Honolulu’s craft beer scene has flourished in recent years, offering beer enthusiasts an array of locally brewed options. The city now boasts several thriving breweries, bustling taprooms, and neighborhood bars serving island-inspired craft beers. From Kakaako to Waikiki, beer lovers can explore a diverse range of flavors crafted by talented local brewers.
Visitors and residents alike can embark on a flavorful journey through Honolulu’s craft beer landscape. Hana Koa Brewing, Honolulu Beerworks, and Waikiki Brewing Company are just a few of the establishments making waves in the local beer community. These breweries often incorporate unique Hawaiian ingredients, creating distinctive brews that capture the essence of the islands.
The craft beer movement in Honolulu extends beyond breweries to include specialty taprooms and bars. Places like BREW’d Craft Pub and Off The Wall Craft Beer & Wine showcase an impressive selection of local and international craft beers. With the growing popularity of craft beer in Honolulu, beer enthusiasts can now find a wide variety of locally brewed options in stores and restaurants across the city.
History of Craft Beer in Honolulu
Honolulu’s craft beer scene has deep roots stretching back to the 19th century. The city’s brewing landscape has evolved dramatically, from early commercial ventures to today’s thriving craft beer culture.
Rise of the Craft Beer Scene
Honolulu’s first commercial brewery, The Honolulu Brewery, opened its doors in 1854. This marked the beginning of beer production in the Hawaiian Islands. In 1901, the Honolulu Brewing & Malting Company was founded on Queen Street, introducing Primo Beer to local drinkers.
After a period of dormancy, craft brewing resurfaced in Honolulu in 1994. This revival coincided with the growing national interest in artisanal beers. Local brewers began experimenting with unique flavors and styles, often incorporating Hawaiian ingredients.
Small-batch breweries started popping up across Oahu, from Kalihi to the outskirts of Honolulu. These establishments fostered a tight-knit community of beer enthusiasts and brewers.
Notable Milestones in Local Brewing
The Royal Brewery building stands as a historic landmark in Honolulu’s brewing history. It is the oldest surviving brewery structure in Hawaii, symbolizing the industry’s longevity in the islands.
In recent years, Honolulu has seen a surge in craft beer popularity. Local bars and resorts have embraced the trend, featuring an increasing number of Hawaiian-made brews on their taps.
Despite challenges like sourcing ingredients, Honolulu’s craft breweries have persevered. They’ve gained recognition for creating distinctive beers that reflect the flavors and spirit of Hawaii.
Today, craft beer festivals and tasting events are common in Honolulu. These gatherings celebrate the city’s brewing heritage and showcase the innovative spirit of its modern craft beer scene.
Guide to Honolulu’s Craft Breweries
Honolulu’s craft beer scene has flourished in recent years, offering a diverse range of styles and flavors. Local breweries showcase Hawaiian ingredients and innovative techniques, creating unique beers that reflect the island’s spirit.
Aloha Beer Co
Aloha Beer Co, located in Kakaako, combines traditional brewing methods with Hawaiian flair. Their taproom features a rotating selection of beers, including popular options like the Waimānalo Farmhouse and Queen Street Pale Ale.
The brewery’s industrial-chic setting provides a relaxed atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy brewery tours, learn about the brewing process, and sample fresh beers directly from the source.
Aloha Beer Co also offers a food menu with locally-inspired dishes that pair well with their brews.
Beer Lab HI
Beer Lab HI stands out for its experimental approach to brewing. With multiple locations across Honolulu, this brewery constantly pushes boundaries with small-batch creations.
Their tap list changes frequently, featuring innovative flavors and styles. Beer Lab HI often incorporates local ingredients like lilikoi, coconut, and coffee into their brews.
The brewery’s modern, minimalist taprooms provide an ideal setting for tasting flights and discussing beer with knowledgeable staff. Beer Lab HI has gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts seeking unique flavors.
Honolulu Beerworks
Honolulu Beerworks, situated in Kakaako, offers a wide range of craft beers in a laid-back, industrial setting. Their core lineup includes popular options like the Cocoweizen and Pia Mahi’ai Honey Citrus Saison.
The brewery features an open-air beer garden, perfect for enjoying Honolulu’s pleasant weather. Honolulu Beerworks also hosts regular events, including live music and beer pairing dinners.
Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of solar panels and locally-sourced ingredients.
Waikiki Brewing Company
Waikiki Brewing Company operates multiple locations in Honolulu, including their original brewpub in Waikiki. They offer a diverse selection of beers, from classic styles to Hawaiian-inspired creations.
