Looking for a fun night out or a relaxing drink with a view? Honolulu offers unique bars for every mood, from classic tiki lounges to chic cocktail spots and casual beachside hangouts.
No matter what you want, you’ll find a spot in this city that makes your evening memorable.
I love exploring new places, and in Honolulu, I’ve found some amazing venues.
Whether I’m sipping creative cocktails at a cozy whiskey bar, dancing at a lively club, or relaxing at a spot with live music, there’s always something happening.
Places like the legendary La Mariana and modern favorites such as WorkPlay keep the city’s nightlife scene fresh.
This guide highlights the best bars in Honolulu that locals and visitors love, so you can easily find your next favorite place.
Top Bars in Honolulu
Honolulu has bars for every taste.
You’ll find expertly crafted cocktails, oceanfront views, and energetic nightlife.
Each spot offers a unique experience in Hawaii’s capital.
Bar Leather Apron
Bar Leather Apron focuses on craft cocktails and an impressive whiskey collection.
The bartenders pay close attention to every detail, from the ice cubes to the garnishes.
This quiet, intimate bar has soft lighting and a small number of seats, making each visit feel special.
I enjoy the “Bartender’s Choice” option, where staff create a personalized drink based on my taste.
They use high-quality ingredients and offer house-made bitters and syrups.
If you like bold, classic flavors, try one of their whiskey-based drinks.
Bar Leather Apron is often listed as one of the best bars in Honolulu.
I appreciate the attention to detail, the friendly staff, and the relaxed setting.
Tip: Make a reservation, since the space is limited.
Duke’s Waikiki
Duke’s Waikiki sits right on Waikiki Beach.
I come here for the relaxed island vibe and beautiful views of the Pacific.
The outdoor patio lets me enjoy the sea breeze and live Hawaiian music.
The menu offers tropical cocktails like Mai Tais and Lava Flows, plus fresh local beer on tap.
The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back.
It’s easy to strike up a conversation or just enjoy the music.
Duke’s is popular for its location, hospitality, and classic Hawaiian drinks.
If you want a true taste of Waikiki nightlife while watching surfers, this is a spot I recommend.
Highlight: There’s a barefoot dining area and sometimes a hula show in the evenings.
Haus Supper Club
Haus Supper Club brings a modern twist to Honolulu nightlife.
The decor features sleek design, colorful lights, and an open space for dancing.
It’s a great place for people who want dinner, drinks, and entertainment all in one.
The menu mixes Asian and American dishes.
I enjoy the fusion flavors and creative cocktails made with fresh tropical fruits.
The bar also offers bottle service for special nights out with friends.
Live DJs and performances happen on weekends, adding energy to the space.
It feels like a nightclub and restaurant combined.
Arrive early for dinner and stay for the late-night party.
Good to know: There’s usually a cover charge after a certain time.
Mai Tai Bar
Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel is one of my favorite places for a drink with a view.
This famous open-air bar overlooks Waikiki Beach, and the bright pink Royal Hawaiian gives it a classic tropical feel.
The signature Mai Tai uses local island rum and fresh juices.
The drink menu highlights classic Hawaiian cocktails, served by friendly bartenders.
I like to stop by in the late afternoon to catch the sunset—it’s perfect for photos and people-watching.
Live music adds to the experience, with Hawaiian bands and hula performers several days a week.
If you want a laid-back vibe in the center of Waikiki’s social scene, this is a great choice.
Feature: Casual dress is fine, and no reservations are needed.
Honolulu’s Unique Bar Scenes
Honolulu’s nightlife stands out for its mix of nostalgic tiki bars, creative speakeasies, and classic dive bars.
Each type offers a different vibe and drink menu.
Tiki Bars
Honolulu’s tiki bars channel a retro Hawaiian spirit you can’t find anywhere else.
La Mariana Sailing Club is the most famous and has been open since 1957.
This spot features bamboo walls, vintage decor, and a waterfront setting.
You’ll find drinks like Mai Tais and Blue Hawaiis served in fun mugs shaped like coconuts or tiki heads.
The energy is laid-back, with local live music and a mix of regulars and tourists.
Longtime favorites like La Mariana keep the old-school tiki tradition alive.
Service feels casual and friendly, making it easy to relax.
For authentic tiki culture, La Mariana is a top tiki bar experience.
Speakeasies
Honolulu’s speakeasies let you enjoy cocktails in intimate, sometimes hidden spaces.
