5 Things to Do in Waikiki at Night (That Aren’t Bars)
Author: XploreRide Editorial Team
The truth is, some of Honolulu’s best experiences only happen in the dark. From futuristic light tours to free cultural shows, the city comes alive in a different way at night.
Here is your guide to Waikiki after dark—no ID required.
🌙 Evening Activity Planner
Find the perfect night out based on your mood.
| Activity | Vibe | Best Night | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. XploreRide Night Tour | Futuristic & Chill | Daily | ~$68 |
| 2. Hilton Fireworks | Loud & Exciting | Fridays Only | Free |
| 3. Stargazing | Romantic/Quiet | New Moon | Free |
| 4. Kuhio Beach Hula | Cultural | Tue/Sat | Free |
| 5. Night Market | Foodie Heaven | Specific Dates | $ (Food) |
1. The “Light Show on Wheels”: XploreRide
Most sightseeing tours stop running at 4:00 PM. XploreRide is one of the few that is specifically designed for the evening.
This isn’t just driving around in the dark. The bus’s transparent screens light up with vibrant animations that contrast beautifully against the night sky. It feels like riding inside a movie. It is the perfect way to cool down after a hot beach day, and because it’s fully enclosed, you don’t have to worry about the evening humidity or bugs. The narration takes on a more dramatic tone in the evening, highlighting the legends and mysteries of ancient Honolulu.
- Why it works at night: The OLED screen visuals are sharper and brighter in the evening darkness, making the “ghost” warriors and digital whales look even more realistic.
- Timing: Tours run until approx 8:00 PM. It’s a great pre-dinner activity.
2. The Friday Night Ritual: Hilton Fireworks
If it’s Friday, you have one job: Look up.
Every Friday night (usually around 7:45 PM or 8:00 PM depending on the season), the Hilton Hawaiian Village launches a massive fireworks display over the lagoon. It has been a tradition since 1988 and signals the official start of the weekend.
- Where to watch: You don’t need to be a guest at the Hilton. The best free views are from the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon beach (arrive at 7:00 PM to claim a spot on the sand) or the Magic Island sea wall if you have a car.
- Pro Tip: Traffic leaving Waikiki after the fireworks is a nightmare (the “Fireworks Jam”). Plan to stay in the area for dinner at Tropics Bar & Grill and wait for the cars to clear out.
Image Source: Hawaii Tours
3. The Sunset Hula Show: Kuhio Beach
Forget the expensive luau. The most authentic hula show in town is free and open to the public.
Located at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound (near the Duke Kahanamoku Statue at the intersection of Kalākaua & Uluniu Ave), this show features authentic hula schools (halau) performing to live music as the sun sets and the tiki torches are lit. It begins with the blowing of the conch shell (pu) and the lighting of the torches—a ceremony that is magical, respectful, and deeply Hawaiian.
- Schedule: Shows typically run Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM (check the official schedule as dates can change seasonally).
- Seating: It is on the grass. Bring a beach towel or woven mat to sit on.
Image Source: Hanauma Bay Tours
4. Street Food Feast: Kaka’ako Night Markets
If you are a foodie, skip the sit-down restaurant and head to the arts district of Kaka’ako (a 10-minute Uber ride from Waikiki).
This neighborhood hosts massive community block parties like the Honolulu Night Market or Eat The Street events. You will find rows of food trucks serving everything from garlic shrimp and spicy ahi poke to ube cheesecake, plus live DJs, fashion shows, and local art vendors. It’s where the locals actually hang out on weekends.
- Check the Calendar: These aren’t daily. Check Instagram handles like @ourkakaako or @streetgrindz for the 2026 schedule. They usually happen on the Third Saturday of the month.
- Vibe: Hip, local, young, and very casual. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Image Source: Our Kakaako
5. Urban Stargazing: Tantalus Lookout
Want to escape the city lights? Drive up Round Top Drive to the Puu Ualakaa State Park (Tantalus Lookout).
While the main park gate closes at sunset (technically 6:45 PM in winter, 7:45 PM in summer), there are several large pull-off areas along the road before the gate that offer sweeping views of the twinkling city lights below (“The Honolulu City Lights”) and the stars above. Because you are elevated above the city smog, the air is crisp and clear. It is a favorite spot for couples.
- Warning: The road is winding, dark, and narrow. Drive slowly and watch for cyclists.
- Safety: Don’t leave valuables in your car (break-ins can happen at overlooks).
The “Mocktail” List (Where to Drink Alcohol-Free)
If you want the fancy drink without the booze, these bars make the best “Zero-Proof” cocktails:
- House Without A Key: Order the “Virgin Halekulani Fruit Punch”—it’s a classic blend of fresh juices.
- Monkeypod Kitchen: Their “Virgin Lilikoi Foam” drinks are famous. The foam is made with egg whites and passion fruit.
- Momosan Waikiki: Great Japanese fruit sodas and iced teas that pair perfectly with ramen.
Nightlife FAQ
- Is Waikiki safe to walk around at night?Generally, yes. Kalākaua Avenue (the main shopping strip) is brightly lit, patrolled by police, and crowded with families until 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM. However, avoid walking alone in the unlit areas of Kapiolani Park or dark stretches of the beach after midnight.
- What time do stores close in Waikiki?Waikiki is a late-night city! Most shops at the International Market Place and Royal Hawaiian Center stay open until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. ABC Stores (mini-marts) are often open until midnight or later for snacks and drinks.
- Do I need a jacket at night?In the winter months (December – March), temperatures can dip into the high 60s/low 70s with a cool trade wind breeze. A light denim jacket or hoodie is nice to have, especially if you are near the ocean or on an open-air trolley. (Note: XploreRide is climate-controlled, so no jacket is needed inside!)
- Are the beaches open at night?Technically, yes, you can walk on the sand 24/7. However, the beach park facilities (restrooms and showers) often close overnight. Swimming at night is not recommended due to poor visibility and strong currents.
- How do I get around at night if I don’t have a car?Waikiki is very walkable. For longer distances, Uber/Lyft is plentiful and safe. The Waikiki Trolley Pink Line runs until about 8:00 PM, and TheBus runs late, but routes become less frequent after 9:00 PM.
Final Thoughts: The City Lights Are Calling
Waikiki has a special energy after dark. Whether you are watching the fireworks explode over the lagoon or taking a futuristic ride through history on XploreRide, the evening offers a cooler, more relaxed side of paradise.
End your day with a visual masterpiece. Book the evening tour that lights up the night.