Visiting Honolulu? Long time resident? Kama’aina? Whoever you are, when you’re done suntanning at the beach, surfing the waves, shopping at Ala Moana Mall, and sightseeing everything there is on Oahu, come visit us in Kaimuki and Palolo Valley! Tucked behind Diamond Head, this quaint shopping district is filled with one-of-a-kind cafes, shops, and services. Only half an hour walking from the zoo end of Waikiki (or ten minutes by car) you’ll spend a delightful morning prowling Waialae Avenue. Take a walk along the quiet streets of Palolo Valley, stop for a sip of coffee, or go for a (free) swim at the lap pool. Have a little extra time? Go another mile or so and catch a movie or just some A/C at Kahala Mall further down the street.
Below we’ve listed some of the places that we frequent, but there are many others just as fun! And as we say, Keep it Kaimuki!
da Shop books and curiosities–Fun book store on Harding Avenue between 11th and 12th, just a block off Waialae. Filled with books about Hawaii, including some from your favorite fiction writers.
Mirage Art and Coffee–Aloha with a Middle Eastern flair! For an eclectic mix of art, food, and talk-story, visit Jasmin’s cafe on 10th Avenue, just a short walk up the Palolo Valley from Waialae.
Next door to Mirage is North Shore Grinds, a take out place for local foods: teriyaki, poke, katsu, laulau, and much more!
In the mood for an old-fashioned burger with a touch of the islands? A chocolate malt? After hitting da Shop for book browsing, hop over to Boarded Up AKA Chubbies Burgers on the corner of Harding and 12th. It’s not big, it’s not famous, but it’s good and that’s what matters.
In the mood for pastries with holding power? Check out The Little General Store in the heart of Kaimuki, on Waialae and 9th. Guaranteed mouth watering happiness!
Ice cream anyone? For something cold with island flavors, and made right there in Kaimuki, check out Via Gelato on 12th. (That famous ice cream place doesn’t have these flavors!)
In the mood for snacks? The Crack Seed Store is snack heaven and has been in that location for longer than, well, I’ve been alive! At the corner of Waialae and Koko Head.
Need a pick me up? Follow your nose to where coffee beans are roasted and ground at The Curb Kaimuki on Waialae.
There are plenty of other places to find in Kaimuki and Palolo, from pizza to taverns, clothing and noodles, even a public swimming pool for free laps. We’ll be adding more places soon!
Kay Hadashi Novels 