Bar Leather Apron, tucked away in downtown’s Topa Financial Center, is one of the most talked-about.
The atmosphere is cozy but upscale, with dark wood, low lighting, and only a few seats.
Skilled bartenders craft classic drinks with a Hawaiian twist, like whiskey cocktails featuring local flavors.
The focused menu draws cocktail fans who appreciate quality and technique.
Bar Leather Apron has earned a reputation beyond Honolulu and has ranked among the top cocktail bars in North America.
Reservations help you get a spot since many speakeasies fill up quickly.
For refined drinks and quiet vibes, these spots are hard to beat.
Dive Bars
When I want something casual, Honolulu’s dive bars are perfect.
These spots have neon signs, cheap drink specials, and quirky interiors with photos and surfboards on the walls.
Locals and visitors mingle easily, creating a friendly environment.
Most dive bars don’t have strict dress codes, so I can show up in shorts and sandals.
Menus stick to basics: cold beer, simple cocktails, and maybe a shot of whiskey.
Some offer karaoke, live bands, or trivia nights for extra fun.
The best dive bars in Honolulu focus on atmosphere rather than fancy drinks.
They’re great for unwinding after a long day or meeting friends.
Suzie Wong’s Hideaway and The Hi Brau Room are favorites, each with their own take on the classic dive bar scene.
Iconic Drinks and Signature Cocktails
Honolulu’s bar scene is full of unique flavors.
From world-famous cocktails to inventive local brews, I find something special at nearly every stop.
Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is a classic Hawaiian cocktail.
My favorite spot for one is the Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian, known for its original recipe.
They blend light and dark rums, fresh lime juice, and orange liqueur for a fruity, tart drink.
Sipping a Mai Tai just steps from Waikiki Beach feels perfect.
The open-air setting, ocean views, and the pink Royal Hawaiian Hotel complete the experience.
Some places add pineapple or passionfruit, but I prefer the classic recipe.
Creative Cocktails
Honolulu has some of the most creative cocktail bars I’ve visited.
At Tchin Tchin! Bar in Chinatown, the menu features specialty cocktails made with local fruits and house-made syrups.
Bartenders enjoy experimenting, so there’s always something new to try.
Bar Leather Apron also stands out for its creative menu.
Their bartenders have won awards for unique infusions and local ingredients.
Drinks are presented with care, often with dehydrated fruit garnishes or custom ice cubes.
These touches make each cocktail memorable.
Old Fashioned
For a timeless drink, I choose a well-made Old Fashioned.
Bar Leather Apron is my top spot for this classic.
They offer a range of whiskey options and customize the cocktail to your taste.
Bartenders use quality bitters and large, clear ice cubes to highlight the bold flavors.
Their Old Fashioned is smooth and strong.
Watching the bartender prepare the drink is a treat—they handle every detail with care.
Local Craft Beers
Honolulu’s craft beer scene offers variety and creativity.
Many bars near Waikiki serve taps from breweries like Honolulu Beerworks and Aloha Beer Company.
Their IPAs and lagers use Hawaiian-grown hops and flavors like passionfruit and coconut.
Some bars offer tasting flights so I can sample different styles.
These beers pair well with local snacks and are great for groups or a casual night out.
Many places also host events like trivia or karaoke for extra fun.
Rooftop and Beachside Bars
Honolulu has great spots for drinks with stunning views.
You can enjoy the city skyline from above or relax just steps from the ocean.
Rooftop Bars in Honolulu
Rooftop bars in Honolulu let me enjoy city lights and ocean views at the same time. At SKY Waikiki, I see the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head from a stylish open-air lounge.
The menu has creative cocktails and seafood. DJs or live music often fill the evenings with energy.
Another favorite of mine is Deck Waikiki, which gives full views of Diamond Head and a laid-back vibe. I like to relax by the pool, sip a tropical drink, and take in the sights.
Hideout and The Tchin Tchin Bar feel cozy for smaller groups. Their unique signature drinks make them worth a visit.
If I’m exploring rooftop bars in Honolulu for the first time, many are walkable from Waikiki Beach and have casual dress codes. The views, cocktails, and setting always make rooftop bars here a highlight for me, especially at sunset.
For more options, the rooftop bar guide lists more places and tips.
Beachside Bars
I love how easy it is to find a beachside bar in Waikiki. These places let me grab a cold drink just steps from the water and watch the waves or surfers.
