15 Hawaii Bars With Character Worth Flying Across the Pacific – Save This List For Your Next Vacation
Living on Oahu for over 30 years has turned me into something of a professional bar hopper across all the Hawaiian islands. I've spent countless nights hunting down the most character-filled watering holes – from hidden speakeasies to oceanfront tiki bars where the mai tais flow like water.
These aren't just places to drink- they're living pieces of Hawaiian culture where stories unfold nightly. Let's dive into the bars that capture Hawaii's soul.
Oahu's Iconic Gems
Oahu hosts the majority of Hawaii's most memorable bars, each with its own unique personality.
La Mariana Sailing Club
🏆 Best For: Authentic 1950s tiki experience and harbor views
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during weekday afternoons to avoid crowds and get the best stories from longtime bartenders. The kalua pork nachos are surprisingly excellent and reasonably priced – a rarity in Honolulu.
The last surviving authentic tiki bar from Hawaii's golden era, La Mariana opened in 1955 and remains virtually unchanged. Located in an industrial area near Sand Island, finding it feels like discovering buried treasure. The decor features pufferfish lamps salvaged from the original Trader Vic's, bamboo railings from Don the Beachcomber's, and artifacts from Hawaii's shuttered tiki establishments.
Last summer, visitors praised the genuine atmosphere where boats bob in the marina outside while you sip rum concoctions surrounded by vintage tikis. The bar survived a 1960 tsunami and a 1975 relocation, with owner Annette La Mariana Nahinu tirelessly collecting tiki memorabilia that gives the place its timeless charm.
What Makes It Special:
- Original 1950s tiki bar decor with authentic artifacts
- Marina setting with sailing boats visible from tables
- Pufferfish lamps and glass floats hanging from ceiling
- Live piano entertainment nightly
- Affordable prices compared to tourist areas
Must-try Items:
- Traditional Mai Tai with paper umbrella
- Zombie cocktail – “will turn you into a zombie”
- Kalua pork nachos (highly recommended by recent visitors)
- Ahi poke from the pupu menu
- Combo pupu platter with 15+ choices
At-a-Glance: 💵 $12-18 for cocktails | 📅 Open daily 11am-9pm | 🎵 Live piano nightly | 🍴 Full dining menu available | 🚗 Street parking only
Location: 50 Sand Island Access Road, Honolulu – (808) 841-2173
The authentic atmosphere here sets the stage perfectly for our next stop – Waikiki's most affordable tiki hideaway…
Nearby stay: Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort (15 minutes away)
Arnold's Beach Bar
🏆 Best For: Casual drinks and authentic local experience
💡 Insider Tip: Happy hour runs 10am-6pm daily – the longest in Waikiki. Free popcorn keeps you satisfied between drinks, and asking about their “No Shower Happy Hour” might earn beach-goers a discount.
If you've been searching for an unpretentious slice of authentic tiki culture in Waikiki, Arnold's Beach Bar delivers exactly that. This hidden gem might be easy to miss with its unassuming alley location, but step inside and you'll discover a tropical oasis with bamboo decor and colorful lights that captures the laid-back 1950s “beach bum” tiki vibe.
What makes Arnold's stand out is its genuine commitment to island hospitality without the tourist markup. The crowd shifts throughout the day – locals stopping after work in early evenings, travelers seeking refuge from overpriced hotel bars later on, creating a vibrant social atmosphere where conversations with strangers flow as easily as the rum.
