v2.4.0.6
Document And Entity Information (USD $)
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2011
Feb. 15, 2011
Entity Registrant Name ALEXANDER & BALDWIN INC  
Entity Central Index Key 0000003453  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes  
Entity Voluntary Filers No  
Entity Current Reporting Status No  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity Public Float   $ 1,201,686,640
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding 41,693,456  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q2  
Document Type 10-Q  
Amendment Flag false  
Document Period End Date Jun. 30, 2011