Forget what your hotel concierge told you about Honolulu nights. Sure, you could hit another overpriced luau – or you could follow the locals to secret spots where pure island magic happens. Ever tasted fresh poke at a midnight market? Or found a hidden jazz bar where Hawaii’s best musicians jam till dawn? I’ve discovered the best things to do in Honolulu at night that’ll make those beach-at-sunset pics look boring!
Whether you’re chasing down late-night malasadas or finding those perfect starlit spots where the city meets the ocean, this is your key to the paradise locals keep to themselves. Time to see what Honolulu’s really got after sunset.
- 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this luxury catamaran cruise along Oahu’s coast! They take you from Waikiki to Diamond Head with bento boxes and cocktails, plus access to the most stunning sunset views over the Pacific. Skip the crowded beach bars and watch paradise light up from the water. This sunset sail is absolutely a must-do on a Honolulu itinerary in my opinion.
Best Things to Do in Honolulu at Night
Are you excited to uncover the most exciting things to do in Honolulu at night? As we’ve touched upon, Honolulu presents a variety of nighttime activities. Keep reading to see the best places and things for your night out in Honolulu.
Want to check out Honolulu’s lively nightlife, maybe in Chinatown? Or do you like quieter nights, like a walk on Waikiki Beach? Whether you’re into exciting Luaus, listening to Hawaiian music, or just chilling at a bar by the beach, Honolulu’s got something fun for everyone at night. Here are the best things to do in Honolulu at night that you’ve got to try!
1. Walk Waikiki Beach under the stars
There’s something unforgettable about strolling Waikiki Beach after sunset. The crowds thin out, the air cools, and the moon casts a soft glow over the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to experience Honolulu at night.
As you follow the shoreline, you’ll pass torch-lit beach bars and relaxed open-air restaurants. One of my favorite stops is for a Mai Tai at a bar near the Royal Hawaiian. The ocean breeze and live Hawaiian music complete the moment! It’s everything you imagine when you think of paradise.
Feeling adventurous? Some surf shops along Kalākaua Avenue rent boards late and offer tips for night surfing. Gliding over moonlit waves with Diamond Head in the background is an experience you’ll never forget.
The beachfront path is well-lit, safe, and lively into the night. Locals strum ukuleles, families gather in the sand, and you’ll often hear spontaneous music echoing through the palms. It’s free, peaceful, and pure aloha…perfect for ending your day without spending a dime.
2. Watch the Friday Night Fireworks at Hilton Hawaiian Village
The Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on a spectacular fireworks show every Friday night that’s honestly way better than most 4th of July displays I’ve seen. The show starts at 8pm during summer months (7:45pm the rest of the year) and lasts about 5 minutes, but those five minutes are pretty incredible against the backdrop of Waikiki Beach.
You don’t need to stay at the hotel to catch the show. I actually prefer watching from Magic Island or the beach near Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon where you can spread out a blanket and avoid the crowds. The best part? It’s completely free. Some people grab dinner early at nearby spots like Duke’s Waikiki or bring takeout to make it a proper picnic.
Get there about 30 minutes early if you want a good spot, especially during busy tourist seasons. The fireworks reflect off the water and you’ll often see people proposing during the show, which is pretty sweet. It’s become such a local tradition that even residents make it part of their Friday night routine. Pro tip: parking fills up fast, so consider walking if you’re staying in Waikiki or take the bus to avoid the hassle.
3. Attend a Luau
Experiencing an authentic Hawaiian luau represents one of the most immersive ways to connect with local culture. I’ve attended several luaus across the islands, and each offers a unique window into Hawaii’s rich traditions through music, dance, and incredible food.
Paradise Cove Luau offers the most comprehensive experience at $150-240 per person, depending on your seating package. Located in Ko Olina’s oceanfront setting, this 12-acre venue provides pre-luau cultural activities including Hawaiian games, hula lessons, and canoe rides. The evening culminates with the traditional imu ceremony where the kalua pig is removed from its underground oven.
