

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A modest shopping scene awaits in Wallis and Futuna with a handful of craft stores and local boutiques, where Polynesian items set the scene for an authentic and intimate shopping experience centred around the capital Mata'Utu.

Shopping in Mata'Utu Area

A must-do for souvenir hunters, the greater Mata'Utu area on Wallis is easily the best place in Wallis and Futuna to browse handicrafts, traditional clothing and local specialities.

Home to the territory's main commercial district, you'll find craft stores scattered around the capital and surrounding villages like Aka'aka. These shops offer locally-made wood carvings, traditional textiles and handcrafted jewellery that reflect the islands' Polynesian roots.

Shopping in Southern and Northern Wallis

Travel south to Mua and you'll discover hidden gems in villages like Tepa and Lotoalahi (Fineveke), where local artisans create crafts away from the capital's bustle.

Head north to Alele village and you'll find additional craft stores offering unique pieces that showcase traditional Wallisian artistry.

Shopping on Futuna

Shopping on less developed Futuna is more limited, as this remote island focuses on preserving traditional village life rather than commercial activity.

There's a wonderful craft store in Mala'e that's worth seeking out for authentic Futunan handicrafts, though don't expect the variety you'll find on Wallis.

The 6 Best Shops in Wallis and Futuna

1.Atuhakevalu

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© SPTO & Wallis & Futuna Tourisme

Atuhakevalu is a delightful collection of locally crafted items, souvenirs and great gift ideas for friends and family. And why not treat yourself as well?

This charming little shop is brimful of handcrafted pieces, traditional costumes and wood carvings, woven baskets packed with local produce and a wide choice of seashell necklaces. Needless to say, it is the perfect place to discover unique mementoes that capture the spirit of your visit to Wallis.

From intricately carved wooden sculptures to beautifully woven traditional garments, every item tells a story of local artisanship passed down through generations. The shop's welcoming atmosphere and diverse selection ensure you'll find something special, whether you're searching for meaningful gifts or personal keepsakes.

Find this gift store open from 7 am to 6 pm Monday to Saturday.

Location:

Alele, Hihifo, Wallis.

Price Range:$$

2.Fenua Art

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You'll absolutely love browsing through Fenua Art, a delightful textile and fashion boutique right in the heart of Mata'utu.

This charming shop perfectly captures the essence of Wallisian culture through its stunning collection of traditional fabrics and contemporary apparel.

What draws us to Fenua Art is how beautifully they blend age-old traditions with modern style. Whether you're shopping for women, men or children, you'll find something special that tells a story.

Don't miss their elegant traditional wear (perfect for those special occasions) alongside everyday pieces with a lovely cultural twist. It's the ideal place to take home a genuine piece of Wallisian heritage that you'll treasure for years to come.

You can visit from 7:30 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday.

Location:

Mata’utu, Hahake, east coast of Wallis.

Price Range:$$

3.Gie d'Aka'aka

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© SPTO & Wallis & Futuna Tourisme

You'll discover something truly special at Gie d'Aka'aka, where local craftswomen come together as part of the Aka'aka Groupement d'IntĂ©rĂȘt Économique to show off the very best of Wallis and Futuna's traditional arts and crafts.

We love browsing through their collection of authentic handmade treasures; think delicate shell necklaces that catch the light beautifully, intricately woven pandanus leaf bags that are as practical as they are stunning, and traditional garments that tell the story of the islands' rich cultural heritage.

From what we've experienced, this is hands down the best spot to find meaningful mementoes that truly capture the essence of your Pacific adventure. Plus, since it operates as a community business association, you can feel good knowing your purchases directly support local artisans and their families.

Find Gie d'Aka'aka open from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday to Saturday.

Location:

Aka’aka, Hahake, east coast of Wallis. Aka'aka is the neighbouring village to Mata'Utu.

Price Range:$$

4.Gie de Tepa

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Gie de Tepa offers the perfect solution for last-minute souvenir shopping during your stay on Wallis.

