Honolulu, HI Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Expert Overview
Honolulu offers a vibrant craft beer scene set against the backdrop of Hawaii's tropical landscapes and urban backdrop. With a growing number of breweries, the capital city of Hawaii has become a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. These local breweries have a unique story to tell, blending traditional brewing methods with local flavors and ingredients. The result is a diverse range of beers that offer a taste of the islands' rich cultural heritage and natural bounty.
The craft beer movement in Honolulu is not only about exceptional brews but also about fostering a sense of community. Breweries in Honolulu provide a gathering place for both locals and tourists to enjoy high-quality, locally brewed beers in a setting that often reflects the laid-back island lifestyle. Many of these establishments offer brewery tours and tasting sessions, giving visitors an insight into the brewing process and the opportunity to sample a variety of beer styles.
Craft beer lovers visiting Honolulu will find a selection of brewpubs and taprooms throughout the city, each offering their own distinct flavors and experiences. From crisp lagers and hoppy IPAs to tropical fruit-infused ales and rich porters, the range of craft beer available in Honolulu caters to a wide array of palates. Whether looking to explore the local beer culture or simply enjoy a refreshing beverage in the Hawaiian sun, Honolulu's craft beer scene is an essential experience for beer aficionados.
The Rise of Craft Beer in Honolulu
In recent years, Honolulu has seen a notable surge in craft beer popularity, with local breweries carving out a niche for beer enthusiasts seeking flavors beyond the conventional offerings.
History of Brewing in Hawaii
The heritage of brewing in Hawaii dates back to the mid-1800s, though the contemporary craft beer movement took hold much later. The 1990s witnessed the opening of pioneering enterprises such as the Aloha Beer Co, which helped to catalyze interest in locally-produced beer. Over time, the number of small-scale breweries has expanded, with venues like Honolulu Beerworks and Beer Lab HI leading the charge in innovation and creating a diverse and rich beer culture.
Craft Beer Versus Commercial Beers
Honolulu's discerning drinkers often draw comparisons between craft beers and their commercial counterparts. Craft beer denotes a production by small-scale breweries, with an emphasis on quality, flavor, and unique brewing techniques. Local breweries in Honolulu have championed a variety of styles, with IPAs, pale ales, and brown ales among the popular options. These craft beers are typically characterized by their depth of flavor and innovation in brewing, as opposed to the larger commercial beers that are often mass-produced with uniform taste profiles.
Honolulu Craft Beer at a Glance:
Breweries: Aloha Beer Co, Honolulu Beerworks, Beer Lab HI
Popular Styles: IPAs, Pale Ales, Brown Ales
Focus: Quality, Flavor, Unique Brewing Techniques
Key Honolulu Breweries
Honolulu's craft beer scene offers a diverse range of local flavors and distinct flagship beers that reflect the island's unique culture and history.
Aloha Beer Company
Aloha Beer Company serves as a staple in the Honolulu craft beer community. It is renowned for its selection of beers that include the smooth and crisp Primo Lager. This brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere that matches its island-inspired beer lineup.
Waikiki Brewing Company
Waikiki Brewing Company offers a variety of beers that embody the spirit of its iconic location. Among the popular choices is the flavorful Bikini Blonde, satisfying those who desire a tropical and refreshing beer experience.
Honolulu Beerworks
This brewery is a key player in Oahu's craft beer industry, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Honolulu Beerworks features the bold and assertive Pussy Grabs Back, demonstrating their dedication to both craft and community.
Beer Lab HI
Renowned for its experimental approach, Beer Lab HI continually pushes the boundaries of brewing. The brewery's offerings are ever-changing, inviting patrons to return for new taste experiences, including their unique take on Belgian and American-style ales.
Home of the Brave Brewing Company
Home of the Brave Brewing Company stands out for its historic themes and commitment to honoring military history. Its lineup, including the Waimānalo Farmhouse, provides patrons with a distinct selection of beers in a setting filled with historical memorabilia.
Brewery Tours and Tasting Rooms
Honolulu offers a variety of brewery tours and tasting experiences that showcase local Hawaiian brews, from IPAs to unique island flavors. These tours give enthusiasts a chance to explore the craft beer scene in a communal and educational setting.
Guided Tours
Visitors can participate in guided brewery tours where they have the opportunity to learn directly from knowledgeable tour guides. Tours often include multiple breweries, allowing guests to sample a wide range of beers.
Honolulu Brews Cruise: They offer a well-reviewed beer tour which includes Hawaiian historical insights.
Ko’olau Distillery: Known for its distillery tours and tastings, this venue also provides insight into its brewing process.