For a more educational approach, the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Ali’i Luau costs $140-190 and includes access to six authentic Polynesian villages. I recommend the full-day experience since you’re getting eight hours of entertainment versus Paradise Cove’s four hours.
The traditional feast features Hawaiian delicacies like poi, poke, lomi-lomi salmon, and haupia dessert. The entertainment showcases hula dancing and dramatic fire knife performances that preserve ancient Polynesian storytelling traditions.
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- Read next: Molokai Travel Guide for a Local Experience
4. Try Night Diving or Snorkeling
Night diving in Honolulu is absolutely wild – you’ll see marine life that completely hides during the day. Waikiki Dive Center and Oahu Diving both offer night dive tours that typically start around sunset with a twilight dive, then a full night dive after dark. The difference in what you see is pretty mind-blowing.
During night dives, I’ve spotted octopuses, sleeping sea turtles, and reef sharks that rarely show up during daytime dives. The coral polyps come out to feed at night, making the reefs look totally different. Popular night dive spots include Turtle Canyon, Koko Crater, and several wreck sites like the YO-257.
Most tours cost around $120-180 for a two-tank night dive and include all gear. You’ll need to be PADI certified, but some companies offer “Try Scuba” night experiences for beginners with an instructor. I’d definitely recommend this if you’re already comfortable diving – it’s like exploring an entirely different underwater world. The water temperature stays warm year-round, so it’s actually more comfortable than diving in most other places at night.
5. Explore the Nightlife in Chinatown
Honolulu’s Chinatown transforms into the city’s most vibrant nightlife district after dark. I always tell visitors that this historic neighborhood offers the most authentic local bar scene, far from the tourist-heavy Waikiki strip. The energy here is electric, with trendy bars, intimate music venues, and late-night eateries creating a playground for night owls.
NextDoor serves as the district’s crown jewel – a warehouse-style venue hosting everything from touring DJs to local hip-hop acts. This multi-level space features state-of-the-art sound systems and a 16-foot theater screen. Cover charges vary by event, typically ranging $10-25.
For a more intimate experience, The Dragon Upstairs offers jazz, blues, and folk performances in a hideaway setting above Hank’s Cafe. I love their specialty drink – the pineapple upside-down cake cocktail. Tchin Tchin Bar provides a rooftop wine experience with 45 wines by the glass and globally inspired small plates.
Bar 35 anchors the scene as Chinatown’s home bar, while Manifest operates Friday-Saturday 5 PM-2 AM as a cafe-bar-nightclub hybrid. Walking through Chinatown at night reveals surprises around every corner – art galleries hosting late-night exhibits, street performances, and food trucks serving everything from traditional Hawaiian to international fusion.
- Read next: Dreamy Picture-Perfect Spots in Hawaii
6. Join a Stargazing Tour
Honolulu’s light pollution means you won’t get amazing stargazing right in the city, but there are some solid options for checking out the night sky. Stars Above Hawaii hosts stargazing sessions at Ko Olina with huge computerized telescopes that let you see Saturn’s rings and Jupiter’s moons up close. These tours run about $40-60 per person and include a NASA ambassador guide.
The Stargazers of Hawaii group does free monthly events at spots like the International Market Place rooftop and Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. They’re weather dependent, but when conditions are good, you’ll get to see planets and learn about Polynesian navigation techniques that ancient Hawaiians used to sail across the Pacific.
For something more adventurous, some tour companies offer sunset and stargazing combos that take you to darker spots around Oahu. I’ve done the light painting and stargazing tour that goes to sea cliffs – you get amazing sunset photos and then they set up telescopes for star viewing. The guides actually know their stuff about constellations and space, so you’ll learn more than just looking up at pretty lights.
7. Take a sunset dinner cruise
Combining scenic ocean views with exceptional dining, a sunset dinner cruise is among Honolulu’s most romantic nighttime experiences. I’ve taken several cruise options, and the Star of Honolulu consistently delivers the best combination of food quality, entertainment, and panoramic views from its four spacious decks.