Many bars sit right on the sand with palm trees and Diamond Head in the background. The Edge of Waikiki stands out for its poolside setting and ocean views, making it ideal after a swim.
I also like the Hinana Bar at the Hilton for its relaxed atmosphere and classic Hawaiian cocktails. Whether I want a fancy resort bar or a laid-back spot, there’s a beachside option for every mood.
Live music and sunset happy hours are common at these spots. Beachside bars get busiest in the evenings when locals and visitors come to unwind.
Buho Cocina y Cantina
Buho Cocina y Cantina is my go-to when I want a rooftop spot with a lively scene and great food. Located in the heart of Waikiki, Buho serves Mexican-inspired dishes and has a fun atmosphere with vibrant décor.
It combines a full-service cantina with an outdoor rooftop setting. When I visit, I see groups enjoying fresh guacamole and creative tacos while sharing pitchers of margaritas or sangria.
There’s plenty of seating at the bar and tables, so it works for both large and small gatherings. On weekend nights, Buho hosts DJs or themed events that keep the energy high.
The location gives me partial city views and a glimpse of the stars above Waikiki. If I want a rooftop experience with flavorful food and a party vibe, Buho is always near the top of my list.
For more top picks, the best rooftop bars in Honolulu offers updated reviews.
Popular Neighborhoods for Bar-Hopping
Honolulu has several fun neighborhoods where I can explore unique bars and nightlife. Each area offers something different, from beachfront hangouts to stylish cocktail lounges and lively music venues.
Waikiki
When I think of bars in Waikiki, I picture lively beachfront spots, historic tiki bars, and hotel lounges. This neighborhood is filled with travelers and locals relaxing by the ocean with tropical drinks.
It’s easy to jump between bars because the main strip and side streets are close together. I often start with a famous Mai Tai at Duke’s Waikiki, then head to Hideout for a rooftop view.
Other fun places include Playbar Waikiki NightClub and EP Bar, which are popular for good music and creative drinks. Waikiki’s laid-back attitude, ocean views, and open-air patios make it a favorite area for an easy walking night out.
Some bars stay open late for the after-beach crowd, making a spontaneous crawl simple and fun. For more ideas, I check this list of Waikiki bars.
Kakaako
Kakaako is one of my go-to neighborhoods for a modern, hip scene. The area is known for its street art, trendy restaurants, and vibrant craft cocktail bars.
Most places have a relaxed yet stylish vibe, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Many bars in Kakaako feature live music or DJs on weekends, so there’s always something happening.
WorkPlay stands out for its tasty food, patio seating, and nightly performances. I also enjoy visiting breweries and spots that serve craft cocktails, which are common here.
It’s easy to create my own bar-hopping route since Kakaako’s streets are lined with interesting venues just a few blocks apart. For an updated guide, I use this Kakaako bar list.
Downtown Honolulu
If I want variety, Downtown Honolulu has it all, from upscale cocktail lounges to laidback taverns. The historic buildings and lively streets make it a unique place to explore after dark.
Popular places like Bar Leather Apron craft drinks in a cozy setting. Bars like Manifest and Bar 35 add DJ music and a wide beer selection to my night.
I enjoy the energy here, especially on weekends when the area fills with people moving from one spot to another. Many bars create inventive cocktails or use themed decor to keep things interesting.
The variety and short walking distances make Downtown perfect for bar-hopping with friends. See more options on this Honolulu bar guide.
Honolulu’s Best Happy Hours
I found some great happy hour spots in Honolulu with tasty food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. Each place offers its own specialty cocktails and unique deals, perfect for an afternoon or early evening out.
Moku Kitchen
When I go to Moku Kitchen, I find a lively space with indoor and outdoor seating. Their happy hour is one of my favorites because of the mix of tasty food and classic drinks at affordable prices.
The menu features $10 pizzas, discounted cocktails, and beer from local breweries. I often go with friends to share the smoked ahi dip or garlic truffle oil fries.
The staff is quick and friendly, and the atmosphere is upbeat. Happy hour runs from 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm Monday to Friday.
I recommend getting there early. It gets busy, so making a reservation is smart if you want a good spot.
Hideout at the Laylow
Hideout at the Laylow brings a laid-back vibe that feels perfect after a day at the beach. Their rooftop setting gives me a nice view of Waikiki, and I love relaxing on the open lanai.
Happy hour runs daily, usually from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and the menu includes $6 beers, $7 wines, and $9 specialty cocktails. Small plates like crispy chicken wings or pork belly bao are both tasty and a good value.