Aloha Beer: Provides a guided tasting for $12 per person and a combination of tasting and tour for $20, with a premium option available for $50.
Self-Guided Tours
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, self-guided tours in Honolulu's brewery scene are a perfect choice. This allows individuals to curate their own brewery experience around Oahu.
Kaka’ako neighborhood: Hosts a notable concentration of breweries, ideal for a self-guided walking tour.
Local Breweries:
Oahu Breweries: Can be included in a personalized tour itinerary across the island.
Lanikai Brewery in Kailua: Renowned for its local island flavors.
Big Island Brewhaus: While not on Oahu, it's a notable mention for those traveling to the Big Island.
Remember, each brewery and tasting room may have their own schedule for happy hours, tours, and tastings, so checking in advance is advised.
Local Ingredients and Brewing Techniques
The craft beer scene in Honolulu is distinguished by a dedication to utilizing local ingredients and pioneering brewing methods that uniquely express the island’s flavor profile.
Use of Locally Sourced Ingredients
Brewers in Honolulu take pride in incorporating locally sourced ingredients, resulting in beers with authentic Hawaiian characteristics. Maui Brewing Co. is known for showcasing local agriculture, from the distinct flavors of pineapples and coconuts to the subtle nuances offered by island-grown vanilla and cacao. The inclusion of local fruits and spices not only supports the regional economy but also provides drinkers with a true taste of Hawaii.
Fruits: Pineapple, Coconut, Mango, Lilikoi (Passionfruit)
Spices: Vanilla, Cacao, Kona Coffee Beans
Innovation in Brewing Methods
Honolulu's breweries are not afraid to experiment, embracing innovative brewing methods to enhance their craft beers. Small batch series allow brewers to fine-tune recipes and employ techniques that might include barrel aging or the use of locally made honey. This commitment to innovation furthers a beer culture that is both diverse and adventurous, ensuring that even the most discerning palates find something to appreciate.
Brewing Techniques: Barrel Aging, Infusion Methods
Innovative Flavors: Honey, Exotic Spices
By integrating Hawaiian-grown ingredients and embracing inventive methods, Honolulu's craft breweries create distinct beverages that resonate with the spirit of the islands.
Popular Craft Beer Styles in Honolulu
Honolulu's craft beer scene is diverse, offering a range of styles to suit any palate. One can find locally brewed options, from the hop-forward India Pale Ales to the refreshing Hana Hou Hefe, making the city a dynamic place for beer enthusiasts.
India Pale Ale (IPA)
IPA aficionados can rejoice in Honolulu's embrace of this hoppy brew style. Known for its robust and often citrus or pine flavor profiles, IPAs dominate local taprooms. Craft beer drinkers frequently seek out this style for its bold tastes and inventive variations.
Pale Ale
A staple in Honolulu's craft beer offerings, Pale Ales are characterized by their balanced malt and hop flavors, presenting a less intense but no less flavorful option. The style is renowned for its approachable nature, often serving as a gateway into the world of craft beer for newcomers.
Hana Hou Hefe
The Hana Hou Hefe is a uniquely named local wheat beer that is a testament to Honolulu's craft scene's creativity. Reflecting the tropical character of the region, it presents a refreshing choice with its light body and typically fruity yeast-derived notes.
Bikini Blonde
Bikini Blonde is another widely celebrated style, showcasing a lighter malt profile perfect for Honolulu's beachside settings. This lager often features a clean, crisp taste which makes it a popular choice among both locals and tourists basking in the Hawaiian sun.
Others
In addition to these popular styles, Honolulu's breweries produce a variety of other craft beers. They experiment with local ingredients and brewing techniques to create unique offerings such as seasonal ales, porters, stouts, and sour beers, thus ensuring that there's always something new and exciting on tap.
Pairing Food with Craft Beers
Honolulu's craft beer scene offers a variety of local flavors that can be paired with a wide range of foods for an enhanced gastronomic experience.
Gastropub Offerings
Gastropubs in Honolulu take pride in their eclectic menus, often featuring handcrafted beers alongside artisanal dishes. One can find handmade thin-crust pizzas that go exceptionally well with a robust IPA or a smooth lager. Moreover, many gastropubs curate their menu to include salads with fresh, local ingredients and dressings that marry well with the bright notes of a citrus-infused pale ale.
Beer and Burger Pairings
Burgers are a classic companion to craft beer, and restaurants across Honolulu have perfected this pair. A juicy, grilled burger with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese is typically matched with a hearty stout or a bold amber ale, bringing out the richness in both the food and the beverage. For those preferring lighter fare, a chicken or veggie burger complements a crisp pilsner or a refreshing blonde ale.
