Settled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Oahu, Hawaii, never fails to gasp visitors with their serene beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage and traditions. However, beyond its natural beauty, Oahu is a shopping paradise for our more materialistic folks! Trust me, I am quite the expert on this topic. The island offers a vibrant and diverse shopping scene that caters to everyone’s fashion desires. Whether you’re obsessed with luxury brands and designer names, or you’re one that loves handmade jewelry and quilts from locally owned businesses, Oahu offers bustling shopping centers containing luxury brands as well as charming markets showcasing local arts and crafts. So kiss your money goodbye and say hello to hand-crafted souvenirs and new luxurious bags with this list of the best shopping centers on Oahu!
1. Ala Moana Shopping Center
No vacation to Oahu is complete without a visit to one of the most popular shopping malls on the island, also known as Ala Moana Shopping Center (1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814), located only minutes from Waikiki, isw often hailed as the “largest open-air shopping mall in the world.” Located in Honolulu, only minutes from Waikiki, Ala Moana offers over 350 stores, ranging from luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Christian Dior to popular retail brands such as Apple and Sephora.
What sets Ala Moana apart from the rest is its unique blend of indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the mall. Allowing visitors to enjoy Hawaii’s beautiful weather while pursuing their favorite stores. The center’s expansive layout allows for the mall to include large department stores such as Macy’s and Nordstrom as well as a substantial amount of restaurants scaling from casual, to more upscale eateries.
Ala Moana is not only a shopping destination but also a social and cultural hub! Ala Moana hosts various events throughout the year that celebrate Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine. They also host traditional Hawaiian hula performances every day at the Ala Moana Stage located at the bottom floor. Its strategic location and diverse offerings makes it a hit-spot for both locals and tourists alike, offering something for everybody while still showing the aloha spirit.
2. Waikiki Shopping District
This shopping center is another quite popular hangout-spot/shopping center among both locals and tourists for both its convenience and its wide variety of stores! For those staying in or near Waikiki, the shopping district along Kalakaua Avenue is a paradise for both fashionistas and souvenir collectors alike! At Waikiki Shopping District, visitors can expect an array of upscale boutiques, designer stores, and specialty shops offering everything from aloha wear, high-end fashion name brands, and even special, unique Hawaiian gifts!
Luxury brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Tiffany & Co. flood the avenue, catering to shoppers seeking the newest fashion trends and upscale jewelry and accessories. Alongside these world renowned international names, local boutiques showcase Hawaiian-made/aloha wear clothing, jewelry, and artwork. Some of my favorite local brands on the island are Benoa, a locally owned bathing suit brand selling gorgeous bathing suits with floral, aloha prints. As well as the Aloha collection (which is definitely one of the more popular brands on the island), selling various bags, clothing items, and accessories with vibrant colors and various flora prints. All of these making, in which, provide a glimpse into the island’s vibrant arts scene.
Alongside Waikiki Shopping District, Waikiki also features several shopping centers, including the Royal Hawaiian Center, Waikiki Beach Walk, and International Marketplace, which offer a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options in a picturesque beachfront setting. Whether you’re searching for beachwear, souvenirs, or gourmet treats, Waikiki Shopping District promises a memorable and luxurious experience.
3. Windward Mall
This mall, located on the windward side of Oahu in Kaneohe, however not including luxury brands and high-fashioned boutiques, Windward Mall (46-056 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744) offers a more laid-back shopping experience with stunning views of the Ko’olau Mountains. Located at around 30 minutes away from Waikiki, twhis family-friendly mall offers a diverse range of stores, including national retail stores like Macy’s and Ross Dress For Less, alongside local shops selling Hawaiian apparel/Aloha wear and gifts.
Like Ala Moana, Windward Mall)is also a well-known social and community hub. Hosting events such as farmer’s markets, craft fairs, and live performances that showcase local talent and culture. One of my favorites are the hula performances that anyone shopping around the mall can participate in! Its open-air design and spacious layout make it a comfortable and inviting place to shop, dine, and unwind with family and friends.
