Waikiki nightlife isn't much different from the after-dark scene in most big cities — unless, of course, you factor in dazzling hula moons, balmy evening air, and the rhythm of ukuleles strumming to the beat of pounding surf and the slap of rubber slippers.
There are quiet cocktail bars, jazz clubs, rock and roll dance clubs, places that specialize in Hawaiian music, salsa and reggae clubs, karaoke bars, country dance halls, English and Irish pubs, stage extravaganzas and down and dirty pubs that stay open until 4 a.m.
The Royal Hawaiian Hotel showcases popular Hawaiian entertainers in its newly redecorated Monarch Room. Two performances are scheduled each Thursday evening.
The Royal, like other venues throughout Waikiki, is emphasizing Hawaiian entertainment to pay tribute to the Hawaiian culture and the role it has played in the history of Waikiki.
The nightclub on the fourth level of the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center takes another approach. It's building a reputation as the closest thing to Vegas in Waikiki. Of course, there's no gambling and the sand stays on the beach, but Level 4 Nightclub and Ultra Lounge definitely isn't your typical Waikiki night spot.
It's huge—big enough to stage a circus. Inside, there's a 4,500-square-foot dance floor and outside a 7,000-square-foot lounge opens to the Waikiki night. The nightclub, which is open until 4 a.m., uses European bottle service, which requires a minimum of bottles per guest. Once the minimum is maxed out, an evening can get pretty expensive. With the bottle(s), expect lively entertainment and exceptional people-watching prospects.
Another new nightspot comes with a celebrity label. Recording artist Jimmy Buffett has entered the Waikiki scene with a new restaurant at the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber on Kalakaua Avenue above Macy's. It replaces the Hibiscus Café, Don Ho and Blue Hawaii showrooms.
Celebrating their first year anniversary in Waikiki are a couple of comedy shows that explore the lighter side of Hawaii. Comedy Polynesia and Sharkey's Comedy Club offer back to back laughs Wednesday and Saturday nights. Comedy Polynesia is produced by Hawaiian comedian Bo Irvine and Samoan funny man Chief Sielu Avea, who also is a former world champion fire knife dancer.
At the Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, Merlin-award-winning magician John Hirokawa stars in the "Magic of Polynesia," a showy stage spectacular that transforms Hawaiian legends with mystifying illusions and special effects.
Also at the Beachcomber, celebrity singer songwriter Jimmy Buffett has lent his name to a new hot spot.
For the latest scoop on shows, clubs, and music, ask your favorite bartender or concierge.
