Gay Bars, Hotels & Venues in Hawaii, HI — 80 LGBTQ+ Spots

Open daily from 11:30am to 2am, Hula's Bar & Lei Stand fits into a long afternoon or late night in Waikiki. This second-floor bar at the Waikiki Grand hotel offers views of Queen's Beach and the street below, with plenty of people-watching. It serves American, fusion, and seafood dishes, and doubles as a video bar when there's no live entertainment or dancers. Reviews note friendly staff and good energy, but also occasional complaints about service and prices. The crowd leans younger, mixed gay and straight, with a straight-friendly pub atmosphere rather than a traditional gay club. Drop by during the day for the views or late for dancing and go-go boys.

Don't expect a sprawling nightclub here. "In Between" is a tiny dive bar in Waikiki where the whole place fits maybe two dozen people, so you're almost guaranteed to end up chatting with strangers by the end of the night. Karaoke runs regularly, and the drink prices are among the most affordable you'll find in this neighborhood. Open daily from 2pm to 2am, it's a solid afternoon stop or a late-night wind-down spot. Locals and tourists mix easily here, helped by the friendly vibe and lack of attitude. If you're looking for a low-key alternative to the bigger gay bars, this cozy pub delivers.

Think of a Waikiki gay bar, and you might picture a packed tourist trap. Bacchus Waikiki is smaller, quieter, and more local. It's an upstairs video bar with no cover, four screens, and a smoking area. The vibe is friendly and laid back, thanks in part to staff known for remembering your name. That bucket of rum and coke for five bucks? Confirmed by a regular. The space is snug — high-top tables on one side, bar on the other — so arrive before 11 PM to grab a seat. Happy hour deals on weekdays draw an after-work crowd of locals and visitors alike. Some nights a bartender sheds his shirt, but the overall tone stays relaxed. It's a solid stop if you want a low-key drink before heading to DECK.

If you love karaoke and a tight-knit vibe, this small Waikiki bar is your spot. The bartenders whip up quality drinks using fresh juices and homemade mixers, and prices are cheaper than most gay bars in town. Regulars treat it like a family BBQ, so bring a friend and sing along. Open nightly from 7pm to 2am, it's a cozy space where even the staff will jump on the mic to kick things off. If you're not into karaoke, you might feel out of place; but for everyone else, it's a local staple within walking distance of Hula's Bar & Lei Stand.

Open from 1pm to 1am most days, The Mask-Querade is one of the Big Island's few gay bars. This small Kailua-Kona room centers around a bar, with a pool table, karaoke, and a disco ball. There's no dance floor, but the crowd keeps things lively. Yelp reviews give it 4.4 stars from 49 reviews. Regulars describe it as classy, clean, and friendly. If you're in Kona and want a reliable gay bar, this is the spot. If you're exploring more of the island's LGBTQ+ scene, Hula's Bar & Lei Stand is another option in Honolulu, but for Kona, this is your place.

A mixed crowd of locals and visitors gathers at this open-air Waikiki lanai bar, where tropical breezes and strong, reasonably priced drinks set the tone. The vibe is friendly and relaxed, with karaoke nights and a jukebox that draws a spirited crowd. Bartenders heckle regulars but keep the atmosphere welcoming. It's a relaxed spot to unwind, not a high-energy scene.

Unlike most Honolulu diners, Eggs 'N Things has served breakfast all day since 1974, drawing equal crowds of locals and tourists. Its Waikiki location on Kalakaua Ave stays busy for good reason: macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup are a signature. The menu leans American breakfast with Polynesian touches, plus tofu and grilled veggies for healthier options. Expect a wait, often 30 to 40 minutes, but the pager system lets you explore nearby. Servers are friendly and fast, making the short delay worthwhile. For a quieter visit, try a weekday morning. A second location sits across from Waikiki Beach.

This isn't your typical big-city gay club. My Bar in Kailua-Kona is a welcoming neighborhood bar where locals feel at home, with pizza, bar bites, and a dance floor for when the mood strikes. Friday and Saturday nights bring a Live DJ, and there's a pool table for casual games. The crowd is mixed gay-straight, so it's a relaxed spot to hang out any night of the week. See what visitors say.

