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Andrew Stevens2018-07-23 18:23:212025-10-20 17:59:16Honolulu Gay PrideGay Hawaii Guide, Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, Oahu.
Gay Hawaii is one of the world’s most unique destinations. The Aloha state is blessed with cosmopolitan beaches, lush landscapes, and rich rainforests. .
The world famous Waikiki beach and diamond head in the distance.
Hawaii is a tropical island escape offering a slice of heaven, with gay-friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and incredible biodiversity. So, whether you are a romantic beach lover or an outdoor adventurer, Hawaii has everything you need for a vacation to remember.
Table of Contents
Gay rights in Hawaii
Tourism is at the heart of Hawaii’s economy and locals have seen all types of visitors. Islanders are open minded and relaxed. You are unlikely to face any problems during your stay.
Same sex marriage was legalized in Hawaii in 2013 and Hawaii has become increasingly attractive as a destination for gay travellers. It is one of the top destinations for gay weddings and honeymoons.
When to visit Hawaii?
Hawaii is year-round destination with great weather guaranteed.
The weather in Hawaii is perfect all year round. Temperature-wise, April, May, September, and October are probably the most enjoyable times to visit (which luckily coincides with the off season, when the best rates are available, and the islands are less crowded).
If it does rain during you holiday on one part of Hawaii, the sun is usually shining on another, a short drive away. The rain is warm, and downpours usually do not last too long.
The rainy season for the beach destinations of Waikiki, Poipu, Kona and Kihei, is between November and April, but no matter when you visit you are guaranteed some fun in the sun!
The Islands of Hawaii
Explore beyond Oahu, visit the stunning island of Kauai.
Most visitors to Hawaii will arrive via the main Island, Oahu, home to the International Airport. Oahu and Honolulu in particular, offers the most options to gay visitors. However, if you plan to island-hop, Maui and the Big Island also have a fun and relaxed gay scene.
Oahu
The biggest of all the Islands and home to three quarters of the population, visitors to Oahu can enjoy the soft sandy beaches of the legendary Waikiki Beach, explore the rainforests on quadbikes and relive history at Pearl Harbour.
Honolulu has a metropolitan population of nearly 1 million residents so you can expect a well-developed gay scene. That said, the vibe is distinctly easy going and friendly.
Getting Here and Getting Around
The Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is twenty minutes from downtown Waiki Beach. A taxi will cost around USD 50. You can also catch a SpeediShuttle for under USD 20. Save the hassle and pre-book a round-trip transfer.
- Most people stay close to the beach in Waikiki, within easy walking distance from the gay bars, clubs, and tourist attractions.
- TheBus, a bus system with low fares, and the Waikiki Trolley, which can quickly get you to some of the most popular tourist spots.
- If you are looking to discover more of the Island, a car is more convenient and can be rented at the airport or in downtown Oahu.
- To explore nearby attractions, you can also rent a bike or a moped. Costs vary between USD 15 and USD 50 per day.
Honolulu Gay Map
Address: 2863 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Relaxed gay beach by Diamond Head.
- Calm water, sandy entry, clear mornings.
- Easy walk to drinks and food at Kaimana.
- Crowd is friendly, mixed, low-key.
Address: 2259 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Iconic pink landmark on Waikiki Beach.
- Opened in 1927; timeless Spanish-Moorish style.
- Historic wing and Mailani Tower rooms.
- Mai Tai Bar days, Azure fine dining nights.
- Live music and sunset views over Diamond Head.
- Website
Address: 412 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Retro rooms with private lanais.
- Bungalows and 1–2BR suites for extra space.
- Suites add lounges and wet bars.
- Comfy beds, quiet A/C, reliable Wi-Fi.
- Good value stay a short walk from the beach.
- Website
Address: 129 Paoakalani Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Boutique hotel near the sand.
- Modern, uncluttered rooms; comfy beds.
- Select rooms offer partial ocean views.
- Beach gear available; strong Wi-Fi.
- Good value for the Waikiki location.
- Website
Address: 2161 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Beachfront condos with full kitchens and lanais.
- Ocean or Fort DeRussy Park views.
- No pool; step straight onto the sand.
- Housekeeping is lighter; units vary.
- Good value for longer Waikiki stays.
- Website
Address: 404 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Honolulu’s LGBTQ country-western dance night.
- Free lessons, no alcohol, relaxed crowd.
- Line dance, two-step, swing, waltz.
- Warm, welcoming, no cover—donations only.
- Open: Every Tuesday 6:30pm-9pm
- (except for the second Tuesday of the month)
Address: 80 S Pauahi St, Honolulu, HI 96813
- Downtown Honolulu drag-and-dance club.
