Prince Kuhio Plaza — Attraction in Hawaii

I thought for sure I'd snicker at this mall's tenant list and interior, but, I was pleasantly surprised after a recent visit! Insert foot in mouth I did...

I'm pretty sure my positive response is in part due to the fact that the Prince Kuhio is managed by General Growth Properties, the same owner and management company as Hawaii's infamous and lucrative Ala Moana Center on Oahu. To me, a GGP-managed mall looks great and has a strong tenant list. They've even brought over the Big Island's first Zippy's restaurant.

Comparing the Prince Kuhio to my hometown mall, Queen Kaahumanu Center on Maui, I think the Prince Kuhio has an advantage for several reasons. First off, PK has all the stores Maui has, only they're all in one area and not spread all over town. Secondly, there are some stores still in business here that closed long ago on my rock. Thirdly, the mall is enclosed, so shopping is always comfortable. Also, parking is plentiful and highway access is easy. The only weak point would be their food court which consisted of just a few eateries.

OVERALL: It's not new, modern, or big, but it serves its...

A decent mall considering the economic state of Hilo/Big Island. Sadly although there was a consistant string of improvements, new stores etc at one point in the years before COVID Prince Kuhio Plaza seems to be in a bit of a slow down as of late. It was a bit dissapointing to see a recruiting center set in the former Champs space (a prime space smack dab in the center of the mall). Not to mention there seems to be a larger amount of vacant spaces and not too much in the way of mall "staples" youd see elsewhere. Given the interiors are modern, clean and spacious; Prince Kuhio Plaza is in need of another boost! Perhaps a new outdoor food court anchored by a small business-economy hotel where the old Sears sits. They could also expand and renovate the outdated Regal cinema as well to attract more people. An ULTA, H&M, Tillys, Vans, Hollister or Abercrombie would be welcome additions and imo priced decently enough to survive in Hilo...alas we can only speculate (dream). For what it is Prince Kuhio is good, but really...

After working out in the Bush south of Pahoa, collecting rainwater, carving habitat from the jungle and aftermath of a volcanic eruption during the rainy season, I needed to venture out by local means to acquire provisions in compact manner. I hitched a ride to Hele-on bus stop in the bed of a truck and then joined the folks on the new big bus for a run to Hilo. All the needed major franchise stores in a fairly effective proximity to one another way cheaper than in Pahoa Town and a bus stop. Hit Verizon store, Safeway and Walmart for a SIM card, garlic hummus and umbrellas respectively. During the heaviest rain ever seen. No panic when Walmart went dark. Bus was still available but on Island Time. Riders at the stop friendly if drenched. Good...