Their Hana Hou Hefe and Skinny Jeans IPA are popular choices among locals and tourists alike. The brewery’s Waikiki location provides a convenient spot for visitors to sample local craft beer.
Waikiki Brewing Company also offers brewery tours and hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances.
Lanikai Brewing Co
Lanikai Brewing Co, located in Kailua, focuses on creating beers that capture the essence of Hawaii. They use locally-sourced ingredients like lilikoi, mango, and hibiscus in their brews.
The brewery’s taproom offers a cozy, beach-inspired atmosphere. Visitors can sample a variety of beers, including their popular Route 70 Saison and Moku Imperial IPA.
Lanikai Brewing Co also collaborates with local artists and organizations, supporting the community through various initiatives.
Home of the Brave Brewing
Home of the Brave Brewing combines craft beer with military history. Located near Pearl Harbor, the brewery pays homage to World War II veterans through its decor and beer names.
Their tap list features beers like the Remember Pearl Harbor American Pale Ale and the Pilot Pale Ale. The brewery’s museum-like atmosphere provides a unique experience for visitors.
Home of the Brave Brewing offers guided tours that blend beer tasting with historical education.
Maui Brewing Co
Although based on Maui, Maui Brewing Co has established a significant presence in Honolulu. Their Waikiki brewpub offers a full lineup of their beers, including the popular Bikini Blonde Lager and Big Swell IPA.
The brewpub features a spacious, open-air setting with views of Waikiki. Visitors can enjoy fresh beer alongside a menu of locally-inspired dishes.
Maui Brewing Co is known for its commitment to sustainability and use of Hawaiian ingredients in their brews.
Kona Brewing Co
Kona Brewing Co, originally from the Big Island, has a brewpub in Hawaii Kai. While their main production facility is elsewhere, the Honolulu location offers a selection of their beers on tap.
Popular choices include the Longboard Island Lager and Big Wave Golden Ale. The brewpub’s waterfront location provides a scenic backdrop for enjoying Kona’s beers.
Kona Brewing Co’s menu features Hawaiian-inspired dishes that pair well with their tropical-themed brews.
Popular Local Beers
Honolulu’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of flavors and styles. Local breweries have perfected signature brews that capture the essence of Hawaii while pushing creative boundaries.
Signature IPAs
Beer Lab HI stands out for its innovative IPAs. Their Ko’olau Range IPA showcases tropical fruit notes with a balanced hop profile. Waikiki Brewing Company’s Aloha Spirit Blonde IPA blends crisp citrus flavors with a smooth finish, ideal for warm Hawaiian days.
Hana Koa Brewing crafts the popular Rooftop IPA, known for its bright, hoppy character and hints of pineapple. Honolulu Beerworks’ Cocoweizen IPA combines wheat beer qualities with bold hop aromas, creating a unique island-inspired brew.
Refreshing Lagers
Aloha Beer Company’s Waimanalo Farmhouse ale offers a crisp, light-bodied option perfect for Honolulu’s climate. Its subtle fruity notes and clean finish make it a local favorite.
Waikiki Brewing’s Skinny Jeans Lager provides a refreshing, easy-drinking choice with a touch of hop bitterness. Lokahi Brewing Company’s Pilsner stands out for its traditional European-style crispness and subtle malt sweetness.
Unique Seasonal Offerings
Honolulu Beerworks releases a highly anticipated Honey Citrus Saison each spring. This beer incorporates local honey and citrus fruits, creating a refreshing and uniquely Hawaiian flavor profile.
Beer Lab HI rotates seasonal offerings, with their Pumpkin Ale gaining popularity each fall. It balances pumpkin spice notes with a robust malt backbone. Aloha Beer’s Summer Mango Wheat showcases the tropical fruit in a light, effervescent brew.
Sought-After Specialty Brews
Waikiki Brewing’s Black Strap Molasses Porter is a rich, complex brew that garners attention from beer enthusiasts. Its deep flavors of coffee and chocolate are complemented by a subtle molasses sweetness.
Hana Koa Brewing’s Vanilla Thrilla, an imperial stout aged with Madagascar vanilla beans, has become a cult favorite. Beer Lab HI’s experimental small-batch releases, often featuring unique local ingredients, draw crowds eager to try their latest creations.
Honolulu Beerworks’ Pia Mahi’ai Honey Citrus Saison, brewed with local citrus and honey, exemplifies the use of Hawaiian flavors in craft beer. This sought-after brew often sells out quickly due to its limited availability and distinct taste profile.
Craft Beer Bars and Gastropubs
Honolulu boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with diverse bars and gastropubs. These establishments offer extensive beer selections, locally-brewed options, and quality food pairings.
