5 Best Nightlife in Kauai, Hawaii

You can sip an umbrella cocktail while you gaze at the original Bali Hai from this lounge, open on two sides and offering breezy views across Hanalei Bay to plush emerald mountains. If you think the scene looks familiar, maybe you’ve seen the classic movie South Pacific, filmed here. The Hollywood version of Bali Hai is actually Kauai’s Mt. Makana. Order a tropical cocktail and pupu (Hawaiian hors d’oeuvres) and enjoy a truly enchanted evening as the sun sets over the sparkling waters. Local musicians entertain guests Thursday through Monday. Nearby Tunnels Beach (aka Haena Beach and Makua) is often called Nurses' Beach, where Mitzi Gaynor sang about washing that man right outta her hair; Hanalei Bay is where Bloody Mary sang “Bali Hai.”

Nestled in a bamboo forest draped in bougainvillea and flowering vines and hidden from view off the Kuhio Highway is a charming little venue where local musicians perform most evenings. Previously known as Caffé Coco, it now offers vegan fare, including pupu (appetizers), entrées, and desserts. It may not have a liquor license, but don't let that stop you from enjoying the entertainment in a pleasant outdoor setting; just bring your own wine or beer. It's open Tuesday through Saturday until 9.

This poolside bar and grill is a scenic place to be on the South Shore to celebrate sunset with a drink and casual meal because the ocean view is unsurpassed. On the nights Lava's is open, happy hour is from 3 to 5 pm, and there's live music. It's closed for dinner when Rum Fire restaurant is open.

This venerable and funky institution in sleepy Hanalei still offers its famous luau at 5 on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, although the bar is the big attraction. The spirits of locals and visitors alike are always high at this popular hangout, which features live nightly entertainment and Hawaiian music on Friday evening. It's open until 1 am on weekends.

The sleepy North Shore stays awake—until 10:30, that is—each evening in this small, convivial deli and bar inside Hanalei's restored old school building. There's local live Hawaiian, jazz, rock, and folk music on Saturday and Sunday evenings.