Ala Moana Shopping Center (Shutterstock)
Ala Moana Shopping Center is a place where the everyday and extraordinary blend together. Over 60 years ago, Ala Moana Center started as a humble shopping stop. Nestled between downtown Honolulu and Waikīkī, this open-air shopping center is now the largest outdoor mall in the world with an air of aloha that’s hard to resist.
Ala Moana Shopping Center boasts over 290 stores and a diverse range of dining options. You’ll find everything from luxury labels to island-inspired gifts, and even a hole-in-the-wall spot to sip bubble tea at. Today it’s grown into a shopping mecca with all types of food, retail, and entertainment.
“Ala Moana is my happy place,” says @shopaloha. “I always find something unique there, and the ocean breeze makes it feel like a resort—not a mall.”
Ala Moana Shopping Center Visitor Information
- Address: 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI 96814.
- Hours of Operation: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Holiday hours may vary, so check alamoanacenter.com before you go.
- Parking: There are over 11,000 free parking spaces available. Valet service is available near Neiman Marcus and Macy’s.
Shopping Highlights
From luxury to local, Ala Moana has it all. Here are some of the shopping highlights:
- The center is anchored by four major department stores: Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Sears, along with luxury retailers like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci and Prada
- Make it a point to seek out the local brands like Manaola (Hawaiian-designed fashion), Island Slipper (made in Hawai‘i) and Martin & MacArthur (Koa wood home decor).
- Casual brands like UNIQLO, Zara and H&M are there too.
- The Makai Market Food Court is a must-visit, offering a variety of local and international cuisine that caters to every palate.
- International visitors can take advantage of Ala Moana’s “Visitor Rewards” program.
- Pro Tip: Stop by Guest Services for a free coupon booklet.
Ala Moana Shopping Center Restaurants – Foodie Paradise
After a morning of retail therapy, you can refuel at Ala Moana Center’s diverse selection of eats. You’ll find casual bites like the coveted Mahaloha Burger and Rokkaku Hamakatsu, as well as upscale dining options like The Lanai at Ala Moana Center.
“Ala Moana is where I literally eat my way through,” says @tastetropics. “From sushi to malasadas, every bite is worth it.“
Hula dancers and shoppers enjoy Ala Moana Shopping Center (Shutterstock)
Guest Services and Amenities
Need to mail a postcard or package of goodies home? The post office is conveniently located on the street level near the Ewa Wing. Currency exchange services are available near the Diamond Head Wing, making it easy for international visitors to shop with ease. Throughout the mall, you’ll find several seating areas perfect for taking a break and people-watching. Additional amenities include ATMs, restrooms, and a nursing room are available for comfort and convenience.
Getting Around Ala Moana Shopping Center
Navigating Ala Moana Center is a breeze, thanks to its thoughtful design and convenient transportation options. The Ala Moana Shopping Shuttle is a fantastic way to see the sights, connecting 10 locations in Waikiki and running every 10 minutes during center hours. The center’s pedestrian-friendly layout features wide walkways and easy access to all stores and amenities, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience. For those with mobility issues, the center offers wheelchair and stroller rentals, making it easy for everyone to explore and enjoy all that Ala Moana has to offer.
Cultural Performances & Events
Ala Moana is more than just a shopping mall and a place to grab a bite. It’s a stage for all of Hawai‘i’s rich cultural traditions. And you get to be a part of it! Centerstage, near Macy’s, hosts hula performances, live music, and seasonal events like the Aloha Festivals Parade and wildly popular Fourth of July fireworks, the largest display on the island. Throughout the year, you can find pop-up markets with artisan vendors and crafts, lei-making classes, and keiki events that are a great way to infuse culture with retail therapy.
“Shopping led me to the hula show and Hawaiian music. What a beautiful cultural surprise.”—@explorewithlei
Wellness and Relaxation in the Heart of Honolulu
Tucked away within the bustle of Ala Moana is an oasis of calm. After a long day of browsing the boutiques, treat yourself to a lomi lomi massage or facial at one of the mall’s upscale spas. Or step up to the center’s upper levels and take in those panoramic ocean views.
Want to try a local’s favorite way to enjoy Ala Moana? Grab a poke bowl to-go and head to Ala Moana Beach Park just across the street. Enjoying lunch by the water is a common routine that blends shopping and serenity, something uniquely Hawaiian.
“Ala Moana is perfect for a solo adventure. Shopping, sunset views and the beach just steps away. I felt like I had it all to myself.”—@sunseekersam
Ala Moana Beach Park and lagoon with the shopping center (Shutterstock)
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Go early for the best parking and lighter crowds, especially on weekends.
- Download the Ala Moana mobile app for a digital map, store directory, and event updates. That way, you can navigate the mall like a pro and stay on top of what’s happening while you’re there.
- Pack a light sweater or wrap for your evenings at Ala Moana. Those air-conditioned stores can get chilly, and the sea breeze can pick up at night.
- Take TheBus or the Waikīkī Trolley if you’re staying in Waikīkī. Not only will you save on parking, but you’ll get to enjoy some of the island’s most beautiful views along the way.
- Join the Ala Moana Center eVIP Club for exclusive benefits and updates.
Is Ala Moana Center Worth the Stop? Absolutely.
Whether you’re searching for a designer handbag, your first pair of Hawaiian slippers, or the perfect plate of poke, Ala Moana Center is a one-stop shop for island vibes, culture, and cuisine.
And more than just a mall, it’s a gateway into Honolulu’s dynamic rhythm. Old Hawai‘i and modern luxury exist side by side as the trade winds blow through the open-air center, making the experience feel just that much more invigorating. Bring your wallet, your appetite, and your curiosity—because you’ll need all three.
More Retail Therapy in Oʻahu
While Ala Moana Center is a definite highlight, Oʻahu has plenty of other retail hotspots if your wallet is burning a hole in your pocket. Just down the road in Waikīkī, the Royal Hawaiian Center delivers a blend of high-end fashion, Hawaiian culture, and live entertainment in the heart of the tourist area. You’ll find designer labels like Hermès and Kate Spade, alongside immersive workshops like lei-making and hula dancing. Over on Kalākaua Avenue, the International Market Place combines upscale brands such as Saks Fifth Avenue with a lush garden ambiance under the canopy of a century-old banyan tree.
If you’re venturing to the island’s west side, make a stop at Ka Makana Ali‘i in Kapolei. This newer shopping destination has a more laid-back, local feel, with big-box favorites, island eateries, and even a farmer’s market on select days. Meanwhile, bargain hunters will love perusing Waikele Premium Outlets, just off the H-1 Freeway. With stores like Coach, Levi’s, and Calvin Klein at steep discounts, it’s a great spot to score deals.
“Chinatown is my hidden gem for finding quirky gifts and local art.”—@hawaiiliving
For a more authentic experience, wander Chinatown Honolulu, where traditional herbal shops, boutiques, and pop-up art galleries line the historic streets. Every shopping spot on Oʻahu offers something unique—whether it’s a handcrafted souvenir, a designer find, or a snack from a mom-and-pop shop.