You'll find a mix of locals and tourists alike, all drawn to the legendary malasadas. Leonard's Bakery has been a Honolulu staple since 1952, and its Portuguese donuts are so iconic that any Hawaii local knows exactly who Leonards is. The malasadas are best eaten fresh they practically dissolve on your tongue. It's a budget-friendly spot, and the European-style treats keep people coming back. The bakery is a short drive from Waikiki on Kapahulu Avenue, the same street as Hula's Bar. Parking can be tricky, but it's worth the effort. Note that Yelp lists this location as possibly permanently closed, so check current status before heading over.

Open from 9pm to 4am, District is your late-night stop for dancing and live performances in Honolulu. The night kicks off with a strip show from 10-11pm, followed by a drag show, then the dance floor stays open until closing. Cover is $10 for 18+, $5 for 21+. It's a video bar with an after-hours feel, drawing a younger crowd. Drinks are reasonably priced, and the hostess keeps the energy up with jokes throughout the night.

Near Hilo, this park offers a rare close-up experience with Kilauea, a shield volcano that erupts mildly instead of explosively. You can drive through in a couple of hours or hike deeper. The park is open 24 hours, and the glow is best seen after sunset. Volcano House on site has a restaurant and lodging.

Orchids sits oceanfront at the Halekulani Hotel in Waikiki, with floor-to-ceiling French doors opening to cool breezes. It serves Polynesian seafood for breakfast, lunch, and dinner amid an abundance of orchids. The vibe is casually elegant, with outdoor seating on the beach edge. Reviews call the food phenomenal and the setting incredible, dubbing it a 'must eat at' spot. Reservations are recommended given its popularity. The Sunday brunch is a highlight. With 51 photos and 1227 Yelp reviews averaging 4.2 stars, it's well-regarded. Prices are $$$, but the experience is worth it. If waitstaff recommends a dish, trust that it's good. For a more casual bite nearby, try Rainbow Drive-In.

Betty's Beach Cafe sits in Lahaina as a gay-friendly spot for a burger or a drink. It's open daily from 8am to 8pm, with a full bar and a straightforward American menu that includes breakfast and seafood options. The vibe is casual, and the outdoor setting offers a view of the area. Regulars know the service and food quality can be uneven, especially at busy times. You'll find a mix of travelers killing time before a flight and locals grabbing a bite. If you want a different experience nearby, Rainbow Drive-In is another casual option.

Anyone wanting a classic Waikiki sunset experience without the resort formality will like House Without a Key. This open-air restaurant and bar sits on the grounds of the Halekulani Hotel, right on Waikiki Beach. It's named after a 1925 Charlie Chan novel and preserves the hotel's century-old tradition of cocktails and live music under a Kiawe tree. The menu covers American, seafood, and Polynesian dishes, though many visitors come just for drinks and appetizers. Casual attire is fine. The nightly entertainment is the main draw: Hawaiian music and hula dancers perform as the sun sets over the Pacific. Arrive just before sunset to grab an outdoor seat. Breakfast is served, but the sunset cocktail hour is the sweet spot. It's one of the most affordable ways to enjoy the Halekulani's atmosphere, since you can order just a sandwich and a drink. The crowd is a mix of hotel guests and savvy locals. If you want another classic Honolulu meal, Rainbow Drive-In is a nearby spot for plate lunches.

You'll notice the view first: Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach stretch out from every table. LuLu's Waikiki is a casual American spot in Waikiki, known for Loco Moco and praised by regulars for eggs benedict (especially at sunrise) and garlic ahi. It's open daily from 7am to midnight, with Monday hours extending until 2am. It's a tourist-friendly family spot, so expect a lively crowd any time. The Sunday brunch is popular. If you're looking for something nearby, House Without a Key offers a different vibe with live Hawaiian music.

On December 7, 1941, the USS Arizona sank in Pearl Harbor, killing 1,177 sailors. The memorial now sits atop its hull, accessible only by a short Navy boat ride. At the visitor center, you'll find two movie theaters showing films about the attack, a museum with exhibits and photographs, a bookstore, and a snack bar. The memorial itself is a white structure where visitors can see the sunken ship and visit the shrine room. Lines can get long, especially by mid-morning. Go early to secure your free boat tickets and to meet some of the remaining Pearl Harbor survivors, who often chat with visitors. If you're driving, take the H-1 Freeway exit marked "USS Arizona"—don't use the "Pearl Harbor" exit, which leads to the Naval Station. For more on Hawaii's history, check out the Bishop Museum nearby.

