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 in Poipu, Koloa, and Waimea.
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.
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Feature Photo Courtesy of Lava’s on Poipu Beach
Brennecke's Beach Broiler
2100 Hoone Rd, Koloa
808.742.7588
Brennecke’s Beach Broiler has both oceanfront views and outdoor seating. It’s just the place to sip on mai tais and snack on fried coconut shrimp. The American-style cuisine has all the basics, plus gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Happy hour is Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 5pm. Start with the lilikoi mimosa and finish with the Poipu Kiss martini. Or just go all in and get cocktails by the pitcher—just pick a flavor and your preference of colada, daiquiri or margarita. Open Monday through Friday 11am to 9pm and Saturday and Sunday 9am to 9pm. Happy Hour daily from 3pm to 5pm.
Lava's on Poipu Beach
2440 Hoonani Rd, Koloa
808.742.1661
Situated within the Sheraton just steps away from Poipu Beach, Lava’s is the perfect place for a late-afternoon pick-me-up. Happy hour is a daily affair from 3pm to 5pm, where you can enjoy $3 off specialty cocktails, $4 16oz beer, and other discounts. Sip on signature cocktails like the Lava Flow and frozen Lava’s Mud Slide while you snack on evening pupus like coconut shrimp and ceviche. For Sheraton guests, they’ll bring your drinks to you — enjoy them by the pool or in a poolside bungalow. Open 7am – 9pm daily.
Kalapaki Joe's
1941 Poipu Rd, Koloa
808.742.6366
Kalapaki Joe’s, hailed as the “Westernmost Sports Bar in the US,” is also home to the largest selection of beers on the island with over 50 different brews. Stop by one of its two locations in Poipu Beach and Kukui Grove to watch the game on one of their large-screen TVs or enjoy a plate of their Nobu Poke Nachos. Grab a jumbo cocktail — truly huge, many are originals, such as their Banana Virus and Pakala Pear Cooler. Happy Hour is 3pm to 6pm daily, featuring $5 select cocktails, $1 shrimp tempura, $1 steak street tacos on Tuesdays, and more. Poipu Beach location open 2pm to 9pm Monday through Friday, and 7am – 9pm weekends.
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Our always-hungry team of foodies have compiled this list.
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