The Best Happy Hour in Waikiki with a View: Why Locals Love Chart House

When it comes to finding the best happy hour in Waikiki with a view, Chart House Waikiki tops the list for both locals and visitors. Nestled along the picturesque Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, this beloved restaurant and bar offers more than just stunning sunsets. It serves up one of the most talked-about happy hour menus on the island — combining generous portions, incredible prices, and a warm, welcoming vibe that keeps regulars coming back.

A Prime Location with Panoramic Views

One of the standout features of Chart House Waikiki is its unbeatable location. Perched on the edge of the harbor, the restaurant boasts sweeping views of boats bobbing in the marina, the golden glow of sunset over the Pacific, and the twinkling lights of Waikiki. Whether you’re winding down after a beach day or meeting up with friends after work, Chart House offers a laid-back yet elevated atmosphere with one of the best waterfront views in Honolulu.

Why Locals Keep Coming Back

What sets Chart House apart as a local favorite is its perfect blend of value, quality, and ambiance. Unlike many Waikiki spots that cater mainly to tourists, Chart House has earned a loyal local following over the years. Its happy hour is known for its generous pricing on both food and drinks, and the menu includes elevated pupus that go beyond your typical bar bites.

Locals appreciate the friendly service, consistent quality, and familiar setting — it’s the kind of place where the bartender might know your name, and where good food and good vibes always come standard.

The Happy Hour Lineup

Chart House’s happy hour runs daily from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the bar area, and the menu is packed with irresistible deals that rival anywhere else in Waikiki.

Here’s what you can expect:

Delicious Appetizers at Unbeatable Prices

The happy hour pupu menu is both diverse and gourmet, perfect for sharing with friends or pairing with a cocktail while watching the sunset. Some of the local favorites include:

• Wagyu Sliders – Juicy, tender Wagyu beef sliders served on toasted brioche buns with a touch of house-made aioli. Rich, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.  
• Coconut Crunchy Shrimp – Crispy coconut-battered shrimp served with a trio of  dipping sauces. Golden, crunchy, and packed with island flavor.  
• Oyster Rockefeller – Baked oysters topped with creamy spinach, herbs, and parmesan. A decadent classic with a Hawaiian twist.  
• Poke Two Ways – Signature & Spicy Ahi Poke – Enjoy both styles of our fresh ahi poke: traditional shoyu and a bold, spicy version. Served chilled and bursting with flavor.  
• Baby Back Ribs – Tender, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs glazed in a smoky-sweet BBQ sauce. A hearty, satisfying pupu.  

Drinks That Won’t Break the Bank

In addition to delicious eats, the happy hour drink specials are hard to beat. Sip on discounted beers, house wines, and specialty cocktails, including island favorites like the Guy Tai, Dragon Fruit Mojito and the Chart House Happy Hour Cocktail.  Whether you’re into tropical drinks or a classic pour, the bar has you covered — all while you take in one of Waikiki’s most spectacular views.

A Spot for Every Occasion

Chart House isn’t just for after-work drinks. It’s a go-to for pre-dinner gatherings, date nights, and celebrations with friends. The ambiance is casual yet refined, with live music on select nights that adds to the island vibe. You’ll find a mix of locals winding down after a surf session and savvy travelers who have heard about this Waikiki gem through word of mouth.

And since happy hour is in the bar area, seating is first-come, first-served — so get there early for the best spots near the windows or on the lanai for that golden hour glow.

Late Night Happy Hour: Last Wave (9 PM – 11:00 PM)

If you missed the early happy hour — or just aren’t ready for the night to end — Chart House has you covered with its “Last Wave” happy hour, running from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

This late-night offering is especially popular among industry workers, night owls, and those enjoying the Waikiki nightlife. With the same great menu and pricing, it’s the ideal way to wind down your evening — or keep the party going — with delicious bites and drinks, all while soaking in the harbor lights and cool island breeze.

The late-night vibe is more mellow but still lively, with the harbor glittering under the moonlight and music playing softly in the background. Whether you’re capping off a night on the town or looking for a quieter spot to unwind, Last Wave is a hidden gem.

The Verdict: Chart House Has the Best Happy Hour in Waikiki with a View

With its unbeatable combination of affordable gourmet pupus, classic Hawaiian cocktails, and a harborfront setting that captures the essence of Waikiki, it’s no wonder Chart House is considered by many to have the best happy hour in Waikiki with a view.

Whether you’re a kamaʻāina looking for your next pau hana spot or a visitor seeking an authentic island experience, Chart House Waikiki delivers. Come for the food, stay for the view, and leave already planning your next visit.