Hawaii Convention Center, Honolulu - people walking on sidewalk near building during daytime
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Hawaii Convention Center Honolulu

4.4
·2k reviews·Honolulu, United States

A premier venue hosting diverse events, from trade shows to cultural festivals, conveniently located near Waikiki and Ala Moana.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds before events start

CrowdLow
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Hawaii Convention Center, Honolulu - people walking on sidewalk near building during daytime

Hawaii Convention Center Honolulu

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds before events start

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A premier venue hosting diverse events, from trade shows to cultural festivals, conveniently located near Waikiki and Ala Moana.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"Great location, walkable to beach and hotels, but dining options are limited and pricey."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Venue parking fills fast. Consider Ala Moana Shopping Center or ride-sharing for events.

🎟️ Event Tickets

Book tickets in advance for popular festivals and concerts to avoid disappointment.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Made in Hawaii Festival

Made in Hawaii Festival

Main Exhibition Halls

Discover local artisans, food, and crafts. A vibrant showcase of Hawaiian entrepreneurship.

Okinawan Festival

Okinawan Festival

Main Exhibition Halls

Experience Okinawan culture with performances, food, and traditional crafts. A celebration of heritage.

Convention Center Terrace

Convention Center Terrace

Outdoor Terrace

A spacious, beautiful terrace offering a relaxing break with city and ocean views.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Your Visit

The Hawaii Convention Center is a hub for events, from trade shows to festivals. Consider booking accommodations in Waikiki or near Ala Moana for easy access. Parking can be challenging and expensive during major events, so explore public transport or ride-sharing options.

Event-Specific Planning

Check the convention center's schedule for specific events like the Made in Hawaii Festival or cultural celebrations. These often draw large crowds, impacting traffic and parking. Arriving early or utilizing alternative transport is key for a smoother experience.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds before events start
Crowd
Low
When
During festivals (check schedule)
Why
Experience local culture and events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pro tip - where to park in Chinatown! #chinatownhonolulu #hawaiismallbusiness #honoluluboutiques #chinatownhawaii #parkingtip
@valiahonolulu
15.8K likes • 216K views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Venue parking fills fast. Consider Ala Moana Shopping Center or ride-sharing for events. TikTokReddit

🎟️ Event Tickets

Book tickets in advance for popular festivals and concerts to avoid disappointment. Instagram

SB19 "Simula at Wakas" World Tour: HAWAII Friday, August 1, 2025, 7pm Hawaii Convention Center 1801 Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu, Hawaii 96815 #SimulaAtWakas #SB19 #SB19SaW #SaWWorldTour #sb19simulaatwakas Get your tickets NOW at PhinnacleIT Ticketing https://ticketing.phinnacleit.com/ For more information, call Nimfa Iligan (808) 386-2664, Joyce Malabed Nino 808-206-5767, and Robert & Nemia Atend...
pop808hawaii
126 likes • 3.7K views
The red mark on my arm is the re entry stamp that melted because it was literally running around to get everyone done😭😂 My first @madeinhi at the convention center was defiantly an experience. Having the chance to talk with the businesses in a less hectic setting (and for the first time meet in person) was awesome. I was glad to see a lot of companies I already support and to find new ones I’ll ...
followamyhere
1.3K likes • 50.7K views

🚶 Walkable Location

Conveniently located near Ala Moana Beach Park and hotels. Waikiki is also walkable. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bottled water can be pricey inside. Bring your own or refill if possible. Reddit

Mensore! (That means “welcome” in Okinawan Japanese.) It’s the 43rd Okinawan Festival at the Hawai’i Convention Center in Honolulu, HI. Performances, food, crafts, plants, games and more! The Governor of Okinawa and 40 mayors are in attendance along with entertainers from Japan. The festival celebrates 125 years of Okinawan immigration to Hawai’i. #okinawanfestival #okinawa #honolulu #japanesec...
keanetravels
277 likes • 5.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Venue parking fills fast. Consider Ala Moana Shopping Center or ride-sharing for events. TikTokReddit

🎟️ Event Tickets

Book tickets in advance for popular festivals and concerts to avoid disappointment. Instagram

🚶 Walkable Location

Conveniently located near Ala Moana Beach Park and hotels. Waikiki is also walkable. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bottled water can be pricey inside. Bring your own or refill if possible. Reddit

📱 Public Transport

Utilize TheBus or Biki bike share for easy access to and from the center. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Hawaii Convention Center is praised for its excellent location, being within walking distance of Ala Moana Beach Park and hotels, with Waikiki also accessible. Visitors appreciate the spacious meeting rooms and clean facilities. However, some reviews mention a lack of modern renovations and limited, expensive dining options within the center.

