Where to shop
You've come all the way to Hawaii and now you need to find some souvenirs to bring back home for those poor souls you left behind. You're in luck. There are many terrific places to shop in and around Waikiki. If your taste runs on the expensive side, you'll find Gucci, Hermes, Rolex, Chanel, Fendi, and more. If t-shirts are more your style, there are plenty of places to get those too. View the Waikiki Shopping video.
One of the favorite places for tourists to shop is at the ubiquitous ABC Stores. You really can't walk too far in Waikiki without seeing one. And it's a good thing too! They have a great selection of Hawaii souvenirs, postcards, and t-shirts. Need a beach towel, beach mat, or beach toys? Look no further. You will find yourself stopping in these stores numerous times whether it is for a bottle of water, a quick snack-to-go, some travel item you forgot to pack, or a last minute "pick up something for the folks at home".
Across the street spanning three long blocks, you will find the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. The Royal Hawaiian Center is one of the largest shopping centers in Hawaii. You can take free ukulele, hula, or lei making classes here. You'll also find 10 sit-down restaurants, a dozen quick-serve eateries, and over 110+ shops. All revenue generated goes towards the education of native Hawaiian children at Kamehameha Schools.
The Waikiki Beach Walk encompasses eight acres of shopping and dining along Lewers Street. There are a dozen restaurants, around 45 stores, and a nightclub located in this popular entertainment area.
If you are willing to venture out of Waikiki, there are many other great places to shop. Probably the most popular place to buy aloha wear and souvenirs is at Hilo Hattie. There are two locations to choose from. Their flagship store is located several miles away from Waikiki on Nimitz Highway. You can easily get there by taking the free shuttle. There is also a store located at the Ala Moana Center.
When you are really ready to shop, head over to Ala Moana Center where you'll find EVERYTHING at the largest outdoor shopping center in the world. With over 290 stores and 2 million sq.ft. of retail space, you may shop for hours or days. Anchors include Macy's, Sears, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom. You'll find all the haute couture luxury brands, the national stores represented in most large regional centers and many local specialty stores unique to the Center. The dining choices are equally diverse. Highlights include, the spectacular view (and popovers) at The Mariposa, the mai tais and live entertainment at the Mai Tai Bar and the pineapple shaped cookies at Honolulu Cookie Company. You'll find 10 sit down restaurants and a night club at the Hookipa Terrace, along with an international Food Court packed with very affordable, tasty choices. There is even a weekly hula shows at Centerstage. The Center caters equally to the tourist and local resident market so you'll shop and dine with kama'aina.
If you are seriously into saving money, go the the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet. It is open on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8AM - 3PM. You will find over 700 vendors set up in tents outside the stadium. It is hot hot hot on a sunny day so bring water and sunscreen ! You can buy just about any type of souvenir for a great price here. You need a car to get here. Take the H-1 freeway west and exit at 1-E Stadium exit.
