A place where everyone knows your name—that’s the sacred thing about your local watering hole. While Hawaii is peppered with all kinds of bars, its community-oriented neighborhood bars are a must-experience to really see what the islands have to offer. For an authentic atmosphere among the locals, check out the 8 best neighborhood bars in Hawaii.
Located right by Kalama Skate Park, this is a convenient spot to swing by after a day of skateboarding. Kahale’s has a laidback atmosphere in which patrons can enjoy drinks, live music, and sports on TV. Grab a well drink or a cold beer while listening to live music or dancing to the beats played by a DJ.
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Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Sam’s Hideaway is a spot that sees mostly locals and some tourists wandering in at almost any time of day. Drinks and eats are cheap and you can find dishes such as Hawaiian barbecue as well as a large selection of beers and mixed drinks. Sam’s also hosts nightly karaoke starting at 8 p.m.
Hank’s Café is a cool mix of bar and art gallery, as it originally was opened as an art gallery to showcase the owner’s original creations. Framed artwork on the walls makes a great vibe for visitors stopping in to listen to local bands or relax with a drink after work. Be sure to try the pineapple upside down cake shots, which are only available at Hank’s.
Open for more than 30 years, 8 Fat Fat 8 is locally known for their relaxing atmosphere in which customers can enjoy a drink and good Chinese food. The menu features fried rice, pot stickers, and numerous other sides and mains—healthy options can even be found on the menu. 8 Fat Fat 8 offers a changing drink specials menu as well as a handful of limited beers such as Belching Beaver Peanut Butter Stout and Cucumber Crush. They also have karaoke, darts, and pool for entertainment.
Located near the university, RB’s is popular among college students for its karaoke, free Wi-Fi, and long happy hour that runs from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily. On the extensive menu, expect to find everything from salads to fried rice, cheeseburgers, and pizza. RB’s also has TVs showing sports games, pool tables, and dart boards.
This relaxed bar welcomes those looking for a drink with friendly bartenders, reasonable prices, and karaoke. The menu at In Between Waikiki features greasy bar food favorites like mac and cheese bites, egg rolls, and corn dogs. In Between Waikiki also has booze cruises for those looking to get out onto the crystal-clear waters with a drink in hand.
To save money on drinks out, stop by for happy hour from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. or power hour from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. held daily. Spanky’s Riptide features a large menu of burgers, fish dishes, hot dogs, and a small breakfast menu served all day. Spanky’s also has TVs, so sports fans can catch a live game.
Ever since its opening, Wang Chung’s has been supporting the local community with its charitable efforts like fundraising for schools and the Honolulu AIDS Walk. In addition to the generosity seen at Wang Chung’s, visitors can also expect a welcoming atmosphere for drinks, karaoke, and simply hanging out. Wang Chung’s is also LGBTQ friendly and sometimes hosts drag shows.
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