This charming local shop specialises in authentic handcrafted items that showcase the traditional artistry of Wallis and Futuna.

Browse through their carefully curated collection of shell necklaces, intricately woven fans, traditional accessories and decorative ornaments. Each piece tells a story of local craftsmanship, making them meaningful keepsakes rather than generic tourist trinkets.

The shop operates on a convenient schedule, giving you multiple opportunities to visit during your stay. You'll discover unique gifts that capture the essence of Wallisian culture, perfect for sharing a piece of this remote Pacific paradise with loved ones back home.

Find Gie de Tepa in Tepa village, open from 9 am to 12 pm, Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Location:

Tepa, Mua, southeast coast of Wallis.

Price Range:$$

5.Veiogo Tapa

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Not your typical souvenir shop, Veiogo Tapa specialises in personalised items that feature stunning traditional tapa cloth motifs and designs.

The range here is seriously impressive. You can get mugs, cups, key rings, chequebook holders, jewellery boxes and clothing all customised with intricate Polynesian patterns that tell a story.

What sets this place apart is their laser engraving workshop where the friendly staff work their magic on wood, bamboo, leather, glass and plexiglass. Whether you're after the perfect gift for someone back home or want to treat yourself to a meaningful keepsake, the craftsmanship here is authentic and personal.

And as a practical tip, Veiogo Tapa is one of the few shops on the islands that accepts credit cards.

You'll find them open from 7 am to 6 pm Monday to Saturday, and they're happy to arrange appointments outside these hours if needed.

Location:

Lotoalahi (Fineveke), Mua, southeast coast of Wallis.

Price Range:$$

6.Gie Alo

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Located right in the heart of Mala'e on the south coast, this delightful little boutique has everything you could want for that perfect souvenir.

You'll be amazed by their collection of traditional tapa cloths in every shape and size you can imagine. We're particularly drawn to their stunning seashell necklaces that perfectly capture the island's oceanic beauty.

Don't miss browsing through their locally crafted fans, unique bookmarks and Futuna-inspired postcards. But the real showstoppers are the hand-carved wooden masterpieces, including traditional tanoa kava dishes and ceremonial spears.

Whether you're after meaningful souvenirs or special gifts for loved ones back home, this locally-owned gem has got you covered. From our experience, the friendly staff love sharing the stories behind each handcrafted piece, making your visit both educational and genuinely enjoyable.

Find Gie Alo open Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm.

Location:

Mala'e, Alo, south coast of Futuna.

Price Range:$$

Groceries and Essentials

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Of course, grocery shopping and essential supplies are always useful to have on your radar, especially on remote islands where you can’t always rely on a supermarchĂ© just down the road. Luckily, we have grocery shopping guides for both Wallis and Futuna. Check them out in the links below:

  • Information, Shops & Services on Wallis LINK#D018
  • Information, Shops & Services on Futuna LINK#D036

And anything we’ve missed will be in the Information, Shops & Services in Wallis & Futuna LINK#TTD096.

For more details on what grocery supplies are available, check out A Guide to Supermarkets & Food Shopping in Wallis & Futuna LINK#TT020.

More About Shopping in Wallis and Futuna

Now that you know all about shopping in Wallis and Futuna, as well as the best shops in Wallis and Futuna, take a look at more of our guides that will help plan the perfect shop-a-holic's outing:

  • 10 Best Souvenirs & Gifts From Wallis & Futuna LINK#TTD092
  • A Traveller's Guide to the Wallisian & Futunan Cultures LINK#TT057
  • Information, Shops & Services in Wallis & Futuna LINK#TTD096

Finally, add more activities beyond shopping to the bucket list using the 101 Best Things to Do in Wallis & Futuna: The Ultimate List. Plus, work out all the logistics of planning a Wallis and Futuna getaway in The Complete Travel Guide to Wallis & Futuna LINK#TT064.