Sand-floor tables right on the beach at Anaehoomalu Bay (A-Bay), with tiki torches, sunset views, live music, and generous tropical cocktails. The Big Island's most atmospheric beach bar with a genuinely relaxed local feel.
Lava Lava Beach Club is a beachfront bar and restaurant at Anaehoomalu Bay (A-Bay) in Waikoloa on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii's Big Island, offering one of the most atmospheric open-air drinking experiences in the Hawaiian Islands. The venue places tables directly on the sand with tiki torches lining the shoreline at dusk, creating an ambiance that feels genuinely rooted in the natural landscape rather than manufactured for tourism.
The setting at A-Bay is exceptional -- a calm, sheltered bay backed by ancient fishponds and framed by black lava fields, with sunsets that sweep the full horizon in orange and violet over the Pacific. The crowd is broad and relaxed, mixing resort guests from nearby properties with locals, families, couples marking occasions, and travelers exploring the Big Island. There is no dress code beyond beach-appropriate casual, and the venue welcomes all ages throughout the evening hours.
Live Hawaiian music is performed most evenings, beginning around sunset and running through the early evening. Acoustic local artists perform traditional Hawaiian slack-key guitar, ukulele, and contemporary island music. The combination of live music and the open-air beach setting reinforces a genuine sense of place that is one of the Kohala Coast's defining hospitality experiences.
The drinks programme is generous -- tropical cocktails using local rum and fruit syrups are the bar's strength, and the signature lava lava rum punch is a popular choice with returning visitors. Local craft beers, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks are all available. Prices are moderate for the Waikoloa resort area, with cocktails typically $14 to $19. The kitchen operates from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, serving fish tacos, grilled seafood, and island-style plates suited to a beach setting. No cover charge applies.
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location
69-1081 Ku'uali'i Pl, Waikoloa, HI 96738
Highlights
- Sand-floor tables directly on Anaehoomalu Bay beach with tiki torch atmosphere at dusk
- Spectacular Kohala Coast sunsets visible across the full Pacific horizon from the beachfront
- Live Hawaiian slack-key guitar and ukulele music most evenings beginning at sunset
- Signature lava lava tropical rum punch and fresh-fruit cocktails
- Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere on Hawaii's Big Island with no dress code
Tips for visiting
- Reserve a beachfront table well in advance -- sunset hours between 6:00 and 7:30 PM fill quickly
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to settle in before the best light begins
- The sand-floor area can be uneven; flat sandals are more comfortable than heels
- Mosquitoes can be active near the ancient fishponds in the evening -- insect repellent is advisable
- Check the weekly live music schedule on the venue's website as performing artists rotate regularly
Frequently asked questions
Is there a cover charge at Lava Lava Beach Club?
No cover charge applies at any time. Guests pay only for food and drinks ordered.
When is live music performed at Lava Lava Beach Club?
Live Hawaiian music is performed most evenings, typically beginning around sunset. The schedule varies by season -- checking the venue's website for current programming is recommended.
Can visitors come just for drinks without dining?
Yes, the bar area is open to visitors who wish to drink without ordering food, though seating priority during peak hours is given to dining guests.
Is Lava Lava Beach Club suitable for families with children?
Yes, the venue welcomes families with children during dinner service hours. The atmosphere is casual and the setting on the sand makes it accessible for all ages.
How early should visitors arrive to get a beachfront table?
Beachfront tables can be reserved in advance, which is strongly recommended for sunset visits. Walk-in guests should arrive at least 45 minutes before sunset to have the best chance of front-row seating.