Honolulu, United States

Best places to shop in Honolulu

4 markets, malls and shopping districts in Honolulu — what to buy, when to go, and the tourist traps to avoid at each one.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Ala Moana Center

The largest open-air shopping centre in the world — 350 shops from luxury houses to Hawaiian brands, with a hula stage in the courtyard.

Where: Mall
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 10:00–20:00
Cost: Mid–Luxury

2. Waikiki: Kalakaua Avenue and the International Market Place

The beachfront shopping strip — luxury flagships along Kalakaua and the rebuilt International Market Place around its banyan tree.

Where: Luxury
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 10:00–22:00
Cost: Luxury

3. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet

The island's largest open-air market — Hawaiian craft, aloha shirts, ukuleles, produce and souvenirs from hundreds of vendors.

Where: Flea Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 08:00–15:00
Cost: Budget

Watch out'Hawaiian' souvenirs here are largely imported. Genuine island-made goods carry a 'Made in Hawaii' or Hawaii Seal of Quality mark — and note that Hawaiian koa wood and Niihau shell lei cost many times the imports.

4. Chinatown and the arts district

The historic Chinatown — lei stands, herbal shops, produce markets and the galleries of the surrounding arts district.

Where: Street Shopping
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 08:00–17:00; First Friday art walk
Cost: Budget
Tip: The lei stands on Maunakea Street make fresh lei to order at a fraction of the airport or hotel price.

Best places to shop in Honolulu

1. Ala Moana Center

2. Waikiki: Kalakaua Avenue and the International Market Place

3. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet

4. Chinatown and the arts district

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