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    Waikiki Shell

    3.9 (87 reviews)
    ModerateMusic Venues

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    Crystal F.

    The 2025 Juneteenth celebration was amazing. They had food vendors, business vendors, games, jumping castles, performers, DJ, several bars, a hard stand bathroom, and plenty seats in front of stage. The food and vendors all were great! I was able to get curb side parking. Someone was leaving when I arrived. I would recommend getting to any event here early for parking. A few of my friends weren't so lucky and had to park far. The parking inside was free. There is no shade here and depending of event it can be extremely hot. I arrived around 6pm and it was that hot and didn't rain. It's all open once inside shell gates. I recommend taking a fan, hand towel, and comfortable shoes (mainly grass area). The water was hard to find. I ended up getting water in the back corner and I brought 5 bottles because I wasn't going to walk back there again. Overall I would go again.

    9.29.24 Chicago, the Band, in Honolulu!!!
    Nadine C.

    Live music in Waikiki, Honolulu, O'ahu, Hawaii... I can't remember the last time I went to a concert at the Waikiki Shell. I do remember going to my nephew's college graduation here a few years ago... The parking was free! There's a close lot and a newer lot right next to it. Parking is also free on Monsarrat Street and the residential neighborhood. The main thing to know about the old school Waikiki Shell is that it's an outdoor venue. Check the weather reports for the temperature and chance of rain. We went in late September when it was a comfortable 79°F and a super light, brief drizzle. No jacket was needed. There were several food trucks... because no outside food nor drinks are allowed into the venue. We stood in a super short line and got our food to take back to our seat. Note: Purses (if you bring one) should be less than 12 inches x 12 inches. I didn't want to sit on the lawn. Tickets cost less there, but no furniture nor beach mats/towels are available... just grass. Bring your own blanket to sit on... I wanted to sit on a chair in the Reserved area. Somehow, I got Section C, Row 8, where our tickets were verified. We received blue wristbands for entry. We had a great view of Henry Kapono, a local Superstar performer... singing songs such as "Lifetime Party", "Highway In The Sun", and "Gotta Get Away". After a quick equipment and instrument change, the main event arrived: Chicago They sang hits including "Hard To Say I'm Sorry", "Old Days", and "You're The Inspiration". Even though they've been touring since 1967 and have had personnel changes, they still sounded fantastic! We had an enjoyable, memorable evening!

    Jewelia C.

    First time at this venue and first time attending a concert in Hawaii at all! My favorite DJ Kaskade happened to be having a show while I was on my Honolulu vacation so I obviously had to go! The venue was very cool. With the tickets we got we were able to walk right up to the very front of the stage where it was platformed but could also go back into the further back areas that had grass. It was very open and not crowded so we spent most the time in the very front. After about 30ish Kaskade across the West Coast of the US, this was the first time I was able to see him so up close without paying an arm and leg for extra VIP tickets! The sound and visuals were great and overall a fantastic show! The only con was that getting in/out of the venue with lyfts was a nightmare and the bathroom/bar lines were horrific!!

    Sammy L.

    I'm not sure why people give this place a bad review! We always have the best time. The summer concert series from the Hawai'i Symphony Orchestra is so lovely and relaxing. If you are visiting or a local, definitely attend one and support. We enjoyed the Music of Star Wars under the stars. The food is absolutely not great lol but you get what you get if you are hungry and didn't eat before. We had the teppan steak and an ahi poke, both cafeteria like and not worth it. Just make sure you see where the food line starts versus the drink line! The night we came they had two separate lines, they are different vendors it seems. We also watched Jack Johnson here last summer and it was a blast, come and enjoy the evening breeze. When the moon is out it's stunning.

    Phil Wickham
    Jeanette E.

