Overview of Live Music in Oahu
Oahu offers visitors and locals year-round opportunities to enjoy performances by first-rate contemporary and traditional Hawaiian musicians, as well as internationally renowned acts. The island’s array of indoor and outdoor venues provides ideal settings for both high-profile concert tours and intimate performances. Aloha Stadium, the Neal S. Blaisdell Center, and the Waikiki Shell often host musical superstars who perform to sold-out crowds. Moreover, on any night of the week, visitors can experience Hawaiian music at one of the many bars and restaurants throughout Oahu hosting free live music.
Live Music Opportunities
Waikiki Beach Walk presents several opportunities for visitors to enjoy live music. Outrigger’s Na Mele No Na Pua concerts are held once a month on Sundays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the Plaza Stage at Waikiki Beach Walk. Furthermore, every Tuesday from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ku Ha’aheo, To Cherish with Pride, showcases live Hawaiian music and hula dancing led by renowned kumu hula and Waikiki Beach Walk cultural advisor Blaine Kamalani Kia.
Hard Rock Café Honolulu
In the heart of Waikiki, the new Hard Rock Café Honolulu offers a dynamic Hawaiian rock experience for all guests. From priceless memorabilia lining the walls to the ocean blue colored “wave bar,” this location embodies rock and roll with an Oahu twist. Enjoy live music every Friday during their Jagermeister Live Music Showcase series.
House Without a Key at Halekulani
Immortalized in a 1925 Charlie Chan novel, House Without a Key is Halekulani’s popular indoor/outdoor gathering spot for informal breakfast, lunch, cocktails, appetizers, and entertainment. Every night at 5:30 p.m., guests can enjoy free Hawaiian music and hula performances.
Duke’s Canoe Club Waikiki
Duke’s offers the opportunity to step right off the beach into their famous barefoot bar, complete with live contemporary Hawaiian music nightly from 4-6 p.m. and from 9:30 p.m. to midnight. On Sundays, Duke’s features one of the biggest free celebrations in Waikiki with their “Duke’s on Sunday” concert showcasing the legendary Henry Kapono.
Jazz Minds Honolulu
If visitors are in the mood for something soulful and spunky, Jazz Minds Art & Café is the perfect destination. Honolulu’s only venue dedicated to live jazz is open six nights a week and features a variety of jazz stylings, including progressive jazz, funk, and hip-hop.
Kani Ka Pila Grille at the Outrigger Reef
Located poolside at the Outrigger Reef, Kani Ka Pila Grille attracts Oahu’s hottest up-and-coming talent. Kani Ka Pila, which means “let’s make music,” is a fitting name for this restaurant that serves fine island food, cocktails, and live nightly entertainment. Live music is offered nightly from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Lewers Lounge at Halekulani
Lewers Lounge features entertainment from 8:30 p.m.-midnight Sunday-Thursday and from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The lounge offers a sophisticated ambiance with soulful entertainment.
Mai Tai Bar at Ala Moana Center
The Mai Tai Bar at Ala Moana Center is popular among locals for its award-winning happy hour specials and nightly contemporary Hawaiian and reggae music. Visitors can pair performances from local musicians with happy hours from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and again from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.
RumFire at the Sheraton Waikiki
RumFire at the Sheraton Waikiki provides live entertainment nightly against the iconic backdrop of Diamond Head. Guests can indulge in a relaxing happy hour with unique Hawaiian coast-inspired appetizers and the sounds of local musicians.
Tiki’s Bar and Grill
Tiki’s Bar and Grill on Waikiki Beach offers nightly live contemporary Hawaiian entertainment. Performances take place twice nightly, showcasing a range of talented artists.
Blue Note Hawaii
This world-class jazz club opened a Hawaii location at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort in 2016. While this spot does not offer free music, it deserves recognition for its year-round live entertainment, ranging from local names to world-famous performers. Tickets are available for twice-nightly shows.
