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We've compiled the best of the best in Honolulu and Pearl Harbor - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Pieces by local and international artists are featured here, including original paintings; limited-edition prints; works in wood, metal, glass, ceramic, and acrylic; and handcrafted jewelry. There's another branch on Oahu, in the town of Haleiwa, and one in Lihue on Kauai.
This open-air mall at the west end of Kalakaua Avenue and next to the Royal Hawaiian Center contains 70 locally owned stores and restaurants. Get reasonably priced, fashionable resort wear at Mahina or buy local delicacies from the Poke Bar. Of course, you can pick up T-shirts, bathing suits, and casual beach attire here, too. The mall also features free local entertainment on its outdoor fountain stage at least once a week.
Tucked away in the Royal Hawaiian’s lobby, this tiny shop is a great place to pick up a memento of your surf lesson. It's filled with a variety of high-quality Waikiki Beach Services gear, including the best-selling logo rash guards and T-shirts of the type worn by their beachboys and surf instructors. There's also a selection of locally designed bathing suits from Pualani Hawaii, swimwear from the Colombian brand Maaji, accessories, sunscreen, and original artwork.
Heading west from Waikiki toward downtown Honolulu, you'll run into a section of town with distinct shopping-complex areas; there are more than 100 specialty shops and around 40 eateries here. The Ward Entertainment Center features 16 movie screens, including a state-of-the-art, 3D, big-screen auditorium, and all theaters have reclining chairs and access to an extended food menu and alcoholic beverages for those of age. The South Shore Market is a contemporary collection of local shops and restaurants, plus T. J. Maxx and Nordstrom Rack. For distinctive Hawaiian gifts, such as locally made muumuus, koa-wood products, and Niihau shell necklaces, visit Martin & MacArthur and Na Mea Hawaii. There's also free parking around the entire Ward Village, though sometimes you have to circle for a while to find a spot. Valet parking is also available.
In addition to exhibiting the beautiful and inspiring work of the world-famous marine life artist Wyland, this expansive art gallery showcases works by a number of other artists, both lesser-known and highly acclaimed. There are also locations in the Oahu town of Haleiwa and on Kauai.
