The second mall in Hawai'i was a privately-built venture. The first phase of WAI'ALAE ["wiy-uh-liy"] CENTER opened for business in November 1954...3 months after the dedication of MOANALUA CENTER. WAI'ALAE CENTER was rebuilt into the KAHALA MALL between 1968 and 1970.
Photo from http://imagesofoldhawaii.com / Peter T. Young
Photo from Mike Roberts Color Productions
Speaking of which, we have a site plan of MOANALUA CENTER, as it was configured at the time of its first anniversary, in August 1955. Only the Hukilau Restaurant was air-conditioned. Over the years, the 250,000 square foot shopping facility never had a major expansion. In its original state, it housed twenty-one stores, with free parking for 500 autos.
MOANALUA CENTER TENANTS 1955:
FOODLAND supermarket / BEN FRANKLIN 5 & 10 (with luncheonette) / SAV-MOR DRUGS (with luncheonette) / B & G Jewelers & Opticians / Bernan's Dress Shop / Ed & Don's Candies / Elizabeth's Pastry Shop / Doctor Bernard Fong / Virginia Houston Insurance / Hukilau Restaurant & Bar / Johnny's Self-Service Chevron (outparcel) / Ka-Ma-Aina Shoes / Kapiolani Furniture & Appliance / Kay's Beauty Salon / La Madrid Shoe Repair / Moanalua Cleaners / Momi's Flower Shop / Pearl Harbor Driver's Association Taxis (outparcel) / Rainbow Gift Shop / Russell's Men's Shop / Tony's Barber Shop / Doctor H.T. Wong / Watumull's