House Without a Key
American · Seafood · Honolulu, HI
About
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.
This venue is located in Waikiki, one of Honolulu's most famous beachfront neighborhoods, known for its hotels, shopping, and nightlife.
Features
- ✓Sunset hula performances nightly
- ✓Century-old Kiawe tree tradition
- ✓Casual attire, fine for hotel setting
Cuisine
Good for
What people say
Rated from 1,584 reviews. 9 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
“My Favorite Thing to Do in Waikiki”
House Without a Key is a small, casual open-air restaurant and bar situated in the high-end Halekulani Hotel on Waikiki Beach. They offer breakfast, lunch, cocktails, and appetizers. The main appeal for me is the sunset entertainment. I try to arrive just before sunset to order a cocktail and a sandwich, which is the only reasonably priced option at the Halekulani Hotel. There's no need to dress up; casual wear is fine. Each evening, they feature Hawaiian music and hula dancers. For me, this represents the ideal evening in Waikiki: sitting outdoors, watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, listening to relaxing Hawaiian music, and watching the graceful hula dancers. This is by far my favorite activity in Waikiki, and I make sure to do it every time I visit.
A visitor · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they serve dinner? +
They serve breakfast until 10:30am and lunch/dinner from 11:30am to 9pm daily, with a split in service between those periods.
Is there a dress code? +
No formal dress code; casual attire is fine according to reviews.
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