The crowd is a mix of locals and visitors, which adds to the relaxed energy. To get a table at sunset, I book a reservation online or call ahead.
Monkeypod Mai Tai
Monkeypod Kitchen is famous for its Monkeypod Mai Tai, made with fresh lime, honey-lilikoi foam, and two types of rum. During happy hour (usually 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm), the signature mai tai costs less, so I treat myself.
There are also discounts on local beers, select wines, and well drinks. Food specials include hand-tossed pizzas and poke tacos.
I like the open, bright setting and the local, lively feel. Seating fills up fast, so making a reservation is a good idea, especially if I want to sit at the bar or on the patio.
For the latest specials, resources like Yelp’s happy hour list for Honolulu help me plan my visit.
Live Entertainment and Unique Experiences
When I go out in Honolulu, I look for places that offer more than just good drinks. I want exciting music, places to sing, and clubs where I can dance or hang out with friends.
Honolulu has a lot to offer for a fun night with live shows and active crowds.
Live Music
Live music fills Honolulu, from cozy bars to energetic lounges. I often find bands and solo artists playing everything from Hawaiian classics to jazz and rock.
WorkPlay in Kakaako has a modern vibe, indoor and outdoor seating, and hosts live acts every evening. The friendly crowd and quality music make it a top pick for a real local experience.
Other venues, like The Dragon Upstairs, feature jazz trios or acoustic sets for a laid-back feel. Bars like Duke’s Waikiki and Tikis Grill & Bar also bring in bands for sunset music with ocean views.
If I want a night filled with live sounds and a lively atmosphere, these are among my top choices. For more ideas, I check guides on bars with live music in Honolulu.
Karaoke Bars
Karaoke in Honolulu is popular and fun. One of my favorite spots is Wang Chung’s Karaoke Bar, known for its welcoming staff, energetic crowd, and wide song choices.
Wang Chung’s offers both private karaoke rooms and a main stage for anyone to sing. Everyone cheers each other on, so there’s no need to be a pro.
Many karaoke bars serve snacks, host themed nights, or offer happy hour specials. If I feel shy, I can book a private room to sing with friends, which makes it easier.
Most spots have thousands of songs in different languages. Karaoke is a great way for me to relax, join something lively, and meet new people.
Nightclubs
Nightclubs in Honolulu let me dance and enjoy DJ sets late into the night. From Waikiki to downtown, I find modern clubs with lots of personality.
Venues host themed events, guest DJs, and sometimes live dance performances. Many have spacious dance floors and VIP areas, making them popular with both visitors and locals.
I like that Honolulu nightclubs offer a range of styles—casual spots for a relaxed night with friends and high-energy clubs for bigger weekends. Some clubs have open-air patios or ocean views, which feels special.
With different music genres and friendly crowds, these clubs keep the city’s nightlife interesting. If I want to know which clubs are popular now, I check lists like the best bars and nightclubs in Honolulu.
Best Breweries and Craft Beer Bars
Honolulu has standout spots for craft beer fans. Many places serve unique flavors, use local ingredients, and create a friendly atmosphere.
Hana Koa Brewing Co.
Hana Koa Brewing Co. is one of my favorite breweries in Honolulu. The brewery has built a reputation for creative brews and a welcoming vibe.
When I visit, I see the large, airy taproom with plenty of seating. This space makes it great for groups or relaxing solo.
Their beer list features crisp lagers, juicy IPAs, and a smooth coffee stout. I like that they use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Besides beer, they serve tasty food like poke bowls, burgers, and fries. Hana Koa hosts events, trivia nights, and live music, which adds to the fun atmosphere.
Pint and Jigger
Pint and Jigger stands out as both a craft beer bar and a gastropub. I love stopping by for their strong lineup of craft beers on tap and creative cocktails.
The bar sits in the Ala Moana Hotel, making it easy to reach if you’re staying nearby. The menu mixes pub classics with local flair, so I always find something new to try, from sliders to their signature beer float dessert.
The atmosphere is laid-back but lively, and the staff is friendly. Pint and Jigger also features a well-curated selection of whiskeys and locally sourced drinks, giving me plenty of choices.
Their beer garden is a great spot to hang out in the evening.
Grace in Growlers
Grace in Growlers offers a different twist on the craft beer scene. This spot is unique because it’s a non-profit craft beer bar.
