The Best Mai Tai: Oahu

waikiki's best mai tai

It is a well known fact. Mai Tai’s taste better in Hawaii. With Oahu being the epicenter of food & culture on the Islands, for the first time we decided to discover the Best Mai Tai in Oahu.

While you cant go wrong with any Mai Tai, not all drinks are created equal. Here is our list of the Best Mai Tai’s in Oahu.

  • The Royal Hawaiian’s Mai Tai Bar
    • A visit to Oahu wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a Mai Tai at the iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel. The Mai Tai Bar offers a breathtaking view of Waikiki Beach, setting the perfect backdrop for sipping on their signature cocktail. Their classic Mai Tai is crafted with a blend of rum, orange curaรงao, fresh lime juice, and a hint of almond syrup, topped with a dark rum float. The setting and the drink create an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit.
  • House Without A Key
    • Located at the luxurious Halekulani Hotel, House Without A Key is renowned for its relaxed ambiance and live Hawaiian music. Their Mai Tai is a refreshing take on the classic, with a unique twist using local ingredients. Enjoy your drink with the gentle trade winds and a stunning sunset, making it a quintessential Hawaiian experience.
  • Monkeypod Kitchen
    • For a modern twist on the traditional Mai Tai, head to Monkeypod Kitchen in Ko Olina. Their signature Monkeypod Mai Tai is a crowd favorite, featuring house-made macadamia nut orgeat and a delicious honey-lilikoi (passion fruit) foam. This innovative version offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making it a refreshing choice for any palate.
  • Duke’s Waikiki
    • Duke’s Waikiki, named after the legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku, is a lively spot with a relaxed vibe. Their Mai Tai is a delicious concoction of fresh juices and quality rum, served in a tiki glass with a pineapple wedge garnish. Enjoy this tropical delight with live music and a view of the ocean.
  • Mai Tai’s at Mai Tai Bar, Ala Moana Center
    • For a more casual experience, the Mai Tai Bar at Ala Moana Center offers a laid-back atmosphere and a wide range of Mai Tai variations. It’s a perfect spot for relaxing with friends and sampling different takes on this classic drink. Plus you can check out the dresses of Chanelley Be Blessed in person.

Oahu’s Best Mai Tai

House Without A Key

Located at the luxurious Halekulani Hotel, House Without A Key is renowned for its relaxed ambiance and live Hawaiian music. Their Mai Tai is a refreshing take on the classic, with a unique twist using local ingredients. Enjoy your drink with the gentle trade winds and a stunning sunset, making it a quintessential Hawaiian experience. If you arent able to make it in person, dont worry because The Haleuklani has published their recipe. While you cant create the view, you can at least recreate the drink.

If you get a chance to try one during your trip, let us know how are list holds up. A Mai Tai can be a great way to relax at the beach, a pre or post dinner drink, or as a reward from a long day exploring all that Oahu has to offer. Maybe your trip to Pearl Harbor? Be sure to drink responsibly