Looking for more than just a fruity umbrella drink on your Honolulu vacation? While Waikiki is known for its tourist-friendly bars, venture just beyond and you’ll discover a thriving scene of cool bars in Honolulu, each with its own distinct personality and expertly crafted cocktails. Finding these hidden gems is key to experiencing Honolulu’s true nightlife.
At a glance:
- Discover Honolulu’s hidden bars beyond the usual tourist spots.
- Explore themed bars, from tiki havens to sophisticated lounges.
- Learn how to identify the perfect bar based on your mood and style.
- Get tips on navigating happy hours and avoiding tourist traps.
- Find recommendations for unique drinks you won’t find anywhere else.
Beyond Waikiki: Discovering Honolulu’s Cool Bar Scene
Waikiki undoubtedly has its charms, but the real magic happens when you step outside its borders and explore the neighborhoods of Honolulu. From the industrial-chic vibe of Kaka’ako to the historic streets of Chinatown, each area offers a unique atmosphere and a collection of cool bars just waiting to be discovered. Thinking of sticking to the well-worn tourist path? Think again. The truly memorable Honolulu experiences are often found off the beaten path.
From Tiki Temples to Chic Lounges: Defining “Cool”
What exactly makes a bar “cool”? It’s subjective, of course, but certain elements consistently contribute to the overall vibe. It’s about more than just a strong drink; it’s about the ambiance, the music, the crowd, and the overall experience. Some might prefer the kitschy fun of a tiki bar, while others gravitate towards the sophisticated elegance of a craft cocktail lounge.
Consider these elements when deciding on a venue:
- Theme and Decor: Does the bar transport you to another place or time?
- Music: Live bands, DJs, or a curated playlist can set the perfect mood.
- Crowd: Is it a mix of locals and tourists, or does it cater to a specific demographic?
- Cocktail Menu: Are the drinks innovative and well-crafted, or are they standard fare?
Choosing Your Honolulu Bar Adventure: A Decision Tree
Not sure where to start? Here’s a handy decision tree to guide you towards the perfect Honolulu bar for your night out:
- What’s your mood?
- Relaxed & Casual: Go to Step 2.
- Upscale & Sophisticated: Go to Step 3.
- Fun & Festive: Go to Step 4.
- Casual:
- Beach Vibes: The Beach Bar at Moana Surf Rider, Ocean House Waikiki, The Edge.
- Dive Bar Charm: Arnold’s Beach Bar, Irish Rose Saloon.
- Craft Beer Fan: Honolulu Beerworks, Hana Koa Brewing.
- Sophisticated:
- Whiskey Lover: Bar Leather Apron.
- Jazz & Elegance: Lewers Lounge.
- French Flair: L’Aperitif.
- Festive:
- Tiki Time: Skull & Crown Trading Co, The Myna Bird.
- Rooftop Views: Sky Waikiki, Hideout at the Laylow, Tommy Bahama Bar, Tchin Tchin.
- Sunset Cocktails: RumFire, Swell Restaurant & Pool Bar.
Honolulu’s Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Hotspots
Here are some of the coolest bars in Honolulu, organized by neighborhood:
Kaka’ako:
- Honolulu Beerworks: A local favorite for craft beer lovers. This brewpub offers a relaxed atmosphere, a full bar, and delicious pub fare. They also have a great happy hour, weekend brunch, and live music.
- Bevy: An artsy, industrial-chic bar known for its European-inspired cocktails and generous happy hour. Don’t miss Taco Tuesday!
Chinatown: - Tchin Tchin: This rooftop bar offers stunning views of Chinatown and a creative cocktail and wine selection. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic date or a night out with friends.
- Skull & Crown Trading Co: Step into a world of tiki cocktails.
Waikiki (Beyond the Obvious): - Hideout at the Laylow: Rooftop vibes with expertly crafted cocktails and delicious food. Their happy hour is a steal.
- The Myna Bird: Inside The Street by Michael Mina, this tiki bar serves up innovative Hawaiian cocktails.
To further explore your bar options in this vibrant and popular area, island cocktails in Waikiki can be easily discovered with a little planning.
Happy Hour Hustle: Maximizing Your Budget
Honolulu can be an expensive city, but happy hour is your best friend. Many bars offer discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours, making it possible to enjoy the cool bar scene without breaking the bank.
Tips for Happy Hour Success:
- Do your research: Check bar websites or social media for happy hour specials.
- Arrive early: Popular bars can get crowded quickly during happy hour.
- Pace yourself: It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
- Don’t be afraid to ask: If you’re unsure about the happy hour menu, just ask your server.
Example Happy Hour Deals: - Bevy: $1 off oysters every Tuesday-Saturday from 4-7pm
- Hideout at the Laylow: Happy hour daily from 5-9:30pm.
- RumFire: Happy hour from 3-5pm.
- The Myna Bird: Happy hour is 3-6pm.
- Sky Waikiki: Happy hour from 4-5pm with discounted oysters.
Beyond the Mai Tai: Exploring Honolulu’s Cocktail Culture
While the Mai Tai is a classic Hawaiian cocktail, Honolulu’s bar scene offers so much more. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new.
Unique Cocktails to Try:
- Anything from Bar Leather Apron: Their innovative whiskey cocktails are a must-try.
- A craft beer from Honolulu Beerworks: Ask the bartender for their recommendation.
- A unique creation from Tchin Tchin: Their bartenders are known for their creativity.
- The “Earth to Cup” cocktails at Swell Restaurant & Pool Bar: Sustainably sourced and delicious.
Avoiding Tourist Traps: Spotting the Real Deal
Not every bar in Honolulu is created equal. Some cater primarily to tourists and offer watered-down drinks and inflated prices. Here’s how to spot a tourist trap:
- Overly aggressive promoters: If someone is trying too hard to get you in the door, it’s probably not a good sign.
- Generic decor: If the bar looks like it could be anywhere in the world, it’s probably not authentic.
- High prices for standard drinks: Tourist traps often charge exorbitant prices for basic cocktails.
- Lack of locals: If you don’t see any locals, it’s probably a tourist trap.
Cool Bars in Honolulu: Quick Answers
Q: Is it expensive to drink in Honolulu?
A: Yes, Honolulu can be expensive, but happy hour deals and local bars can help you save money. Look for bars with happy hour specials and consider exploring neighborhoods outside of Waikiki for more affordable options.
Q: What’s the dress code at most Honolulu bars?
A: The dress code is generally casual, but some upscale lounges may require more formal attire. When in doubt, opt for smart casual. Places like Lewers Lounge and L’Aperitif will require much more than just board shorts and a t-shirt.
Q: Are reservations required at Honolulu bars?
A: Reservations are recommended, especially for popular bars and during peak season. This is especially true for Bar Leather Apron. Check the bar’s website or call ahead to make a reservation.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Honolulu at night?
A: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Honolulu. Public transportation is also an option, but it may be limited late at night. Walking is also a good option, depending on the distance and location of the bars you plan to visit.
Your Honolulu Bar Crawl Starts Now
Discovering the cool bars in Honolulu is an adventure in itself. By venturing beyond the tourist hotspots, exploring different neighborhoods, and embracing the local cocktail culture, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So, grab your friends, put on your aloha shirt, and get ready to sip in style!
