Best 8 Breweries in Honolulu HI: A Comprehensive Guide
Honolulu is a city that is known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, in recent years, it has also become a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts. The city is home to several breweries that offer unique and delicious beers that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
One of the best breweries in Honolulu is Hana Koa Brewing. Located in the Kaka’ako neighborhood, this brewery is known for its creative and flavorful beers. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of brews, including IPAs, stouts, and sours, as well as delicious food from their on-site kitchen. With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, Hana Koa Brewing is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great beer experience in Honolulu.
Another popular brewery in Honolulu is Waikiki Brewing Company. This brewpub is located in the heart of Waikiki and offers a wide selection of beers that are brewed on-site. From classic IPAs to seasonal specialties, Waikiki Brewing Company has something for everyone. Visitors can also enjoy a delicious meal from their menu, which features locally sourced ingredients and creative takes on pub favorites. With its prime location and fantastic beer, Waikiki Brewing Company is a top choice for beer lovers in Honolulu.
Honolulu’s Craft Beer Scene
Honolulu’s craft beer scene has been thriving in recent years, with a variety of local breweries and craft beer bars popping up across the island. From Waikiki to Chinatown to Kakaako, there are plenty of options for beer lovers to explore.
One of the most popular breweries in Honolulu is Waikiki Brewing Company, located on Cooke St. in Kakaako. They offer a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, all brewed on-site. The brewery also has a taproom where visitors can sample their beers and enjoy food from local food trucks.
Another must-visit brewery in Honolulu is Honolulu Beerworks, located in the heart of Kakaako. They offer a variety of beers, including their popular Pia Mahi’ai Honey Citrus Saison, which is brewed with local honey and citrus. The brewery also has an outdoor seating area and hosts events throughout the year.
For those looking to explore the craft beer scene beyond Honolulu, there are several other breweries worth checking out. Kona Brewing Company, located in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island, is one of the largest breweries in Hawaii and offers a variety of beers, including their popular Longboard Lager. Kohola Brewery, located in Lahaina on Maui, is a microbrewery that offers a variety of beers, including their popular Lokahi Pilsner.
Top Breweries in Honolulu
Honolulu Beerworks
Honolulu Beerworks is a popular microbrewery located in the Kaka’ako neighborhood of Honolulu. They are known for their high-quality craft beers, which are made using locally sourced ingredients. The brewery has a comfortable indoor seating area as well as an outdoor beer garden.
Website: https://www.honolulubeerworks.com/
Address: 328 Cooke St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
Maui Brewing Co
Maui Brewing Co is a well-known brewery that has been producing craft beer in Hawaii since 2005. Their Honolulu location is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a wide selection of beers on tap as well as a full menu of delicious food.
Website: https://mauibrewingco.com/
Address: 2300 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Aloha Beer Co
Aloha Beer Co is one of the first breweries on Oahu and has been serving up delicious craft beer since 2011. Their flagship beer, Aloha Lager, is a local favorite and can be found on tap at many bars and restaurants throughout the island.
Website: https://alohabeer.com/
Address: 700 Queen St, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States
Waikiki Brewing Company
Waikiki Brewing Company is a popular brewpub located in the heart of Waikiki. They offer a wide selection of beers on tap, including their award-winning Hana Hou Hefe and Black Strap Molasses Porter. The brewpub also has a full menu of delicious food.
Website: https://www.waikikibrewing.com/
Address: 1945 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Hana Koa Brewing Co
Hana Koa Brewing Co is a small microbrewery located in the Kaka’ako neighborhood of Honolulu. They are known for their unique and flavorful beers, which are made using a variety of different ingredients. The brewery has a comfortable indoor seating area as well as an outdoor beer garden.
Website: https://www.hanakoabrewing.com/
Address: 962 Kawaiaha‘o St, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA
Beer Lab HI
Beer Lab HI is a popular brewery located in the Moiliili neighborhood of Honolulu. They are known for their experimental and innovative beers, which are made using a variety of different brewing techniques. The brewery has a comfortable indoor seating area as well as an outdoor beer garden.
Website: https://www.beerlabhi.com/
Address: 1010 University Ave, Honolulu, HI 96826, USA
Kona Brewing Company
Kona Brewing Company is a well-known brewery that has been producing craft beer in Hawaii since 1994. Their Honolulu location is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a wide selection of beers on tap as well as a full menu of delicious food.
Website: http://www.konabrewinghawaii.com/
Address: 7192 Kalanianole Highway, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States
The Kauai Beer Company
The Kauai Beer Company is a small microbrewery located on the island of Kauai. They specialize in brewing unique and flavorful beers using locally sourced ingredients. Their tasting room is open to the public and offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
Website: https://www.kauaibeer.com/
Address: 4265 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
Beer Varieties and Specialties
Honolulu is home to a diverse range of breweries that offer a variety of beer styles and flavors. From IPAs, lagers, and stouts to sour beers and more, there is something for every beer lover in Honolulu.
One of the most popular beer styles in Honolulu is the IPA. Many breweries in the area offer their own unique take on this classic style, including the Hop Island IPA from Waikiki Brewing Company. This beer is known for its bold hop flavor and aroma, making it a favorite among IPA enthusiasts.
