Waikiki Nightlife Guide: Best Bars, Clubs, and Unique After-Dark Experiences
Waikiki is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, offering something for everyone to enjoy. With a wide range of venues available, visitors can easily find nightlife options that suit their preferences.
For those staying at First Cabin International Hawaii in Waikiki Business Plaza, many of the city’s top bars, clubs, and cultural experiences are just a short walk away, making it easy to enjoy the best of Waikiki after dark.
From live music and dance venues to cocktail lounges and traditional Hawaiian luau shows, there’s something for every style of nightlife enthusiast. Whether you want to sip a mai tai while relaxing to island tunes, socialize with the locals, or dance the night away, this guide to Waikiki nightlife will help you make unforgettable memories.
Top Nightclubs and Bars in Waikiki
Many of Waikiki’s top bars and clubs are just a short walk from First Cabin International Hawaii at Waikiki Business Plaza, while others are easily accessible by a quick ride. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed cocktail lounge or a high-energy nightclub, there’s something for everyone.
Arnold’s Beach Bar
One of the best hole-in-the-wall dive bars, according to locals and visitors alike, Arnold’s is an often overlooked gem.
Expect friendly bartenders providing exceptional service and affordable drinks. Arnold’s Beach Bar is known for its old-school tiki bar vibes, with live music available most days of the week.
Suzy Wong’s Hideaway
Offering another casual hidden treasure, Suzy Wong’s Hideaway is beloved by frequent visitors. Many call it a dive bar that’s not to be missed.
Filled with neon green and pink, it has an eclectic atmosphere that makes it a lot of fun to hang out in, with all sorts of quirky decor. It also attracts a diverse crowd, including some native Hawaiians, making it ideal for those who want to mingle with the locals and get to know more authentic daily life.
Duke’s Waikiki
One of the most popular beachfront restaurants, Duke’s Waikiki is also a top nightlife spot. It’s popular for sipping tropical drinks after dark among a lively crowd and a classic Hawaiian atmosphere.
Look forward to frequent live music and themed beach parties, held right along the waterfront.
The Dragon Upstairs
An intimate bar with an elegant atmosphere and laid-back vibe, the Dragon Upstairs is located in Chinatown and offers live music most nights with no cover charge.
The Republik
One of the most happening nightclubs in all of Honolulu, The Republik hosts frequent live bands and a huge dance floor for getting up on your feet.
Premier concerts and other events are often held here too, so be sure to check the calendar before your visit to Waikiki.
The Manifest
A coffee bar by day and a sophisticated cocktail bar at night, The Manifest offers an excellent happy hour from 6 to 9 p.m. daily along with an extensive list of classic cocktails and whiskies. Trivia fans won’t want to miss Tuesday trivia nights.
Scarlet
The biggest nightlife venue in Hawaii, and Oahu’s only gay club, boredom is a word seldom heard at Scarlet. Renowned for its strong drinks and nightly DJ, Scarlet also offers regular go-go dancers and drag shows. This one is sure to stand out during your time here in Waikiki!
Waikiki Unique Nightlife Activities & Cultural Experiences
Queens Waikiki
Located in the heart of Waikiki at the International Market Place, Queens Waikiki is consistently rated among or at the top of many “best Waikiki luaus” lists.
While the clubs and bars are for adults, this is one for the whole family. You can even learn to dance the hula and try your hand at firestick twirling.
One of the most entertaining ways to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, it’s also one of the more budget-friendly celebrations. Your ticket includes an authentic Polynesian show, a fresh farm-to-table Hawaiian feast, and several drinks.
Fireworks Shows
Weekly fireworks shows are held on Fridays at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel. The perfect finale to any day in Waikiki, you’ll see the sky light up from almost every vantage point.
First Friday Block Party
On the first Friday of every month, Chinatown hosts a block party that originally started out as an art walk.
While there’s still plenty of art to enjoy from street art and performance arts to gallery exhibitions, it’s also one of the best places to be for bar-hopping while enjoying the various happenings at the same time.
Starry Strolls
If you’re more into nature and tranquil activities, simply take a walk on the beach after dark.
Enjoy the sounds of the water lapping the shore as you stroll, taking time to stop and marvel at the brilliant starry nights.
Safety Tips for Enjoying Waikiki Nightlife
Being out after dark in any city requires following common sense safety tips, including Waikiki.
- Don’t wander alone after dark, especially in an unfamiliar area, it’s best to stay in pairs or groups.
- Avoid poorly lit areas.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t over imbibe which can cause common sense to go out the window.
- Never leave your drink unattended.
Is Waikiki Safe at Night?
Waikiki is generally safe at night but the scene after dark does tend to attract a diverse mix of people. That can sometimes include a few looking to cause trouble, especially later at night. Most of the time, at least before around 10 or 11 p.m., there will be many others out and about. By following the common sense safety tips, you’re likely to enjoy the nightlife without problems.
Enjoy an Unforgettable Night Out in Waikiki
With so many options to choose from, Waikiki’s nightlife is sure to be a highlight of any visit to the island. Whether staying at First Cabin International Hawaii or elsewhere, exploring the city’s best bars, clubs, and cultural experiences will make for unforgettable memories.
Of course, those sunny tropical days with so much to see and do often make for memories of a lifetime too. For more insider tips, be sure to check out some of the other guides on our site for the ultimate Hawaiian getaway!
