Best 4 Tiki Bars in Waikiki You Must Visit Now!

Welcome fellow tiki enthusiasts!

Recently, my boyfriend and I embarked on a Hawaiian adventure to uncover the most authentic tiki bars in Waikiki. From sipping Mai Tais to admiring astounding tiki decor, we’ve left no stone unturned and are now ready to share our top four finds with you.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – all those years of tireless bar-hopping have finally paid off! Apart from enjoying our evenings together as a couple exploring these tropical paradises, we also took the time to appreciate the unique atmosphere each venue had to offer. Believe me when I say that not all tiki bars are created equal.

Throughout our escapades, I carefully considered factors such as setting, drinks selection especially rum-based concoctions (a must for any respectable tiki joint), and overall vibe. As someone who cherishes these Polynesian-inspired watering holes, it’s essential for me that every aspect is taken into account.

Warning: You may feel an overwhelming urge to bust out your finest Hawaiian shirt after discovering these fantastic establishments!

So without further ado, allow me to whisk you away on this tantalizing tiki tour showcasing Waikiki’s crème de la crème of tropical libations. Cheers!

What Will I Learn? show

Tiki’s Grill & Bar – Best Tiki Bar in Waikiki for Great Ambiance and Views

Kicking off our list is the best tiki bar in Waikiki, which offers stunning views of Kuhio Beach and delightful outdoor dining on its terrace. Experience Tiki’s Grill & Bar, located on the second floor of the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel.

Make sure to arrive before sunset as this spot provides breathtaking views that will leave your friends envious. From tiki gods adorning the entrance to iconic glasses used to serve their drinks, this establishment truly delivers an authentic experience.

Relax on the terrace while soaking up Hawaiian traditions such as torch lighters illuminating Kalakaua Avenue at sunset. Additionally, indulge in live music and savor delectable meals prepared by celebrity chef Ronnie Nasuti—committed to using only locally-sourced ingredients.

Some standout features of Tiki’s Grill & Bar are:

A tempting selection of tropical drinks
Budget-friendly pricing across all items
An enticing happy hour you don’t want to miss
Attentive and friendly service from hosts, bartenders, and servers

Don’t pass up their Mai Tais! Besides fantastic beverages, their food menu consistently impresses patrons.

Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel – Best Tiki Bar for Authentic Old World Mai Tais

Dive into the rich history of the legendary Mai Tai at none other than the Mai Tai Bar, located in the iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Originally created by “Trader Vic” to showcase aged rum’s bold flavors, this classic cocktail has evolved over time.

The original concoction didn’t resemble today’s fruit juice and syrup-laden interpretations. The authentic connection between Trader Vic and the Royal Hawaiian lies in his addition of pineapple and orange juice to his masterpiece right here at this hotel bar.

Patrons adore the unique and delicious Mai Tais that remain true to their legacy while offering a pleasant twist. Nestled within The Pink Palace, an enchanting pink facade lit by glowing tiki torches creates an irresistible ambiance perfect for photos.

Situated along Waikiki’s pristine beaches, this location offers visitors both relaxation on beautiful shores as well as mouth-watering drinks.

Additional reasons to visit the captivating Mai Tai Bar include:

The serene setting provided by the esteemed Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Attentive service from skilled staff members
A delectable but limited food menu that complements your beverages

Experience unrivaled authenticity with a refreshing contemporary flair while sipping on exquisite cocktails only found at Maui’s legendary Pink Palace: The Royal Hawaiian Hotel.

RumFire – Best Beachside Tiki Bar & Lounge Known for Unique Cocktails, Comfort Food & Coveted Fire Pits

Rum has always played a pivotal role in tiki culture drinks, and RumFire pays tribute to that legacy with its vast collection of rums from around the world. Inspired by Don the Beachcomber, who made a name for himself selling potent rum cocktails in the 1930s, RumFire showcases over 80 different rums from top producers like Barbados, Puerto Rico, and Nicaragua.

The elegant ambiance at RumFire ensures you have a luxuriously delightful experience while sipping on one of their crafted concoctions. Choose between sitting outside on the patio overlooking the ocean or gathering around one of their cozy outdoor fire pits. Alternatively, relax indoors near backlit glass bars.

Try out their High-Maka Mai Tai featuring an exquisite 23-year-old Guatemalan rum served in a fresh pineapple—it’s worth every penny!

Top reasons why this is an unmissable stop include:

Delicious food alongside some of Waikiki’s most unique cocktail creations
A perfect location suited for romantic dates with crashing waves setting the mood
Live music amplifying your experience even further
Friendly and helpful service staff catering to all your needs

Indulge yourself at RumFire where tradition meets innovation through sumptuous cuisine and delectable drinks – it’s not to be missed!

Cuckoo’s Coconuts – Best Tiki Bar for Great Entertainment and Decor

Get ready to go coconuts over Cuckoo’s Coconuts! Conveniently located in the heart of Waikiki, this tiki bar is perfect for taking a break while shopping or exploring the area. The venue offers an essential tiki atmosphere with lush foliage adorned by fairy lights, funny signs, and signature umbrella-covered tables.

The live music (7-10 pm) adds to its lively ambiance—just remember that there’s no dancing! With island-inspired flavors featured prominently on their menu, you’ll have plenty of scrumptious options to choose from.

Although other places might excel in food or cocktails, it’s hard not to appreciate the fun-loving interpretation of tiki culture at Cuckoo’s Coconuts. Stop by and poke your face through one of the tiki cutouts for a memorable photo.

Here’s why you should visit:

An al fresco setup complemented by vibrant decor
Live music featuring engaging audience participation
A diverse menu showcasing island favorites
Picturesque lighting and attention-grabbing signs

Try out their Tiki Colada served in a pineapple or indulge in a stronger option: the Tiki Rum Cocktail – considered “Hawaii in a glass”!

Top reasons to come to Cuckoo’s Coconuts include:

Charming decorations inspired by tiki culture
Regular live music sessions from 7 pm – 10 pm & no cover charge!
Island-themed bar bites offering delicious local cuisine

Conclusion

This list is going to leave you spoilt for choice. With so many options to enjoy your nights in Waikiki, you can either sit back and relax as you sip your drinks while enjoying the splashing waves of the ocean or take thousands of pictures with the tiki gods.

Cheers!

Last Updated on May 26, 2023 by Brigitte