Founder of HawaiiGuide & certified travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
Hey friend. Have you heard of the Ala Moana Center? It's a fantastic open-air shopping center in Honolulu, a short trip from Waikiki Beach. Imagine a shopping haven with a refreshing Hawaiian wind, and you've got Ala Moana Center.
Step aside, ordinary malls - this place is a breath of fresh air that will leave you wanting more. Upscale fashion boutiques, cozy neighborhood shops, gourmet eateries, and riveting performances come together perfectly. Buckle up because the good stuff will get even better - let me show you why.
**Main photo above by Theodore Trimmer/Shutterstock.
Photo by Osugi / Shutterstock
A Shopper's Dream at Ala Moana Center
Think over 350 stores and restaurants across multiple levels, connected by open-air walkways. That's Ala Moana Center. Imagine walking into a treasure trove where designer luxury brands like Neiman Marcus, Chanel, and Gucci sit alongside authentic Hawaiian gems - you'll discover it all in one place. Whether you need a few standby items or want to restock your closet, Nordstrom has covered the department store basics.
Local Gems & Big Names
Ala Moana Center balances big brands with a fantastic range of local shops and boutiques. This means scoring big on high-end items and scoring cool local finds—that's what this means for you! With a mix of international names and homegrown favorites, shoppers will find themselves in retail heaven.
I recommend checking out Hilo Hattie for traditional Aloha wear and Martin & MacArthur for handcrafted Koa wood pieces. Wander around—you'll find something special.
Dining Delights at Ala Moana
Hungry? Ala Moana Center has an unbelievable array of dining options. Whether you want a quick meal at the food court or a fine dining experience overlooking the ocean. You're spoiled for choice, and the quality is impressive.
From Casual Bites to Fine Dining
For a fast meal, visit Foodland Farms for ready-to-eat poke bowls. Or try the prepared foods at Nijiya Market.
Book a table at one of the upscale restaurants with stunning views for a treat. Explore quick bites or visit Shirokiya Japan Village Walk, where vendors offer food and sweets from each region of Japan within a themed two-level village.
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Photo by Theodore Trimmer / Shutterstock
Entertainment and More
Ala Moana Center is more than shopping and food; it's full of entertainment. Catch a movie, relax with free Wi-Fi, and enjoy live music. There are also kid-friendly zones.
Amenities & Pet-Friendly Options
Ala Moana Center is very pet-friendly. This is a wonderful opportunity to rest at one of the benches, relax, and enjoy the fresh Hawaiian wind.
Events and Happenings
Ala Moana Center hosts community events and sales all year round. Seasonal magic abounds in the decorations that brightly blanket our streets, and thrill-seeking shoppers will love the exciting temporary stores that pop up. It’s also a good idea to review what outdoor activities there are to take a break.
Experiencing Hawaiian Culture
Ala Moana Center offers immersive cultural experiences. Surrounded by the allure of the Pacific, join in the festive atmosphere of traditional Hula performances, relish the sweet sounds of Hawaiian music, and discover the authentic charm of local arts, customs, and handmade crafts.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Typical hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., though it is advisable to check their website to confirm times. Ala Moana Boulevard is a popular way to access the shopping center.
Parking & Accessibility
Parking at Ala Moana Center on Moana Blvd is free. The mall's four parking structures and open areas have roughly 11,000 parking slots, making parking easy.
Ala Moana Center is accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible parking. Everyone is welcome at Ala Moana Center.
FAQs about Ala Moana Center
What is Ala Moana famous for?
Ala Moana Center is known as the world's largest open-air shopping center. Imagine stepping into a shopper's paradise where elite brands, trendy indie boutiques, and grandiose designer flagships converge in perfect harmony. Shoppers come for both local finds and internationally recognized brands.
Is there free parking at Ala Moana Center?
Yes, parking is free at Ala Moana Center. You have several parking choices.
What will replace Shirokiya Ala Moana?
Yataimura, a new Japanese food hall, has replaced Shirokiya at Ala Moana Center. Located right in the middle of the mall, it remains a popular spot for friends and family to meet.
What happened to Disney store Ala Moana?
The Disney Store at Ala Moana Center closed due to national store closures.
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Oahu's crown jewel is none other than Ala Moana Center. This shopping and entertainment mecca is not to be missed. With a wide variety and quality, it will leave you surprised. Whether you're after international food or the perfect shopping excursion, Ala Moana delivers.
