Where to Find the Best Happy Hour Near and Around Princeville, Hanalei, and Kilauea

Grace Towle

Living on Oahu, Grace Towle knows all the best places where locals go.

In Hawaiʻi, the expression “pau hana” is often interchanged with the phrase “happy hour,” and translates to “work is finished.” It refers to a conscious decision to leave any worries behind and enjoy free time. The essence of “pau hana” encourages visitors to put down their phone and relax in the company of others over drinks and pupus (appetizers). Here are some of the top spots to find the best happy hour near and around Princeville, Hanalei, and Kilauea.

But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.

If you’re happy with your meal, tag us @LocalGetaways on Instagram to share the love.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Kalypso

The Terrace Hanalei

Ching Young Shopping Village, 5-5190 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei

808.212.1121

This handsome, open-air dining room on the second story of Ching Young Shopping Village serves up verdant mountain views along with Mediterranean and island-influenced cuisine. The miso ginger salmon bowl, seafood curry or furikake-crusted seared ahi sandwich are solid choices for lunch or dinner; pasta lovers may go for the mushroom ravioli with a mac nut and avocado pesto or grilled salmon penne.

Hanalei Gourmet

The Old Hanalei Schoolhouse, 5-5161 Kuhio Hwy, Space 5, Hanalei

808.826.2524

For over 30 years, this family-run business has been serving fresh and delicious food to Hanalei. Hanalei Gourmet has booze, burgers, and an open-air setting — everything you need for happy hour.

Kalypso

5-5156 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei

808.826.9700

This Hawaiian-themed pub has a bamboo bar and outdoor patio. The local dishes include favorites like huli huli chicken, kalua pork sandwich and their legendary loco moco. Kalypso happy hour is served 3pm to 5:30pm featuring $4 Kona beers and a small selection of pupus (appetizers). On Wednesday, happy hour starts at 3 pm and lasts until closing time.

The Bistro

2484 Keneke St, Kilauea

808.828.0480

Since 1999, The Bistro has been serving fresh European and Pacific Rim fusion cuisine made from local ingredients. The open-air, plantation-style restaurant has a goal of keeping a low environmental impact, in addition to cooking up tasty food. There are plenty of gluten-free and vegan options.