Yard House
Yard House stands out for its impressive beer selection. With over 100 taps, patrons can sample local Hawaiian brews alongside domestic and international craft beers. The spacious interior features a central bar with a glass-enclosed keg room.
The menu complements the beer offerings with American fare and globally-inspired dishes. Happy hour specials are available daily, making it a popular spot for after-work drinks.
Located in Waikiki, Yard House provides outdoor seating with views of the bustling street scene. The knowledgeable staff can recommend beer pairings for menu items.
Moku Kitchen
Moku Kitchen combines craft beer with a focus on local ingredients. The beer list showcases Hawaiian breweries alongside carefully curated mainland options.
The open kitchen concept allows diners to watch chefs prepare dishes using fresh island ingredients. Wood-fired pizzas and rotisserie meats are specialties here.
Large garage-style doors open to create an indoor-outdoor atmosphere. The industrial-chic decor features reclaimed materials and local artwork.
Happy hour offers discounted beers and appetizers. Live music performances add to the lively ambiance on select evenings.
Pint + Jigger
Pint + Jigger elevates the gastropub experience with its craft cocktails and beer selection. The bar offers a rotating list of draft beers, focusing on unique and hard-to-find brews.
The food menu features elevated pub fare with local twists. Popular items include the bacon-wrapped meatloaf and truffle mac and cheese.
A speakeasy-style backroom hosts special events and tastings. The knowledgeable bartenders can guide patrons through beer and cocktail choices.
Happy hour specials include discounted pints and well drinks. The casual yet sophisticated atmosphere makes it suitable for both date nights and group gatherings.
Bar 35
Bar 35 combines a European beer hall concept with a modern Honolulu twist. The extensive beer list features over 200 options from around the world.
The bar’s signature brick-oven pizzas pair well with the diverse beer selection. Creative toppings like kalua pork and pineapple showcase local flavors.
A spacious outdoor patio provides a relaxed setting for enjoying drinks. Regular events include trivia nights and live DJ sets.
Happy hour offers discounted beers and appetizers. The central location in Chinatown makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Brew’d Craft Pub
Brew’d Craft Pub focuses on showcasing local Hawaiian breweries. The tap list rotates frequently, offering patrons the chance to try new island-made beers.
The gastropub-style menu features locally-sourced ingredients in elevated pub dishes. Beer-battered fish and chips made with local catch is a standout item.
The cozy interior features reclaimed wood and industrial elements. A small outdoor seating area is available for those who prefer al fresco dining.
Beer flights allow patrons to sample multiple brews. The knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations based on individual preferences.
12th Ave Grill
12th Ave Grill combines fine dining with a curated craft beer selection. The beer list focuses on quality over quantity, featuring local and international craft options.
The menu changes seasonally to showcase fresh, local ingredients. Dishes are designed to pair well with the beer offerings.
The upscale yet comfortable atmosphere makes it suitable for special occasions. A full bar is also available for those who prefer cocktails or wine.
Happy hour specials are offered in the bar area. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its sourcing practices and waste reduction efforts.
Craft Beer and Food Pairings
Honolulu’s craft beer scene offers exciting flavor combinations when paired with local cuisine. From classic burgers to Korean-inspired dishes, the right beer can elevate any meal.
The Perfect Match for Burgers
Juicy burgers pair exceptionally well with craft beers in Honolulu. A hoppy IPA cuts through the richness of a beef patty, while its bitterness complements the savory flavors. For a classic cheeseburger, try a malty amber ale to enhance the beef’s caramelized notes.
Some local breweries offer specialty burger-beer pairings. Honolulu Beerworks features a bacon cheeseburger that pairs perfectly with their robust porter, balancing the smoky bacon flavors.
For veggie burgers, a crisp wheat beer or light lager provides a refreshing contrast without overpowering the patty’s subtle flavors.
Light Bites and Brews
Honolulu’s craft beer scene shines when paired with lighter fare. Korean pork belly tacos, a local favorite, match well with fruit-forward pale ales. The beer’s citrus notes cut through the pork’s richness while complementing the tangy slaw.
For seafood appetizers, like poke or ceviche, a clean pilsner or kolsch style beer enhances the fresh flavors without overwhelming them. Beer Lab HI offers rotating taps that pair excellently with light bites.
Crisp salads find their match in session IPAs or blonde ales, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the greens and dressings.
Local Delicacies and Ales
Honolulu’s craft breweries excel at creating beers that complement local Hawaiian cuisine. Aloha Beer Company’s Ehu Red Ale pairs wonderfully with traditional poke, its malty profile enhancing the sea salt and limu flavors.
