I stopped by the Barnes & Noble at Ala Moana Center and it remains one of the most comfortable…read moreplaces in the mall if you want to slow down and spend some time browsing books. The store is spacious and well organized, with clearly arranged sections that make it easy to explore different genres. Walking through the aisles feels relaxed, and there is a wide selection of books ranging from best sellers and new releases to classics and specialty topics. One thing that stood out to me is how the store still maintains the traditional bookstore experience even though it is located inside a busy shopping center. The layout encourages browsing, and it is easy to spend a good amount of time looking through titles and discovering books you were not originally planning to buy. Another highlight is the range of non-book items available throughout the store. You will find journals, gifts, educational toys, and other reading-related merchandise, which adds variety to the experience. The atmosphere is calm compared to many other areas of the mall, and the store tends to attract a mix of students, families, and casual readers looking for a quiet place to browse. Overall, Barnes & Noble at Ala Moana Center is a great stop if you enjoy bookstores and want a comfortable place to explore books while spending time at the mall.

This specific store is noted for being a unique "cultural hub" in Honolulu with several standout…read morefeatures that distinguish it from a standard mainland location. 1. It serves as a major community gathering point, often hosting local author signings and cultural events that reflect the islands' literary scene. So now you can get your copy of Eat Lava Pray signed. 2. The in-store café serves official Cheesecake Factory cheesecakes, so you can skip the restaurant lines. 3. Reflecting Hawaii's deep cultural ties to Japan, this location features an exceptionally large manga and anime section that rivals international bookstores. 4. The store maintains a robust physical media section with a curated selection of vinyl records. I found Pois Don't Cry and Lei Lady Lei.

When Jamie W and I heard that Josh Spencer, the owner of LA's legendary Last Bookstore (review:…read morehttps://yelp.to/PBt2J99ygG) had opened a bookstore in Honolulu, we decided to look for it on our recent Oahu adventure. It turned out to be in Downtown close to Chinatown. While it doesn't have the scale of the Last Bookstore, this store shares some of the unique design elements of its SoCal progenitor like curving shelves and large vinyl collection. A broad scan of the books on display reflects titles that seem more avant garde than more commercial curations with sections devoted to science fiction, horror, true crime, and rock music. Jamie found an existential book about his favorite band called "Queen and Philosophy" (Photo 9), while I bought an intriguing manga cosplay history book called "Otaku Japan" (Photo 5). We probably could've spent another hour in here, but we had manapua on our minds. RELATED - Exploring Hawaii? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://yelp.to/n9JWu5nlzl

I stopped by Skull-Face Books & Vinyl while walking through Chinatown and it quickly stood out as…read moreone of the more unique independent shops in the area. The store blends two cultures that often go hand in hand: underground literature and vinyl records. The space itself feels very curated. Instead of a large commercial bookstore layout, the shop has a smaller, more intentional selection of titles and records that reflect niche interests, counterculture themes, and independent publishing. It feels like a place built for people who enjoy digging through shelves to discover something unexpected. One of the highlights is the mix of books and vinyl. The store carries everything from rare or independent books to records that span multiple genres, which creates an environment where music and literature intersect. Browsing through the collection feels more like exploring a curated archive than a traditional retail store. The atmosphere fits well with the Chinatown neighborhood. Bethel Street has a strong creative and artistic identity, and Skull-Face Books & Vinyl contributes to that scene with its alternative aesthetic and independent spirit. What stood out most to me was how personal the shop feels. Independent stores like this often reflect the personality of the people behind them, and that character comes through clearly in the selection and layout. Overall, Skull-Face Books & Vinyl is a great place to explore if you are in Chinatown and enjoy independent bookstores, vinyl records, and creative spaces that feel a little different from mainstream retail shops.

We love coming to this spot after a meal at the Ward. The kid loves perusing the comic book…read moresection. This is where he's bought comic books every year on vacation. I love book stores in general so I don't mind hanging out checking out all the new books and art they have. We love coming here every year we're in town :)

For what it's worth this place is a godsend for those looking for used books and supporting the…read morelibrary but don't expect a massive catalog. For the footprint they got there which is sizable they don't have a large footprint of genres of books. A good set of it is dedicated to rare large print books and music which while good was not what I was looking for. The aisles that were were small and lacking much variety in topic. I'd imagine that their system changes often from donations from the library so maybe I came at a slow time for my genres but yah. All books regardless are priced so cheaply like 2-4 bucks so it's an easy visit if you're coming to town. If they had more variety I'd definitely make trips specially for this but as it is a solid stop regardless.