What Makes It Special:
- Hidden down a side alley for authentic dive bar feel
- Best drink prices in Waikiki according to regulars
- Free popcorn with specialty salt and butter
- New York Times recognized for best mai tai
- Dogs welcome (as they should be)
Must-try Items:
- Li Hing Margarita – Featuring sweet-sour li hing mui
- AMF Cocktail – Very strong, “2 will knock you for six”
- Blue Hawaii – Visually stunning with blue curacao
- Classic Mai Tai – New York Times approved
- Specialty Chorizo Hot Dogs – Limited but quality food menu
At-a-Glance: 💵 $6-12 for cocktails | 📅 Bring valid ID (strictly enforced) | 🎵 Live music regularly | 🍿 Free popcorn included | 🏖️ Steps from Waikiki Beach
Location: Hidden alley off Waikiki Beach – Check current hours before visiting
Speaking of unique experiences, wait until you see what elegant Hawaiian hospitality looks like at our next destination…
Nearby stay: Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach (0.2 miles away)
House Without a Key
🏆 Best For: Elegant Hawaiian ambiance with live hula performances
💡 Insider Tip: Arrive after 8pm to snag a table without reservation, though sunset sessions fill up weeks in advance. The bar is named after a 1925 Charlie Chan novel, adding literary history to your drinking experience.
Nestled in the historic Halekulani Hotel, this open-air bar defines elegant Hawaiian ambiance without falling into tourist trap territory. Unlike many overpriced hotel bars, House Without a Key delivers an authentic experience that's remained largely unchanged for decades. Live Hawaiian music plays as the sun sets, with hula dancers (including recent Miss Hawaii winners) performing against the backdrop of Diamond Head.
The atmosphere consistently earns praise from visitors who appreciate the combination of location, live entertainment, and quality cocktails. While prices reflect the upscale location, the unique setting and cultural authenticity justify the cost for most guests seeking a memorable Hawaiian evening.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic Halekulani Hotel setting with Diamond Head views
- Authentic hula performances during sunset hours
- Live Hawaiian music nightly
- Open-air design captures ocean breezes
- Literary connection to Charlie Chan mystery novels
Must-try Items:
- Traditional Mai Tai with classic recipe letting rum shine through
- Tropical cocktails featuring local ingredients
- Appetizers designed to complement sunset viewing
- Seasonal specialty drinks reflecting Hawaiian flavors
At-a-Glance: 💵 $18-25 for cocktails | 📅 Sunset reservations recommended | 🎭 Live hula performances | 🌅 Prime Diamond Head views | 🏨 Valet parking available
Location: 2199 Kalia Road, Honolulu – (808) 923-2311
From elegant hotel sophistication, we transition to Chinatown's most sophisticated craft cocktail experience…
Nearby stay: Halekulani Hotel (on-property)
Skull & Crown Trading Co.
🏆 Best For: Sophisticated craft tiki cocktails in atmospheric setting
💡 Insider Tip: The bar feels like it's been there for a century due to vintage tikis and historical artifacts, though it's actually a newer addition. Reservations recommended for prime evening hours.
Hidden in Chinatown, this craft cocktail haven might be the most sophisticated tiki experience in Hawaii. The dimly lit interior showcases vintage tikis, historical artifacts, and shrunken heads that create an immersive atmosphere. Despite being relatively new to Honolulu's bar scene, the extensive collection of authentic memorabilia makes it feel like a century-old establishment.
Their cocktail program stands out for its complex recipes and quality ingredients. The Maunakea Mai Tai showcases expert craftsmanship with its blend of Appleton Estate 12, Clement Select Barrel, and Smith & Cross rums. While prices reflect the premium approach, the attention to detail in both presentation and flavor justifies every penny.
What Makes It Special:
- Extensive collection of vintage tikis and artifacts
- Complex craft cocktails using premium spirits
- Atmospheric lighting and historical memorabilia
- Knowledgeable bartenders who understand tiki culture
- Hidden Chinatown location adds to mystique
Must-try Items:
- Maunakea Mai Tai – Complex blend of three premium rums
- Firecracker – Tanduay Spiced Rum with tangerine and li hing
- Poe Poe – Purple cocktail with Kō Hana Kea and ube syrup
- Communal Firecracker punch bowl for groups
At-a-Glance: 💵 $16-22 for cocktails | 📅 Reservations recommended | 🗿 Authentic tiki artifacts | 🥃 Premium spirit selection | 🏙️ Chinatown location
Location: 62 N Hotel Street, Honolulu – (808) 591-8885
Our journey through sophisticated cocktail culture continues at the iconic Pink Palace…
Nearby stay: AC Hotel by Marriott Honolulu (0.3 miles away)
Mai Tai Bar at Royal Hawaiian Hotel
🏆 Best For: Historic mai tai experience at the “Pink Palace of the Pacific”
💡 Insider Tip: Current bartenders undergo two-week training just to learn the signature mai tai recipe correctly. Visit before sunset to grab prime Diamond Head-facing tables, and watch for the meticulous drink preparation.