For those who prefer lighter beers, there are plenty of options available as well. The Big Wave Golden Ale from Kona Brewing Company is a popular choice, with its light and refreshing flavor that is perfect for rehydration on a hot day.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more complexity, try a sour beer. Many breweries in Honolulu offer their own sour beer varieties, including the Route 70 Saison from Hana Koa Brewing. This beer is brewed with mango and guava, giving it a unique tropical flavor that is sure to please.
In addition to their regular beer selection, many breweries in Honolulu also offer specialty and seasonal beers. For example, the Moku Imperial IPA from Honolulu Beerworks is a limited edition beer that is brewed with a variety of hops and malts, giving it a complex and rich flavor profile.
Food Pairings and Menu Highlights
When it comes to breweries, food is just as important as beer. Luckily, the breweries in Honolulu, HI have a lot to offer in terms of food pairings and menu highlights. From locally sourced ingredients to classic comfort foods, there’s something for everyone.
One brewery that stands out for its food offerings is Hana Koa Brewing. Their menu features a variety of dishes that pair perfectly with their craft beers. For example, their Honey Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich is a fan favorite, with juicy chicken, crispy breading, and a touch of sweetness from the honey brine. It’s served on a brioche bun with pickles, lettuce, tomato, and spicy aioli. Another standout dish is their Brisket Tacos, which are made with slow-cooked brisket, pickled onions, cilantro, and a tangy lime crema.
Waikiki Brewing Company – Waikiki is another brewery that offers delicious food to pair with their beers. Their menu features classic pub fare with a Hawaiian twist. One highlight is their Pizza of the Day, which changes regularly and features locally sourced ingredients. They also offer a variety of burgers, including the Smash Burger, which is made with two beef patties, American cheese, pickles, onions, and a special sauce. For something a little lighter, try their Chicken Tenders, which are made with all-natural chicken breast and served with honey mustard or ranch.
Honolulu Beerworks is known for its creative menu items that pair perfectly with its beers. One standout dish is their Pulled Pork Sandwich, which is made with slow-cooked pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and coleslaw. They also offer a variety of sandwiches, including the Chicken Sandwich, which features grilled chicken breast, avocado, bacon, and chipotle mayo. For dessert, be sure to try their Bread Pudding, which is made with croissants, chocolate chips, and a bourbon caramel sauce.
Brewery Experiences and Atmosphere
Visiting a brewery is not just about the beer, but also about the overall experience and atmosphere. The best breweries in Honolulu offer a unique and memorable experience that keeps visitors coming back for more.
One of the most important aspects of a brewery experience is the staff. The staff at the best breweries in Honolulu are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft. They are always willing to answer questions and provide recommendations, making visitors feel welcome and valued.
Many of the breweries in Honolulu are located near the beach, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon or evening. Visitors can enjoy their favorite beers while taking in the breathtaking views of the ocean and the sunset.
In addition to the great beer and beautiful location, many breweries in Honolulu offer entertainment and events. From live music to trivia nights, there is always something fun and exciting happening at the best breweries in Honolulu.
For those who want to take a piece of the brewery experience home with them, many breweries offer retail options. Visitors can purchase merchandise such as t-shirts, hats, and glassware to remember their visit.
The atmosphere at the best breweries in Honolulu is adult-oriented and relaxed, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a cold beer. Two of the most popular beers at the breweries in Honolulu are the Holo Holo Hefeweizen and the Honolulu Haze with Lilikoi. The Holo Holo Hefeweizen is a refreshing and light beer with hints of banana and clove, while the Honolulu Haze with Lilikoi is a juicy and tropical IPA.
One of the most unique beers available at the breweries in Honolulu is the Honey Macadamia Nut Brown. This beer is brewed with local honey and macadamia nuts, giving it a sweet and nutty flavor that is sure to please.
Unique Local Ingredients and Flavors
Honolulu’s breweries are known for their unique use of local ingredients and flavors, which give their beers a distinct taste that can’t be found anywhere else. Some of the most popular local ingredients used in these breweries include Maui honey, pineapple, mango, and guava.
One of the most popular breweries in Honolulu that uses local ingredients is Big Island Brewhaus. Their Kohola Brewery uses locally sourced honey in their Pillbox Porter, which gives it a sweet and smooth taste. They also use local fruit in their Lokahi and Moku Imperial IPA beers, which give them a tropical and refreshing flavor.
Another popular brewery in Honolulu is Hilo Brewing Co. Their Kahalu Blonde beer is made with locally grown pineapples, which gives it a sweet and tangy taste. They also offer a unique apple cider beer, which is made with locally grown apples and has a crisp and refreshing taste.
For those who love spicy food, Honolulu breweries offer a variety of beers with a kick. Brew’d Craft Pub’s Buffalo Chicken Flatbread pairs perfectly with their Lokahi beer, which is made with locally grown jalapenos. Hilo Brewing Co’s Blue Cheese Crumble beer is made with locally grown habaneros, which give it a spicy and bold flavor.
Overall, Honolulu’s breweries offer a unique and diverse selection of beers that showcase the flavors and ingredients of Hawaii. Whether you’re looking for a sweet and refreshing beer or a bold and spicy one, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.