The International Marketplace is an outdoor mall in the center of the main shopping strip of Waikiki, on Kalakaua Ave. It is a magical spot where lanterns hang from a huge banyan tree. A stream runs through the mall lined with hundreds of pink heart-shaped anthuriums. It's so beautiful! There is a lawn where concerts are held (Saturdays 3-5pm mid-June to early Sept), and it has unique rock-shaped seats that kids love to explore. Here you can see a large image of the constellations of Hawaii and read plaques about the history of the Hawaiian monarchy. Further back in the mall is an unusual rain fountain which kids adore. At the very back is Kona Coffee Purveyors, which has the most delicious banana and chocolate croissants! It has outdoor seating on Kuhio Ave. If the line is too long here, you can get a yummy chocolate chip scone one block away at Duke's Lane Marketplace, and take it to the beach. The line is less long, but you still need to come as early as you can!

Walk from here toward the mountains and you can go for a lovely stroll along Ala Wai Canal. 
It's too bad a mall like this wasn't built in a different place because the International Marketplace used to be a spot with great history and charm. Here, little stalls that were lit up at night sold candles, sparkling jewelry, and sarongs shimmering in the breeze. It's sad to see these gone.
The original International Marketplace was the idea of a man called Don the Beachcomber in 1955, who wanted a cultural open-air village built, with art, crafts and entertainment stalls from different ethnic groups represented in Hawaii, such as the Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, and South Sea Islanders. It was designed by architects on 14 acres that had originally belonged to Queen Emma, the generous Hawaiian queen. It has now had quite a varied history, from royal ground, to magical souvenir bazaar, to high-end outdoor mall.
On the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays (not in January) at 8pm, on level 6 of the parking structure, you can gaze at the stars through telescopes. 
In the Queen's Court (the inner lawn area) there is an excellent sunset hula show on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The music and dancing are so good!
There is nightly live music at Shorefyre and Moani Waikiki, and on Sun, Wed, and Thurs at Eating House 1849. 
Royal Hawaiian Beach is a warm place to swim, by day or night. Check it out, across Kalakaua Avenue. A pleasant spot to eat here is in the garden area of the Cheesecake Factory, among the tropical trees of the pink Royal Hawaiian Hotel.
Great Place to Stay
If you want to be in the midst of all the action, right beside the International Marketplace, stay at the Waikiki Beachcomber Resort. You can walk across the street at any time of day or night and be at the very best part of Waikiki Beach! Usually this part of Waikiki is off-limits because there's no parking and it's just hard to access. But you will get to know the heart of Waikiki really well if you stay right in it! You can shop and dine at Waikiki Beach Walk, Royal Hawaiian Center, Duty Free Shop, and Macy's, and afterwards enjoy the gorgeous views from your room- ask for a room with a view. I wouldn't call this area quiet or serene, but it's great for couples, singles (you can fall into bed within minutes of being out on the town), or couples with older children.

Directions

International Marketplace is located at 2330 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu HI 96815.
Parking is very expensive in the heart of Waikiki. The best parking is in the high-rise parking lot next door to Ross Dress for Less (on the ocean side of Ross) on Seaside Ave. You must buy something at Ross to have your three-hour parking validated.
You could also park at the zoo for $1 an hour and walk the long walk here.
You can also search for parking along the side streets that branch off from Kalakaua Ave. If you can walk farther, you can park for free along Ala Wai Blvd if you're patient and can find a spot. The earlier in the day, the easier it'll be. You can also park at the time-limited, metered parking along Saratoga Rd, and then walk along the beach to this spot.
Waikiki Beachcomber Resort, 2300 Kalakaua Ave.

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