Cocktails in Hilo – Signature Drinks at Waiʻoli Lounge

When it comes to cocktails in Hilo, Waiʻoli Lounge (2:30pm – 9pm) stands out as the ultimate destination for creative, island-inspired drinks. Nestled in the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, the lounge offers handcrafted cocktails, nightly live music, and stunning views over Hilo Bay, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Whether you are winding down after a day of exploring or starting your morning with a specialty drink, Waiʻoli Lounge delivers unforgettable flavors in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Signature Cocktails

The Waiʻoli Lounge cocktail menu is a celebration of tropical flavors, fresh ingredients, and bartender creativity. From classic tropical blends to inventive namesakes, each drink has a story and a taste that guests rave about.

Tropical Koloa Mai Tai 

A bold, tropical take on the classic Mai Tai. Muddled pineapple, lime, and macadamia nut orgeat form the base, while Kauaʻi-grown Koloa Rum and lilikoi purée add island flair. Topped with a layer of dark Koloa Rum and a mango-orange foam, this cocktail is strong, fruity, and unforgettable.

The Wai’oli  

Inspired by the Blue Hawaiian, this signature cocktail captures the essence of the lounge’s name. Don Q Coco rum, Blue Curacao, fresh lime and pineapple juice, a splash of soda, and a float of melon liqueur create a tropical twist that is both vibrant and refreshing.

The Perfect Margarita  

A refined tropical spin on the classic margarita: El Jimador Blanco tequila, Cointreau, passion fruit purée, and Torani passion fruit syrup. Simple, elegant, and perfectly balanced for any Hilo evening.

Irish Sour  

A crisp, aromatic take on the whiskey sour. Irish whiskey, fresh lemon juice, bitters, Cointreau, and Wondafoam produce a creamy foam cap without egg white. Finished with a dash of bitters and an orange slice, this cocktail is both sophisticated and approachable.

Namesake Creations

At Waiʻoli Lounge, several drinks are crafted by bartenders who put their personal spin on island-inspired flavors. Guests love these unique offerings:

• Matt’s Coconut Island 
  A top-shelf Long Island Iced Tea with tropical coconut and lime notes.
• RJ’s Pineapple Lemon Drop 
  A sugar-rimmed martini combining tart lemon, sweet pineapple, and locally sourced Pau Vodka.
• Skye’s Kilauea Margarita
  Rimmed with honey and Tajín, featuring the fragrant smokiness of Mezcal. This cocktail evokes the nearby volcano.
• Sarah’s Koloa Espresso Martini
  A luxurious mix of Koloa Rum, Kauaʻi Coffee, vanilla, and a spritz of cardamom, perfect for a local pick-me-up.

Morning Cocktails (6:30am – 10am at iCafe)

For those who prefer to start their day with a tropical kick, the iCafe side of Waiʻoli Lounge offers breakfast, coffee and morning cocktails:

• Mango Screwdriver  
• Pineapple Mimosa  
• WSW Bloody Mary  
• Specialty Bloody Marys (Spicy Bourbon, Lychee, Mango)

Guests love sipping fresh, creative morning drinks alongside breakfast favorites, all while soaking in Hilo’s serene morning atmosphere.

What Guests Love About Waiʻoli Lounge

• Creative namesake cocktails: Visitors often mention Sarah’s Koloa Espresso Martini, Skye’s Kilauea Margarita, and the Tropical Koloa Mai Tai as standout favorites.
• Atmosphere: Watching the sunset over Hilo Bay or enjoying live music adds a memorable dimension to every cocktail experience.
• Skilled bartenders: Personalized touches and unique twists make each drink feel special.
• Live Music: Monday through Sunday, talented local musicians enhance the experience:
• Monday: Todd Otake
• Tuesday: Jeremiah Kailiuli
• Wednesday: Harold Kama Jr.
• Thursday: Daylan Tiogangco
• Friday: Lopaka Kenoi (upon availability)
• Saturday: Harold Kama Jr.
• Sunday: Ricky Alaniz (WSW)

A Spot Guests Return To

Visitors frequently praise Waiʻoli Lounge for its creative drinks, friendly service, and relaxing ambiance:

“Music was amazing. Bartender (Jordan) was so fun.” – Google Maps Review
“Good food. Good service. Nice to kick back and relax. Had the smash burger with avocado. Very good.” – Google Maps Review
“A nice surprise with singing and guitar music while we ate and had a drink to start our vacation. We ordered lechon and 2 pina coladas. Service was nice and efficient. The view is lovely.” – Google Maps Review

Plan Your Visit

Whether you are after classic cocktails with a tropical twist, namesake creations by expert bartenders, or morning drinks with breakfast, Waiʻoli Lounge is the place to be. Sip, relax, and soak in the live music and stunning Hilo Bay views that make every visit unforgettable.

• Cocktail Hours: 2:30pm – 9pm
• Morning iCafe Cocktails: 6:30am – 10am
• Location: Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

Experience cocktails in Hilo the way they were meant to be. Creative, refreshing, and perfectly island-inspired.