Welcome to Kaka’ako (Ala Moana)
An up-and-coming urban enclave with a hip, artistic vibe
Hawaii's most exciting urban metropolis is on the rise! Kaka’ako is a thriving metropolitan epicenter known for its vibrant culinary scene, trendy boutiques, and art on every corner. With living sculptures and mural-lined streets, this walkable neighborhood is a sight to behold.
Once the site of fishing villages and salt ponds, Kaka’ako developed into an industrial, working-class area with the inception of Honolulu Iron Works. Its entrepreneurial spirit flourished and soon became fertile ground for small shops and social activism. Inspired by the ‘ohana, or family, vibe, the vibrant community supports local shops and business owners and is now a dynamic urban village complete with stellar restaurants and creative workspaces.
Full of art deco architecture and of-the-moment yoga studios and artisan shops, Kaka’ako is the coolest town on Oahu.
What to Love
- Exciting food scene
- Trendy boutiques
- City vibrance
- Green space and walkability
People & Lifestyle
Artistic and hip, Kaka’ako is the perfect spot for the urban sophisticate looking for a mix of cosmopolitan culture and cool island life. Home to the majority of Oahu’s group workspaces, Kaka’ako is a hotspot for entrepreneurs and working professionals. With options like BoxJelly, Hawaii’s original co-working space, those working from home will find a supportive entrepreneurial community.
Artists, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts all fall in love with this trendy neighborhood. From the thriving restaurant and art scene to the multitude of green spaces and fitness centers, Kaka’ako offers its residents the best of city sophistication and a healthy, active lifestyle.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Gourmands will be thrilled with the impressive array of culinary treats in this foodie town. Chef-driven Moku Kitchen will be your kitchen away from home. This cool, creative eatery offers locally sourced, modern American fare, cocktails, and live music. Combining upcountry farming traditions with the urban flair of Honolulu, this lively spot specializes in authentic Hawaiian tastes and a menu everyone from foodies to families can enjoy.
Glam steakhouse Yaya's offers a modern style and a high-end selection of seafood and steaks, including the world-famous wagyu beef. Come for happy hour and taste local favorites like crab cakes and ceviche. Outfit your own kitchen at the conveniently located Whole Foods Market. This eco-minded grocery chain offers natural and organic produce, meats, housewares, and essentials. Stock up on groceries to create your own gourmet meals, or grab prepared foods for healthy on-the-go eats.
Merriman's, the ultimate in farm-to-table dining, is a vibrant and stylish bistro offering local seafood, wine, cocktails, and live music. Combining an urbane, sophisticated feel with the tastes of classic Hawaii, this friendly place is perfect for both casual family dinners and celebrating special occasions. The restaurant is committed to supporting local farmers and ranchers and takes pride in its fresh, authentic cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere.
Things to Do
Kaka’ako is made for Saturday strolls and weekend leisure. This hip neighborhood is the home of FarmLovers Markets, a popular destination located in Ward Village. Buzzing with energy, this local favorite offers the region’s best produce, meat and seafood, delicious treats, and live music.
One of the biggest and most exciting events in Hawaii is right here in this creative neighborhood. POW! WOW! is an annual arts festival that brings hundreds of artists, both local and international, to Kaka’ako for gallery shows, lectures, concerts, live art installations, music, and mural projects. Held every February, this dynamic event offers a place where artists from around the globe can gather together and create collaborative art.
Considered Honolulu’s cultural epicenter, SALT offers some of the area’s coolest boutiques, cafes, and events. From chef-driven restaurants to artist-owned shops, this vibrant, mixed-use space is a gathering place for the city’s best retail and dining experiences. South Shore Market is a cool, unique retail destination with indoor and outdoor seating, trendy boutiques, and a diverse mix of retailers. Taking inspiration from chic spots like Abbot Kinney in Venice, the Brentwood Country Mart, Chelsea Market in New York, and L.A.’s famed Melrose Avenue shops, this is a favorite shopping and gathering spot for Kaka’ako residents.