"Very nice convention center in a great location! It’s conveniently close to Ala Moana Beach and the Ala Moana Hotel—both within walking distance, and even Waikiki is walkable if you're up for it. The meeting rooms are spacious, and restrooms are clean and available on every floor. One of the highlights is the large, beautiful terrace—perfect for taking a break or relax a little bit!"

Patiko

"Went to the Made in Hawaii festival.. lines were long but we made it into venue rather quickly. Parking at venue was full so we parked at Alamoana shopping center."

Emela Russell

"One of the coolest conference centers in the world. However, it seems that it hasn’t seen any major renovations in recent years, and there aren’t many restaurants/cafe options inside the center."

Efe Ilıcak

What People Like

Great location
Spacious rooms
Clean facilities

What People Dislike

Outdated facilities
Expensive food
Limited dining options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Hawaii Convention Center is located at 1801 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815. It's a walkable distance from many Waikiki hotels, typically around a 15-25 minute walk. Alternatively, you can use TheBus, Honolulu's public transportation system, with several routes stopping nearby. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. Reddit

The convention center has an onsite parking garage, but it can fill up quickly, especially during major events. Parking fees can be high. Many visitors opt to park at the adjacent Ala Moana Shopping Center, which offers more spaces and is a short walk away. Ride-sharing or public transport are also recommended alternatives. TikTokReddit

Yes, the Hawaii Convention Center is well-served by TheBus. Numerous routes stop along Kalakaua Avenue and nearby streets, making it easy to reach from various parts of Honolulu. You can also use the Biki bike-share system, with docking stations located at the convention center. Reddit

Absolutely! Ala Moana Beach Park is conveniently located across the street from the Hawaii Convention Center, making it a very easy walk. It's a great spot to relax after attending an event or to enjoy the ocean. Reddit

Yes, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Honolulu and can easily pick you up or drop you off at the Hawaii Convention Center. This is often a convenient option, especially if you're coming from further afield or during peak event times. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The best way to find out about upcoming events is to check the official Hawaii Convention Center website, which lists their schedule. You can also follow event organizers on social media, as many promote their events there, like the Made in Hawaii Festival or concerts. Instagram+2

Discounts can vary depending on the specific event. For major festivals, early bird ticket sales are common. If you're attending a conference, check with the event organizers, as they sometimes arrange special hotel rates or group discounts. Reddit

For some events, like festivals, you may be able to purchase tickets at the door. However, for popular concerts or sold-out events, it's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance online to guarantee entry. Instagram

Operating hours vary greatly depending on the event. Festivals like the Made in Hawaii Festival usually run for several days with specific opening and closing times. Concerts will have set start times. Always check the specific event details for accurate hours. Instagram+1

Re-entry policies depend on the specific event. Some events, like trade shows or festivals, may offer re-entry stamps. For concerts or ticketed performances, re-entry might not be permitted. It's best to confirm the policy with the event organizer before leaving the venue. Instagram

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

The center offers spacious meeting rooms, clean restrooms on every floor, and Wi-Fi access. There's also a large, beautiful terrace perfect for breaks. However, some visitors note a lack of diverse dining options within the center itself. Reddit

While there are some food and cafe options inside, reviews suggest they can be limited and pricey, with one visitor noting $5 water and $15 cheeseburgers. Many attendees opt to eat at the nearby Ala Moana Shopping Center or local eateries. Reddit

Yes, the interior of the Hawaii Convention Center is air-conditioned. However, some parts of the center are open to the outdoors, so it's advisable to dress in layers suitable for warm weather. Reddit

The center hosts a wide variety of events, including large conventions, trade shows (like the Made in Hawaii Festival), cultural festivals (like the Okinawan Festival), concerts, and sporting events. Instagram+5

Yes, Wi-Fi is typically available at the Hawaii Convention Center for attendees. Specific access details may vary depending on the event you are attending, so check with the event organizers or venue staff for login information. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The large, beautiful terrace offers great views and natural light for photos. The modern architecture of the center itself can also provide interesting backdrops. During festivals, the vibrant displays and crowds offer dynamic photo opportunities. Reddit