For spam musubi, a local staple, try a light lager or golden ale to balance the salty-sweet flavors. Waikiki Brewing Company offers options that pair well with this dish.
Kalua pork finds its match in a smoky porter or brown ale, the beer’s roasted notes complementing the meat’s rich flavors. Hana Koa Brewing creates ales that pair exceptionally with this Hawaiian classic.
Brewery Tours and Tastings
Honolulu’s craft beer scene offers visitors and locals alike the chance to explore unique flavors and brewing techniques. Tours and tastings provide an immersive experience into the island’s beer culture.
Honolulu Brewery Tour Experience
The Kaka’ako arts district serves as a hub for Honolulu’s brewery tours. Guided by experienced brewmasters, these tours offer insights into the beer-making process and local ingredients.
Participants can expect to visit multiple breweries, each with its own distinct character. Tours typically last 4-5 hours and include transportation from Waikiki hotels for convenience.
Many tours combine beer tasting with Hawaiian-inspired food pairings, enhancing the overall experience. This culinary element showcases the fusion of local flavors with craft beer.
Some popular stops on brewery tours include Honolulu Beerworks, Waikiki Brewing Company, and Aloha Beer. Each venue offers a unique selection of craft beers, from tropical IPAs to rich stouts.
Beer Tasting Events
Honolulu hosts regular beer tasting events, giving enthusiasts the opportunity to sample a wide variety of local and international brews. These events often feature limited-edition or seasonal beers.
Many breweries offer tasting flights, allowing visitors to try small portions of different beers. This format is ideal for discovering new favorites and understanding the range of flavors in Hawaiian craft beer.
Some venues, like Maui Brewing Co. Waikiki, offer beer and food pairing experiences. These curated tastings highlight how different beers complement various dishes.
Beer festivals in Honolulu bring together multiple breweries, offering a comprehensive taste of the local beer scene. These events often include live music and food vendors, creating a lively atmosphere.
Specialty Stores and Growler Stations
Honolulu offers several options for craft beer enthusiasts to purchase local brews and fill growlers. Specialty stores and dedicated growler stations provide access to a wide selection of Hawaiian and mainland craft beers.
Bev Mart
Bev Mart stands out as a top destination for craft beer in Honolulu. This specialty store stocks an extensive range of local and imported craft beers.
Customers can find rare and limited-edition releases alongside popular favorites. Bev Mart also offers growler fills, allowing patrons to take home fresh draft beer from rotating taps.
The knowledgeable staff provides recommendations and insights into new arrivals and seasonal offerings. Beer tastings and events are occasionally held, giving customers opportunities to sample new brews.
Local Craft Beer Retailers
Several other retailers in Honolulu cater to craft beer aficionados. Young’s Wine & Spirits and Tamura’s Fine Wine & Liquors stock impressive selections of bottled and canned craft beers.
Village Bottle Shop & Tasting Room combines retail with on-site consumption. Visitors can purchase bottles to go or enjoy drafts in the tasting room.
Beer Lab HI and Honolulu Beerworks offer growler fills of their house-brewed beers. These breweries provide a direct connection to Honolulu’s local craft beer scene.
Whole Foods Market also maintains a craft beer section with growler fill stations, featuring both local and mainland craft brews on tap.
Craft Beer Events and Festivals in Honolulu
Honolulu boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Beer enthusiasts can enjoy local and international brews while experiencing Hawaiian hospitality and culture.
Annual Beer Festivals
The Hawaii Beer Fest Winter Edition stands out as a premier event for craft beer lovers. Held annually, it showcases over 100 craft beers, hard seltzers, and ciders from local and national breweries. Attendees can sample a wide variety of flavors and styles while enjoying food and entertainment.
Hawaii Craft Beer Week celebrates independently produced beers made 100% in Hawaii. This week-long festival features special events at local breweries, brewpubs, and taprooms across the state. Participants can try unique beer-inspired dishes, like Beer Lab HI Mango Sour Shrimp Cocktail, alongside their favorite brews.
Seasonal Celebrations
Aloha Beer Co. hosts a Beer Garden Christmas Festival each year. This festive event offers seasonal beers, a boozy hot cocoa bar, and a Christmas caroling contest. It provides a perfect blend of holiday cheer and craft beer appreciation.
During other seasons, breweries often organize themed events. These might include Oktoberfest celebrations, summer beer gardens, or spring tasting sessions. Local markets sometimes feature craft beer samplings, allowing visitors to discover new flavors from Honolulu’s breweries.
