honolulu nightlife

Honolulu NightlifeRunning the gamut from flip-flop-friendly beachfront bars to pulsing dance clubs to classy cocktail lounges, Honolulu’s countless nighttime entertainment options satisfy just about any whim.

If a quintessentially Hawaiian nightlife experience is on your wish list, make your way to Duke’s at Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort (2335 Kalākaua Ave., Suite 116). The casual open-air restaurant/bar with rustling palms and tiki torches is almost always packed —and for good reason. The views of the ocean and Diamond Head State Monument are stunning, and the live Hawaiian music can’t be beat; phone (808) 922-2268.

If you’re looking for a more upscale, intimate Waikīkī nightspot, head to Halekulani hotel’s chic, dimly lit Lewers Lounge (2199 Kalia Rd.). The plush seating and dark wood paneling help create the perfect ambience for sipping fabulous cocktails and listening to live jazz. A dress code is enforced, so you’ll have to leave the shorts and flip-flops behind; phone (844) 288-8022.

You’ll also have to dress to impress and fork over some mad cash if you want to party at Addiction Nightclub in The Modern Honolulu by Diamond Resorts (1775 Ala Moana Blvd.). Open Thursday through Saturday, this sleek, high-energy club has velvet ropes, VIP tables, and DJs who keep the house and hip-hop beats going until the wee hours of the morning; phone (808) 943-5800.

Barhopping is a breeze along Hotel Street in Chinatown. At trendy, upbeat Bar 35 (35 N. Hotel St.), belly up to the bar or sink into a comfy couch and choose from 200-plus concoctions from 20 different countries. Happy hour runs from 4 until 9 Tuesday through Friday and features themed events and DJ and band performances; phone (808) 537-3535.

The Manifest (32 N. Hotel St.) is a bookstore-turned-bar with an impressive selection of whiskeys. The high ceilings, exposed brick walls and interesting artwork give the place an artsy, industrial feel. During late-night hours, The Manifest typically trades its laid-back vibe for a club-like one.

During First Friday Honolulu Art Walk, held the first Friday of every month, a number of Chinatown watering holes, eateries, galleries and boutiques feature special activities, entertainment and art exhibits.