Hawaii may be known as a top beach destination, but when it comes to shopping, the island of Oahu also more than delivers. Oahu is home to the largest outdoor shopping mall in the world, countless surf shops, local boutiques, farmers markets, and many of the big box stores you’d find elsewhere in the country. Whether you want to shop handmade goods or worldwide luxury brands, you’ll find it all on Oahu. The island also has its share of shops geared toward tourists, filled with resort wear, souvenirs, and home décor that allow you to bring a piece of the island back home. But if you want to step outside the tourist bubble and shop like a local, add these top 5 local-only Oahu shops to your shopping day itinerary!
Ross
If any big box store needs to make the local shopping list, it’s Ross. This store is a local favorite not only for its low prices, but also because it carries a lot of popular surf brands at a fraction of the regular cost. In fact, the store is so popular here there are an astounding 15 Ross locations just on the island of Oahu. Though some shoppers may think twice about going to a big box store, you may want to reconsider. Many of the big box stores located in the Hawaiian Islands offer a wide variety of relevant beachwear and products that wouldn’t normally be found in locations elsewhere, all at budget friendly prices.
Local Motion
In the 70s, a local Oahu surfboard shaper began creating original boardshorts, t-shirts, and aloha shirts. Today that small enterprise has grown into Local Motion, with six stores spread across Oahu and Maui. Representative of Hawaii’s surf culture, Local Motion’s signature style with a palm tree logo can be spotted on locals throughout the islands. This store offers t-shirts, hoodies, tanks, and hats, among other clothing and accessories. For visitors to Hawaii, the apparel at Local Motion can double as casual wear and memorabilia from your island vacation!
Hawaiian Island Creations
Another surf shop that began as a small enterprise on Oahu’s windward shore, Hawaiian Island Creations now encompasses 14 stores spread across three islands. HIC offers surfboards and surf accessories such as leashes and wax. You’ll also likely spot the HIC logo on clothing worn by locals around the island. HIC offers casual wear such as tanks, t-shirts, and hoodies for both men and women. In addition, Hawaiian Island Creations partners with other brands such as Billabong, Dakine, Havaianas, Hurley, Hydro Flask, O’Neill, and Quiksilver, among others, to offer a wide variety of additional products. Casual wear, swimwear, and accessories can all be found at Hawaiian Island Creations, one of the best surf Oahu shops!
Ala Moana Center
As the largest open-air shopping mall in the world, Ala Moana Center is a popular draw for all those who love to shop. This mall boasts well over 300 stores and restaurants, so no matter if you’re looking for new beachwear or the latest trends for your dinner out, you’ll have no trouble finding it at Ala Moana Center. While it’s true that Ala Moana is frequented by residents and visitors alike, there are a handful of stores within the center that are most frequently visited by locals. Splash Hawaii is a favorite for beachwear, especially the Honey Girl bikini line geared toward paddlers and surfers. Surf shops in Oahu such as T&C Surf Designs, Local Motion, and Rip Curl are also popular with locals for their beachwear and surf-inspired casual wear.
KCC Farmer’s Market
Eat fresh and eat local when you shop at some of Oahu’s best farmer’s markets located around the island. A trip to the farmer’s market will reveal where many locals get their fresh fruits and vegetables, among other products, in order to support local growers and artisans. At the KCC Farmer’s Market, you’ll find much more than simply a few tables offering the local farmer’s produce. With over 70 vendors offering a variety of products, you’ll want to take your time browsing the tables at this well-rounded market. Aside from produce, you’ll find items such as locally harvested honey, sausage, coffee, salsa, seasonings, jams, breads, organic sunscreen, and plants, among many other items. And if you come hungry, you can enjoy freshly prepared foods such as smoothies, desserts, breakfast items, and musubi right onsite! Great for bringing back home as gifts or for treating yourself, you’ll find many unique locally made items at KCC Farmer’s Market. The market is located at Kapiolani Community College and free parking is available.
Visit these Oahu Shops Today!
From beachwear for the next day’s outing to gifts perfect for bringing home, you’ll find a variety of items worth splurging on in these top 5 local only shops in Oahu! Contact us to learn more and book your next stay today!