International Market Place is a huge shopping destination located in the heart of Waikiki.
It’s a beautiful shopping and dining spot, lined with unique shops, restaurants, a food court, and a supermarket!
Originally opened in 1957 as Waikiki Village, it was a rustic market centered around stalls and vendors, known for its somewhat cluttered and gritty atmosphere.
Today, it has been transformed into a beautiful shopping mall. Visitors can enjoy great deals with perks like the Shopping Passport coupon book and other loyalty programs.
With a full lineup of events like hula shows and a farmers market, it’s a must-visit spot during your stay in Waikiki.
Recommended Shops & Restaurants at International Market Place
The International Market Place is massive, with a huge number of stores.
Since it would take a long time to see everything, here are some recommended spots you should definitely check out!
Banyan Treehouse
The banyan tree, over 160 years old, is the symbol of the International Market Place.
At the heart of this tree stands a small, charming treehouse.
This was built to honor the achievements of Donn Beach, a key figure in the establishment of Waikiki Village. He actually lived and worked here while expanding the village!
This iconic banyan tree is surrounded by a variety of Hawaiian plants, creating a small garden-like atmosphere.
There are plenty of benches where you can relax, and you’ll often see people taking a break from shopping.
It’s a perfect spot to unwind, and there are even charging stations available for your mobile devices.
Mitsuwa Marketplace
This is Waikiki’s only Japanese supermarket.
The store is packed with Japanese products like seasonings, retort pouches, canned goods, snacks, and baby food.
They also sell prepared foods and bento boxes, such as tonkatsu bento, onigiri rice balls, and sushi.
You can even find common Japanese medicines like cold remedies, pain relievers, and digestive aids, which is convenient for those who prefer familiar products.
It’s especially recommended for long-term visitors or travelers staying in accommodations with a kitchen.
Kona Coffee Purveyors
Founded by the creator of Honolulu Coffee, this coffee shop is incredibly popular with locals!
While renowned for its high-quality coffee, the freshly baked pastries in the display case are also a must-try.
Among them, the Kouign-amann is by far the most popular item and the reason for the long lines—it’s definitely worth a try!
This pastry has a delightful texture, somewhere between crunchy and flaky, like a cross between a croissant and a pie.
With a variety of flavors like classic, fruit, and black sesame, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy with a delicious coffee during your snack break.
Shore Fyre
This restaurant is a huge hit for its very reasonable prices and generous portions.
Their signature loco moco features a special patty packed with bacon.
The menu is built around famous Hawaiian dishes, including garlic shrimp, poke tacos, and acai bowls.
Happy hour offers even better deals, with steeper discounts on both drinks and food compared to many other places!
With great views overlooking Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki and live music starting in the evening, it’s a fantastic hidden gem.
Liliha Bakery
A long-established Hawaiian diner, this bakery and restaurant is beloved by locals.
While famous for its sweets and bread like Coco Puffs (cream puffs) and butter rolls, its oxtail soup and plate lunches are also popular for their authentic Hawaiian flavors!
For those wondering, a Coco Puff is a cream puff pastry filled with cocoa cream, with the name being a shortened version of “cocoa cream puff.”
And what’s fantastic about the International Market Place location is its incredibly stylish atmosphere.
With a bar counter in its open-air patio area, it has a unique vibe that sets it apart from their other locations.
Popular Events at International Market Place
Hula Show
The International Market Place hosts a free hula show three times a week.
This show, combining traditional Hawaiian hula and Polynesian music, is a big hit with tourists.
| Days | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (Weekly) |
| Time | March-August: 7:00 PM September-February: 6:30 PM |
| Location | Queen’s Court |
Luau Show
Held four times a week, this paid luau show is reputed to be one of the best in Waikiki.
You can enjoy a diverse Polynesian show featuring traditional hula from Pacific islands, fire dancing, and more.
| Days | Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays (Weekly) |
| Time | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Location | Queen’s Court |
Farmers Market
This farmers market has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with many local craft artists setting up stalls.
You’ll find original handmade goods, making it the perfect place to find made-in-Hawaii souvenirs.
| Day | Thursdays (Weekly) |
| Time | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Location | 1st Floor of International Market Place |
Currency International Exchange
We often hear from travelers that it can be difficult to find a good place to exchange their home currency for U.S. dollars.
If you’re looking to avoid the high rates at hotels and airports or are hesitant about using ATMs for cash advances abroad, this currency exchange is a great option!
It’s open long hours from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM and is centrally located in Waikiki, so you can easily stop by to exchange money after checking into your hotel.
Although Hawaii is largely a credit card-friendly destination, there are still some cash-only establishments.
While there is a commission fee, it offers one of the best exchange rates in Waikiki, so be sure to visit if you need cash.
General Information about International Market Place
| Name | International Market Place |
| Address | 2330 Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu HI 96815 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Hours may vary by store) |
| Closed | None |
| Restrooms | Available |
| Parking | Available (Paid) *First hour is free with a purchase of $10 or more. |
Recommended Ways to Get to International Market Place
Biki (Honolulu’s Bike Share Program for Easy City Travel)
Waikiki Trolley (A Convenient Bus for Sightseeing at Major Spots)
Areas Around International Market Place
The Ultimate Guide to Popular Tourist Spots in Waikiki & Ala Moana on Oahu, Hawaii