The iconic “Pink Palace of the Pacific” hosts this beachfront institution where the mai tai was perfected, if not invented. The historic Royal Hawaiian has been serving their signature cocktail since 1953, and the recipe remains a closely guarded secret. Recent visitors praise bartenders like Nick who crafts “liquid vacation” with expertise and charm, while barback Conner performs “garnish ninja moves” with theatrical precision.
The combination of beachfront location, Diamond Head views, and live Hawaiian music creates an unmatched setting. While prices are steep at $27 for a mai tai, the historical significance, prime location, and quality craftsmanship make it worthwhile for at least one visit.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic significance as mai tai birthplace (1953)
- Secret recipe closely guarded for over 70 years
- Prime beachfront location with Diamond Head views
- Theatrical bartending with precise preparation
- Live Hawaiian music enhancing atmosphere
Must-try Items:
- Original Royal Hawaiian Mai Tai – the legendary secret recipe
- Tropical cocktails featuring local ingredients
- Old Fashioned prepared with theatrical flair
- Seasonal specialty drinks reflecting hotel's heritage
At-a-Glance: 💵 $25-35 for cocktails | 📅 Sunset tables fill early | 🎵 Live Hawaiian music | 💎 Premium beachfront location | 🏨 Hotel amenities available
Location: 2259 Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki – (808) 923-7311
From historic elegance, we venture into Honolulu's most creative speakeasy concept…
Nearby stay: Royal Hawaiian Hotel (on-property)
Yours Truly
🏆 Best For: Interactive speakeasy experience with postal service theme
💡 Insider Tip: To enter the hidden tiki speakeasy, you must “lean on 219” to activate the secret entrance. Write your drink order on a postcard, drop it in a mailbox, and retrieve your cocktail from the same spot when ready.
One of Honolulu's newest bar concepts combines two brilliant themes: a postal-service front bar that conceals a tiki speakeasy. The ordering system continues the postal theme throughout the experience, creating an interactive adventure that delights cocktail enthusiasts. Recent visitors rave about seasonal specialties like the holiday-themed “North Pole Potion” and the attention to detail in both theme and drink quality.
The bar fills up quickly on weekends due to its unique concept and growing reputation, making reservations essential for the speakeasy section. The combination of theatrical elements with serious cocktail craftsmanship creates memorable experiences that balance novelty with quality.
What Makes It Special:
- Dual concept: postal-service bar hiding tiki speakeasy
- Interactive ordering system using postcards and mailboxes
- Secret entrance activated by “leaning on 219”
- Rich emerald green decor with vintage post boxes
- AI photo booth and karaoke in speakeasy section
Must-try Items:
- Seasonal specialty cocktails (North Pole Potion during holidays)
- Complex tiki creations balancing flavor and drinkability
- Craft cocktails honoring Hawaiian exotica era
- Beer and wine selection for non-cocktail drinkers
At-a-Glance: 💵 $16-24 for cocktails | 📅 Reservations required for speakeasy | 📮 Interactive postal theme | 🎤 Karaoke available | 🏙️ Downtown location
Location: 1111 Bishop Street, Honolulu – Reservations required
Speaking of unique experiences, our next stop features swing seats at the bar…
Nearby stay: AC Hotel by Marriott Honolulu (0.1 miles away)
Heyday
🏆 Best For: Retro-cool atmosphere with unique swing bar seating
💡 Insider Tip: Happy hour runs noon-6pm with special pricing on signature POG (passion-orange-guava) cocktails. There's also a hidden speakeasy somewhere on the property – ask bartenders for details, but it's closed Mondays.
