Waikiki is often a surprise for first time visitors to Oahu, especially when it comes to the plethora of shopping available on this North Pacific island. Ala Moana Shopping Center Honolulu is of no exception to this island retail phenomenon and it does it’s best mainland Mega-Mall impression with four floors of shopping bliss for those who are so inclined. If you are looking for a quiet island escape however, be warned. From high end boutique shops to big chain stores (Bloomingdales, Macy’s, etc.) and household necessities, Ala Moana Shopping Center has it all. But even if you’re averse to spending hours swiping credit cards and carrying bags for your companion, the shopping center has a pretty solid foodcourt to escape to for a snacking good getaway. It is also the island’s largest transportation hub connecting TheBus (Oahu’s public transit) to all points around the island. You could actually disappear on a 4 hr round trip journey to and from the North Shore with your preoccupied shopping buddies being none the wiser.

If you’re looking for a more authentic shopping experience on Oahu, there are a few hidden gems that you may enjoy. We have listed them below.

Notable Island-Style Retailers at Ala Moana 

• Barnes & Noble (not local, but they have a great Hawaiian literature collection)
• Hawaiian Island Creations (HIC)
• Hilo Hattie
• Island Slipper (also see Island Slipper in Waikiki)
• Island Sole
• Local Motion Hawaii
• Macy’s (not local, but they have a great Aloha shirt collection on the bottom floor)
• Martin & MacArthur
• Maui Divers Jewelry
• Na Hoku
• Reyn Spooner
• T&C Surf
• Tommy Bahama

Top Island-Style Food & Drink Options at Ala Moana

• Ala Moana Poi Bowl
• Eggs n’ Things
• Honolulu Cookie Co.
• Island Brew Coffee House
• Island Vintage Coffee
• Poke & Box