The mall’s commitment to sustainability is evident through initiatives such as recycling programs and partnerships with local, nonprofit organizations, demonstrating its dedication to supporting the community and helping keep our aina clean and preserving Oahu’s natural beauty. So whether you’re shopping for the essentials or indulging a leisurely day out, Windward Mall offers a refreshing alternative to the hustle and bustle out in Honolulu’s city center.
4. North Shore Markets
On Oahu’s world renowned North Shore, a different kind of shopping experience awaits visitors. While The North Shore is typically known for it’s laid-back surf culture and stunning, coastal, scenic views of the Ko’olau mountains and azure beaches, what most people miss are their local shopping centers. Haleiwa town (66-165 Kamehameha Hwy. Ste 3E. Haleiwa, HI 96712), in particular, is a charming enclave known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and surf shops offering everything from gorgeous handmade jewelry to vintage surfboards. One of my favorite shops in particular being Route 99, which offers everything from hats, to clothing, to accessories. Perfect for adding a little bit of Aloha to your everyday outfits!
Art lovers, this one’s for you. You guys will definitely appreciate the town’s artistic flair, with galleries showcasing local paintings, sculptures, and arts and crafts locally made inspired by Hawaii’s natural beauty. Haleiwa is also home to one of the most iconic shave ice brands in the state, Matsumoto Shave Ice (66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712), where visitors can cool off and have a refreshing snack after a day of shopping and exploring the wonders of Haleiwa!
The North Shore is also famous for its fresh, delicious farmer’s markets, such as one of the more popular ones, Haleiwa Farmers Market (59-864 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712) and Waialua Farmers Market (67-106 Kealohanui St, Waialua, HI 96791)w, where visitors can get a taste of fresh produce, local snacks, and homemade goods while mingling with farmers and artisans. These markets embody the spirit of the community’s sustainability, community, and aloha spirit. Offering a glimpse into Hawaii’s agricultural heritage and culinary traditions.
5. Waikele Outlet Center
Nestled in the heart of Oahu, Waikele Premium Outlets (94-790 Lumiaina St, Waipahu, HI 96797) gasps visitors with its enticing blend of fashion, savings, and Hawaiian charm. As Hawaii’s premier outlet shopping destination, Waikele promises a unique experience where luxury meets affordability. Showcasing over 50 designer and brand-name stores, shoppers can explore a diverse array of offerings from iconic labels such as Coach, Michael Kors, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Each storefront invites guests to jump on the thrill of finding their favorite designer pieces at prices up to 65% off retail, making sure you get the best bargains possible!
Beyond its lineup of stores, Waikele Premium Outlets offers an atmosphere that captures the essence of island living. Palm-lined walkways and open-air shopping pavilions provide a relaxed setting among Oahu’s stunning landscapes. Visitors can take leisurely strolls between shops, enjoying the warm Hawaiian breeze and breathtaking views of the surrounding Waianae Mountains. The center’s thoughtful design ensures comfort and convenience, with amenities like dining options and rest areas strategically placed to enhance the shopping experience.
Whether seeking the latest fashion trends or hunting for unique souvenirs, Waikele Premium Outlets delivers on both style and savings. Its reputation as a shopper’s paradise is underscored by not only its exceptional selection but also its commitment to customer service and satisfaction. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist exploring the island, Waikele promises a memorable day of retail therapy in an idyllic Hawaiian setting, making it a must-visit destination for all fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike.
Waikele Shopping Outlet
Visit Waikele Shopping Outlet for All the Great Deals and Bargains!
Embrace Island Shopping Culture
From luxury shopping brands to bustling local market places and artisans, Oahu offers a renowned shopping experience that perfectly blends international glitz and glamor with a wink of local charm. Whether you’re into exploring the vibrant streets of Waikiki, discovering hidden gems on the North Shore, or indulging yourself in the cultural richness of local markets, shopping on Oahu offers the perfect opportunity to connect with the island’s unique heritage and vibrant local community.
As you explore Oahu’s diverse shopping destinations, take the time to savor the island’s natural beauty, gobble down its culinary delights, and embrace the spirit of aloha that permeates every shopping experience. Whether you’re searching for a souvenir for remembrance of your vacation to the island, or looking for some new trendy clothes and designer stores, Oahu’s shopping centers and markets promise an unforgettable experience through Hawaii’s enchanting retail landscape.
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