This retro-cool bar at the White Sands Hotel offers something truly unique: swing seats at the bar! The 1950s-inspired space connects to a pool area, creating an indoor-outdoor feel that perfectly captures mid-century tropical modernism. The playful vintage charm extends throughout the space with tropical cocktails and island-inspired dishes complementing the nostalgic atmosphere.
Recent visitors praise the relaxed vibe and friendly service, noting that while it can get crowded after 5pm, it's a perfect afternoon spot to escape Waikiki's hustle. The combination of unique seating, reasonable happy hour pricing, and retro aesthetic creates a memorable experience that stands out among Waikiki's bar scene.
What Makes It Special:
- Oahu's only swing bar seating for playful dining
- 1950s retro design with tropical modernism elements
- Indoor-outdoor connection to pool area
- Extended happy hour with reasonable pricing
- Hidden speakeasy adds mystery element
Must-try Items:
- POG Cocktails – Passion-orange-guava tropical flavors
- Handcrafted tropical cocktails with vintage flair
- Island-inspired dishes complementing retro theme
- Seasonal specialties reflecting Hawaiian ingredients
At-a-Glance: 💵 $12-20 for cocktails | 📅 Happy hour noon-6pm | 🪑 Unique swing seating | 🏊 Pool area access | 🏨 Valet parking $12/3 hours
Location: 431 Nohonani Street, Honolulu – (808) 921-4422
From Oahu's innovative bars, we sail to Maui's laid-back legends…
Nearby stay: White Sands Hotel (on-property)
Maui's Laid-Back Legends
Maui's bar scene blends beachy informality with sophisticated cocktail craft.
South Shore Tiki Lounge
🏆 Best For: Award-winning tiki bar with dancing and late-night energy
💡 Insider Tip: This seven-time “Best Bar on Maui” winner transforms from casual daytime spot to pulsing dance venue after dark when DJs spin until 2am. Visit during the day for tiki cocktails, stay for the nightlife.
This multiple award-winning establishment manages to be both a serious tiki bar and a lively nightspot. The thatch-roofed lounge has earned 15 years of “Best of Maui” reader-voted awards, taking honors for Best Pau Hana, Best Bar, Best Place to Dance, and Best Pizza. Their tropical drinks stay true to classic recipes while incorporating island-grown ingredients, and the famous Lava Flow might look touristy but represents expert craftsmanship.
AFAR magazine's Maui Travel Guide lists South Shore Tiki Lounge as one of Maui's best bars, noting it “checks all the tiki boxes” with its thatched roof, bamboo bar, and surfboard decor. The transformation from afternoon tiki lounge to late-night dance destination creates dual experiences under one roof.
What Makes It Special:
- Seven-time “Best Bar on Maui” winner with 15 years of awards
- Dual personality: tiki lounge by day, dance club by night
- Authentic thatched roof and bamboo construction
- Live music featuring local talent on various nights
- Outstanding pizza complementing tropical cocktails
Must-try Items:
- Lava Flow – Expertly crafted strawberry piña colada variation
- Classic tiki cocktails using island-grown ingredients
- Outstanding pizza (award-winning)
- Variety of veggie dishes added to menu
- New boozy tiki cocktails by bartender Sebastian Stevens
At-a-Glance: 💵 $14-22 for cocktails | 📅 Open until 2am | 🎵 Live music and DJs | 🍕 Award-winning pizza | 💃 Dance floor after 9pm
Location: 1913-J South Kihei Road, Kihei – (808) 874-6444
From award-winning tradition to innovative craft cocktails…
Nearby stay: Kaanapali Beach Hotel (20 minutes away)
Esther's Fair Prospect
🏆 Best For: Contemporary craft cocktails with foraged local ingredients
💡 Insider Tip: This female-owned establishment works directly with Maui farmers to source rare native plants for infusions and garnishes. The “Velvet Elvis” has developed a cult following among locals.
