Aloha Theatre (Kealakekua)

Bars & Nightlife

Big Island has a sleepier, more laid-back vibe than other Hawaiian islands, but that doesn't mean that the nightlife is dead. The resorts host night-time activities and events to keep guests busy, and a handful of bustling bars can be found around the island. Art is also alive and vibrant in small playhouses and movie theaters, some of which screen indie and foreign films, and there is always live music somewhere. And of course, the local specialty is the luau, a chance for visitors to experience the music and dances of the island, accompanied by fine food and finer company.

Copyright: Hybrid Storytellers/unsplash

On the Rocks (Kona)

With both dinner and Happy Hour, On the Rocks beckons you to come relax after a day of exploration. Chill out in the cocktail lounge with handcrafted beverages and fine wine. Their Pupu menu is served at the …

Read more

Copyright: zeljkodan/Shutterstock.com

Cronies Bar and Grill (Hilo)

A favorite among local sports fans, Cronie's is the perfect place to have a burger and a beer while watching the big game. The bar gets pretty packed at night, so be ready to deal with a …

Read more

Copyright: Rachel Claire/pexels

Hawaii Calls Restaurant (Waikoloa)

Hawaii Calls, also known as Clipper Lounge, invites you to partake in poolside tropical drinks during lunch hour, or Aloha Hour for special offers on drinks and platters. There are other specials running throughout the week, so check the website for …

Read more

Copyright: W & J/cc by-sa 2.0/Flickr

Uncle Robert's Awa Bar & Farmers Market (Kalapana)

This compound, long-time property of the Keli'iho'omalu family, has become a hotspot for locals to shop, eat, drink, dance and socialize, making it a great place for visitors to experience local culture. Every Wednesday there is a night market where farmers, artists and entertainers gather to enjoy, among other things, the weekly live …

Read more

Copyright: Deborah Kolb/Shutterstock.com

Island Breeze Luau (Kailua-Kona)

Unlike so many shows geared toward tourists, Island Breeze Luau is more a genuine art performance by true artists who showcase the dancing traditions of Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti and New Zealand. The setting is magnificent, and the food is authentic and …

Read more

Copyright: Philipp Kämmerer/unsplash

Beach Tree Bar (Kailua-Kona)

The picturesque Beach Tree Bar and Lounge is located at the Four Seasons Hualalai. Enjoy cocktails beneath the sunset while sitting beachside. Local favorites for fare include the warm artichoke and crab dip, tomato and basil bruschetta, and the rainbow sushi …

Read more

Copyright: aerogondo2/Shutterstock.com

Kahilu Theatre (Waimea)

This modest theatre hosts a variety of concerts and performances, from classical music and traditional ukulele concerts, to theatre, dance and conferences. Check their website for upcoming events and enjoy some of the Big Island's top performance …

Read more

Copyright: Mark/cc by 2.0/Flickr

Aloha Theatre (Kealakekua)

This lively little community theatre hosts plays, concerts and even independent film nights. Another great place to catch a show by a local cast and crew and enjoy another side of Hawaii's performance art …

Read more

Copyright: khuruzero/Shutterstock.com

Sam's Hideaway (Kailua-Kona)

Locals flock to the dark and seedy little bar that is Sam's for two main reasons: karaoke and the lack of tourists. It is a great, understated place to have a drink and a good time and to have a moment on stage, while rubbing elbows with locals and foregoing the tourist-trap feeling of …

Read more

Copyright: wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock.com

Honokaa People's Theatre (Honokaa)

For a taste of cinema on Big Island pay a visit to this historic building from 1930, where you can catch a movie or one of the frequent special events hosted there. The theatre is very much in tune with the arts scene on the island, and it is a good place to find …

Read more

Copyright: Mike Flippo/Shutterstock.com

Mask-Querade Bar (Kailua-Kona)

The location in a strip mall is nothing special, but behind the doors of the Mask-Querade Bar is the island's best gay bar, providing a change of pace from the island's usual sports bars. Most nights host special parties or events, like drag shows or barbecues on …

Read more

Copyright: The Nix Company/unsplash

Don's Mai Tai Bar (Kailua-Kona)

Visitors to Don's never fail to comment on the wonderful sunsets that can be admired from this outdoor bar, but the 10 varieties of mai tai also attract the crowds (be sure not to miss Don's Mai Tai festival in August). On Sundays there is live music on the xylophone, as …

Read more

Copyright: Pamela Au/Shutterstock.com

Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium

Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium was given the titles of "Best Live Music and Best Night Life" in 2009 as well as "Best Dining Atmosphere," "Best Family Entertainment," and "Best Bartender" in 2010 by readers of North Hawaii News. Outdoor dining, live music, dancing and delicious drinks await at the Blue …

Read more

Copyright: Arina P Habich/Shutterstock.com

Hilo Brewing Company (Hilo)

This friendly neighborhood brewery in Hilo doesn't require an appointment. Just show up at any time and get the chance to try free samples of the different varieties available on tap while learning all about the brewery and the island from the warm and welcoming staff, and even take some local brews home with …

Read more

Copyright: Erik Mclean/pexels

Kona Brewing Company (Kailua-Kona)

Beloved by locals, the Kona Brewing Company continues a tradition of brewing high-quality beer started in 1995 as Hawaii's largest craft brewery. Order a sampler and try four different varieties, including Longboard Island Lager, Big Wave Golden Ale and Fire Rock Pale Ale. There is an outdoor patio with live music on Sundays, and …

Read more

Copyright: Arina P Habich/Shutterstock.com

Humpy's Big Island Alehouse (Kailua-Kona)

The beer lovers of Humpy's have a "no crap on tap" policy. All 36 beers on draught are fresh, handcrafted beers that can be enjoyed from the patio seating on the ground floor or from up above. The patio views of the Kona coast at sunset are …

Read more

Copyright: g-stockstudio/Shutterstock.com

Hilo Town Tavern (Hilo)

The crowds at this popular dive bar regularly comprise college students and workers, locals and tourists, regulars and first-time visitor. The Tavern hosts live music most night, and also offers open mic nights, a pool table and game room, and a fresh open-air porch …

Read more