Cheers: The Haute 5 Local Bars in Honolulu

In the Honolulu the ultimate ocean front spot for drinks is Rum Fire in Waikiki. With iconic Diamond Head as the back drop, Rum Fire offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and is the ideal place to end the day and take in a beautiful sunset.

While most people call it happy-hour, in the Aloha State we call it Pau Hana. Rum Fire offers drink specials daily from 4-6 p.m. and again late night between 9:30-11:15 p.m. – something for the early bird and the night owl.

Aside from the amazing views, Rum Fire offers a full menu of Baja-Hawaiian cuisine ranging from wok-fired specialties, seared fresh fish to the world’s greatest display of fine rums elegantly displayed on a rum tower in the bar. But if rum isn’t your drink, they have a fully stocked bar and highly experienced bar staff that can custom create whatever you thirst for. On weekends there is often live Hawaiian music and entertainment. Rum Fire can be found at 2255 Kalakaua Avenue on Waikiki Beach in the Sheraton Resort. Hours are 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. Tuesday thru Sunday. www.rumfirewaikiki.com

Located within one of the world’s leading hotels is the Halekulani’s Room Without a Key. This spot is popular with guests and Oahu residents for casual breakfast, lunch and dinner. The biggest selling points are the amazing sunset views and the traditional live Hawaiian music and Hula performances. This is an adult spot, so if you are looking for a singles mixing scene this is not the place. However if you are looking for quality service and award wining cuisine the Room Without a Key is for you. They are located in Waikiki at 2199 Kalia Road and parking is validated at the hotel. Room Without a Key is open every day between 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. www.halekulani.com

Another crowd pleaser is the Mai Tai Bar. This open air lanai is great for people watching and has plenty of parking. Mai Tai attracts a younger demographic with its casual atmosphere and very popular drink specials. You will often find Hawaii’s hottest local bands performing here and often it is standing room only. They only serve appetizers and often it can be hard to find a seat if you have a large party. The Mai Tai Bar is located at 1450 Ala Moana Boulevard atop Ala Moana Shopping Center. They are open Monday thru Saturday 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.  www.maitaibar.com

A departure from Waikiki is the Amuse Wine Bar at the Honolulu Design Center. A new concept to Honolulu, this self-service wine bar allows guests to select from more than 80 vintages. When you arrive at Amuse, you purchase a vino charge card then the fun begins as you peruse the wines and self-select which pour you want to try. It is a fantastic opportunity to try new wines and taste test.  Amuse also has a great menu to complement your wine experience. However is wine is not on your list of libations, they also offer a full bar service and great beer selections. This venue attracts a higher end crowd and has live entertainment Wednesday thru Friday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. parking is complimentary. Amuse is located at 1250 Kapiolani Boulevard in Honolulu.  www.amusewinebar.com

Popular with the downtown professional crowd, Indigo Hawaii is the place for the best Lychee martinis after a day at the office. Indigo offers a unique blend of Asian, French, and Mediterranean cuisine that has long been a staple on the Honolulu food scene for lunch and dinner. Located within historic Chinatown and Honolulu’s art district, Indigo is an oasis from the bustle of the city. The ambiance is festive and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Their happy hours are popular and attract an eclectic crowd of people. In fact, Indigo has been consistently nationally recognized by Wine Spectator with their Award for Excellence for their wine list. Indigo offers valet parking and is located at 1121 Nuuanu Avenue in Honolulu; they are closed Sunday and Mondays. www.indigo-hawaii.com