This female-owned craft cocktail bar in historic Wailuku brings a contemporary edge to Hawaii's drink scene. Opened in early 2023, it's quickly becoming Maui's most talked-about spot for creative cocktails featuring locally foraged ingredients. Their innovative approach honors Hawaiian ingredients while pushing creative boundaries beyond traditional tiki presentations.
The “Velvet Elvis” – a smoky tequila concoction with lilikoi and charred pineapple – exemplifies their creative philosophy. While not strictly a tiki bar, their tropical-inspired creations demonstrate respect for Hawaiian ingredients combined with modern mixology techniques that create unique flavor profiles.
What Makes It Special:
- Female-owned and operated in historic Wailuku
- Direct partnerships with Maui farmers for rare ingredients
- Creative cocktails featuring locally foraged plants
- Contemporary approach to Hawaiian flavor profiles
- Historic downtown location with local character
Must-try Items:
- “Velvet Elvis” – Smoky tequila with lilikoi and charred pineapple
- Seasonal cocktails featuring rare native plants
- Tropical-inspired creations with modern techniques
- Locally sourced ingredients in every drink
At-a-Glance: 💵 $16-24 for cocktails | 📅 Limited hours – check website | 🌿 Foraged local ingredients | 👩💼 Female-owned business | 🏛️ Historic Wailuku location
Location: 12 North Market Street, Wailuku – (808) 244-0414
From innovative craft cocktails to award-winning mai tais…
Nearby stay: Maui Seaside Hotel (5 minutes away)
Monkeypod Kitchen
🏆 Best For: Award-winning mai tai with honey-lilikoi foam
💡 Insider Tip: Daily happy hour runs 3:30-5pm, significantly cutting drink prices at this otherwise pricey spot. The 36 craft beer taps offer alternatives for those taking breaks from tropical cocktails.
While primarily known as a restaurant, Monkeypod's bar program deserves special recognition for consistently winning awards as Maui's best mai tai. Their signature version topped with honey-lilikoi foam creates a sweet-tart counterpoint to the rum-forward cocktail beneath – it's like experiencing two drinks in one sophisticated presentation.
The bar area buzzes with energy throughout the day, creating a vibrant social atmosphere that attracts both visitors and locals. The extensive craft beer selection provides welcome variety for those seeking alternatives to tropical cocktails, while the happy hour pricing makes this premium location more accessible to budget-conscious drinkers.
What Makes It Special:
- Award-winning mai tai with innovative honey-lilikoi foam
- 36 craft beer taps for variety seekers
- Bustling bar atmosphere attracting locals and visitors
- Daily happy hour making premium location accessible
- Restaurant-quality bar program with full dining menu
Must-try Items:
- Signature Mai Tai with honey-lilikoi foam (award-winning)
- Extensive craft beer selection from 36 taps
- Tropical cocktails featuring local ingredients
- Bar bites complementing drink program
At-a-Glance: 💵 $16-28 for cocktails | 📅 Happy hour 3:30-5pm daily | 🍺 36 craft beer taps | 🏆 Award-winning mai tai | 🍽️ Full restaurant menu
Location: 10 Wailea Gateway Place, Kihei – (808) 891-2322
From Maui's energetic bar scene to Kauai's hidden garden treasures…
Nearby stay: Grand Wailea Maui (5 minutes away)
Kauai's Hidden Treasures
The Garden Isle offers lush escapes and drinks to match.
Nãpali Art Gallery & Coffee House
🏆 Best For: Magical candlelit garden cocktails under the stars
💡 Insider Tip: Transforms from coffee house by day to atmospheric cocktail destination Thursday-Sunday evenings. The garden setting hosts impromptu ukulele sessions that create magical moments.
