Waikiki Brewing Company

Sommelier Audit Deconstruction

Waikiki Brewing Company puts a working brewery right in the middle of Honolulu's busiest tourist district, which is its whole appeal — you don't have to leave Waikiki to find a real, independent taproom pouring its own beer rather than another resort import. An overall score of 3.9 makes it the most modest score on our Hawaiʻi list, and it's a fair reflection of a brewery that trades a bit of polish for pure convenience and location. It won't be the most refined pour you have on Oʻahu, but for a Waikiki-based trip, it's a genuinely good option to have within walking distance of the beach, and the beer itself is perfectly solid, unpretentious drinking. The Hana Hou Hefe is a good warm-weather choice, light and easy after a day in the sun, while the Skinny Jeans IPA gives you something hoppier if you want more of a backbone to your pour — both fair representations of a brewery that knows its audience. For visitors staying in Waikiki who don't want to venture into Kakaʻako, this is a reliable, walkable stop worth knowing about. For locals, it's a fine reason to brave the tourist crowds when you're already in the neighborhood.

From the Tasting Ledger

Beers we've reviewed from Waikiki Brewing Company

Skinny Jeans

Waikiki Brewing Co. // 7.8/10

Hana Hou Hefe

Waikiki Brewing Co. // 7.6/10