No doubt Waikiki Beach is famous for its golden sand, turquoise water, and iconic view of Le‘ahi (Diamond Head), but did you know it's also home to world-class retail? With a mix of designer flagships flanking Kalakaua Avenue, international chain outputs and local boutiques, you're sure to discover stand-out souvenirs and unique gifts to remember your trip to paradise by. Plus, the holidays are fast approaching! So, trade in your beach bag for shopping bags and follow our guide to must-have shopping finds in the heart of Waikiki.
Waikiki Beach Walk
Step out of Embassy Suites Waikiki right onto bustling Waikiki Beach Walk, a district lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. For a refined gift for a special someone (or to treat yourself!), slip into Oasis by Kolohe to create your own custom fine jewelry piece from a selection of semi-precious stones, chain styles, and an array of metal options.
If you are musically inclined, enter the treasure-trove that is The ‘Ukulele Store up on the second level. Surrounded by this famous Hawai‘i instrument, you'll be compelled to learn to play. Start with a basic starter set or splurge on a custom masterpiece crafted from rare Koa wood.
And for something sweet, follow the "buzz" to O‘ahu Honey Co. Spawn out of a local couple's gig rescuing honey bees, the shop carries raw, natural soaps, candles, lotions, fruit spreads, and flavored honey such as Hot Honey. Insider tip: the waffle scented candles get rave reviews!
Image: Royal Hawaiian Center
Royal Hawaiian Center
Continue your shopping spree on the next block as you enter Royal Hawaiian Center, a complex housing more than 100 shops and restaurants. Support rising Hawai‘i entrepreneurs by purchasing products at House of Mana Up filled with fashion, food, home and beauty. Stock up on Manoa Chocolate bars to slip into Christmas stockings and present perfect holiday packages with Wrappily's eco-gift wrap in vibrant island patterns.
The Kira x Miffy store will make you smile with kids' apparel, gifts and stuffed animals paying tribute to the beloved fictional rabbit. You can even take a selfie with a giant light up Miffy in the store. Just across the way, travel bag hero LeSportsac sells Hawai‘i exclusive purses and totes with floral designs that will always remind you of Waikiki.
International Market Place
Cross over lively Kalakaua Avenue to the International Market Place, a hub for upscale shopping anchored by a famous banyan tree. Follow your nose to the sweet, bold smell of freshly brewed 100% Kona coffee at Kona Coffee Purveyors. Pick up a bag of estate coffee beans to take back home with you. And for a match made in Hawai‘i, nothing goes better with a cup of joe than cookies. Pumpkin Spice lovers will rejoice with the limited-time White Chocolate Pumpkin shortbread cookies in the shape of pineapples from Honolulu Cookie Company.
And for a timeless, exquisite gift, browse the 30 styles of Koa watches crafted with native wood at Martin & MacArthur or be inspired by the local artwork collections on display. After a successful shopping outing, surely your arms will be full, but you'll only have a short walk back to Embassy Suites Waikiki to pack away your newly found treasures.