Craft Beer with Hawaiian Cuisine
The local Hawaiian cuisine offers a unique opportunity to pair craft beers with traditional dishes. Poke, a staple in Hawaiian diet, particularly the pipikaula style, pairs excellently with a pepper beer. The salty, smoky flavors of the dish contrast perfectly with the hint of spice in the beer. For a sweet end to the meal, a locally brewed tart saison with li hing mui (dried plum) can be just the right match for a tropical fruit dessert.
Craft Beer Bars and Restaurants
Honolulu's craft beer scene thrives within its bars and restaurants where aficionados and casual drinkers alike can enjoy a diverse range of locally brewed beers. Establishments with rotating taps offer fresh experiences, while dining venues highlight their pairings with craft beer menus.
Local Bars with Rotating Taps
Off The Wall Craft Beer & Wine provides a unique experience with its self-pour rotating taps system, allowing patrons to sample a variety of local beers. The establishment offers outdoor seating for those who enjoy fresh air with their craft beer. Patrons appreciate the innovative concept and the opportunity to explore new flavors regularly.
Hana Koa Brewing stands out among local breweries with a taproom that boasts a fine selection of craft beers. The bar staff, often referred to as knowledgeable bartenders, are adept at guiding visitors through the frequently updated beer list. This spot is a favorite for those looking to taste the latest in Honolulu's craft beer offerings.
Restaurants with Craft Beer Menus
Moku Kitchen pairs its farm-to-table culinary approach with a carefully curated craft beer menu. The restaurant takes pride in serving innovative dishes accompanied by local beers, enhancing the dining experience. Visitors can take advantage of the outdoor seating while enjoying their meal complemented by a craft beer selection that accentuates the flavors of Hawaii.
Craft Beer Events and Community
In Honolulu, the love for craft beer is celebrated through vibrant events and a strong sense of community. These gatherings not only showcase the best of local brews but also the aloha spirit inherent in the island's drinking culture.
Beer Festivals
Annual beer festivals in Honolulu are the pinnacle events for craft beer enthusiasts. The Honolulu Brewers Festival is one of the most prominent, featuring over 100 craft beers from Hawaii and beyond. Attendees relish the opportunity to taste a rich variety of styles and savor the communal cheers that resonate throughout the festival.
Another notable event is the Kona Brewers Festival, which, although rooted on the Big Island, draws a crowd from Honolulu who share a passion for drinking local and a celebration of craft brews. The festival is a manifestation of the community's support for local breweries, with proceeds often benefitting environmental and community organizations.
Meetups and Tastings
Casual meetups and tasting events provide an ideal setting for both aficionados and novices to explore the diverse world of craft beer. Local pubs and breweries host these gatherings, creating a hub for beer lovers to unite and share their enthusiasm.
BREW'd Craft Pub on University Avenue frequently orchestrates tasting sessions where attendees can savor a selection of craft beers and engage in enlightening conversations with fellow enthusiasts.
Community-driven beer meetups are held regularly in various venues, allowing participants to forge connections over shared tastes and new discoveries in the craft beer scene.
These events and gatherings not only enhance the appreciation for craft beer but also help foster a tight-knit community where the love of beer and local culture intertwine.
Planning Your Visit
When visiting Honolulu for its local craft beer experience, visitors should consider the best times to go and essential travel tips for a smooth trip. These points will help craft beer enthusiasts to maximize their enjoyment of Hawaii's brewing scene.
Best Times for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
Honolulu experiences a warm, tropical climate year-round, making it a great destination at any time. However, for those specifically interested in craft beer, it's advisable to check for beer festivals and events that usually take place in the summer months. This is when Oahu shines with local events, offering a diverse range of local brews.
Peak Season: Summer (June to August)
Pros: Beer festivals, vibrant local scene
Cons: Higher prices, crowded venues
Off-Peak Season: Fall (September to November)
Pros: Less crowded, potential for discounted accommodation
Cons: Fewer events
Accommodation and Local Travel Tips
Craft beer enthusiasts who visit Honolulu should consider staying close to popular brewing areas such as Kona Brewing Co in Koko Marina Center for convenience. A variety of accommodations can range from beachfront resorts in Lanikai to boutique hotels in downtown Honolulu.
Transport Options:
Public Buses: Economic, covers many tourist spots.
Rental Cars: Offers the most flexibility, but consider traffic and parking.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Convenient for quick trips to breweries.
Accommodation Tips:
Early Booking: Secure choices and better rates.
Location: Stay near the craft beer hotspots for easy access.
Visitors are advised to book accommodations and travel arrangements well in advance, as the popularity of Hawaii's islands can lead to limited availability, particularly during peak travel season.