By day, this charming spot serves coffee and showcases local art. But Thursday through Sunday evenings, it transforms into Kauai's most atmospheric cocktail destination. The candlelit garden setting under the stars creates a magical backdrop for their farm-to-glass cocktails that incorporate herbs grown on-site.
The Garden Isle Mule blends local ginger beer with Kauai-made rum and fresh herbs grown on the property, creating a truly local drinking experience. The intimate setting encourages spontaneous musical moments, with impromptu ukulele sessions breaking out on the patio that mesmerize guests and create lasting memories.
What Makes It Special:
- Dual concept: art gallery/coffee house by day, cocktail bar by night
- Candlelit garden setting under Hawaiian stars
- Farm-to-glass cocktails with on-site grown herbs
- Local art gallery showcasing Kauai artists
- Spontaneous ukulele sessions creating magical moments
Must-try Items:
- Garden Isle Mule – Local ginger beer with Kauai rum and fresh herbs
- Farm-to-glass cocktails featuring on-site ingredients
- Seasonal specialties reflecting garden produce
- Coffee drinks during daytime hours
At-a-Glance: 💵 $14-20 for cocktails | 📅 Thu-Sun evenings only | 🌟 Candlelit garden setting | 🎨 Local art gallery | 🪕 Live ukulele sessions
Location: 5-5161 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei – (808) 826-0989
From intimate garden settings to legendary beachfront institutions…
Nearby stay: St. Regis Princeville Resort (15 minutes away)
Duke's Kauai
🏆 Best For: Authentic Hawaiian surfing culture with toes-in-sand seating
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during Sunday afternoon “Henry Kapono Day” when the Hawaiian music legend often performs classics from his Cecilio & Kapono days. The Barefoot Bar section offers unobstructed ocean views.
Sure, Duke's is a chain, but the Kauai location has an authenticity and character the others can't match. The Barefoot Bar section offers literal toes-in-the-sand seating with unobstructed ocean views where guests can watch surfers while sipping their famous Lava Flow. Duke's historical connection to Hawaiian surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku adds genuine cultural significance beyond typical tourist destinations.
This isn't just a tourist trap – locals pack the place for live music and relatively reasonable prices compared to resort alternatives. The cultural authenticity and beachfront setting create experiences that honor Hawaiian surfing heritage while providing memorable moments for visitors seeking genuine island culture.
What Makes It Special:
- Authentic connection to Duke Kahanamoku surfing legacy
- Toes-in-sand seating at Barefoot Bar section
- Unobstructed ocean views with active surfing spots
- Local favorite with reasonable pricing
- Regular live Hawaiian music performances
Must-try Items:
- Famous Lava Flow cocktail with beachfront views
- Hawaiian music classics during Henry Kapono performances
- Fresh seafood reflecting island location
- Tropical cocktails honoring Hawaiian heritage
At-a-Glance: 💵 $12-20 for cocktails | 📅 Henry Kapono Sundays | 🏄♂️ Surfer watching location | 🏖️ Toes-in-sand seating | 🎵 Live Hawaiian music
Location: 3610 Rice Street, Lihue – (808) 246-9599
Our island-hopping adventure concludes on the Big Island's wild side…
Nearby stay: Kauai Beach Resort (5 minutes away)
Big Island's Wild Side
The Big Island's diverse environments spawn equally diverse drinking establishments.
Kona Brewing Company
🏆 Best For: Oceanfront brewery with unique beer cocktails and manta ray viewing
💡 Insider Tip: Recent renovations expanded the space while maintaining laid-back charm. Evening visits offer chances to watch manta rays swimming in waters below while sampling brewery-exclusive beers unavailable on the mainland.
While primarily known as a brewery, Kona's oceanfront pub has evolved into one of the Big Island's most characterful drinking destinations. The open-air layout provides stunning sunset views, and their innovative beer cocktails – like the Lavaman combining Longboard Lager with vodka and lilikoi – offer unique tropical twists on traditional brewing.