All profits help support social causes in Hawaii. It feels good knowing my pint helps the community.
They rotate their craft beers and emphasize local selections. I’m always excited to try small-batch brews I can’t find anywhere else.
For something special, I recommend their custom beer floats made with local ice cream. Grace in Growlers also serves kombucha and cold brew for non-drinkers.
The casual, cheerful setting makes it a nice place for friends or families to enjoy a relaxed night out.
Food Pairings and Bar Bites
I like how Honolulu’s top bars offer more than just great drinks. Good food makes the experience memorable, especially when dishes match well with cocktails, beers, or wine.
South American Cuisine
When I visit a bar that serves South American cuisine, I notice fresh and playful flavors. Ceviche stands out with its tangy, citrus-marinated fish.
This dish pairs nicely with a crisp white wine or a light lager. Empanadas, filled with seasoned meats or cheese, make a hearty snack with a smoky mezcal cocktail.
I also enjoy yuca fries with spicy sauces. These bites balance out the bitterness in some beers or a zesty pisco sour.
Many places in Honolulu now add South American options to their menus. Sharing these plates with friends wakes up your palate with every sip.
Charcuterie Board
A charcuterie board is one of my favorite bar foods. I look for boards that combine salty prosciutto, hard salami, creamy brie, sharp cheddar, and tangy olives.
Wine or light beer pairs especially well because they cut through the fat from the cheese and meat. Here’s a quick pairing guide I use:
| Item | Drink Pairing |
|---|---|
| Prosciutto | Sparkling wine |
| Salami | Amber ale |
| Brie | Chardonnay |
| Cheddar | Pale ale |
| Marinated olives | Dry martini |
Charcuterie boards are easy to share and work well for group outings. They are popular at many Honolulu bars with food.
Gastropub Eats
I like gastropubs because they put extra care into their bar food. At Honolulu’s top gastropubs, like Moku Kitchen, classic dishes get a creative twist.
Sliders made with local beef, truffle fries, and spicy chicken wings are common picks. These dishes stand out for bold flavors and generous portions.
I often share fish tacos or a gourmet burger at a place offering local microbrews or craft cocktails. The food fills me up and lines my stomach, so I can enjoy another round.
Gastropub menus give a comforting, familiar feel. The food always matches well with a drink in hand.
Atmosphere, Ambiance, and Dress Codes
Bars in Honolulu come in all styles, from high-end cocktail spots to laid-back beach hangouts. Depending on where I go, the mood and what I should wear can be very different.
Chic and Upscale Bars
When I visit chic, upscale bars in Honolulu, I notice attention to detail everywhere. Places like Bar Leather Apron stand out for polished design, dim lighting, and cozy seating.
This bar sits inside a downtown office building, giving it a secret, exclusive vibe. Cocktails are crafted with care, and the service is attentive.
The ambiance is often quiet and intimate, perfect for conversations or a date night. Many upscale venues, such as those in the Halekulani Hotel or the Kaimana Beach Hotel, focus on sleek décor and beautiful ocean views.
For dress codes, I find that smart casual works best—think collared shirts, dresses, or neat slacks. Flip-flops and swimwear aren’t welcome.
These places want guests to feel classy and comfortable at the same time. Some even list their dress codes on their websites, so it’s easy to know what to expect before I go.
Casual Hangouts
Honolulu also has casual hangouts where I can relax and not worry about my outfit. Bars connected to the beach, like the House Without a Key at the Halekulani Hotel, have a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Here, live music, open-air seating, and stunning sunsets set the mood. The crowd is a mix of locals and travelers, making it easy to start a conversation.
Shorts, sandals, and beachwear fit right in at these spots. The vibe is cheerful and easygoing.
There’s no pressure to dress up or act formal—I can focus on good food, drinks, and friendly company. These local bars offer the true island experience with a relaxed ambiance and a welcoming attitude.
Specialty Drinks and Hidden Gems
Honolulu’s bar scene features creative cocktails and unique hidden bars that give each night out a special twist. I love how classic recipes and tropical flavors mix with modern styles, making it easy to find something new with every visit.
Lilikoi Dutch Mule
The Lilikoi Dutch Mule is one of my favorite island twists on a classic drink. It blends fresh lilikoi (Hawaiian passion fruit) with ginger beer and smooth vodka.
Some bars add a splash of lime to balance the sweetness. I usually find this drink in places known for creative cocktails, like Bar Leather Apron or the Green Lady Cocktail Room.
