Waikiki's beloved LGBTQ+ institution since 1974, offering a warm, inclusive atmosphere with open-air second-floor views of Kapiolani Park, weekly themed nights, and a loyal local following.
Hula's Bar and Lei Stand is Waikiki's longest-running LGBTQ+ nightlife institution, operating since 1974 on the second floor of the Waikiki Trade Center at 134 Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii. With open-air balcony views across Kapiolani Park toward Diamond Head, Hula's occupies a unique geographic and cultural position in Hawaii's nightlife landscape -- a community anchor and social hub that has served visitors and locals for over five decades.
The crowd is inclusive and multigenerational, drawing LGBTQ+ visitors and allies from across the United States and internationally, alongside a loyal local following that has sustained the bar through decades of change in Waikiki. The atmosphere is unpretentious and warm -- there is no attitude at the door, no strict dress hierarchy, and the energy shifts naturally from daytime casual (the bar opens at 10:00 AM) through afternoon social to evening dance bar without a jarring transition. On weekday evenings the bar has the feel of a welcoming neighborhood pub; weekend nights transform it into a full dance bar with DJ music, themed events, and a busy dancefloor.
Weekly programming includes rotating themed nights such as drag shows, underwear nights, bear nights, and karaoke. These events are calendared on the venue's website and social media and draw themed crowds that significantly change the energy from a standard weeknight. No cover charge applies on most nights, making Hula's one of the most accessible nightlife options in Waikiki for an extended evening out.
The drinks programme is straightforward and affordable -- a full bar with cocktails priced at the lower end of the Waikiki range. The open-air second-floor balcony is the standout seating area, offering views of Kapiolani Park and a natural breeze that makes open-air drinking pleasant year-round. Hula's does not offer formal bottle service. The venue closes nightly at 2:00 AM.
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM
- Dress code
- Casual
Location
134 Kapahulu Ave (2nd floor), Honolulu, HI 96815
Highlights
- Waikiki's longest-running LGBTQ+ venue, established in 1974 with a loyal local following
- Open-air second-floor balcony overlooking Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head
- Weekly themed nights including drag shows, karaoke, and community events
- No cover charge on most nights with some of the most affordable cocktails in Waikiki
- Inclusive, welcoming atmosphere open to LGBTQ+ visitors and straight allies equally
Tips for visiting
- Check the weekly events calendar on the Hula's website before visiting to match the themed night to preferences
- The open-air balcony fills quickly on weekend evenings -- arriving by 9:00 PM secures outdoor seating
- A small cover charge is occasionally applied on themed performance nights -- confirm in advance via the website
- Daily opening at 10:00 AM makes Hula's unusual among Waikiki bars for afternoon social visits
- Located at the edge of Waikiki near Kapiolani Park, slightly outside the busiest beachfront zone
Frequently asked questions
Is Hula's Bar and Lei Stand exclusively for LGBTQ+ patrons?
No. Hula's is an LGBTQ+ venue that warmly welcomes all visitors regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Straight allies have always been part of the Hula's community.
Is there a cover charge at Hula's?
No cover charge applies on most nights. Special themed events and performance nights may carry a small door fee -- the current schedule is published on the venue's website.
What themed events does Hula's host?
Regular programming includes drag shows, karaoke nights, underwear parties, and bear nights, among others. The schedule rotates weekly and is published on the Hula's website and social media.
What are the opening hours at Hula's?
Hula's is open daily from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM, one of the longest operating windows of any Waikiki nightlife venue.
Where is Hula's located and how is it accessed?
Hula's is on the second floor of the Waikiki Trade Center at 134 Kapahulu Avenue, at the edge of Waikiki near Kapiolani Park. The venue is reached via a staircase at street level.