Are you dreaming of jetting off to a tropical island, where you can sip craft cocktails in a trendy beach bar while soaking up the scenery? Look no further than the stunning Hawaiian island of Oahu.
Whether you’re headed to Oahu for a destination wedding, bachelor party, or other nuptial-related celebration, you should spend part of your getaway bar hopping. No matter your taste, there’s something for everyone in Oahu.
So why is Oahu so special? Here’s a quick overview.
Oahu is Hawaii’s third-largest and most popular island. Known as “The Gathering Place,” it features a strong sense of community and diverse cultures and traditions.
Oahu is home to several gorgeous beaches, including the highly popular Waikiki Beach, and a number of famous landmarks, including Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head State Monument.
Because of its stunning scenery, idyllic beaches, and exclusive resorts, Oahu is incredibly popular for destination weddings. Additionally, it’s considered family-friendly, and same-sex couples have been legally able to marry in Oahu since 2013, making it suitable for all types of wedding parties.
Speaking of parties, Oahu is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, particularly in Waikiki and Honolulu. You’ll find a diverse selection of bars and clubs, whether you’re searching for a cool and colorful tiki bar, gay bars, or a sophisticated wine bar.
Here’s our rundown of the very best Oahu bars for an unforgettable night!
Take a break from the usual, expensive cocktail menu. Arnold’s bucks the trend by offering $5 drinks (including a mimosa made with coconut Champagne!).
You’ll also find locally-made rum and draught beer in this long-standing tiki bar. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself for several hours.
The Mai Tai Bar is in the Royal Hawaiian Hotel and is home to the original Mai Tai that started it all. Situated on the beach, you can step away from the throngs, sip on fruity cocktails, and enjoy dinner. Nightly live music will keep you entertained.
If you’re into casual beachfront bars with a relaxed dress code, you’ll find yourself at home at Duke’s. Named after the celebrated surfer, the bar offers panoramic views, fresh beer, and a breakfast cocktail menu.
Relax in adult-only surroundings as you dip into one of the best infinity pools in town. At The Edge of Waikiki, at the Sheraton Waikiki, you can enjoy the views, drinks, and cuisine in a tranquil environment.
This sophisticated spot features an outdoor firepit and a fine dining menu. Plus, if rum’s your thing, there are over 80 options at the bar.
If you want to support the local community, this is the place to do it, too, as $1 from every Rumfire Signature Mai Tai or Paniolo Cheeseburger purchase goes to the Aloha for Sheraton Maui ‘Ohana Relief Fund.
Bar Leather Apron is a hidden gem of a dive bar in downtown Honolulu. You’ll find snug surroundings, a highly crafted cocktail bar, and the island’s most extensive whiskey collection.
If you’re looking for an Oahu kava bar, Fiji will hit the spot. This tiny place serves traditional kava drinks, cocktails, and kava shells.
If authenticity is your vibe, check out La Mariana Sailing Club, one of the island’s last remaining original tiki bars. Hidden at the end of Sand Island Access Road, it’s crammed with everything a tiki bar stands for, from tiki totems to colorful string lights and aquariums.
On the second floor of the Aston Waikīkī Beach Hotel, this bar serves your mai-tai in a signature souvenir tiki glass while you overlook the sparkling ocean and enjoy the sunset. Thanks to the grill’s menu from celebrity chef Ronnie Nasuti and live music every day, you’ll be set for an unforgettable night.
In the upscale Halekūlani resort, House Without a Key offers a refined tiki bar experience. Sit in the shade of the 130-plus-year-old Kiawe tree and take in the sunset and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head while you sip on high-quality classic cocktails.
With sunset cocktails available from 5 p.m., Hawaiian live music, and a daily hula show, the bar keeps you entertained.
This bar birthed classic cocktails such as the Blue Hawai‘i, Banana Daiquiri, Hawaiian Eye, and Tropical Itch. Relax under the ancient Hau tree intertwined with the bar’s roof and sip on fresh squeezed orange juice mixed with something a little stronger.
For the best in drag entertainment, go with Scarlet, its famous pineapple stage and two dance floors. Open until 2 a.m., hit this spot for late-night action.
At the “friendliest gay bar in Waikiki,” you can enjoy karaoke any time of day — perfect if you want to sing your heart out while enjoying a spiked afternoon tea.
In the Waikiki Grand Hotel and a legend among the LGBTQ+ community, Hula’s serves delicious, am award-winning food menu and handcrafted cocktails, alongside live entertainment and DJs. Happy hour starts at mid-day and lasts a whopping six hours, and with daily events like Mai-Tai Monday and Tequila Tuesday, you’ll be well-watered all week!
Frequented almost exclusively by locals, Chiko’s is relaxed. There are no pretentious cocktails. Beer and a wide selection of spirits are available. If you’re feeling fruity, try your hand at drag queen bingo.
Oahu offers a thriving and vibrant nightlife scene. The majority of bars and clubs are in Waikiki and Honolulu. You’ll find plenty of tiki bars, beach bars, upscale lounges, gay bars, nightclubs, comedy clubs, karaoke bars, and more.
Oahu is great for couples, including same-sex couples. It’s a popular spot for destination weddings and features a plethora of romantic resorts to suit all budgets.
Kalakaua Avenue is considered the main strip in Oahu. Located in Honolulu, the 3.5-mile-long street features retail and dining options, plenty of recreational activities – including Honolulu Zoo – and bars and entertainment.
Oahu is considered the best island in Hawaii for partying. It’s home to Honolulu and the famous Waikiki Beach and is filled with endless options for bars, clubs, and entertainment. Whether you want a sunset tiki bar or a vibrant gay club, Oahu has it all.
If you want a bustling party scene with plenty of bars, shopping, and entertainment, Oahu is about as fun as it gets. If your idea of fun is relaxing on unspoiled beaches and snorkeling in calm waters, then Maui will be your vibe.
At The Groom Club, we fully understand the appeal of jetting off somewhere stunning and warm for your wedding or wedding celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a tropical Caribbean island, a big fat Greek wedding, or something more budget-conscious, We’ll help you pack, plan, understand local traditions, and much more.