The Pacific Star Sunset Buffet & Show Cruise offers the most affordable option at $95-118 per person (currently $99 with promo code PSD99 through July 2025). This includes a welcome Mai Tai, Pacific Rim buffet with roast beef carving station, and live Polynesian entertainment. Friday cruises stay out an extra hour for Waikiki fireworks viewing.
For a premium experience, the Three Star Deluxe package ($175-235) features a five-course Maine lobster and tenderloin dinner at private tables, premium beverages, and continuous live Hawaiian entertainment. I particularly recommend this for special occasions – the champagne toast and jazz performances create an unforgettable romantic atmosphere.
The Star of Honolulu’s recent $1 million renovation ensures comfortable dining across six dining rooms. The 60-foot-high observation deck offers spectacular 360-degree views of the Waikiki coastline and Diamond Head.
Departure is from Aloha Tower Marketplace Pier 8, with cruises running 5:30-7:30 PM (8:30 PM on Fridays). Free parking is available, though arriving early is recommended during peak season.
8. Hunt for Food at Night Markets
The Honolulu Night Market at Our Kaka’ako is the big one that happens twice a year (usually June and November) with over 80 food trucks and vendors. When it’s on, it’s absolutely packed but worth dealing with the crowds for the variety. You’ll find everything from Korean BBQ to Hawaiian plate lunches to fusion stuff you can’t get anywhere else.
For more regular options, the Honolulu Harbor Night Market happens every Friday at Hakuone (the old Fisherman’s Wharf). It’s smaller but has a cool waterfront vibe with local food trucks, craft vendors, and live music. Kaneohe Night Market on the windward side runs monthly and is worth the drive if you want to eat with more locals and fewer tourists.
Pearlridge Center’s Village Market happens every Saturday and has become pretty popular with families. The food truck lineup changes weekly, but I’ve had great meals from Corn Onoz Hawaii, Waba Snacks, and Maguro Brothers. Most food truck items run $8-15, and you can usually find picnic tables or eat standing around. I’d definitely follow the Instagram accounts for these markets since the vendor lineups change and some are seasonal.
9. Visit the Honolulu Zoo’s Twilight Tours
Exploring the Honolulu Zoo after dark offers a fascinating glimpse into nocturnal animal behavior that most visitors never experience. I’ve found these Saturday evening tours provide one of the most educational and entertaining family activities in Honolulu, especially when regular daytime heat makes zoo visits less comfortable.
Twilight Tours run every Saturday from 5:30-7:30 PM (April-September) or 4:30-6:30 PM (October-March). The two-hour guided tours cost approximately $12 for adults and $8 for children, with discounts available for kamaaina and zoo members. Groups are limited to about 20 people, creating an intimate experience with knowledgeable educators.
During these tours, you’ll observe animals during their most active periods. I was amazed watching big cats pace with energy they never show during daytime visits, while nocturnal species like owls and lemurs finally emerge from their hiding spots. The guides share fascinating insights about animal biology, behavior, and conservation efforts.
The tour route typically includes the African Savanna, Primate Island, and Reptile areas. Our educator pointed out animals that most daytime visitors never see – including the elusive aardvarks that rarely appear during regular hours. Meeting point is Gate #3 on the mountain side of the Kapahulu Zoo parking lot. Book online through the zoo’s website, as Saturday tours fill up quickly.
10. Take a Sunset Yoga Class on the Beach
Beach yoga at sunset is honestly one of the most peaceful ways to end a day in Honolulu. Beach Sunset Yoga Hawaii has classes right on Waikiki Beach near the Waikiki Aquarium under some big trees facing the ocean. The instructors are really good about timing the class so you’re in the perfect pose when the sun actually sets.
