Talk Story #28 – Ala Moana Center – Hawaii's Largest Shopping Center Has a New Special Recognition “Award”

Oahu’s Ala Moana Shopping Center in Kaka’ako (located between Waikiki and Honolulu, just opposite the Ala Wai Boat Harbor and Magic Island) was recently in the news. A Better Homes & Gardens real estate office worked with Onboard Informatics to evaluate major U.S.A. shopping centers in their quest for finding the centers which have the most ‘fun’ activities while still being ‘frugal’ in their immediate area. They utilized zip codes and median home prices, etc.

Well, it turned out that our own Oahu’s largest center came in #2 with 273 bars and restaurants along with a median home price of $357,000. Who made 1st place? A shopping center in Ocean City, MD., which has 4 more bars and restaurants, totaling 277, plus a lower median home price of $243,600.

But…do keep in mind, we have our famous Waikiki and all its wonderfulness just around the curve, plus a whole island filled with the fun ‘things to do’ besides more diverse eating and drinking establishments! In my humble opinion, there is no doubt we have the best ‘playground’ overall along with the superb, multi-level, beautiful open air Ala Moana Center! 

“Pau Hana” time (It’s Friday or the end of the week, or time to stop work and relax) at the main ‘gathering place’ on an upper level of the Nations’ #2 positioned ‘mall’ is thoroughly enjoyed by both the Kamaaina (resident or local person) and our visitors alike.

As for those “median” prices noted in that evaluation, yes…we may be more expensive than some other locations on the mainland, but stop and consider what we have here. We are unique, a tropical island state, no other one like it—with year-round wonderful, sunny weather and diverse topography for varied activities on all the main islands. Demand is high with less available land to purchase and logical factors such as shipping and construction costs are greater then most on the mainland, BUT we offer a lifestyle which is only Hawaii’s. 

The statue of King Kamehameha symbolizes the proud traditions and historic monarchy past which no other state has

Peace, quiet, and a sense of harmony can be found on the islands if that is your desire. Or is it finding a place near the “fun and action?” The choices are numerous. There is primarily condominium living in the Waikiki, Kaka’ako-Ala Moana location, from studio size to the penthouse beauties with varied prices and views galore. Will it be a full-time residence, or a vacation place for you to enjoy with family or friends? 

There are also residences not far away from the excitement of the Waikiki areas. A gallery of suggested properties can be sent to you for review prior to your arrival. Life is good and super places like the Ala Moana Shopping Center is just one example, out of so many, to enjoy. Contact me and let’s “talk story” and discuss your parameters, needs, and wants. I look forward to it! 

Aloha, 
Jeanne

Note: In Hawaii, there is often a gathering of family and friends, and in a casual way, stories are told of present and past happenings. We call it “Talk Story.” My continued series are about different places around Oahu with a bit of their history, and the opportunities for you today. I would love to hear about your personal Hawaii memories to share, perhaps during the territorial days, like I was, growing up out ‘Koko Head’ way. Hawaii is a special place and so are the people. Follow me as we discover a Lifestyle best suited for YOU. Whether it is a new military move, a casual beach house, a downsized retirement home, a golf course fronted resort home-away-from-home, a grand residence with superb view, or a high rise condominium…the choices and the Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers resources are many.