    Been here a few times for concerts and the grounds/property is always clean. The restrooms were also clean, but I did go before the concert started. So not sure if they have cleaners working in there throughout the night. There always seems to be a rainbow whenever I'm here. It's a great location, but the parking is challenging. We ended up parking in the neighborhood up the street. So glad I wore sneakers and not heels!! They do a check of your bag at the gate. The website says you can have one bag per person, size limit is 12"x12". No food or drinks allowed past the gate. They had several food trucks. I like to call it carnival food.... Hotdogs, nachos, burgers, boba shakes etc. We found a Filipino Food Truck called The Pearl's LLC. We spent $75 for 3 lunch plates and 2 sodas. The food wasn't great, but we were hangry so it was the only decent meal we could get. I would give that food truck 2 stars. Also the photos of the food look nothing like what you get. We got "catfished" lol

    Iration 3/2/24
    Giselle M.

    Sometimes you don't realize how great something is until you leave or even try other outdoor venues (like on the Mainland)... Waikiki Shell is as beautiful as it is nostalgic for me. I'd seen a lot of shows here, especially when I lived on island and it was always a good time! Most recently, my husband & I returned to Oahu to catch the Iration and L.A.B. concert here earlier this month, and the whole experience was pretty epic! We're still talking about it and looking back at all the photos/videos we took! Picture an evening in a beautiful outdoor music venue in the middle of a huge park (Kapiolani Park) with a dormant volcano and iconic natural landmark (Diamond Head) as your backdrop, and you're sitting back, relaxing or up on your feet dancing to a live performance by *insert favorite bands or artists here*... Sounds pretty awesome, right? Plus it's walking distance from Waikiki, so you're in the middle of all the nightlife action after the show, or can hit the beach right before! Also a huge shoutout and mahalos to the staff at the Waikiki Shell! Everyone we encountered and talked to from the entrance, security and ushers were so friendly and helpful, truly sharing that Aloha Spirit! Because we had 7th row seats, we were kindly escorted to our seats, which was totally unexpected and so nice (we felt like VIPs lol)! I don't think that's ever happened to us before, and we've been to an obscene amount of concerts! We'll definitely look to return soon and catch another great show at the Shell.

    Lauren Daigle concert
    Brian M.

    The venue is small enough to make the concert or event intimate and not feel like you are a 100 miles away from the performer. Clean and well maintained. They had several food trucks in the lawn area so I think there was something for everyone. Nice and courteous staff there, very helpful. It is an open air venue so plan for whatever weather you're expecting. Recommend this place.

    Rebelution 3/11/23
    Joe P.

    During my recent visit to O'ahu, Rebelution was performing at Waikīkī Shell on Sat, 3/11. Rebelution is a reggae band whose members are fr UCSB. After I gave my cuz my travel dates, he asked me to join him at the concert. He was already going w/ a former classmate fr UH, who was visiting fr AZ. It was easy to get tix via StubHub, and the price was reasonable. The Shell was built in the 1950's, and has approx 2,400 seats, and capacity for 6,000 more on the lawn. The crowd was chill, and everyone was dancing to the mellow music. They had food trucks avail, as well as stands for beer & alcohol. The restrooms were clean and the lines weren't long. Of course there was pakalolo (ganja) in the air, as there would be at any concert in Hawai'i - LOL. If you are in town looking for a chill venue for live music, check the Shell's schedule. It is easy to get to via taxi or rideshare, if you drive parking is free, and the amenities are very good.

    the stage at night
    Greg W.

    The Waikiki shell is an outstanding venu to watch a concert. Especially if the weather is nice and not raining. We had great seats and watched Frankie Valle of the four seasons. At 88 he's to admire. He talked between sets and was clear and great. We enjoyed the venu and of course the concert and songs. To bad most modern artists rely on bad gimmicks to sell themselves vs honest great lyrics and music. No political stuff or things left for the bedroom. Probably his last tour. Parking was doable though we arrived about 2 hours ahead of the show. Plenty of facilities and the seats were ok to sit on. Definitely a great place to go.

    Cyndy K.

    Cyndy's Bottom Line: A wonderful hula show reminiscent of the nostalgic Kodak Hula Show. The Kilohana Hula Show (KHS) is presented by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement. The KHS is modern reimagining of the classic hula shows of Waikīkī bringing authentic Hawaiian hula and culture for visitors and kama'āina to experience. KHS pays homage to King David Kalakaua who dedicated the public space around the Waikiki Shell to his beloved wife Queen Kapiolani. The show is decorated with more than 150 potted Native Hawaiian plants surrounding the amphitheater to educate attendees about the importance of the endemic natural species in Hawaii. The FREE show takes place every Sunday through Thursday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Waikīkī Shell Amphitheater. Highly recommend.