Photography policies vary by event. For most public festivals and expos, personal photography is usually allowed. However, for concerts or private functions, there might be restrictions. Always check the event's specific guidelines regarding photography. Instagram

As with most public venues and event spaces in Honolulu, drone usage is likely restricted or prohibited within and around the Hawaii Convention Center due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the venue or event organizers.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Hawaii Convention Center can be a destination for family-friendly events like the Made in Hawaii Festival or even larger tournaments. When attending with children, consider the convenience of nearby hotels that might offer amenities like pools or kitchenettes, which can be helpful for managing meals and downtime. Reddit While the convention center itself has restrooms, planning for breaks and snacks is essential. The proximity to Ala Moana Beach Park offers a great opportunity for family fun outside of event hours. Reddit For budget-conscious families, exploring dining options at the Ala Moana Shopping Center can provide more affordable choices than on-site venue food. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, staying slightly outside the immediate Waikiki hustle can offer better value. Hotels near Ala Moana are often more affordable and still within walking distance or a short bus ride to the convention center. Reddit+1 Utilizing TheBus for transportation instead of taxis or ride-shares can significantly cut down on travel costs. Reddit Dining at the Ala Moana Shopping Center food court or exploring local eateries away from the main tourist strips can also help save money on meals. Reddit Look for events that offer early bird ticket discounts or consider attending free public areas of festivals if available.

🧑‍💻 Business Travelers

The Hawaii Convention Center is primarily a venue for business conferences and trade shows. For business travelers, staying at hotels like the Ala Moana Hotel or Prince Waikiki offers convenient access to the convention center, often within walking distance. Reddit This proximity allows for easy commutes to and from events, maximizing productive time. Consider hotels that offer business amenities like reliable Wi-Fi and workspace options. Reddit For networking or client entertainment, the convention center's location provides access to nearby dining and entertainment options in Waikiki and Ala Moana. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Attending Major Festivals

The Hawaii Convention Center is a popular venue for large-scale festivals that draw significant crowds. The Made in Hawaii Festival is a prime example, showcasing local businesses and products. Visitors often report long lines for entry, even during designated buyer hours, highlighting the event's popularity. Instagram+1 Similarly, the Okinawan Festival celebrates cultural heritage with performances and food, attracting a large audience. Instagram

When attending these events, strategic planning is crucial. Parking at the convention center can be full, leading attendees to park at the nearby Ala Moana Shopping Center and walk over. Reddit Arriving early is often recommended to navigate crowds and secure desired items or experiences. The vibrant atmosphere of these festivals makes them a highlight for many visitors, offering a taste of local culture and commerce. Instagram+1

Accommodation and Proximity

For those attending events at the Hawaii Convention Center, choosing the right accommodation is key. Many visitors find hotels in Waikiki or near Ala Moana to be ideal due to their proximity. The Ala Moana Hotel is frequently mentioned as being within walking distance, offering convenience and access to the adjacent shopping center. Reddit+1

Other recommended hotels that offer a good balance of value and location include Prince Waikiki and The Laylow. Prince Waikiki is noted for its proximity to Ala Moana Park, perfect for morning runs, while The Laylow allows for runs along the Ala Wai Canal. Reddit Some travelers suggest looking into hotels with kitchenettes to save on dining costs, especially for longer stays or family trips. Reddit The Renaissance Hotel and Residences Oahu Honolulu are also mentioned as viable options within a reasonable distance. Reddit

Transportation and Getting Around

Navigating Honolulu and reaching the Hawaii Convention Center is made easier with several transportation options. While renting a car offers flexibility, it comes with the added cost of rental fees and parking, which can be expensive in tourist areas. Reddit For those staying in Waikiki or near Ala Moana, walking is a viable and often preferred option. Reddit

Public transportation is a budget-friendly choice. TheBus operates extensively throughout Honolulu, with numerous stops near the convention center. Using a bus app can help plan routes and timings. Reddit For shorter distances and a more active experience, the Biki bike-share program offers docking stations throughout the city, including at the convention center, providing an eco-friendly way to explore. Reddit Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available and can be a convenient option, especially during peak hours or when traveling with groups. Reddit

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