The Original Tropical Clothing Store
Shopping at Algozzini’s on U.S. Highway One in Hobe Sound is an “experience” not just a place to buy fun, interesting and very attractive clothes and gift items. Co-owners of Algozzini Florida/Hawaii Shop are Phil Algozzini (affectionately nicknamed “the mayor of Hobe sound”,) and his sister, Elaine and assisted by Elaine’s two daughters, Roxanne and Dolly.
The shop has been open for 60 years founded by Phil and Elaine’s parents, Nick and Vera Algozzini in 1947. Nick and Vera began coming to Florida from their home in New Jersey on vacations in 1944 because the climate was good for Nick’s arthritis. They found Daytona too cold but West Palm Beach was just right. In 1945 they read about an offer for 20 acres of land for sale, part of the Gomez Grant, for $2,000 and only $20 down payment. And Hobe Sound history added a colorful and close-knit family to its community.
How it all started
In 1957 Phil and his family vacationed in Hawaii and seeing the beautiful and colorful Hawaiian shirts and dresses they brought some back, purchasing them at Woolworth’s for 10% off, to see how they would sell here. Phil hung one of the shirts outside the shop and the very first sale was to the brother of former President Bush (the Bush family had a home on Jupiter Island.) The following year they returned to Hawaii and found handmade clothes and began bringing back premium shirts and dresses. Now they attend trade shows and maintain an inventory of beautiful high-quality Hawaiian fashions for the whole family.
Phil and Elaine have seen many changes in Hobe Sound over the years from the sleepy little two-lane road to the bustling, growing community that it is now. Phil says, “When I go out the door, sometimes I don’t even know where I’m at anymore.” But if you ever have the time, Phil loves to share the history of Hobe Sound with anyone who will listen – about the Pettways, Smitty’s, The Big Barrel (now the Catfish House), the Chinese vegetable farm, the MacArthur family, and lots more.
What began as a hamburger stand evolved over the 60 years into what is now a “must see” attraction and fine Hawaiian clothing store in lovely little Hobe Sound. No more hamburgers, but in addition to the fashions are attractive jewelry items, party supplies and souvenirs. They still ship locally-grown fruit and will make travel arrangements for your next vacation. We are very fortunate to have such an interesting family with a long-time, very diverse business, evolving over the years with the times. For Sixty years the Algozzini family has been serving our community. They are founding members of the Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce since 1981; a prime example of how hard work, perseverance, and actively supporting the Chamber of Commerce can contribute to a successful business with remarkable longevity in a small, but growing community.