The brewery produces exclusive beers available only at this location, creating special experiences for beer enthusiasts. The combination of craft brewing expertise, oceanfront setting, and Hawaiian ingredients results in drinks and atmosphere unavailable anywhere else in the chain.
What Makes It Special:
- Oceanfront location with stunning sunset views
- Unique beer cocktails blending brewing with mixology
- Exclusive brewery beers unavailable elsewhere
- Manta ray viewing opportunities from outdoor seating
- Recent renovations maintaining authentic character
Must-try Items:
- Lavaman – Longboard Lager with vodka and lilikoi
- Brewery-exclusive beers unavailable on mainland
- Traditional craft beer selection from flagship brewery
- Hawaiian-inspired beer cocktails using local ingredients
At-a-Glance: 💵 $8-16 for drinks | 📅 Open daily with sunset views | 🍺 Exclusive brewery location | 🌅 Manta ray viewing | 🏖️ Oceanfront setting
Location: 74-5612 Pawai Place, Kailua-Kona – (808) 334-2739
Our final destination brings New Orleans jazz vibes to Hawaiian shores…
Nearby stay: Kona Seaside Hotel (10 minutes away)
Gertrude's Jazz Bar
🏆 Best For: Sophisticated jazz atmosphere with Grammy-winning musician encounters
💡 Insider Tip: The balcony offers sweeping ocean views while inside puts you right next to talented local musicians. Magical impromptu jam sessions between scheduled bands and Grammy-winning diners create unforgettable moments.
This sophisticated spot brings New Orleans vibes to Hawaii with craft cocktails and nightly live music. The intimate setting positions guests directly next to talented local musicians playing everything from traditional Hawaiian to jazz and blues. The balcony provides sweeping ocean views while maintaining the cozy atmosphere that encourages musical collaboration.
Their signature Coconut Mojito uses fresh-pressed sugarcane and local coconut rum for a Hawaiian interpretation of the classic Cuban cocktail. The combination of quality cocktails, intimate musical setting, and potential for spontaneous Grammy-winning collaborations creates experiences that define Gertrude's special character.
What Makes It Special:
- New Orleans jazz atmosphere in Hawaiian setting
- Intimate venue positioning guests next to musicians
- Balcony with sweeping ocean views
- Nightly live music spanning Hawaiian to jazz genres
- Potential for impromptu Grammy-winning jam sessions
Must-try Items:
- Craft cocktails complementing musical atmosphere
- Seasonal specialties reflecting jazz bar heritage
- Traditional cocktails with Hawaiian ingredient twists
At-a-Glance: 💵 $14-22 for cocktails | 📅 Nightly live music | 🎷 Jazz and blues performances | 🌊 Ocean view balcony | 🎵 Intimate musical setting
Location: 75-5699 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona – (808) 327-5299
These 15 bars capture Hawaii's diverse spirits – from historic tiki traditions to modern craft cocktail innovation, jazz atmospheres to beachfront institutions…
Nearby stay: Royal Kona Resort (5 minutes away)
Where to Stay Nearby
These bars capture Hawaii's diverse spirits – from historic tiki traditions to modern craft cocktail innovation. Whether you're seeking a divey local hangout or a sophisticated sipping experience, these 15 spots offer more than just drinks; they provide windows into Hawaii's soul and stories you'll tell long after your suntan fades.
From La Mariana's authentic 1950s tiki atmosphere to Gertrude's sophisticated jazz vibes, each destination offers unique experiences that honor Hawaiian culture while serving exceptional cocktails. The journey from Arnold's affordable dive bar charm to the Royal Hawaiian's premium mai tai legacy showcases the islands' diverse drinking landscape.
So raise your mai tai glass and say “Okole maluna!” (bottoms up!) – the best Hawaiian memories often begin at the bar.
