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Discover the best of Honolulu’s pulsating nightlife with our curated list of top spots for carefully-concocted cocktails and decadent dancing. Experience the magic of tropical nights in paradise!
Did you know Honolulu is home to a pulsating nightlife scene rivaling the city’s breathtaking sunsets?
Whether traveling alone or in a group, this city is one of the safest in the United States. Watching the sunset and enjoying the Honolulu nightlife should be part of your itinerary.
This island earned its title as one of Hawaii’s most beautiful cities, and Rent By Owner is here to show you the best of its premier destinations. Here, we’ve curated this comprehensive listicle to help you navigate Honolulu nightlife like a pro!
It’s no surprise how as a top travel destination, Honolulu offers an incredible mix of tropical paradise, rich culture, and thrilling nightlife. So, we figured we might as well take you through every corner of the island. Together, we’ll search for perfect cocktails, the best venues to dance the night away, and ideal stays in Honolulu to rest your weary heads after experiencing its thrilling nightlife.
So, get ready to say “Aloha” to the ultimate Hawaiian party experience as we dive into our top recommendations!
1. Soaring High: Sky Waikiki
When it comes to Honolulu nightlife, one of our absolute favorites is Sky Waikiki– a rooftop bar and lounge boasting unparalleled views of Waikiki’s picturesque skyline.
At Sky Waikiki, you can immerse yourself in the island atmosphere while sipping on unique cocktails, such as their signature Li Hing Mui Margarita. Be sure to attend their famous sunset happy hour, where you can indulge in delicious drink specials as the sun sets over the ocean.
On weekends, Sky Waikiki transforms into a lively hotspot, featuring a live DJ that scorches up the dance floor with the latest and hottest hits to keep the party going all night. The dress code is upscale casual, and there’s no cover charge, making this a fantastic spot to unwind and let loose.
Remember to inquire about any special events or promotions, including Ladies’ Nights or extended Happy Hours, to make the most of your visit.
2. Energetic Nights: The District Nightclub
For those seeking a modern and upscale experience in the heart of Honolulu nightlife, look no further than The District Nightclub.
This sophisticated venue attracts a diverse crowd with its mix of music genres, from Top 40 hits to electronic dance music, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While you groove to the beat, don’t forget to try one of their signature cocktails or perhaps a classic favorite.
The District Nightclub takes luxury to the next level, offering VIP bottle service and a spacious dance floor to elevate your night out. Remember that the dress code here is upscale, and there might be an entry fee, depending on the event.
With the perfect blend of music, ambiance, and elegance, The District Nightclub guarantees an unforgettable evening of tropical partying.
3. Iconic Vibes: Duke’s Waikiki
Duke’s Waikiki is a must-visit destination if you’re searching for a quintessential Honolulu nightlife experience.
This iconic beachfront bar and restaurant is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, live music, and stunning ocean views. As you relax and take in the picturesque scenery, you’ll be transported to a true island paradise. Duke’s Waikiki offers an extensive cocktail menu featuring tropical drinks that perfectly complement the vibe. Be sure to try their famous Duke’s Mai Tai or a refreshing Lava Flow to fully embrace the spirit of Waikiki.
There’s no dress code or entry fee here, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day at the beach. Although Duke’s doesn’t typically host specific events like Ladies’ Nights, their daily Happy Hour specials and live music performances make it a must-stop destination.
So, kick back, sip a cocktail, and let the aloha spirit envelop you!
4. Trendy Escapes: Bar 35
For a chic and trendy taste of nightlife in Honolulu, we recommend visiting Bar 35, located in the heart of downtown.
This stylish establishment offers an impressive selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails, ensuring every served drink suits every palate. As you sip on one of their signature concoctions, such as the Ginger Lychee Martini, you’ll quickly understand why Bar 35 is a local favorite. The venue hosts various weekly events, including live music, featured DJs, and themed parties, making it a vibrant hub for socializing and entertainment.
While there’s no strict dress code, patrons tend to dress smart casual, and entry is free. With its unique drink offerings and lively atmosphere, Bar 35 is another perfect spot to experience downtown Honolulu’s dynamic nightlife scene.
5. Sizzling Nights: RumFire Waikiki
For a genuinely unique Honolulu nightlife experience, we invite you to visit RumFire Waikiki– a chic, oceanfront lounge at the Sheraton Waikiki.
With its extensive rum selection and signature cocktails, you’ll be spoiled for choice as you indulge in unique concoctions like the Pineapple Fusion or Waikiki Sunset. RumFire Waikiki sets itself apart with its stylish fire pits and live music, creating the perfect ambiance for dancing the night away under the stars.
