If you need a break from the Hawaiian sun, why not shop till you drop at Ala Moana Center? Located in the heart of Honolulu on Ala Moana Blvd just before Waikiki Beach, the four-level shopping mall boasts over 350 shops and restaurants in the largest open-air shopping center in the world. It’s a must-see for visitors and locals alike. It features a huge variety of shops and four major department stores in Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstroms.
Walking into the Ala Moana Center, you’ll get a feel for how light, breezy, and big the shopping center is. You can easily spend hours meandering around the different shops and grabbing a bite to eat at one of over 160 dining establishments. From local makers to large brand names, it’s all on offer at this family-friendly mall. It opened in 1959 and now ranks as the eighth-largest shopping center in the U.S.
With 2.4 million square feet of retail space, there’s plenty to choose from. The open-air concept makes the sheer size of the mall feel more manageable. You can easily stop in for a quick look around before hitting the beach just minutes away. Or, set aside a full day for fabulous shopping and dining.
Now, let’s talk stores for a minute. If you want to find your favorite shop, your best bet is the Ala Moana Center. After all, it’s the largest mall in Oahu, and the stores offer a mix of affordable styles and high-end brands. If you feel like treating yourself to something special on vacation, there are luxury stores like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Bottega Veneta, and Michael Kors to check out.
Otherwise, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly options if you want to snag a great deal on souvenirs, clothing, gifts, or homewares. Marshalls, Target, Ross Dress For Less, Barnes & Noble, and Sunglass Hut are just a few popular shops in Ala Moana Center.
If you’re in the market to shop and support locals, you should enjoy the mall’s many Hawaiian stores. Handcrafted goods and souvenirs are only available on the island. It’s easy to find beautiful Hawaiian gifts at specialty shops like Aloha Lane, Island Sole, Jams World, Laha’ole Designs, LuLu Hawaii, Martin & MacArthur, and Wai Nani Gifts.
Shopping isn’t the only thing you can do at Ala Moana Center. An abundance of entertainment options makes the mall a big hit with families. The Escape Game, Lucky Strike, Jungle Fun Island, and Xtreme 7D Dark Rides offer fun with family and friends in a convenient location.
Last but not least, there are nearly 200 restaurants to choose from. So if you whip up an appetite while shopping, you’re in luck. From charming local cafes to upscale restaurants, there’s something for every cuisine and craving. Takeout, delivery, and dine-in options are all available. The Makai Market Food Court or Lanai @ Ala Moana Center are great places to start.
Romano’s Macaroni Grill, Eggs’ N Things, California Pizza Kitchen, Tanaka Ramen, and Ruscello offer a mix of well-known chain restaurants and local establishments. With many more restaurants to choose from.
If you’re not sure where to start when you get to the shopping center, look for directories located around the mall or head to the Guest Services Center. You can find the Guest Service Center behind Centerstage on street level 1. There are five information desks throughout the mall, too.
If you’re driving to the mall, there are over 11,000 spots for free parking. All with a number, color, and picture assigned to each one to help you remember. Besides that, the Ala Moana Center is easily accessible by rideshare and public transport. Additionally, it’s within walking distance from major hotels like Hilton Hawaiian Village and Prince Waikiki.
There you have it. If you want Honolulu’s largest selection of shopping, dining, and entertainment, then Ala Moana Center is a can’t miss.
Insider Tip:
Don’t miss the center’s free hula show, every day at 5PM on Centerstage!