    Mabelle T.

    Memories made here at the Waikiki Shell. My first time visiting, I had just finished running the Honolulu Marathon. The following year, I attended PRIDE. Next, Was able to treat my besties to a Kolohe Kai concert and had a blast. The Waikiki Shell reminds me of a mini a Hollywood Bowl, but on a more intimate level. Most of the food selection are limited and few, but security and the staff are always so helpful and friendly :) Excited for the next event that I attend at the Waikiki Shell.

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    Waikiki Shell Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Waikiki Shell

    Is there food available to picnic during the concert?

    It depends on the event. At major events yes they have a snack stand with hot dogs, chips, nachos and drinks.

    View All 5 Questions

    Review Highlights - Waikiki Shell

    It is a small venue but quaint, and there is a lawn at the back for those who want to bring a blanket.

    Mentioned in 24 reviews

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    Hideout

    Hideout

    4.2
    (1.4k reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    Great service and yummy food... Tucked away at the Laylow…read morehotel, is a chill restaurant with fun Hawaiian vibes. We started our vacation with dinner at the Hideout, and upon entering you could immediately hear live music. We received a warm welcome, and brought over to our booth where our server Kai was quick to greet us. We ordered cocktails (I don't remember the name of mine. It's something spritz, and my husband tried the banana bread old fashioned) and we shared the appetizer platter (brussel sprouts with pork belly, kalua pork egg rolls, poke tacos, and edamame)to share. We also ordered the garlic shrimp dumplings. Everything was super tasty. Lots of other items on the menu that I want to try during another visit to the island.

    I loved finding this spot! I looked at the coffee situation at my hotel (Hilton Garden Inn) and the…read morelack of anything but powered creamer (yuck) so immediately went on the hunt for something better. I initially tried the bakery directly across the street at the International Marketplace, but they didn't open until 7am. I began to walk towards a distant Starbucks I found on Google and noticed an active escalator and signage pointing towards the open Hideout at the Laylow. Advertising local coffee, I immediately took the ride upstairs and was greeted by two young ladies full of smiles and Aloha spirit! Being summertime and hot (even at 6am) I ordered a large iced latte and decided to drink it on their large open lanai. I'm glad I did. The breezes up there were perfect and watching the daylight get brighter with local birds chirping and fluttering about made for a very nice wake-up! This became my go-to stop every morning of my visit! I only ordered breakfast once and kept it low-carb so I had cheesy eggs and Portuguese sausage. Perfect and hit the spot. If staying at the Laylow (Marriott product) or close by, I'd recommend this as your morning wake-up as well! Enjoy!

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    Bar
    Bar
    Wonton Poke Tacos are great! Especially during happy hour.
    Wonton Poke Tacos are great! Especially during happy hour.
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    Lewers Lounge

    Lewers Lounge

    4.4
    (298 reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$$

    Very niiiiice. I love the ambiance here. Feel free to dress to the nines and bring someone special…read more This place is a stylish, low-lit jazz lounge with a cool atmosphere and smooth vibe. I immediately felt calm and relaxed here, much like everywhere else at Halekulani. The pūpū and drinks we ordered were special, thoughtfully prepared, and professionally delivered. We also ordered the hamburger, which was excellent, followed by two French press coffees and coconut cake. The staff was unpretentious and welcoming from the start--nothing stuffy despite the sophisticated setting. The musicians are so talented it felt more like a private concert or dinner theater. The pianist, Maggie, is a singer-songwriter who taught us a few things and kept us engaged the entire time. We caught up on our day, ate, and enjoyed the show. Reservations are for two hours, so there was no rush at all. Overall, this is a classy spot for a relaxed night out. Prices are about what you'd expect but even stopping in after dinner elsewhere would be nice. Reservations are not needed for the bar. The only thing I would do differently is arrive earlier to enjoy the grounds more before sunset. Valet park and enjoy your night!