- High-energy shows, pop/dance DJ sets.
- Fast bar, clear cover, 21+ crowd.
- Late-night stop for locals and visitors.
- Open: Saturday-Friday 8pm–2am
Address: 1726 Kapiolani Blvd Ste 201, Honolulu, HI 96814
- LGBTQ+ nightclub with high-energy weekends.
- Drag shows, DJs, and themed events.
- Stylish two-floor venue near Waikiki.
- Good drinks, great music, friendly crowd.
- Open: Friday–Saturday 9:30pm–2am
Address: 407 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Casual gay bar with locals and visitors sharing stories.
- Karaoke, drag nights, and bear events fill the week.
- Lanai seating, pool table, and friendly relaxed crowd.
- Good value drinks and a laid-back Waikiki feel.
- Open: Mon–Fri 4pm–1:30am, Sat–Sun 2pm–1:30am
- Website
Address: 408 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Gay bar with a friendly, mixed crowd and strong drinks.
- Regular trivia, karaoke, and underwear parties here.
- Small balcony, neon room, and fast bar service too.
- Relaxed vibe that turns lively as night goes on.
- Open: Daily 12pm–2am
Address: 2424 Koa Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Gay karaoke bar with a fun, welcoming Waikiki crowd.
- Colorful lights, singalongs, and laughter every night.
- Strong pours, quick service, and upbeat local energy.
- Tiny space, big heart, known for its joyful chaos.
- Open: Daily 7pm–2am
- Website
Address: 2155 Lauula St, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Gay karaoke hangout with a welcoming mixed crowd.
- Lively mic all day, upbeat room, steady rotation.
- Fast service, strong pours, fair prices.
- Go-to Waikiki spot for low-key fun.
- Open: Mon–Fri 2pm–2am, Sat–Sun 12pm–2am
Address: 134 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Iconic Waikiki gay bar with Diamond Head views.
- Live music, open mic, DJs, and themed parties.
- Fast service, solid cocktails, long happy hour.
- Easy daytime hang that ramps up at night.
- Open: Daily 12pm–2am
Oahu, Hawaii’s Gay Scene
Most of the gay scene is found in and around Lewers Street.
The gay scene in Hawaii is concentrated in the island of Oahu.
Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is where you will find the best gay bars and clubs as well as several circuit parties, events, and pride festivals.
Waikiki Beach is the epicentre of Hawaii's gay life and is where most gay travellers choose to stay.
Hawaii attracts quite a mix of visitors from US servicemen to European tourists as well as tourists from Japan, Asia and beyond.
Where to stay in Oahu?
5 Star! Located on Waikiki Beach overlooking Diamond Head, the Halekulani hotel boasts 3 restaurants, a live jazz lounge, and a day spa. A spacious lanai is provided in each guest room. Free WiFI is available throughout the property. Choose between Premier Suites, executive luxury suites, diamond head suites, ocean suites, pool view suites, junior suites, and standard rooms.
Readers Choice! Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort features an oceanfront swimming pool with sun terrace, 3 on-site oceanfront restaurants, and a fitness centre. Rooms offer great views of the beach. The location is close to all the nearby bars, restaurants and gay scene.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
Private Beach Area! Just steps from Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa boasts a freshwater pool, a private beach area and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. Guests have a variety of on-site dining options. Rooms provide free gourmet tea and coffee.
Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani
Luxury Option! Located in the heart of Waikiki, 2 minutes' walk to Waikiki Beach, Halepuna Waikiki is a luxury boutique hotel surrounded by shopping and dining. Guest rooms feature complimentary WiFi, 50-inch flat screen TVs, TOTO washlets (electronic bidet), specialty bath amenities, deep-soaking tub, shade and lighting controls, and USB and Bluetooth connectivity conveniences.
The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
Great Value! Featuring an outdoor pool, the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club in Waikiki offers vintage inspired bungalows and suites, with optional in-room coffee and cocktail service.
Hand-crafted furniture, custom-tile bathroom floors and eclectic artwork is featured in all rooms.The Swim Club offers poolside entertainment, cultural activities and programs. Private cabanas are available for hire. Guests can shop at the onsite boutique, Olive and Oliver. A 24-hour reception welcomes guests.
Castle Waikiki Shore Beachfront Condominiums
Great Facilities Directly on beautiful Waikiki Beach and 20 minutes’ drive from the Honolulu International Airport, these apartments offer a TV and A DVD player. Tennis courts are onsite.
A private terrace is included in each apartment at the Waikiki Shore Beachfront Condominiums.
