Oahu’s craft beer scene continues to soar, especially in Honolulu’s hippest neighborhoods, such as Kaka’ako, Waikiki, and Downtown. Many of these small businesses started from the ground up in the last five-plus years. More competition has led to better quality ales, sleeker taprooms, and more artistic branding. Award-winning Prince Waikiki is a short drive from over a dozen of Oahu’s best breweries, including several well-known brands, such as Kona, Aloha, and Maui.

A Self-Guided Oahu Brewery Tour

Wine tasting is a common mid-day pursuit for so many travelers, but the tide is subtly turning, so to speak. More and more guests are gravitating toward Honolulu’s trendiest taprooms, especially after a full day of physical activity. After all, there’s nothing quite like a cool, refreshing ale after a hike, bicycle ride, or jog on the beach. In hopes of enhancing the already-stellar guest experience at Prince Waikiki, the team hand-selected the three best Oahu breweries, ranging from the heart of Honolulu to nearby Kaneohe, home to the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden and countless secret beaches.

Kona Brewing Co, Honolulu

There’s no denying that Kona Brewing Co, Hawaii’s premier macro brewery, boasts the island’s most splendid outdoor space. Kona’s welcoming northwest-facing taproom rests along the banks of a Kuapa Pond marina, only a short distance from Diamond Head, the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, and Hanauma Bay. Thanks to its open-air concept, patrons can sip on flights of beloved artisanal ales while admiring the boat traffic, with the Koʻolau mountains as a backdrop.

Waikiki Brewing Company, Honolulu

Waikiki Brewing Company is within walking distance of Prince Waikiki. It only requires a 10-minute stroll along jaw-dropping Ala Moana Boulevard. Known for its bright colors, surprisingly delicious pub fare, and ample outdoor seating, Waikiki Brewing has blossomed into a Honolulu staple. It’s an idyllic space for those looking for an accessible pit spot while exploring the heart of Waikiki. Flagship beers range from the subtly-sweet Hana Hou Hefe (now available on tap at 100 Sails) to the hot yet balanced Jalapeño Mouth amber ale.

INU Island Ales, Kaneohe

INU has been defining the Island Ale style since its inception. While it’s hard to pinpoint the origin or proper methodology behind the “Island Ale,’ most of these tasty brews include an element of fruit, whether that be guava, tangerine, or cranberry. To put it plainly, it’s a style that has been perfected by INU’s talented team, which operates out of a modest taproom on the north end of Kaneohe. Most guests simply stop by to purchase a crowler or two of the latest “Island Punch” before returning to Prince Waikiki for the evening.

Prince Waikiki’s ocean-view 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar features a talented bar staff serving everything from specialty cocktails to Dom Perignon and, yes, draught beer. Typically, 100 Sails has five rotating taps, including the latest offerings from Waikiki Brewing, Kona Brewing, Maui Brewing Co, and Honolulu Beerworks.

Honorable mentions: Aloha Beer Co and Hana Koa Brewing Co.

Upscale Hotels in Honolulu, Hawaii

Start and finish each day of exploration and relaxation at Prince Waikiki, the island’s top-rated hotel. After visiting a couple of the best Oahu breweries, return to 100 Holomoana Street for a soak in the infinity pool, a gourmet sunset dinner, and some stargazing and hors d’oeuvres in the Club Lounge. Take advantage of Prince Waikiki’s many on-site offerings by booking a discounted package.

To book a long-awaited escape to Oahu, please check availability online (or call directly at 855-622-7558). Learn more about Prince’s new, flexible cancellation policy.