Headed to Waikiki to soak up some sun? We’re jealous. You’ll be strolling a shoreline that once hosted royal retreats—and while Waikiki isn’t quite so exclusive these days, it still delivers some of the most fun, stylish, and uniquely Hawaiʻi shopping anywhere. Whether you’re here to splurge, souvenir-hunt, or simply grab sunscreen and a new pair of slippahs, this guide will help you shop smarter (and spend more time on the beach).
Where is the best shopping in Waikiki, Hawaii?
If you want the biggest, “wow-I-need-a-snack-and-a-game-plan” shopping day, head to Ala Moana Center, just outside Waikiki. It’s the world’s largest open-air shopping center, with 350+ shops and restaurants and 160+ dining options—basically its own little retail universe. (Ala Moana Center)
But here’s the secret: you don’t have to leave Waikiki to get a dreamy shopping fix. From open-air courtyards under banyan trees to luxury storefronts on Kalākaua Avenue, Waikiki makes it easy to shop between surf sessions.
Let’s map it out.
Ala Moana Center: The “go big” shopping day (and totally worth it)
Ala Moana is where you go for:
- Big-name brands + flagship stores
- Great food choices (quick bites to sit-down splurges)
- One-stop errands (gifts, toiletries, basics)
- A full day that can end with dinner without you ever moving your car
The center features about 2.4 million square feet of retail space and 350+ shops—so yes, it’s massive.
Getting to Ala Moana from Waikiki
The easiest tourist-friendly option is the Waikiki Trolley Pink Line, which is marketed as an Ala Moana shopping shuttle. A 1-day Pink Line ticket is listed at $6 and includes hop-on/hop-off boarding (with kids under 3 riding free). (Waikiki Trolley Tours)
Local tip: Go earlier in the day for cooler temps and lighter crowds, then reward yourself with a long lunch and a slow stroll through the center.
Best shopping in Waikiki (walkable, beautiful, and beach-adjacent)
If you’d rather keep things close to your hotel (and keep your beach schedule sacred), these are Waikiki’s heavy hitters.
International Market Place: Open-air shopping under a famous banyan
International Market Place is one of Waikiki’s most iconic places to shop and wander. It’s an open-air center with about 90 specialty stores and restaurants, plus a lively dining scene that makes it easy to turn “just browsing” into “accidentally stayed for dinner.” (International Market Place)
It’s also a great stop when you want:
- A mix of mainstream brands and island style
- A shaded, breezy place to walk around
- Food options for picky eaters and adventurous snackers alike
Royal Hawaiian Center: Waikiki’s luxury-core (with culture built in)
If you want Waikiki’s polished, luxury-shopping energy, Royal Hawaiian Center is a must. It sits on Kalākaua Avenue and leans into the legacy of Helumoa, Waikiki’s historic coconut grove, while offering a mix of high-end shopping and dining.
Bonus: the center is known for cultural programming—so even if you’re “not a shopper,” it still feels like a Waikiki experience, not just a mall stop.
Waikiki Beach Walk: Boutiques + eats + live entertainment vibes
Waikiki Beach Walk is a fun, easy promenade for boutique shopping and “let’s just see what’s over there” wandering. Expect shops, restaurants, and frequent events/performances—perfect for a low-commitment shopping break between pool time and sunset plans. (Waikiki Beach Walk)
Pualeilani Atrium Shops: A relaxed “pop in and browse” gem
Tucked at the Hyatt Regency Waikīkī area, Pualeilani Atrium Shops is an open-air atrium with boutiques and bites—great when you want something easy and close. It also hosts events like a Waikiki Farmers Market on Mondays and Wednesdays (4–8 p.m.)—an awesome place to pick up small local goodies and edible souvenirs. (Pualeilani Atrium Shops)
Rainy-day (or “too-hot-day”) shopping in Waikiki
Tropical showers happen. So do brutally sunny afternoons when “one more block” feels like a personal challenge. Here’s your plan.
