5 Hot Happy Hour Haunts on Hawaii’s Big Island

Prosecco and pupus await on the Big Island

The island of Hawai’i is an ecologically diverse paradise boasting pristine beaches of varying hues, lush tropical rainforests, rolling pastoral highlands, towering waterfalls, soaring snow-capped peaks and barren lava fields.

Tour the Aloha state’s largest—and youngest—island, and you’ll discover eight of the world’s 14 unique climate zones, many of which are within just an hour’s drive. Hawaii’s world-class resorts, golf courses and restaurants are equally impressive, and late afternoon is the most cost-effective time of day to experience them.

For craft cocktails and local brews in iconic ocean-view settings, embark on a delectable exploration of Hawaii’s top Happy Hour haunts…

1. The Clubhouse Bar, Mauna Lani Golf ClubhouseMauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection The ClubHouse Bar from Bacchus Agency (Bacchus)

Overlooking the emerald green fairways, the Mauna Lani’s Golf Clubhouse is home to the Big Island’s newest happy hour haven. Whether you stop in after hitting the links or simply wish to relax and enjoy a signature cocktail and creative light bites in a picturesque ocean-view setting, the Clubhouse Bar promises a welcome, upscale island vibe. Newly released 2 to 4 p.m. happy hour features include: $15 Kona Longboard and Buffalo Trace Whisky, Kona Big Wave & Teremana Blanco or Reposado Beer and shot specials; $7 draft beer; and $10 glasses of wine and Lani Tai and The Squeeze cocktails. If you’re in the mood to munch, snack on the fresh house-made guacamole and chips for just $5, which is arguably the best pupu (appetizer) price you’ll find in Hawaii.

2. Tommy Bahama, Mauna LaniTommy Bahama

Take a short stroll from the luxury Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection to the Shops at Mauna Lani for Tommy Bahama’s Island Time Happy Hour. Offered daily between 3 and 5 p.m., this Big Island favourite is best known for its Aloha-inspired flavours and casual beach-chic vibe. Glasses of prosecco and white and red wine are available for $10 a drink, and select draft beers are priced at just $6. Tommy Bahamas’ tropical classics—including margaritas, Mai Tais, mojitos and sangria—drop in price from $15 to $11, and martinis are shaken (not stirred) for $12. The restaurant’s small-plate specials are deliciously priced at $12. Chefs’ favourites include the World-Famous Coconut Shrimp, Blackened Mahi-Mahi Taco, Blistered Shishitos and Cheeseburger Sliders.

3. Luana Lounge, Fairmont OrchidLuana Lounge

Another innovative culinary adventure available within the Mauna Lani Resort is the Luana Lounge at the Fairmont Orchid. The idyllic ocean-view open-air lobby lounge overlooks the four-diamond resort’s immaculate gardens and oceanfront pool. Imbibe on island-inspired cocktails, wine and beer at a 30 percent savings from 4 to 5 p.m. The Mai Tai is known to be legendary; however, the Orchid’s mixologists are adept at creating any cocktail you desire. Live music and a sushi menu featuring fresh local sashimi and signature hand-crafted rolls make a perfect pairing. Linger a little longer to catch the sunset and nightly torch-lighting.

4. Hawaii Calls Lounge, Waikoloa Beach MarriottHawaii Calls Lounge

Wine by the glass, draft beer and a bartender’s inspiration cocktail are happy hour highlights at the Hawaii Calls Lounge, located poolside in the Waikoloa Beach Marriott. Daily drink specials at the ocean view patio lounge are served between 2 to 4 p.m. and priced from $8 a glass. Tuesdays are twice as tasty, thanks to the chef’s weekly Taco Tuesday dinner menu, available from 5 to 9 p.m. Tuck into a trio of tacos for $15 or ahi poke nachos for $17, paired with $12 margaritas and $7 Maui Bikini Blonde lagers. Time your visit right to ensure you’re beachside by sunset.

5. Hugo on the Rocks, Historic Kailua VillageHugo on the Rocks

Located in the historic seaside community of Kailua-Kona, about 15 minutes south of the Kona Airport, Hugo on the Rocks is a vibrant al fresco hot spot with a happening happy hour, offered daily from 3 to 5 p.m. Relax oceanside with your toes in the sand, taking in live music and sipping on $6 Mai Tais. Bottles of beer, local draft ale, house wine and well drinks are just $5, while delicious pupu (appetizer) specials—like sliders, mini nachos, and tacos—are yours for $6 a plate. Stay for the spectacular sunset, or take a walk along the coastal Ali’I Drive to explore Kailua-Kona’s local art galleries and shops. 

Disclaimer: All restaurant menu items and prices are subject to change.