Unlike most volcano parks you've visited, this one is a dormant giant you can drive into: Haleakala National Park on Maui. You'll climb from tropical rainforest past endangered species to a 10,000-foot summit with views that look like another planet. The park is open 24 hours, so you can aim for sunrise or a day hike, but bring warm layers even if it's hot at the beach. Entry costs $10 per vehicle.

Best for anyone craving exceptional, made-from-scratch Polynesian and breakfast fare in a no-frills setting. Liliha Bakery has been a Honolulu mainstay since 1950, with bakers using time-honored methods and everything made from scratch. The cafe serves a full breakfast and lunch menu alongside the bakery items, but it's the pancakes that steal the show: a local friend called them the best in the world, and you'll likely agree. There are only about a dozen seats, so expect a wait during peak times. Come early or on a weekday to snag a spot without the crowd. The bakery also offers pastries and pies to-go, making it a great stop for a quick bite or dessert. It's located near Aipaako St in Honolulu, easy to reach from Waikiki. If you're exploring the area, you can walk to Rainbow Drive-In for another local favorite.

The scent of plumeria drifts through the grand lobby, where white columns and rocking chairs on the lanai recall an era of steamer trunks and ocean liners. Built in 1901, the Moana Surfrider has anchored Waikiki as its 'Grand Hotel' ever since. Guests here are a mix of gay and straight travelers, families, and couples seeking a quieter alternative to the high-rise bustle. The hotel is pet-friendly and offers a spa, sauna, gym, and rooftop spaces. A colossal banyan tree, one of the oldest in Hawaii, shades the courtyard with a 150-foot canopy. Don't miss the hotel's free historical tour on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11 am. The Beachhouse restaurant serves oceanfront meals, and the second-floor gallery displays photos and brochures from Hawaii's bygone eras. For a nearby stroll, The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, shares the same stretch of Waikiki Beach.

Best suited for anyone craving a true local Hawaiian plate lunch without the tourist markup. Rainbow Drive-In has been serving iconic comfort food since 1961, and it's where locals head the moment they return to Honolulu. The standout is the pork cutlet with two scoops rice and one scoop mac salad, a combination so beloved it's practically a homecoming ritual. The place is simple, with outdoor seating, and the prices are genuinely budget-friendly. You'll find breakfast served all day, and the menu covers everything from hot dogs to Polynesian-style plates. It's located just off Kapahulu Ave, about half a mile from Hula's Bar, making it an easy stop if you're exploring Waikiki. The vibe is no-frills and efficient, so don't expect white tablecloths. Peak lunch hour can get busy, but the line moves fast. If you want a taste of what Hawaiians crave, this is it.

Open daily from 9am to 5pm, Bishop Museum fits easily into a Waikiki day trip. Founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his late wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, it's the largest museum in Hawaii and a cornerstone of Polynesian cultural preservation. The museum's Hawaiian Hall explores old Hawaiian gods and legends, while exhibits range from Hawaiian quilts to artifacts of the royal Kamehameha family. It also includes a planetarium for a broader experience. Inside, you'll find millions of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Hawaii's indigenous culture. The museum is quite large, so plan for a few hours. For a deeper dive into Polynesian heritage, consider a visit to the nearby Iolani Palace, another historic site.

An African Savanna opens the view to giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and chimps, with elephants nearby. This is the only zoo in the US established by grants from a sovereign monarch, built on part of the 300-acre royal Queen Kapiʻolani Park. The zoo features over 1,230 animals in specially designed habitats. It's a small zoo; you can cover it in under two hours. It's a five-minute walk from Queen's Surf Beach and Hula's. If you have more time, the Bishop Museum offers deeper Hawaiian history.

You'll find a mix of design-savvy locals and travelers at Stage Restaurant, perched on the 2nd floor of the Honolulu Design Center. The space feels like a high-end Manhattan spot, with a modern cosmopolitan vibe. The kitchen focuses on contemporary Asian-American cuisine, using locally-grown ingredients. Their wine list is a standout, with over 500 labels to choose from. Dinner starts at 5pm Tuesday through Saturday. The calamari crusted in graham cracker and the excellent pork chop are mentioned in reviews. There's also a wine bar inside, perfect for a lighter bite. Regulars recommend stopping by for a snack and a glass of wine rather than a full meal.

