Some consider the new International Marketplace to be a blasphemous reimagining of the original version that stood there years ago. But let’s be honest, it’s hard to get mad about losing dozens of kiosks hocking “Made in China” trinkets to big brand retailers pawning off “Made in China” big ticket items. The upgraded version is exactly that. But despite gag-inducing names like “Abercrombie & Fitch”, “Banana Republic”, and “Hollister” there are enough Hawaiian lifestyle retailers to land it on this site as the best shopping center within in Waikiki Beach, even if that’s not saying all that much.

Notable shops include the following:

• Hawaiian Island Creations
• Honolua Surf Co.
• Honolulu Cookie Company
• Island Art & Sole
• Kona Coffee Purveyors (great place to reboot!)
• Martin & MacArthur
• Maui Divers Jewelry
• Surf Line Hawaii

International Marketplace also shines when it comes to evening performances, featuring hula, local Hawaiian musicians, and “talk story” opportunities for visitors to soak up some culture with shopping bags in tow.