Searching for a fun dining experience in Waikīkī? Check out these theme restaurants — great food, lively decor, and warm Hawaiʻi hospitality.
When family and friends visit Honolulu, we want them to enjoy a memorable meal. Waikīkī’s theme restaurants offer more than food: they deliver atmosphere, history and local character. Whether you want to celebrate surf culture, taste tiki-inspired cocktails, or experience plantation-era charm, these spots are among our favorites for a fun night out.
Below are local recommendations for theme restaurants in Waikīkī that combine good food, distinctive decor, ocean views and Hawaiian hospitality.
Table of Contents
- 1. Duke’s Waikiki
- 2. Hula Grill Waikiki
- 3. Tiki’s Grill & Bar
- 4. Lulu’s Waikiki
- Hawaiʻi TV & Movie Tours
- Visitor FAQs
1. Duke’s Waikiki
Celebrate Hawaiʻi’s surf culture with ocean views, island fare and live music.
📍 2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🎵 Live Music: Daily 4pm–12am
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Duke’s Waikiki is a classic Waikīkī institution honoring swimmer and surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku. Located at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort, the restaurant blends surf history with relaxed beachfront dining. Inside you’ll find historic photos and surf memorabilia, a thatched-roof Barefoot Bar, and an outdoor patio with views toward Lēʻahi (Diamond Head).
The menu highlights island favorites and casual comfort food. Duke’s is known for a value Buffet Breakfast option and weekly specials such as Taco Tuesday and a Prime Rib buffet. Must-try items include the Lava Flow cocktail and Kimo’s Original Hula Pie — staples of the Waikīkī dining scene.
INSIDE TIP: For an especially festive vibe, check out Duke’s on Sunday for live music and a beachside party atmosphere.
2. Hula Grill Waikiki
Locally inspired dishes in a laid-back, open-air setting with ocean views.
📍 2335 Kalākaua Ave #201, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🎵 Live Music: Daily 12–2pm
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Perched above Duke’s, Hula Grill celebrates Hawaiian culture with a plantation-era aesthetic and a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The open-air dining and thatched-roof Plantation Bar create a relaxed spot to watch the sunset. Menu items reflect Oʻahu-sourced fish, produce and meats, with dishes such as Banana Mac Pancakes, Loco Moco, Poke Tacos and a signature Fresh Squeezed Mai Tai.
Hula Grill emphasizes sustainability by working with local fishermen, farmers and ranchers. The atmosphere is especially appealing at sunset and during weekend brunch hours, and the restaurant often features traditional hula performances that add authentic local flavor to the dining experience.
INSIDE TIP: The Plantation Bar’s Early Eats menu runs daily from 3–6pm and includes $12 specialty cocktails — a great value for a relaxed pre-dinner drink.
3. Tiki’s Grill & Bar
A tiki-themed spot ideal for sunsets, island bites and creative cocktails.
📍 2570 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Lunch & Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily 3–5pm
🎵 Live Music: Daily
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Tiki’s Grill & Bar at The Twin Fin is Waikīkī’s go-to for a lively tiki atmosphere. The dining room and open deck feature lava rock walls, volcano-style lighting and kiʻi (wooden statues) that set a festive scene. The menu mixes island comfort and fusion dishes, including Coconut Shrimp, Kalua Pig Quesadilla, Guava-Glazed Ribs and Hawaiian Fish Sandwiches.
Signature tropical cocktails are part of the experience, often served in souvenir tiki mugs, volcano-shaped cups or sea-themed bowls. Tiki’s playful drink presentations and a broad cocktail list make it a favorite for visitors looking for an upbeat evening with ocean breezes.
INSIDE TIP: During December, Tiki’s decoratively transforms part of the space into a festive holiday pop-up bar with extensive seasonal decorations.
4. Lulu’s Waikiki
A surf-club–style eatery serving generous portions with a beachside backdrop.
📍 2586 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Mon–Fri 2–4pm
🎵 Live Music: Mon & Wed–Sat 6–10pm
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Lulu’s blends surf club energy and sports-bar fun, attracting both locals and visitors. Located at the edge of Waikīkī Beach by Kapiʻolani Park, it offers open-air seating and ocean views. The menu leans into local favorites and hearty portions: Mochi Pancakes, SPAM Fried Rice, Bikini Bun Cheeseburgers, Fish & Chips, Garlic Shrimp Plates and Lilikoʻi (passionfruit) Cheesecake. A gluten-free menu is also available.
Happy Hour Monday–Friday from 2–4pm features drink and food discounts. The restaurant’s casual vibe and generous portions make it a reliable choice for groups or a relaxed meal after the beach. Lulu’s also offers industry discounts on select days.
In summary, these Waikīkī theme restaurants pair flavorful menus with memorable settings — from surf history to tiki flair and plantation charm — for a fun, island-style dining experience.
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Visitor FAQs
Reserve online via OpenTable or call the restaurant. Reservations are recommended for peak times; walk-ins are often accommodated when available.
Show schedules vary by venue and day. Check local event listings or hotel entertainment calendars for up-to-date performances in Waikīkī.
The Elvis statue associated with his 1973 Aloha From Hawaii concert is at the Neal Blaisdell Center area in Honolulu. It commemorates the historic satellite-broadcast show and is located near the venue’s parking and entrance areas.