I've been here, maybe twice befoe picking up some used CD's and books. BookOff is a used book,…read moremovie, gaming, and music store. They are on Cooke Street with 3 dedicated stalls in a shared lot. Entrance/exit is on Cooke. They buy as well as sell. They do offer new collectibles such as Funko Pops and figurines. They also have a sizeable collection of Japanese books, manga, games, movies, anime, and records. They have a discount area in all or most sections...$1 books, music, etc. I am not sure when their buying hours are but I am sure it is posted in-store. Today, I picked up a Heatwave hits collection on CD - I have an older vehicle witha CD player. This was a 70's R&B/disco band with a Philly Soul influence in the harmonies...members from Spain, Switzerland, UK, and USA. Open daily from 1000a till 800p.

Wow!! What a selecting of items they have!! We went to look for game boy games and ended up buying…read moreCDs and looking thru the books!! There's not much parking there but at least they have a parking lot. Value of the items are great!!! Could spend hours there just to look thru everything!

If you're a book lover in Hawai'i, Da Shop is hands down one of the best local bookstores you can…read morevisit. Da Shop isn't just a bookstore, it's a community space that supports readers, writers, and local culture. With great selections, special orders available, engaging book events. There's just one small detail I wanted to share. The girl at the front desk has never welcomed me when I walked in. The first time, it honestly bothered me. After noticing it again on another visit, I decided to approach her myself, and she was actually warm, friendly, and excited to talk about books.

Stopped by Da Shop in Kaimuki while spending a Saturday morning wandering through the…read moreneighborhood's small businesses. This charming boutique bookstore was such a great find to leisurely browse through. The space feels rooted in the community, with a curated selection of popular national, international, and especially local titles focused on Hawaiʻi. I loved wandering the shelves that held everything from early childhood picture books to scholarly works for deeper research. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making the experience even better.

Not just books…read more.. Though they do have wonderful selection on books for all ages I just love the other items they carry here from mugs to toys all are so cute and some specific for all occasions and with that they have a great selection of greeting cards as well. My favorite are the "Little Inspirations" as each one has a wonderful yet simple message that seem to express the cutest moment to help capture the vibe you're looking for and with that is $0.99 so you know I got a few along with some other items including cute gift items. The staff here are always so kind and welcoming browsing around here you'll never know what you'll find all done with such wonderful selection for family and friends and with them on the ground floor facing the parking garage getting there is easy. Thank you!

Back in 1983, Carl and Becky Ashizawa noticed limited resources on Christian book selections in HI…read morein contrast with the bigger stores on the Mainland. To provide the same resources to HI residents, the Ashizawas opened a bookstore at Fort St Mall in downtown Honolulu, which is part of a national chain of independently owned stores operating under the Association of Logos Bookstores. They named their store, Logos Bookstore of HI. "Logos" is a Greek word that means to reason, divine wisdom and in Christianity, refers to Jesus as the Word of God. Logos Bookstore carries bibles, spiritual guides, fiction books, music, gifts, and greeting cards. Being a Christian bookstore, its most important book is the Bible, and because they're expensive, Logos has a 15% discount to make it more affordable if purchased there. Logos has most of all Bible translations, and the Bibles come in various colors and sizes. At times, it was a struggle for the Ashizawas to keep the bookstore open. With Amazon, it was less expensive to purchase online instead of from a bookstore. The Ashizawas noted that it was free to ship books to the store for pickup and how purchasers could tap the knowledge of the Ashizawas in accessing resources in growing their relationship with Christianity. They've never closed but moved six times, seeking lesser rent. Logos has been housed at Ward Warehouse, then to Queen St, Halekauwila St, Keawe St, and now to Ward Centre. Hoping that this is their permanent location. I love the store's inventory! They have a wide range of items: * Bibles, and lots of them. * Crosses of all sizes, colors, and materials. * Church supplies (candles, communion trays, etc.). * Fictional and non-fictional books. * Colorful tote bags with scriptures printed on them. * Wired array of greeting cards. * Mugs with scripture sayings. * Children's books and games. * CDs and DVDs. * Anointing oil. * Jewelry. * Seasonal items - Mother's Day gifts, Christmas ornaments, Easter egg fillers. * Clothing. * Gift items. * Bookmarks and scripture cards. * Non-inventory special orders. I enjoy browsing in this store, as there is so much to look at. I love to purchase scripture cards, gift items, and greeting cards, which I have received compliments from those receiving them. Their gift items are thoughtful and Christ-centered, especially if one is seeking to deepen their relationship with Christ. I love their greeting cards, as Logos carries an extensive inventory of cute and beautiful cards for both Christian and non-Christian believers. And where else can you get personalized engraved names on bibles. Logos has a rewards program for military, clergy, and the public. For a set annual membership fee, you can get a percentage of books and most other items, including greeting cards! Plus, in receiving an e-mail newsletter each month, there is a 25% off coupon for any one book, music, DVD, or gift item of choice. Staff is very knowledgeable about their inventory, friendly and willing to help. Tap the wisdom and suggestions by the Ashikawas. Logos has a quiet atmosphere for you to browse leisurely. Staff leaves you alone, so no need to have someone watching over your shoulders. When paying, they will always ask if you have a rewards account so that you can get a discount. There is a fee for credit card purchases. With its glass walls and bright lighting, Logos stands out in the darkened covered area of Ward Centre in Ward Village. The store interior is very clean and bright. Merchandise is well displayed throughout the store, with every space taken to showcase their importance. Hours of operation are Mon to Sat 9:30a to 6p, Sun closed. I love the location of Logos, as it's on the ground floor in the middle of Ward Center and if you're fortunate enough, you might get score a space directly across from Logos. I've parked in these convenient spaces many times and have run in to get a greeting card and run out. These spaces and those in the regular parking structure are free and shared among the stores of Ward Centre. Logos is an excellent Christian bookstore for those seeking resources who want to deepen their relationship with Jesus. It's also an excellent bookstore for non-Christians to browse through their awesome inventory, some that are not necessarily faith-based. Glad that we have you, Logos! Support local!

