Heyday Bar Brings Drinks and Swings to the Newly Renovated White Sands Hotel

Swings and seats are available.

When I laid eyes on a tropical pool bar complete with swings on Instagram (thanks @thomasohhh), I knew my prayers had been answered. This was definitely my kind of bar. Hidden in the newly renovated White Sands hotel, Heyday Pool Bar keeps the vintage Waikiki spirit alive.

Heyday Pool Bar is a creation from Chuck Bussler and Robynne Maii of the very popular Honolulu restaurant Fete and features a cocktail program by local mixologists, Dave Power and Kyle Reutner. 

On our visit, we tried the Chaise Dreams (fluffy pineapple, gin, campari, happiness) and the Fete 75 (prosecco, gin, cucumber, lemon, elderflower). We enjoyed our cocktails over conversation and views of the garden and pool. Currently they are not serving food, but the HeyDay cafe is expected to open in August. 

Heyday is open daily from 12pm to 8pm; last call at 7:30pm. Also, kama'aina can take advantage of the kama'aina specials White Sands Hotel is currently offering.      

Entrance on Nohonani Street

Heyday is an open air poolside bar

Chaise dreams

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BACKBAR - SKY Waikiki's New Speakeasy

SKY Waikiki has just released a brand new speakeasy - the BACKBAR!  I was fortunate to have attended a media preview of this ultra chill and chic spot tucked away from the crowds, where Director of Mixology, Jen Ackrill crafted exclusive cocktails for guests.

Jen Ackrill, Director of Mixology

Old Fashioned AF

That Pink Drink

DDK

Devil's Swing

Jealous Lumberjack

Hey Yo! Chareau

In the Shadow of Palm Trees

My personal favorite cocktail was the Jealous Lumberjack - Kikori Japanese Whiskey, Saler's Gentian, Midori, Lime, Citrus Syrup, Orange Bitters.  It was refreshing, and I really loved all the citrus flavors.

I also enjoyed That Pink Drink.  Don't let the color fool you - the cocktail, made with Laird's Applejack Brandy, Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur, and Pastis, is quite strong! 

Speaking of strong, if you love a good, stiff cocktail, Old Fashioned AF is for you - Russel's 10yr and Stagg Jr. Bourbons, Michter's Straight Rye, Sugar, Angostura Bitters.

Select Social Bites from SKY Waikiki's menu will be available.

I look forward to going back for a GNO!

View from the BACKBAR

Be sure to make your reservations at skywaikiki.com/thebackbar and check SKYWaikiki on Instagram for the password!

BACKBAR at SKY Waikiki 
2270 Kalakaua Ave 19th Floor

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Mai Tai Bar at The Royal Hawaiian

After a very stressful few weeks, it was nice to unwind with some cocktails with @darayoung at the beachfront Mai Tai Bar, located in The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort.

We even got to sit in a beautiful cabana with prime viewing of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head!

Choco-Tai, Hawaiian Blues

I ordered the Hawaiian Blues - Kai Coconut Pandan Vodka, Malibu Coconut Rum, Calahua Creme of Coconut, Sweet and Sour, Pineapple Juice, Dekuyper Blue Curracao. This tropical drink was delicious. I'd definitely order it again. It was a bit fruity with a lovely coconut flavor.

Dara got one of her faves, the Choco-Tai - Selva Rey Cacao Infused Rum, Housemade Kona Coffee Syrup, Lemon Juice, Bittermen's Elemakule Tiki Bitters, Pineapple Juice, Lahaina Dark Rum.

We also nibbled on a few munchies:

Wasabi Peanuts and Iso Peanuts

Avocado Hummus and House Made Chips

I loved the avocado hummus!  I already had dinner earlier, so I didn't eat much, but I'd definitely want to try more menu items next time (like the Waialua Asparagus Pizza or the Tavern Parmesan Truffle Fries!).

You can also listen to live local entertainment on most nights, as well as reserve a private cabana (perfect for a girls night!).

The Mai Tai Bar is a great place to relax and enjoy cocktails after a long day or a hectic week!

Mai Tai Bar

The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort
2259 Kalakaua Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 923-7311

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