Honolulu Nightlife: Exploring Hawaii’s Tropical Paradise After Dark

Clock Icon 9 minutes read
Update Icon Jun 19, 2023

Get ready to turn up the heat in Honolulu! Our ultimate guide will lead you on an unforgettable journey through the city’s electrifying nightlife scene, revealing the hottest spots for a tropical paradise party you’ll never forget!

A mixologist at the bar counter pouring liquor on a whiskey glass
Photo credit: Unsplash

Nightlife-focused vacations are taking the spotlight, and why not?

With around 80 million tourists flocking to the US each year to experience the best states’ nightlife scenes, Hawaii is undeniably a top contender.

In Honolulu, the fun doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down; the night comes alive with endless excitement!

Honolulu features a dynamic nightlife scene as vibrant as the city itself, where you’ll discover countless opportunities to dance, drink, and socialize all night long. This lively island paradise guarantees an exclusive and exhilarating experience for nightlife aficionados seeking the ultimate after-hours adventure.

From retro tiki bars to trendy rooftop lounges, there’s a spot for every mood and vibe. If you’re in the mood for fruity cocktails with paper umbrellas, you’ll find plenty here. 

Want to dance the night away? There are plenty of options, from hip-hop to EDM. 

Craving for something eargasmic? You’ll find everything from jazz to rock.

Honolulu nightlife is an exciting and unforgettable mix of styles and flavors that will keep you coming back for more — and we’re here to show you the best spots to drink, dance, and have a blast.

So get ready to turn up the music and let the good times roll!

The Best Bars in Honolulu

The electrifying Honolulu nightlife scene is a paradise for partygoers, with options ranging from sleek cocktail lounges to laid-back beachside bars. 

Here are just a few of the best spots to quench your thirst and let loose:

Bar Leather Apron

This intimate cocktail bar is a must-visit for mixology enthusiasts. With award-winning bartenders and an impressive selection of spirits, Bar Leather Apron is the perfect place to indulge in an expertly-crafted drink while enjoying the cozy atmosphere.

RumFire Waikiki

Ignite your senses at RumFire Waikiki, an upscale beachfront lounge within the Sheraton Waikiki. Boasting an extensive selection of rums from around the world and innovative cocktails, RumFire sets the stage for a vibrant night of socializing and entertainment. The stylish venue features outdoor fire pits, cozy seating areas, and views of the captivating ocean and Diamond Head, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying a memorable evening.

Arnold’s Beach Bar

This classic tiki bar has been around for decades and is a local favorite for its laid-back atmosphere and killer mai tais. The beachside location and retro decor make it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day in the sun.

The Myna Bird Tiki Bar

For a taste of Honolulu’s tiki culture, head to the Myna Bird Tiki Bar. The bartenders here mix up creative and delicious tiki drinks, served in funky mugs perfect for Instagram photos. With a large outdoor patio and lively atmosphere, it’s the ideal spot for a night out with friends

House Without a Key

Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of House Without a Key, a legendary oceanfront bar and restaurant nestled within the Halekulani Hotel. Renowned for its iconic sunset views, this idyllic spot offers the quintessential Hawaiian experience, complete with live music and hula performances. Savor the mouthwatering pupus and sip on refreshing tropical cocktails as you soak in the mesmerizing surroundings. 

DJ controlling turntable at night
Photo credit: Unsplash

Live Music and Dance Clubs

Honolulu’s music scene is as diverse as the city itself, with venues ranging from jazz to EDM. Here are just a few of the best spots to catch a live show or dance the night away:

The Republik

With its spacious dance floor and state-of-the-art sound system, The Republik is the perfect spot for all music lovers. From hip-hop to rock to EDM, this venue hosts sensational performers and a series of events that will keep you dancing all night long.

Nextdoor

If you’re an electronic music and DJ fan, you will want to attend Nextdoor. This club is known for its thumping bass beats and high-energy atmosphere, spacious dance floor, and sleek decor that perfectly sets the mood for partying.

Addiction Nightclub

Located inside The Modern Honolulu, Addiction is one of the hottest dance clubs in the city. With multiple bars and VIP areas, it’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends. The DJs play a mix of hip-hop, EDM, and pop hits that will keep you on the dance floor until the wee hours!

Jazz Minds Honolulu

For a more laid-back option, check out Jazz Minds Honolulu. This cozy lounge bar has an extensive selection of cocktails and wine to enjoy while listening to relaxing live jazz performances. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic date or a chill night out with friends.

Blue Note Hawaii

Located inside the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, Blue Note Hawaii features a year-round lineup of musical entertainment featuring the biggest names in jazz and RNB music. With their Pacific Rim-inspired menu and hand-crafted cocktails, you’re guaranteed to have a fun and filling night here.