Waikiki Shopping Plaza: Covered shopping right on Kalākaua
Waikiki Shopping Plaza is a convenient, central option with recognizable brands and souvenir-friendly stores. It’s also a popular spot to duck into when weather turns or you just want a cooler indoor break. (Waikiki Shopping Plaza)
DFS Waikiki: Glamorous browsing + gifts + beauty counters
DFS is a classic Waikiki stop for luxury browsing—especially for fragrance, cosmetics, accessories, and gifts. It’s also positioned for travelers who like the idea of duty-free shopping (eligibility rules can vary, so check in-store for what applies to your trip). (DFS: Duty Free Shopping)
Shopping for surf gear (because Waikiki is not the place to guess)
If you came to Waikiki to surf (or you’re about to become a surfer for the week), you’ll be happier with gear that fits your needs—fast.
Here are a few reliable options to get you wave-ready:
- Quality Surfboards Hawaii (Waikiki): A well-known Waikiki surf shop for rentals, boards, and beach gear. (Quality Surfboards Hawaii)
- Hawaiian Island Creations (HIC): A Hawaii-born surf brand with multiple Oʻahu locations, including Waikiki-area shops. (Hawaiian Island Creations)
- Koa Board Sports: Known for rentals and a “try it before you commit” feel—handy if you want more than a generic beach board. (KOA BOARD SPORTS)
- Big Wave Dave Surf Co.: If you’d rather book a lesson and get guided onto the right waves, this is an easy starting point. (Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee)
Quick note: Retail in Waikiki changes quickly—some surf shops come and go. If a specific store is on your “must-visit” list, a quick hours check before you walk over can save you a sweaty detour.
The “boring but crucial” list: groceries, snacks, and essentials
Because nothing ruins a beach day like realizing you forgot sunscreen… on day one.
Groceries and grab-and-go food
- Dukes Lane Market & Eatery: A super convenient market-style stop inside Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach Hotel—great for snacks, quick meals, and “I need something right now.” (Dukes Lane Market & Eatery)
- Mitsuwa Waikiki: A Japanese market inside International Market Place (hello, snacks and quick meals). (Mitsuwa)
- Food Pantry (Eaton Square): A practical grocery option near Waikiki that many visitors use for basics.
- Foodland Farms (Ala Moana): If you’re already doing an Ala Moana run, this is an excellent add-on stop for groceries and prepared foods. (Foodland)
- ABC Stores: The Waikiki classic—everybody ends up here at least once, usually for water, snacks, and last-minute essentials. (ABC Stores)
Update note: Some longtime favorites (like Coco Cove) have been reported as closed in recent listings—so if you’re chasing a specific poke-and-snacks spot, verify it’s open first. (Yelp)
Pharmacies and drugstores
- Longs Drugs (Waikiki / Kalākaua): A go-to for toiletries, sunscreen, meds, and convenience-store essentials.
- Discovery Bay Pharmacy: A nearby option many people use when they want a local pharmacy alternative.
(As always: hours and services can change—especially around holidays—so a quick check before you go is worth it.)
Only want a tee-shirt? You have to visit 88 Tees
If you love fun, creative graphic tees (and want something that doesn’t scream “generic souvenir”), 88 Tees is a Waikiki rite of passage. The brand has become famous far beyond Hawaiʻi, but it’s been a local favorite for years—and it’s still one of the most memorable “brought it home from Waikiki” purchases you can make.
They list two Waikiki locations and store hours of 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week (always smart to double-check around holidays). (88 Tees – Honolulu, Hawaii)
A few Waikiki shopping tips you’ll be glad you read
- Bring a light layer if you plan to shop indoors after the beach—A/C can feel arctic when you’re sun-warmed.
- Wear walkable sandals (or stash them in your bag). Waikiki shopping is best done on foot.
- Group your shopping by vibe:
- Big day: Ala Moana
- Luxury + culture: Royal Hawaiian Center
- Open-air stroll + dining: International Market Place
- Boutique browsing + entertainment: Waikiki Beach Walk
- Leave room in your suitcase. (This is not a suggestion. It’s survival.)
