9 Best Breweries in Hawaii!
Hawaii is embracing the craft and microbrew scene, and in recent years this small state has come to support many new brew masters. From excellent ales to IPAs to sip by the water, be sure to check out these best breweries in Paradise!
Kona Brewing Company, Kailua-Kona, HI
Kona Brewing Company is one of the larger and more well established breweries in the state of Hawaii, with an additional outpost on the island of Oahu. Their beers are available on tap, in retail stores, and in bars and restaurants throughout the islands and the mainland U.S. The tasting room and restaurant in Kailua-Kona has a vibrant atmosphere, often hosts live music and events, and the menu is one of the best in town. Named with a nod to the islands, try a variety of styles like the classic Longboard Lager, the Fire Rock Pale Ale or the Pipeline Porter.
Big Island Brewhaus, Waimea, HI
The décor inside and throughout the patio is quirky and fun, with lots of local wood and artwork, and the servers are very friendly. The menu is outstanding and owners Tom and Jayne Kerns work with local farmers, fishermen, cheese mongers and beekeepers to keep ingredients fresh. Recent awards include a gold medal for the Overboard IPA, a silver medal for the White Mountain Porter and a write up in Food & Wine magazine—definitely stop in if you are passing through Waimea!
Maui Brewing Company, Multiple locations
With locations in Maui and Oahu, this growing brewery produces several popular and easily recognizable brews, such as the Bikini Blonde Lager and the Big Swell IPA. With tasting rooms and restaurants in several locations, this popular establishment is definitely worth a visit. The Kihei tasting room hosts fun events such as Bends & Brews, an all-levels yoga class followed by drinks. Their restaurant menus are inspired by local flavors and the lai- back Hawaiian lifestyle, and the vibe perfect for group outings.
Kohola Brewery, Lahaina, HI
Kohola Brewery opened in December 2015 and has been steadily growing in popularity since. You can book tours online to check out the brewing process at Kohola Brewery from Tuesday-Saturday and there is also a daily happy hour from 5-7 p.m. Every Monday is “SIN” night (service industry night) and the brewery also hosts special events. They have several year-round standbys, like the Talk Story Pale Ale and the 88 IPA, but also have interesting limited releases, such as a Lilikoi Saison and a Pineapple Lokahi Pilsner.
Honolulu Beerworks, Honolulu, HI
Opened in 2014 by Geoff Seideman and wife Charmayne, the focus here is on unique ingredients and integration within the community. The communal seating and beer garden atmosphere has a casual rustic charm and makes the most of the beautiful Hawaii weather. Food items are created to complement the beers and appeal to a variety of tastes. Try the Pia Mahi’ai Honey Citrus Saison or the Cooke Street ESB.
Waikiki Brewing Company, Honolulu, HI
This brewery and restaurant offers handcrafted beer, “grinds” (the Hawaiian slang for snacks) and craft & beer cocktails for those looking for something different. Try the Jalapeño Amber Michelada, their Jalapeño Mouth Amber Ale with tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce and lime. Snack on Ahi poke, a Kalua Pork Cuban, or a tofu Bahn Mi and enjoy the ambience of this festive brewpub.
Lanikai Brewing Company, Kailua, HI
Considered by many to be a hidden gem, this small tasting room is worth a visit. Using local ingredients like Lilikoi foraged in the valley and cacao from the Big Island, Lanikai Brewing is committed to quality. Try the Route 70 Saison and make sure to bring your growler!
Kauai Beer Company, Lihue, HI
Opened in 2013, this neighborhood brewery and a great beer and food menu. Try the MOO MOO Milk Stout or the Tropical Armadillo Oatmeal Pale Ale. All food items are made fresh in house, and some, like the lamb stout stew, include beer in their preparation. Check out the website for information on events, like trivia and food truck pop ups.
Kauai Island Brewing and Grill, Eleele, HI
Who doesn’t love beer and games? Kauai Island Brewing has six old school pinball machines, rotating between “Star Trek,” “Wizard of Oz,” “Indiana Jones” and others, along with retro “Pac Man” gaming consoles. Open mic nights and other events help add to the festive vibe. Offering over 10 house-crafted beers, along with rotating guest drafts, there is something for everyone to try.