Over the Rainbow Yoga does classes in Kapiolani Park with Diamond Head as a backdrop, and Yoga Under the Palms has both morning and sunset sessions on the beach. Most classes cost $25-35 and last about 60-75 minutes. You’ll need to bring your own mat (or rent one for a few dollars), but the experience of doing yoga with the sound of waves and that golden hour lighting is pretty incredible.
I’ve tried several of these classes and what I love is that they’re designed for all levels – you don’t need to be some yoga expert to enjoy it. The instructors usually incorporate breathing exercises and sometimes essential oils or aromatherapy. Book ahead because these sunset classes fill up fast, especially during peak tourist season. It’s become really popular with both visitors and locals looking for a chill way to unwind.
11. Enjoy Live Hawaiian Music
Nothing captures the authentic spirit of Hawaii quite like live Hawaiian music under the stars. I always seek out these performances because they offer genuine cultural immersion while connecting with both locals and fellow travelers in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The sound of ukuleles and slack-key guitars creates the perfect soundtrack for tropical evenings.
Kani Ka Pila Grille stands out as my favorite venue for live Hawaiian music. Located with stunning ocean views, this spot offers performances under the stars where you can feel the authentic aloha spirit. The laid-back atmosphere encourages dancing, laughing, and simply enjoying the infectious rhythms that make Hawaiian music so special.
Most venues featuring live Hawaiian music don’t charge entry fees, making this one of the best free activities in Honolulu. You’ll discover performances throughout the city – from intimate beachside bars to larger venues in Waikiki. The performers often encourage audience participation, teaching basic hula steps or inviting people to sing along.
These musical experiences go beyond entertainment – they preserve and share Hawaii’s cultural heritage through songs that tell stories of the islands, love, and ohana (family). I’ve witnessed beautiful moments where musicians share the meanings behind traditional songs, creating educational experiences alongside the entertainment.
12. Belt Out Tunes at Karaoke Bars
Honolulu’s karaoke scene is way more diverse than you’d expect. Wave808 is the newest and fanciest spot with 15 themed private rooms and over 200,000 songs in 14 languages. Their rooms range from intimate spaces for small groups to party suites that hold 40+ people. It’s definitely more upscale but the technology is incredible.
For a more local vibe, Wang Chung’s Karaoke Bar in Waikiki is this tiny dive bar that’s LGBTQ+ friendly and always packed with people having a blast. Air Park Karaoke Lounge has private rooms and a main lounge area where you can grab drinks between songs. The song selection is huge and they let you bring your own food, which is pretty cool.
Most private rooms cost $30-90 for two hours depending on size and time. Toma Karaoke has been around since 1991 and is popular with locals – they even have morning hours for musicians who want to practice. I honestly had low expectations for karaoke in Honolulu, but these places get really lively and the crowds are generally friendly and supportive of even terrible singers like me.
13. Dine at Honolulu’s Best Restaurants
Honolulu’s dining scene comes alive after dark, offering everything from casual food truck adventures to upscale culinary experiences. I love how the city’s restaurant culture reflects its multicultural heritage, creating a diverse food landscape that satisfies every craving and budget. Evening dining here isn’t just about the food – it’s about experiencing the island’s melting pot of cultures.
For seafood lovers, Nico’s Pier 38 delivers the freshest fish and best poke bowls in town. This casual spot buzzes with locals who know where to find authentic Hawaiian flavors. I always recommend trying their ahi poke – it’s consistently rated among the island’s best and gives you genuine local dining experience.
On the upscale end, Alan Wong’s Restaurant showcases innovative Hawaiian regional cuisine in a refined setting. Their creative fusion dishes highlight local ingredients while incorporating international techniques, making it perfect for special occasion dining.
Kapahulu Avenue offers the best food truck experience, where garlic shrimp, Hawaiian BBQ, and plate lunches provide satisfying meals at budget-friendly prices. I often grab dinner here after beach days – the variety is incredible and the authentic local flavors can’t be beat.
