Honolulu ’s nightlife — mostly clustered in Waikiki — showcases an eclectic mix of Hawaiian, country-western, jazz, alternative, contemporary and even Las Vegas-style entertainment. Check local listings for performances by one of Hawaii’s excellent entertainers, such as musicians Aunty Genoa Keawe, Jake Shimabukuro, Makana, Fiji, Henry Kapono, the Brothers Cazimero and comedian Frank DeLima, who pokes good-natured fun at every nationality in Hawaii, including his own Portuguese ancestry.

Another area chock full of nightclubs is Restaurant Row, at the corner of Ala Moana Boulevard and Punchbowl Street, near downtown Honolulu. Some of the island’s hottest nightclubs are there.
If you prefer a relaxing happy hour rather than staged entertainment, drop by the Waikiki beach hotel of your choice around sunset and sip a cocktail to the sounds of a small combo in an open-air lounge. Our favorite spots include the Halekulani Hotel and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Both always engage first-rate musicians.