Very cool store with a lot of unique items that you can't find easily. The staff was friendly and…read morethe prices were reasonable.

Kawaii and cuteness overload…read more.. JQ Store Hawaii found it's new home here in the International Marketplace from the former Ala Moana Plaza and aren't we all thrilled that they did. Filled with all things Japanese it's not limited to the plushies and stationaries we all grown to love and miss as many Japanese stops have slowly disappeared JQ has a great variety to please all levels of anime lovers. Located on the second level right above the Kuhio Avenue Food Hall the first thing I saw as soon as I walked in was some discounted holiday items which is a great time to stock up and find unique decor that area so cute and fun. They do have a huge stock of plushies so fluffy and cute all covered in plastic so that you have no worries of cleanliness along with mystery boxes, huge choices of pens and model kits which are items that can be pricey but are hard to find items even in Japan. A great place with staff that are always willing to help you find items that they may help you to find or just a question, here at JQ Store its a fun trip without the long travel plans. Thank you!

New name...same store. The new Jelly's with a new name brings back a ton of memories from when I…read morewas a kid. Love this place is still around! The selection of vinyl records, CDs and comic books is varied. You can spend hours here sorting through their stock just to see what you could possibly find. Many treasures and if you can sift through their stock. There is an organized chaos to their offerings. Some items require staff assistance and since they don't hover..you need to ask for what you need. Prices for the used books are okay. Love they have tons of sheet music for musicians or dabblers. They carry lotsa cool little action figures as well as funko pops! Parking is located in the front. Very easy to find.

This is a little late and might be a little moot since they're closing on 9/21. But I didn't even…read moreknow about this place until I saw an article that they were closing. Run by the same people who did Jelly's. I feel like anyone in the 80s and 90s will know them. It's pretty much the spiritual successor! I got hit by a wave a nostalgia stepping into the place. Tons of old comics and vinyl records, lots of books of various subjects lining their shelves. Even have figurines and CDs, DVDs and the like. They are currently having a closing sale with lots of things marked down 50% or more! If you have a chance make sure you stop by. I wish they could have continued to stay in business

Stopped by this spot to pick up an online order for a friend and I was pleasantly surprised of how…read moregood the energy feels in this space. The perfect place to pick up a variety of local and Native Hawaiian literature and stories and for anyone curious about literally anything. You wouldn't be able to find some of these curated things without some digging in lots of places. The staff was so attentive and helpful and did not waste any moment and was warmly greeted in the space. Couldn't have asked for a fun little afternoon exploring such a hidden treasure filled corner in Chinatown. You'll have to find street or garage parking and that part of the adventure!

Lovely little bookstore that features books solely about Hawaii and written by native Hawaiian…read moreauthors. Loved learning a bit more about Hawaiian culture and history. The staff were very kind and attentive. We brought our toddler into the store and when we arrived we were greeted by a staff and she brought out a small chair for our son to sit in. Additionally, they have a great selection of kids books which was a fun surprise. This was a lovely place to stop and explore. We snagged a little letterpress thank you card and we're glad to support this business. I recommend stopping in.