From traditional Hawaiian musicians to contemporary local bands, these are the best places to enjoy live music in Waikīkī tonight and every night!
One of the best things about Waikīkī is how many restaurants, bars, and hotels showcase live music every night. Local musicians keep the spirit of Hawaiian music alive, and enjoying a meal or a drink while listening to talented performers is one of the most memorable Waikīkī experiences.
This guide highlights top spots around Waikīkī where you can hear live music regularly—from traditional Hawaiian performances to contemporary sets and acoustic evenings.
Table of Contents
- 1. Kani Ka Pila Grille
- 2. Tiki’s Grill & Bar
- 3. Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu
- 4. The Beach Bar
- 5. Duke’s Waikiki
- 6. The Hideout
- 7. Mai Tai Bar
- 8. RumFire Waikiki
- 9. Monkeypod Waikiki
- 10. Secret Spot Honolulu
1. Kani Ka Pila Grille
Waikīkī’s go-to place for nightly Hawaiian music.
📍 2169 Kālia Rd, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for lunch and dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily 3–5pm
🎵 Live Music: Daily 6–9pm
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Kani Ka Pila Grille is known for its authentic Hawaiian sound and relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for visitors who want to experience traditional songs alongside contemporary island favorites while dining in a welcoming outdoor setting.
2. Tiki’s Grill & Bar
Famous for live music, ocean views, and classic tiki cocktails.
📍 2570 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for lunch and dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily 3–5pm
🎵 Live Music: Daily 1–3pm & 5:30–10pm
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Tiki’s offers live music throughout the day and evening, pairing seaside views with upbeat performances—perfect for a casual meal, happy hour, or an energetic night out.
3. Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu
Classic burgers with late-night live music.
📍 280 Beach Walk, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Mon–Fri 3–6pm
🎵 Live Music: Daily 8pm–close
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Hard Rock Cafe serves up familiar favorites alongside nightly live bands. The venue attracts a variety of performers and offers a lively atmosphere for late-night entertainment.
4. The Beach Bar
Eat, listen to live music, and enjoy the beachside setting.
📍 2365 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for lunch and dinner
🎵 Live Music: Daily 5–10pm
🎟️ Reservations: Walk-in only
Set right by the sand, The Beach Bar creates a relaxed, beachy atmosphere where you can enjoy acoustic and full-band performances with ocean views and cool breezes.
5. Duke’s Waikiki
Daily live music and a beloved weekly Sunday event.
📍 2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
🎵 Live Music: Daily 4–6pm & 7pm–12am
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Duke’s is a Waikīkī staple, offering energetic performances and special events like “Duke’s on Sundays.” It’s a great choice for visitors looking for a festive island vibe and strong local musicianship.
INSIDE TIP: If you can’t attend Duke’s on Sundays in person, you can often catch the performance live on select artists’ social channels to share in the experience remotely.
6. The Hideout
A popular rooftop bar with regular live music.
📍 2299 Kūhiō Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily 3:30–5:30pm
🎵 Live Music: Mon–Fri 6–9pm; Sat–Sun 5–8pm & 8:30–11:30pm
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
The Hideout’s lānai and rooftop areas provide a stylish setting for intimate performances and full-band nights, making it a popular evening destination for both visitors and locals.
7. Mai Tai Bar
Live music beneath pink umbrellas in a garden oasis.
📍 2259 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for lunch and dinner
🎵 Live Music: Daily 6–10pm
🎟️ Reservations: Walk-in only
The Mai Tai Bar at The Royal Hawaiian offers a distinctly Hawaiian setting, where mellow island music complements classic cocktails and a lush, resort-style atmosphere.
8. RumFire Waikiki
Social evenings with soft live music and firepit ambiance.
📍 2255 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily 4:30–5:30pm & 8:30–9:30pm
🎵 Live Music: Mon–Thu 6–9pm; Sat–Sun 4:30–7:30pm & 8–10:30pm
🎟️ Reservations: Walk-in only
RumFire blends energetic music with stylish seating and firepit-lit patios. It’s a good pick for evenings when you want music as part of a vibrant social scene.
9. Monkeypod Waikiki
Multiple daily sets that highlight top local talent.
📍 2169 Kālia Rd #111, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily 3:30–5pm
🎵 Live Music: Daily from 12:30pm
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Monkeypod features multiple live sets daily and tends to spotlight a range of local performers, from solo acoustic acts to small bands. The kitchen’s lively menu pairs well with the musical lineup.
10. Secret Spot Honolulu
An intimate hideaway for nightly live music.
📍 2299 Kūhiō Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
🎵 Live Music: Nightly
🎟️ Reservations: Walk-in only
Secret Spot provides a cozy setting for nightly concerts that attract both locals and visitors. It’s an excellent option if you prefer a more intimate listening experience.
In summary, Waikīkī offers a wide range of live music venues—from relaxed beachfront bars to energetic late-night spots. Explore these locations to enjoy nightly performances that reflect the island’s musical diversity.
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