14. Experience a Fireworks Cruise
Instead of watching fireworks from the beach, you can actually watch the Hilton Hawaiian Village show from the water, which gives you an amazing perspective. Dive Oahu offers Friday night fireworks cruises where you can bring your own drinks and snacks while watching the show from their boat. It’s way more relaxed than the formal dinner cruises and you avoid the beach crowds completely.
Several other companies do fireworks sailing trips, especially around holidays like 4th of July and New Year’s Eve. The regular Friday night cruises usually cost around $40-60 per person and last about 1.5 hours. You’ll get unobstructed views of the fireworks reflecting off the water, plus the Honolulu skyline lit up at night.
What’s cool about watching from the water is you can see the fireworks from multiple angles as the boat positions itself in different spots throughout the show. Most boats have restrooms and shade if you need it, and the crew usually knows the best spots for photos. I’d definitely recommend this if you want to see the fireworks but prefer a more unique experience than standing on the beach with hundreds of other people.
15. Attend a Show at the Hawaii Theater
The historic Hawaii Theater, known as the “Pride of the Pacific,” offers an elegant cultural experience that showcases both local and international talent. I find this 1920s architectural gem provides the perfect setting for an evening of arts and entertainment in downtown Honolulu. The moment you step inside, you’re transported to another era of grandeur and sophistication.
This beautifully restored venue hosts diverse performances including concerts, plays, dance performances, and cultural shows. The programming ranges from classical music and Broadway-style productions to contemporary Hawaiian artists and international touring acts. I recommend checking their online schedule regularly since the variety ensures something appeals to every artistic taste.
The theater’s stunning interior features ornate details and period architecture that make attending any show feel special. Even if you’re not typically a theater-goer, the building itself is worth experiencing. The intimate seating arrangement means excellent views from every seat, creating connection between performers and audience.
Ticket prices vary depending on the production and seating section, typically ranging from $25-75 for most shows. I suggest booking popular performances well in advance, especially during Honolulu’s peak tourist seasons when shows can sell out quickly. Located in downtown Honolulu, the theater is easily accessible from Waikiki and other major hotels.
16. Hunt for Late-Night Eats at Food Trucks
Honolulu actually has a pretty solid late-night food scene if you know where to look. The Pau Hana Market in Waikiki stays open until 10pm with seven different food trucks offering everything from Hawaiian BBQ to Japanese ramen. Kamitoku does amazing spicy food, and Five Star Shrimp always has a line for good reason.
After 10pm, your best bet is hitting up some of the 24-hour spots like Zippy’s (which is like Hawaii’s version of Denny’s but way better) or finding the late-night food trucks that park near bars in Chinatown. Leonard’s Bakery is open 24 hours and their fresh malasadas at 2am hit different after a night out.
The trick with late-night food trucks is following them on social media since they don’t always stick to the same spots or hours. Some of the best pupus (appetizers) and local-style plates happen late at night when the regular tourists have gone to bed. I’ve had some of my best meals in Honolulu from random food trucks at 11pm, especially the ones that cater to locals getting off late shifts. Just bring cash – most trucks still don’t take cards consistently.
17. Sip cocktails at beachfront bars
Unwinding at a beachfront bar with tropical drinks and ocean views epitomizes the relaxed Hawaiian evening experience. I always recommend this for visitors wanting to experience the laid-back island lifestyle while enjoying some of the world’s most beautiful sunset views. The combination of crashing waves, tropical cocktails, and warm ocean breezes creates pure paradise.
Duke’s Waikiki Barefoot Bar remains my top choice for beachfront drinking. The unbeatable ocean views and super laid-back vibe make it perfect for watching the sunset with a classic Mai Tai in hand. The atmosphere embodies everything you imagine about Hawaiian beach bars – casual, welcoming, and authentically tropical.
Hula Grill offers another excellent option where live Hawaiian music accompanies your drinks. I love how these venues enhance the tropical cocktail experience with traditional island sounds. The pupus (appetizers) at both locations are exceptional – try the poke, kalua pork sliders, or coconut shrimp for the perfect pairing with your drinks.