Walk into the Waikiki Grand Hotel and you'll notice it's not your typical hotel. Rooms are individually owned, so quality varies — some are clean with great views, others are rundown. There's no daily housekeeping service, but the full staff will provide towels, beach chairs, snorkels, and more for free. It's gay-friendly and sits right next to Hula's Bar & Lei Stand, a legendary gay bar on the second floor. Across the street is the Honolulu Zoo and Queen's Beach, a popular gay-friendly spot. The vibe is casual and practical rather than luxurious. You'll hear the zoo's birds early mornings — one guest noted the "mating birds" are hard to miss. It's in Waikiki near Lemon Rd, steps from shops and dining. If you want a more polished experience, consider the nearby Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa, but here you get unbeatable proximity to gay nightlife and the beach at a lower price.

Crowds here are respectfully quiet, soaking in history and sweeping views. This cemetery sits inside the crater of an extinct volcano, Punchbowl, rising above downtown Honolulu. It opened in 1949 and now holds about 34,000 veterans from World War I through Vietnam. The memorial includes battle tributes and a vista point with spectacular views of the city and Diamond Head. It's a serene, well-kept space listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The hardwood floors gleam underfoot as you slip on protective booties at the entrance. Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States used as an official residence by a reigning monarch. Built for King Kalākaua and completed in 1892, it later became the site where Queen Lili'ūokalani was placed under house arrest after the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. The guided tour is the best way to take in the fascinating history. The basement holds a photographic display of the palace, the Hawaiian crown jewels, and regalia once worn by high chiefs. Out of respect, appropriate attire is requested. Many original furnishings were sold after the overthrow; some have been reclaimed, though many remain missing. You'll find the gift shop and bookstore in the basement, convenient for picking up a memento. The palace is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am to 4 pm. If you only have time for one guided tour on Oahu, make it this one.

You might expect a touristy Thai spot in Waikiki, but Siam Square is a local favorite that keeps people coming back. It's a full-bar Thai restaurant with over 990 Yelp reviews and a solid 4/5 rating. The Pad Thai and cashew nut stir fry get regular praise. The wait can be long, and service isn't always fast, but regulars say it's worth it. Located beside Bacchus on Kuhio Boulevard, it's an easy stop after a day at the beach. Go on a weekday evening to avoid the biggest crowds. You'll find a mix of tourists and locals sharing tables, and the vibe is casual and efficient.

You'll immediately notice the warm, unfussy atmosphere at this neighborhood Thai spot. Chiang-Mai Thai Cuisine specializes in Northern Thai food, distinct from the more common Bangkok-style dishes. Honolulu Magazine has repeatedly voted it one of the best Thai restaurants in Honolulu, and regulars keep coming back for consistent quality. The restaurant sits a short walk from Waikiki, making it an easy choice for a relaxed dinner. Service is fast and friendly. Weekend hours are dinner only, so plan accordingly. If you're staying in Waikiki, it's a great alternative to pricier hotel restaurants like those at House Without a Key.

You step into an open-air amphitheater set among the trees of Kapiolani Park. The Waikiki Shell seats 2,400 under cover, with lawn space for another 6,000. It's a cherished spot for balmy evening concerts, hosting everything from local acts to touring performers. Under the same management as the Neal S Blaisdell Center, this venue offers a classic outdoor concert experience. If you're after a bigger show, check the Blaisdell calendar too. The crowd here leans casual, with plenty of people picnicking on the lawn before shows. Smoking is allowed in designated areas, which could affect where you sit. There's no dedicated parking lot, so plan to walk from nearby streets or take a rideshare. It's one of the more relaxed performance venues in Honolulu, perfect for unwinding with live music under the stars.

You might expect a historic hotel to feel dated, but The Royal Hawaiian proves otherwise. This iconic pink resort in Waikiki underwent a multimillion-dollar transformation that preserved its Old Hollywood glamor while updating everything. The famous Mai Tai bar remains a draw, and the lush vegetation along corridors and in the grove creates a peaceful setting. It's open 24 hours, so you can grab a drink anytime. The staff here address you by your last name, adding a personal touch you don't always find in large resorts. The pool and spa are solid options for relaxing. If you want to explore nearby, Moana Surfrider is just a short walk for another historic vibe.