The World’s Largest Open-Air Mall

[ 1450 Ala Moana Blvd ]

The other afternoon, with the clouds looking menacing and nothing appealing to watch on television, I decided to spend some time at Ala Moana Center. This sprawling shopping oasis, nestled in the heart of Honolulu, is a veritable treasure trove of retail delights and culinary pleasures. An ideal destination to escape the looming rain and lose myself in some retail therapy.

The mall's unique open-concept and lush greenery exude a welcoming charm, blending contemporary architecture with an airy, vibrant atmosphere. It has the perfect ambiance for a day of shopping. As I strolled through the open corridors, I couldn't help but feel a sense of leisurely ease, despite the throngs of people around me.

As an avid reader, I couldn't resist the allure of Barnes & Noble. I eagerly stopped there first, spending time strolling the aisles, absorbing the inviting atmosphere of the bookstore. I perused the curated display of bestsellers and new releases, as well as the intriguing sections dedicated to local authors, history, and culture.

I was thrilled to see they carried Jessica Machado's memoir "Local," a coming-of-age story about growing up in Makakilo (a neighborhood in the ʻEwa District on the island of Oʻahuo) in the 80s and 90s. The memoir's enticing cover art and rave reviews beckoned me to add it to my ever-growing reading list. Excited to have a new book to read and feeling inspired by the countless stories surrounding me, I decided to venture further into the mall, eager to pick up a few other items and continue my leisurely day of shopping and exploration.

UNIQLO was my next stop. Their Hawaii outpost brings a taste of Tokyo's fashion-forward spirit to the heart of Honolulu, catering to the island's laid-back lifestyle. I especially love their collection of Hawaiian Loco UT graphic tees, soft, 100% cotton T-shirts with images of iconic spots and unique designs that are exclusively available in-store (they are not carried online at this time). The designs are always changing, so I like to visit every few months to see what's new.

Feeling the need for a mid-shopping treat, I made my way to the mall's open-air Makai Market Food Court. The food court was bustling with people and offered a plethora of tempting options, but my heart was set on a steaming bowl of ramen from the nearby ramen shop Goma Tei Ramen. The rich, savory broth and perfectly cooked noodles hit the spot, providing a welcome respite from the day's retail endeavors.

As the afternoon wore on, I wandered into a few more stores. One shop that particularly caught my eye was Local Motion, a surf shop with deep roots in Hawaiian surf culture. Founded in the 1970s by Hawaiian native and renowned surfer Rob Burns.

Local Motion began as a small 500-square-foot surf shop in Kailua that now has seven stores across Oahu, Maui, and California. The brand celebrates Hawaii's surfing culture and aloha spirit, and the iconic palm tree logo, which adorns everything from surfboards to apparel, perfectly encapsulates the brand's commitment to its island roots.

By the time I was ready to leave, my belly full and a few shopping bags in hand, the threatening clouds had given way to a stunning Hawaiian sunset, casting the mall in a warm, golden glow.

Reflecting on the day, I couldn't help but appreciate the diverse offerings of Ala Moana Center. It is more than just a place to shop – it’s the perfect embodiment of a day well spent: enjoying leisurely strolls, indulging in delicious treats, and discovering new treasures.