Gay bars come and go, but there are some stalwarts that have become firm favourites with locals and visitors. Honolulu's gay nightlife scene is concentrated in Waikiki, so you can spend the day topping up your tan and the night at the nearby bars and clubs. Many of the bars are located on Kuhio Avenue between Kalaimoko Street and Lewers Street.
- Bacchus – Comfortable lounge bar with great drinks prices and friendly bartenders. Popular trivia and bingo nights. Located on Waikiki Lewer’s Party Street this should be your first stop of the night.
- Chiko's Tavern – an unpretentious neighbourhood lounge with bar bites, black-vinyl booths & diverse karaoke, drag queen bingo, and piano cabaret.
- In Between – Small friendly bar with a great bar staff. Gay bar but quite mixed. Popular with karaoke lovers.
- Wang Chung’s Touted as “the most fun karaoke bar in Waikiki,” it’s a cozy, welcoming place. Great for those who love to belt out their favorite tunes.
- Tapa’s Restaurant & Lanai Bar – (Tapa is the name of the owner BTW), great outdoor patio, gay-popular restaurant and lounge, good Sunday brunch + T-Dance. Also host to special parties, Aloha Bears nights, karaoke, movies. Open until 2 a.m. every night of the week. Hot Go Gos and Neon dancers at weekends.
- Hula's Bar & Lei Stand – The most popular gay bar in Hawaii, located in Waikiki, close to the rest of the gay bars in the city. Hula's has lots of balcony seating and is open from morning to late night, shifting from beach bar to lounge to nightclub depending on the time of day you visit. The bar is open daily from 10am and hosts special shows from Thursday-Saturday with go-go boys.
- Scarlet Lounge – Home to the world-famous Pineapple Stage! The club is in the downtown area and has great drag shows. The club is spread out across two floors and the interior is decorated like a giant dollhouse. and fun talent nights. The “Freaky Friday” night are especially popular. Open Fridays and Saturdays until 2 a.m the music skews towards electronic dance and top hits.
Oahu, Hawaii Gay Beaches
Waikiki beach is world famous and encompasses of six distinct beach districts spread out over two miles. Some of the most well-known beaches include Waikiki Beach, Fort Derussy Beach Park, Kahanamoku Beach, Kuhio Beach, and Kaimana Beach, where you will find the gay beach.
- Queen's Surf Beach, Honolulu: Honolulu's historic “gay beach”, Queen's Surf Beach offers picturesque settings, even though it's become more rocky over time. If you're seeking a beach with a rich history in Oahu, this is a must-visit.
- Kaimana Beach, Honolulu: Positioned close to Queen's Surf, Kaimana Beach is has taken the title of “Gay Beach” from Queens Surf. With its soft sand and crystal-clear waters, it's a favorite among locals and tourists.
- Waikiki's Hotel Beaches: One of the most iconic beaches in Honolulu”. Though they attract crowds, their beauty is undeniable. Try the beaches near Moana Surfrider Hotel in Waikiki if you are looking for more space.
- Fort DeRussy Beach, Honolulu: Fort DeRussy is a hub of activity, from volleyball games to sunbathing soldiers.
- Ala Moana Beach Park, Honolulu: Offers an expansive area for various activities. Its proximity to Waikiki and free parking options make it a popular choice.
Beyond Honolulu: Beaches to Explore
- Waimanalo Beach: Waimanalo Beach, a 20-minute drive from Waikiki, offers peace and beautiful turquoise waters.
- Lanikai Beach: Ranking among “top sunrise spots in Oahu”, Lanikai Beach is a 10-minute drive from Waimanalo and is renowned for its serene beauty and soft sands.
- North Shore Beaches: A must for those searching for powerful surf spots in Oahu, the beaches of North Shore showcase the might of the Pacific with their impressive waves.
- Mokuleia Beach, Oahu: The unofficial nude beaches in Oahu”, Mokuleia Beach stands out with its secluded charm and adjacent scenic woods and cruising spot.
Gay Hawaii Events
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Andrew Stevens2018-07-23 18:23:212025-10-20 17:59:16Honolulu Gay Pride
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Andrew Stevens2023-10-26 16:58:162025-10-20 12:51:48Lei Pride Pool Party Honolulu
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Andrew Stevens2018-07-23 19:31:332026-05-27 11:23:35LeiBear Weekend Honolulu
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Andrew Stevens2018-07-23 20:10:462024-12-03 15:56:20Splash HawaiiOther Gay Activities in Hawaii
- SuperSlyde Pool Party at the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach which takes place once a month. The event features Top DJ's, Special Guests, Entertaining Performers and drag acts. You can go VIP and reserve a cabana.