A scooter parked beside the entrance of an establishment

Unique Nightlife Experiences

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience nightlife in Honolulu, you’re in luck! The city is home to some of the most unusual and memorable spots to eat, drink, and party. 

Here are just a few of the best places to check out if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary:

La Mariana Sailing Club

This vintage tiki bar is a local institution and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Honolulu’s retro vibe. The bar is located in a charming waterfront setting. It features a quirky collection of nautical decor, including a giant tiki statue and a vintage sailboat. Remember to try their signature mai tai while enjoying a live music performance! If you and your crew are in the mood to keep the party going, consider booking a private villa nearby for smooth sailing all night long. Plus, it’s just a 5-minute drive from the airport, making it an ideal location for a fun-filled stay in Honolulu.

The Dragon Upstairs

Tucked away above a Chinese restaurant, The Dragon Upstairs is a hidden gem of Honolulu’s jazz scene. The intimate setting and talented musicians make it the perfect spot for a romantic date or a chill night out with friends. The unique decor, featuring Chinese lanterns and vintage photos, adds to the ambiance.

Chinatown Food Hall

For an Asian-inspired dining experience, head to the Chinatown Food Hall. This massive food hall features a variety of vendors selling everything from sushi to steaks to poke bowls. Grab a table with your friends and try a little bit of everything while enjoying the bustling atmosphere.

The Manifest

This hipster hangout is a favorite among Honolulu’s artsy crowd. The bar features an impressive selection of craft beers, cocktails, live music performances, and art exhibitions. The industrial decor and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect spot to kick back and relax with a pint of Hawaiian-style ale.

Honolulu Night Market

If you’re in town on the third Saturday of the month, check out the Honolulu Night Market in Kaka’ako. This open-air market features a variety of food vendors, fashion designers, and artists selling their wares. It’s the perfect spot to explore the local scene and discover something new and unique. 

If you want to spend a night or two in this vibrant neighborhood, look for short-term stays close to the area’s most popular attractions. 

A group of people enjoying the Honolulu nightlife
Photo credit: Pexels

What to Bring for a Night of Fun in Honolulu

A night out in Honolulu is an experience like no other, with countless options for dining, drinking, and partying. For a memorable and hassle-free trip, including these essentials in your travel arsenal is important. 

Here’s our ultimate checklist of things to bring for a night of fun in Honolulu:

Comfortable shoes. Whether planning to dance the night away or explore the city’s bustling streets, comfortable shoes are a must. Leave the high heels at home and opt for a pair of stylish sneakers or sandals instead.

A light jacket or sweater. While Honolulu’s temperatures are warm and tropical, the nights can get slightly breezy. Bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable and cozy throughout the night.

Cash and ID. Most bars and clubs in Honolulu require a valid ID for entry, so bring yours along. Having some cash on hand for cover charges and tips is also great.

Sunscreen. If you plan to start your night out with a sunset cocktail or beachside party, don’t forget to bring sunscreen. The Hawaiian sun can still be quite intense, even if it’s about to get dark.

A power bank. With all the Instagram-worthy spots in Honolulu, you’ll want to ensure your phone stays charged and ready to capture all the memories!

103 m² Hotel ∙ 127 guests
Photo credit: Sheraton Waikiki

Find The Best After-Party Stays in Honolulu at Hotala

Honolulu is known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities, but its vibrant nightlife scene is just as unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening of drinks with friends or a night of dancing and partying, Honolulu nightlife has something for everyone. 

And after a night out, there’s nothing better than returning to a comfortable and convenient vacation rental that feels like your home away from home.

Luckily, Honolulu offers a variety of vacation rental options that are sure to fit your needs and budget. From cozy studios to luxurious villas, there are plenty of options. By choosing a vacation rental, you can enjoy all the comforts of home while experiencing Honolulu’s best.

If you’re ready to experience the vibrant and exciting Honolulu nightlife, start planning your trip today and discover all the electrifying experiences that await you. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, sip cocktails at a chic rooftop bar, or soak up the energy of a live music venue, Honolulu has something for every taste.

And here at Hotala, you can find the perfect vacation rental that’s accessible to all of Honolulu’s hottest nightlife spots.

So what are you waiting for? 

Get ready to make unforgettable memories and party like a local in Honolulu!


TLDR

Unleash your inner party animal in Honolulu! 

Our ultimate nightlife guide takes you on a thrilling tour of the city’s eclectic after-hours scene. Dance away at trendy clubs, savor expertly-crafted cocktails at sleek lounges, and soak up the retro vibe at vintage tiki bars. Discover hidden gems like The Dragon Upstairs or the monthly Honolulu Night Market.

And remember to experience the perfect after-party stay with Hotala to complete your unforgettable Hawaiian adventure. Check out the blog for more!