Hilo’s Best Bar: Why Waiʻoli Lounge Is the Local Favorite for Cocktails and Live Music
When it comes to bars in Hilo, locals and visitors alike know there’s one spot that perfectly blends island flavors, live entertainment, and oceanfront relaxation: Waiʻoli Lounge. Nestled inside the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Waiʻoli is where the spirit of aloha meets handcrafted cocktails, prime rib sandwiches, and the best bay views on the island.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or looking for a place to enjoy live music and conversation, Waiʻoli has earned its reputation as one of the best bars in Hilo, and it’s easy to see why.
A Lounge with a View
There’s something magical about sipping a cocktail while overlooking Hilo Bay. At Waiʻoli Lounge, you can relax by the ocean and take in the panoramic views while enjoying your drink of choice. It’s casual yet refined, the kind of place where the sunset feels like part of the menu.
Pair the scenery with great food, an extensive wine list (the best in East Hawai‘i), and nightly live entertainment, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for Hilo’s favorite hangout.
Signature Cocktails that Celebrate Hawai‘i
The bartenders at Waiʻoli Lounge take pride in creating drinks that reflect the flavors and stories of the islands. Each cocktail is crafted with care, featuring locally sourced ingredients and premium spirits.
Some favorites include:
- Tropical Koloa Mai Tai – A bold, tropical take on the Hawaiian classic, made with Kaua‘i-grown Koloa Rum, lilikoi purée, and a mango-orange foam that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- The Waiʻoli – A signature creation inspired by the traditional Blue Hawaiian, but with a refreshing melon twist that embodies the lounge’s vibrant personality.
- Skye’s Kilauea Margarita – Rimmed with honey and Tajín and infused with smoky mezcal, this cocktail is as fiery and unforgettable as the volcano it’s named after.
- Sarah’s Koloa Espresso Martini – A local favorite that brings together Koloa Rum, Kaua‘i Coffee, and a hint of vanilla for an island-style pick-me-up.
- RJ’s Pineapple Lemon Drop – A perfect balance of tart and sweet, featuring Pau Vodka, distilled right here in Hawai‘i.
With so many creative options, it’s no wonder Waiʻoli stands out among Hilo bars.
Meet the Bartenders Behind the Bar
Part of what makes Waiʻoli special is the people behind the cocktails. Bartenders like Matt, RJ, Skye, and Sarah have each contributed their own signature drinks to the menu, giving guests a chance to experience a taste of their creativity and personality with every sip.
It’s this personalized touch that makes the lounge feel like a true local gem, where regulars are greeted by name and visitors quickly feel at home.
Live Music Every Night
As the sun sets over Hilo Bay, the energy at Waiʻoli Lounge comes alive with nightly live music from some of the island’s best local artists.
Weekly lineup:
- 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)
From soulful acoustic sets to upbeat island rhythms, every night brings a new sound, perfect for pairing with cocktails, small bites, and conversation.
Food That Pairs Perfectly
Great drinks deserve great food, and Waiʻoli delivers with a full Lounge Menu served from 2:30pm to 9pm. Favorites include:
- Prime Rib French Dip – Tender, juicy, and served “messy is tasty!”
- Shoyu Poke – Fresh ahi tuna seasoned local-style with soy sauce.
Waiʻoli Smash Burger – Two local grass-fed patties with all the fixings.
Morning Vibes at the iCafe
Before the day begins, the Waiʻoli iCafe serves up fresh-brewed coffee, pastries, and even morning cocktails from 6:30am to 11am. It’s a peaceful place to start your morning, complete with ocean views and a warm welcome.
The Local Favorite for a Reason
Whether you’re a visitor discovering Hilo for the first time or a local looking for your go-to spot, Waiʻoli Lounge combines everything you could want: creative cocktails, friendly faces, delicious food, and live island music.
That’s why locals call it Hilo’s best bar, and why every visit feels like coming home.
Waiʻoli Lounge
Inside the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
71 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 969-6470
Lounge Hours: 2:30pm – 9:00pm | iCafe: 6:30am – 11:00am
*Consuming Raw or Undercooked Meats, Poultry, Seafood, Shellfish or Eggs May Increase Your Risk of Foodborne Illness. Prices do not include Taxes or Service. Parties of 6 or more will incur a 20% Service Fee. Wai'oli Lounge is proudly managed by Castle Hospitality Group.