- Blazing Saddles – No one does line dancing like this bar! Friendly and fun and hosts to monthly parties, great food, and beginner dance lessons!
- The Aloha Bears Booze Cruise – monthly meeting of bears, chasers and admirers enjoying cocktails, lunch, great conversation and plenty of shirtless hunks!
- MIMOSAS & MARYS is a monthly, Sunday Funday, Daytime Drag and Variety Show starring the multitalented, singing drag queen and comedienne Candi Shell.
- ManoH or Males au natural of Hawaii hosts various events throughout the year for those who enjoy others company while in the nude.
Dining out in Oahu
Coffee and Pancakes
- Cloud Nine Cafe Hawaii – Enjoy a fun and flavorful menu of boba teas, soufflé pancakes, salads and sandwiches at this cafe located at Market City Shopping Center. Their soufflé pancakes are a must.
- Liliha Bakery – Coco puffs are a local favorite and are great with that first cup of coffee in the morning. Liliha Bakery
Popular with the locals
- Helena’s – a local draw known for homestyle Hawaiian cooking in a casual, no-frills space. Cash only with some great set menus.
- Rainbow Drive In – Home of Hawaii’s comfort food, the plate lunch. Rainbow Drive-In has been serving their popular plate lunches, sandwiches, and burgers for over 58 years. Their most popular plates are the Mix Plate, Loco Moco Plate and Boneless Chicken Plate
- The Pig and the Lady – Featuring globally accented, modern Vietnamese cooking in a lively setting. Started as a farmers' market stand, this superb spot in Honolulu's Chinatown should be on your list of places to dine.
- Tiki’s Grill and Bar – Great for seafood and a fantastic happy hour, located on the third floor of the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel. The oceanside restaurant offers Hawaiian fare, beautiful ocean views, cocktails & live music.
Fine Dining
- Momosan Waikiki – Ramen spot by Iron Chef, Masaharu Morimoto offering an array of Japanese noodles, appetizers & 20 different sakes.
- La Vie Waikiki – For a real treat try the modern French cuisine at The Ritz Carlton Residences in Waikiki. La Vie is a breakfast, lounge and dinner spot that is exquisitely elegant, while highlighting local ingredients served with specific attention to detail.
- Roy’s Waikiki offers high-end dining serving notable chef Roy Yamaguchi's Hawaiian fusion fare in a contemporary setting. The menu features upscale Hawaiian-influenced cuisine including the finest seafood, steaks and sushi.
What to see and do in Oahu?
- The USS Arizona Memorial – Commemorating the attack on Pearl Harbor. This poignant memorial is built over the sunken hull of the USS Arizona battleship.
- Diamond Head State Monument – Catch an unforgettable view of the cityscape and the coastline. The hike is not for the faint of heart taking you 760 feet to the summit, but the views do not disappoint.
- Looking for something less touristy? Try some remote places like the Makua Cave or the Pali twin waterfalls. Other great hikes include the Koko Crater Railway Trail. Take a guided tour of the island including Lanikai Pillbox & Around the Island Tour
- Learn more about Hawaiian history and culture by visiting the stunning exhibits at the Bishop Museum.
- Visit Shangri-La, the former estate of the late tobacco heiress Doris Duke, is an incredible collection of Islamic art in a sumptuous surroundings.
- Ala Maona Center – Home to more than 300 stores, the centre is the world's largest open air shopping centre and is the perfect way to get your shopping fix!
- Take in a Luau at the Alii Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center on the North Shore, the Paradise Cove Luau at Ko Olina in Leeward Oahu or the Royal Hawaiian Luau (Ahaaina) at The Royal Hawaiian Hotel. A luau is a Hawaiian feast featuring lively music and vibrant cultural performances from Hawaii and greater Polynesia. Typical dishes served include Hawaiian Roasted Pork, Hawaiian Grilled Fish Salad. Chicken Long Rice Lomi Lomi Salmon, Aloha Sweet Potatoes and Poi.
- Take an open door helicopter tour through of Oahu, an incredible island. Along the way you will see the bright sand of Waikiki beach, the Windward Coast, the incredible landscape of Ka'a'awa Valley and then on to the world famous North Shore.
- Learn to surf on the world famous Waikiki Beach with a private 2 hour session.
- Ride a personal, self-propelled, electric underwater scooter through Oahu's underwater world. Or check out the whales in this amazing Whale Tour.
- Soar 30 feet (9 meters) above the waters of Oahu with a water-propelled jetpack.
- Discover the natural beauty of Kualoa Ranch on a self-drive UTV tour of Ka’a’awa Valley. Check out filming sites from Hollywood movies such as “Jurassic Park.”
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