The local snacks at these beachfront bars give you authentic tastes of Hawaiian cuisine in a relaxed setting. These aren’t just drinks – they’re complete cultural experiences where food and beverages showcase the islands’ unique flavors and hospitality. Since these spots are popular for sunset viewing, I recommend arriving early to secure the best oceanfront seating.
18. Go on a Ghost Tour
Exploring Honolulu’s supernatural side offers a thrilling blend of history, mystery, and Hawaiian folklore. I’ve discovered that ghost tours provide unique insights into the islands’ lesser-known stories while adding excitement to evening adventures. These tours reveal hidden aspects of Hawaiian culture and history that typical tourist activities never touch.
The Honolulu Ghost Walk stands out as the most popular option, taking visitors through historic and reportedly haunted areas of downtown Honolulu. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating tales of ancient Hawaiian spirits, legendary ghost stories passed down through generations, and unexplained phenomena that locals have experienced for decades.
These experienced storytellers bring old legends to life, making you feel part of Honolulu’s hidden supernatural history. The tours blend entertainment with education, teaching about pre-contact Hawaiian spiritual beliefs and how they’ve influenced modern island culture. I find these stories provide deeper understanding of Hawaiian traditions and values.
Tours typically last 2-3 hours and operate year-round, though schedules vary seasonally. Pricing usually ranges $25-45 per person, with discounts often available for booking online in advance. I recommend making reservations early, especially around Halloween when these tours fill up quickly.
- Read Next: 12 Favorite Things to Do in Hawaii
19. Visit the Bishop Museum for Evening Events
The Bishop Museum transforms into a magical venue for special evening events that blend Hawaiian culture with natural beauty under the stars. I consider these evening programs among Honolulu’s most enriching nighttime activities, combining education with entertainment in Hawaii’s premier cultural institution. The museum’s evening events offer experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else.
Throughout the year, the Bishop Museum hosts various nighttime programs including monthly stargazing sessions led by local astronomers. These events provide incredible opportunities to explore the Hawaiian night sky through telescopes while learning about traditional Polynesian navigation techniques that guided ancient voyagers across the Pacific.
The stargazing events particularly fascinate me because they connect modern astronomy with ancient Hawaiian knowledge. Imagine exploring Hawaiian artifacts and cultural exhibits with the backdrop of a star-filled sky – it’s both magical and deeply educational, providing context for how Hawaiians traditionally used celestial navigation.
Special cultural performances, lectures, and seasonal celebrations round out the evening programming. These events often feature traditional Hawaiian music, dance demonstrations, and storytelling that bring the museum’s collections to life after dark.
Check the Bishop Museum’s website for current evening event schedules since programming changes seasonally. These popular events typically require advance booking, especially the stargazing sessions which have limited capacity for optimal viewing experiences. Ticket prices vary by event but generally range $15-35 per person.
20. Stroll through Kapiolani Park at night
A moonlit walk through Kapiolani Park provides the perfect peaceful conclusion to your Honolulu nighttime adventures. I always recommend this as the ideal way to wind down from the city’s busier activities while staying connected to the island’s natural beauty. This sprawling 300-acre green space becomes a tranquil haven under starlight, offering serenity just steps from Waikiki’s energy.
Under moonlight, the park’s majestic trees and expansive lawns create a calming atmosphere where you can reflect on your Hawaiian experiences. The gentle rustle of palm leaves and distant ocean sounds add to the park’s nighttime charm, while the illuminated downtown skyline provides a beautiful urban backdrop against the darkened landscape.
The park’s proximity to Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach means you can easily incorporate this peaceful stroll into other evening activities. I often end beach bar visits or dinner dates with a romantic walk through the park – it’s the perfect way to extend your evening while enjoying quiet moments together.
For safety and the most enjoyable experience, I recommend staying on well-lit paths and visiting in groups. The park has regular foot traffic from evening joggers, dog walkers, and other strollers, creating a safe community atmosphere.
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