Craft Beer on Neighbor Islands
Hawaii's neighbor islands boast a vibrant craft beer scene, with award-winning breweries that draw inspiration from the local landscape and ingredients. Each brewery brings a unique flavor to the island experience.
Maui Brewing Company
Maui Brewing Company stands as the largest craft brewery in Hawaii, located on Maui. Known for their commitment to local production, they offer a diverse array of beers that often incorporate Hawaiian flavors. Their flagship brews, like the Coconut Hiwa Porter and the Bikini Blonde Lager, are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Lanikai Brewing Company
Situated on Oahu, Lanikai Brewing Company is distinguished for its use of local, indigenous ingredients, creating distinctive beers. Lanikai is dedicated to crafting small-batch beers with a focus on quality and innovation. They are particularly noted for their Pillbox Porter and a range of tropical IPA's.
Big Island Brewhaus
Big Island Brewhaus is known for their creative approach to brewing. Located on Hawaii's Big Island, they have earned a reputation for both traditional and avant-garde styles. Their Golden Sabbath Belgian-style ale has garnered attention and praise across beer enthusiast circles.
Kona Brewing Company
Kona Brewing Company, one of the most recognizable Hawaiian craft beer brands, offers beers that have reached an international audience. Kona Brewing Co. connects deeply with the Hawaiian spirit and is famed for favorites like Longboard Island Lager and Big Wave Golden Ale. The brewery remains a staple of the Big Island’s craft beer movement since its establishment in 1994.
Beyond Beer: Other Local Beverages
While Honolulu is renowned for its vibrant craft beer scene, the city's palate extends to an impressive variety of local beverages. From island-inspired cocktails to unique Hawaiian spirits, there's a rich tapestry of flavors waiting to be discovered.
Honolulu's Love for Cocktails and Spirits
The cocktail scene in Honolulu is infused with the island's abundant natural fruits, manifesting in a colorful spectrum of drinks that often feature local spirits such as Hawaiian-made gin. Bartenders across the city masterfully blend these ingredients to create both traditional and innovative concoctions.
Popular Cocktails: Mai Tai, Blue Hawaii, Lava Flow
Key Ingredients: Pineapple, Coconut, Mango
Specialty Spirit: Hawaiian Gin, often characterized by unique botanicals found in the region
Bars not only serve classic cocktails but also spotlight Paradise Ciders, a local cider brand that offers a variety of tropical flavors aligning with Honolulu's taste for fresh and fruity beverages.
Local Wine and Cider Options
Hawaii's climate lends itself to the production of some notable wines and ciders. Locally-produced wines often encapsulate the essence of the island's terroir, with vineyards growing both traditional and tropical fruit-based wines.
Wine Varietal Examples:
Pineapple Wine
Traditional Grape Wine
Vineyards: Reflect the unique volcanic soil of the region
Ciders from local producers such as Paradise Ciders complement the range of local brews available, offering diverse flavors from dry to sweet profiles, incorporating local Hawaiian fruits. This growing industry exemplifies Honolulu's expanding taste for crafted, premium beverages.
Taking Honolulu Craft Beers Home
For visitors who want to capture the essence of Honolulu's craft beer scene, options abound for bringing a piece of the tropical brewing paradise home. Whether through local liquor stores with unique merchandise or breweries offering growlers and take-away selections, enthusiasts can easily find a memento of their Hawaiian beer journey.
Local Liquor Stores and Merchandise
Many local liquor stores in Honolulu stock a range of craft beers that reflect the local brewing culture. These stores often also sell branded merchandise, allowing patrons to purchase glassware, shirts, and other souvenirs emblazoned with their favorite Honolulu brewery logos. Highly recommended spots where one can find an extensive selection of local brews and merchandise include:
Tamura's Fine Wine & Liquors
The Liquor Collection
Fujioka's Wine Times
Customers can also check out brewery-specific apps or websites for the latest merchandise offerings and even order online for convenience.
Growlers and Take-Away Options
Visitors who want to take fresh Honolulu craft beer home can often purchase growlers—large, sealed containers that keep beer carbonated and flavorful. Breweries in Honolulu typically offer growler fills, with some even providing specialized containers that capture the spirit of the islands. Notable locations with take-away options include:
Honolulu Beerworks:
Offers a variety of their craft beer for growler fills.
Waikiki Brewing Company:
Provides branded growlers and a selection of their popular brews.
For travelers, taking home a growler can be a way to bring the taste of Honolulu's craft beers with them, whether to enjoy in their hotel room or back on the mainland. It's a practice that local breweries not only accommodate but also encourage as a means of sharing their love for beer with a broader audience.