They make their own syrups and use fresh ingredients that really make the flavors pop. The bright, fruity lilikoi stands out, making the mule feel both familiar and new.
When I order a Lilikoi Dutch Mule, I often get it in a chilled copper mug. This keeps the drink icy cold.
It’s sweet, tangy, and lightly fizzy. Sometimes bartenders garnish it with a fresh mint sprig or a slice of passion fruit.
For me, it’s a refreshing start to any evening, especially at a place like Bar Leather Apron.
Zombie Drink
The Zombie Drink is a classic tiki cocktail that has become a staple at many of Honolulu’s hidden bars. It’s strong and packed with flavor.
The recipe usually includes three or more types of rum, mixed with lime juice, pineapple, papaya, and sometimes a splash of grenadine. Places like La Mariana Tiki Bar are famous for making the Zombie in true vintage tiki style.
The drink gets its name because it’s so potent, it could bring you “back from the dead.” Some bars add extra touches, like lighting a lime shell on fire atop the glass or serving it with fresh fruit chunks.
When I try the Zombie, I notice it’s sweet, sour, and just a bit spicy from the rum. The glass is often decorated with a paper umbrella or a pineapple wedge.
It’s not just the drink that’s fun, but the display that makes it stand out at tiki-themed hidden gems.
Black Pearl
The Black Pearl stands out in Honolulu’s cocktail scene for its dark, mysterious look and bold flavors. This drink usually blends dark rum with coffee liqueur, coconut cream, and hints of vanilla or spice.
Sometimes bars add a dash of bitters for depth. I first tasted a Black Pearl at a hidden spot like Wild Orange or The Dragon Upstairs, where bartenders love experimenting with new recipes.
The drink’s name matches its dark color and smooth finish. It’s usually served in a round glass, sometimes rimmed with coconut flakes or cocoa.
What I like best is how the Black Pearl tastes rich but not too heavy. The rum and coffee mix well with the creamy coconut, so every sip feels balanced.
It’s a great choice late at night when I want something both strong and silky.
Mimosa Colada
The Mimosa Colada is a fun mash-up between a classic mimosa and a tropical piña colada. It’s one of the more playful specialty drinks I’ve tried, and it’s popping up on brunch menus at spots like Cuckoo Coconuts or 8 Fat Fat 8.
This drink usually starts with pineapple juice and coconut cream, then adds a pour of sparkling wine or prosecco. Some versions toss in a splash of orange juice to give it a brighter, citrusy kick.
The Mimosa Colada is bubbly, smooth, and lightly sweet, with a taste that feels like a vacation in a glass. I often see these served in large, stemmed glasses and sometimes topped with a cherry or pineapple garnish.
It’s an easygoing drink that goes well with daytime gatherings. I think it’s perfect when I want something light but still festive and tropical.
Making the Most of Your Night Out
A fun night in Honolulu starts with good planning and smart choices. I like to think ahead, especially when it comes to busy bars and late-night spots.
Reservations and Tips
From my experience, making reservations saves me a lot of time, especially at popular bars like the Mai Tai Bar or Arnold’s Beach Bar. These places fill up fast on weekends and holidays.
If I want a specific spot or table, I call ahead. Some bars also allow online reservations, which makes planning easier.
I always check for happy hour deals and daily specials to get the most value. Some bars give special discounts on appetizers or drinks if I arrive early.
I like to dine or have small bites at nearby places like Foodland’s poke bar before going out. This lets me try different foods without spending too much at pricier clubs.
Here are a few steps I take before heading out:
- Check the dress code (some bars require closed-toe shoes or dress shirts)
- Bring a photo ID (even if I think I don’t need it)
- Scan reviews for tips on seating or crowd size
- Consider parking options, since Waikiki lots fill up quickly
Late-Night Bars
Honolulu has several bars that stay open late. I have plenty of options after dinner.
I love Arnold’s Beach Bar for its laid-back vibe and outdoor seating. I can grab a good spot if I arrive before midnight because the bar isn’t huge.
In the Kaka’ako area, bars like Honolulu Beerworks stay open later. This means I don’t have to end my night early.
Downtown and Chinatown also have spots that welcome late-night crowds. I always check closing times in advance since some places close earlier than I expect.
For food cravings after midnight, I can stop by convenience stores or local favorites like Foodland. They stay open late, so grabbing a snack on my way home is easy.
You can find more suggestions by checking this Honolulu nightlife guide.