The dress code is casual resort attire, and there’s no entry fee, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere. As you enjoy the mesmerizing ocean views and captivating surroundings, you’ll quickly see why RumFire Waikiki is one of Honolulu’s hottest destinations for nightlife.
6. Exclusive Encounters: Addiction Nightclub
We recommend exploring Addiction Nightclub, nestled within the Modern Honolulu hotel, for a taste of luxury and exclusivity.
This premier nightlife destination offers an unforgettable experience, boasting a high-energy dance floor and a top-notch sound system that will have you dancing until the wee hours of the morning.
Addiction Nightclub is known for its VIP table service and celebrity sightings. It is a popular spot for those seeking a taste of the high life. The dress code is upscale, and there may be an entry fee, depending on the event. While enjoying the glamorous surroundings, try one of their famous or signature cocktails to complete your experience.
Stay updated on their calendar for notable events or promotions, such as Ladies’ Nights or exclusive DJ performances.
7. Tropical Delights: Royal Hawaiian Center’s Open-Air Bar
Immerse yourself in the true spirit of Honolulu nightlife at this popular open-air bar within the Royal Hawaiian Center.
While this place isn’t necessarily for families, they are okay with guests bringing their kids along to enjoy the open space. This lively destination offers a unique blend of history and modernity, paying homage to the classic Mai Tai cocktail while putting its unique spin on the tropical favorite. As you sip on one of their signature Mai Tais, you’ll be serenaded by live local music, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that epitomizes the aloha spirit.Â
There’s no dress code or entry fee here, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back evening with friends or loved ones. In addition to their delicious Mai Tais, be sure to explore their range of popular and signature cocktails, which showcase the best tropical island flavors.
With its perfect combination of history, flavor, and ambiance, this open-air bar is a must-visit for your next Honolulu nightlife adventure!
8. Downtown Glamour: M Nightclub
Experience the epitome of sophistication at M Nightclub, a swanky venue in downtown Honolulu’s heart.
This stylish hotspot offers an unparalleled VIP experience, complete with bottle service and private booths, ensuring you and your friends feel like true royalty. M Nightclub boasts a rotating lineup of featured DJs and themed nights, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
Adhering to the dress code of upscale attire, you’ll fit in with the glamorous crowd that dresses to the nines and frequents this trendy spot. Entry fees may apply depending on the event, so be sure to plan accordingly.
While you’re there, take advantage of their popular or signature cocktails, expertly crafted to delight your taste buds.
9. Industrial Chic Vibes: Bevy
Step into the world of industrial chic at Bevy, an innovative cocktail bar nestled in the trendy Kaka’ako neighborhood.
This stylish establishment is renowned for its creative, handcrafted cocktails and artisanal spirits, sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
As you sip on one of their unique concoctions, you’ll be swept away by the lively atmosphere, featuring DJ sets and live music that will have you dancing the night away.
There’s no dress code or entry fee at Bevy, making it an accessible and welcoming option for all types of visitors, including your furry friends!
Be sure to sample some of their famous or signature cocktails, which showcase their dedication to quality and creativity.
Your Unforgettable Honolulu Nightlife Adventure Awaits
As we close our Honolulu nightlife exploration, we hope we’ve answered the burning question: where are the best spots for cocktail and dance lovers in this vibrant city?
Honolulu’s nightlife scene has everything from stunning rooftop lounges to laid-back beach bars and everything in between.
We encourage you to embrace the spirit of aloha and dive into the diverse nightlife spots we’ve shared.
Enjoy Honolulu as you sip on innovative cocktails, dance to the rhythm of the island, and forge connections with fellow travelers and locals alike.
Remember to check out our recommendations on Rent By Owner’s website for where to stay in Honolulu for nightlife, ensuring you’re always just a stone’s throw away from the city’s most exciting experiences.
TLDR
Planning a trip to Honolulu and looking for the perfect nightlife experience? We’ve got you covered with our list of 10 must-visit spots tailored for cocktail and dance lovers. From iconic beachfront bars like Duke’s Waikiki to exclusive nightclubs such as Addiction Nightclub, our selections cater to a variety of tastes and vibes. Dance under the stars at rooftop bars like Sky Waikiki or sip innovative cocktails at trendy spots like Bevy.
With our direct, practical, and personalized guide, you’ll uncover the vibrant nightlife scene in Honolulu, creating unforgettable memories and soaking up the island’s unique charm. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting for the first time, our listicle will help you make the most of your Hawaiian nights.
