If you are spending any time in Honolulu, the Ala Moana Center is pretty much the center of the universe for shopping and hanging out. It is the largest open-air shopping mall in the world, and it perfectly captures that breezy, tropical Hawaii vibe. Unlike a typical enclosed mall, you’re walking through lush palm trees and koi ponds with the ocean breeze hitting you. It’s located right across from Ala Moana Beach Park, making it a perfect transition from a morning at the beach to an afternoon of browsing.
The selection here is massive, with over 350 stores ranging from high-end luxury icons like Chanel and Louis Vuitton to popular mainstays like Uniqlo, Zara, and Target. It’s also one of the best places in the islands to find authentic Japanese goods, thanks to the Shirokiya Japan Village Walk and a huge Macy’s. Whether you are looking for a designer handbag, a new surfboard, or just some high-quality local aloha wear, you are going to find it here.
Food is a major reason locals flock to this spot. You have everything from the upscale Mariposa at Neiman Marcus—famous for its popovers and views—to the Makai Market Food Court, which is arguably one of the best food courts you’ll ever visit. You can grab anything from fresh poke bowls and garlic shrimp to authentic ramen and Hawaiian shave ice. It’s a great place to recharge after walking the center’s four levels of shops.
What locals really appreciate are the extras that make it a community hub. There’s a central stage that hosts over 800 performances a year, including hula shows and live local music, so there is almost always something happening. Parking is surprisingly easy for such a busy spot because the structures are enormous, and it’s a major hub for "TheBus," so getting here is a breeze from anywhere in Waikiki. It’s a reliable, beautiful, and lively part of the 96814 zip code that never gets old.
Expert Opinions
Retail analysts and travel experts frequently rank Ala Moana Center as one of the most successful and profitable shopping destinations globally.
Architectural Innovation: Urban planners often cite the center’s open-air design as a masterclass in integrating commercial space with a specific regional climate, allowing for natural ventilation and a reduced carbon footprint.
Retail Powerhouse: Market analysts from Forbes and Bloomberg have noted that the center generates some of the highest sales-per-square-foot in the United States, largely due to its unique mix of local, national, and international luxury tenants.
Cultural Hub: Travel experts from Lonely Planet highlight the center’s commitment to local culture, noting that its free daily hula shows and community events make it a rare "mall" that feels authentically connected to its surroundings.
Estimated Prices
Because the center covers everything from discount stores to luxury boutiques, price points vary wildly:
Quick Bites & Food Court: Most meals in the Makai Market range from $12–$20.
Casual Dining: Sit-down restaurants like California Pizza Kitchen or local cafes usually average $25–$45 per person.
Retail Goods: You can find souvenirs and basics for $10–$30, while mid-range fashion items typically fall in the $50–$150 range.
Luxury Tiers: High-end designer items from the Luxury Row wing start in the hundreds and go up significantly from there.
Business Hours
The center maintains consistent hours, though major holidays may affect them:
Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Note: Some department stores like Nordstrom and various restaurants may have slightly extended hours.)
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