    Lovely anniversary evening here. Came for the live jazz music and they were stellar as usual. The…read moreambiance is lovely and service excellent Why I demoted them a star was the pretty cocktails I saw in Yelp are gone. There's no: "Moonglow" (Benny Goodman) or "That was my heart" (honor to Ella Fitzgerald), so I asked for my favorite aperitif, "Dubonnet" , no. But, they came up with my other favorite, sambuca Mist. I have to agree with another reviewer that the French baguette served with the charcuterie was hard as could be and inedible. I did not enjoy the choice of cheeses as they were both of the same hard boring tastes, unimaginative, mix it up. They olives should be pitted. The tiramisu dessert was very delicious, even though very small, but expected--after all its fine dining. I have no other way to tell new manager to up their game in the food and beverage department. Just wouldn't expect Halekulani to slip in these departments. Also, manager never came around or was seen checking in his or her patrons, not very 5 star there. Just being honest. The complimentary valet parking was exceptional. Thank you for a very enjoyable evening.

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    Fonseca 10-year - old Tawny & Taylor Fladgate 20-year - old Tawny
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    Live jazz.

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    Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana

    Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana

    4.7
    (135 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    Large group friendly
    Discounts available

    My boyfriend surprised me with tickets to their 8am this past weekend for our anniversary…read more We've been wanting to go for the longest time and this show did not disappoint! I won't give too much spoilers but the performers were amazing! So skilled in what they do and had me on the edge of my seat! I don't think there's any bad seats as it's a fairly intimate venue. Not super small but the crowd in the farthest back row didn't seem so far. I believe we were in row H if my pic can give you any view reference. My boyfriend said the sections going up were almost as much as the low seats, so definitely fiddle with the seat choices when purchasing so you can see the differences! They had drinks at the bars (the lobby area right before you show them your tickets, and right outside the seating venue). The only difference is that the bar right before you show them your ticket has popcorn and snacks- the upper bar did not. No intermission- but they did have an interactive audience segment, which could act as your intermission, but it was so fun! I wouldn't want to miss it! It's approx. 80mins long, so pls plan ahead- go to the bathroom prior. I liked the bathrooms on the same level as the venue. When you go up the escalators, the bar will be to your left- go right and back into the building, there's signs and a staff member should be nearby to guide you if anything. But you can't go to that bathroom after the show- they block that area off so they can clear the area. Take advantage of the photo op area facing the lower bar (not the one with the professional photographer). I recommend before the show if you have time. It gets more crowded after the show.

    What a great show!…read more Love the way they incorporated the Hawaiian culture to Cirque du Soleil. I don't want to spoil the experience so I will refrain from details, just know that you will not be bored and keep your eyes open to everything around you! It truly is a beautiful and amazing show. Would I go back? Yes, as I am sure I may have missed something.

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    Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana
    Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana
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    Duke's Waikiki

    Duke's Waikiki

    4.0
    (10.6k reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    I came in here on vacation with some friends, looking for a spot to grab drinks. We heard the…read moreatmosphere was fun, but what really made it special was our bartender Gabe. He was so good that we came back a second night for him specifically. He gave us great conversation the whole night and really went the extra mile to make sure that we enjoyed our time. I would highly recommend coming here and definitely ask for Gabe specifically!!

    We had two great dinners at Duke's Waikiki this past week in May 2026!…read more For our first dinner, we want to give a huge shout-out to our server, Rio. Her energy was incredible, and she was so kind and accommodating to our family. Our second visit was with our extended family of 10. Eight of us arrived at 9:50 PM and requested the dining section because our two-month-old and three toddlers were sensitive to the live band. Initially, we encountered some seating difficulties near the dining room's 10:00 PM cutoff time. Thankfully, Kenny stepped in and was able to take care of us. We ended up having another fantastic dinner with excellent service. Thank you so much for creating a fun, enjoyable dinner for our family of 10! Huge praise to both Rio and Kenny for their outstanding hospitality! Whether you sit outside on the patio to enjoy the fun live band and hula dancing, or inside where it's a bit quieter and cozier, you are guaranteed to have a great time at Duke's!

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    Duke's Waikiki
    Duke's Waikiki
    Duke's Waikiki

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    Waikiki Shell - musicvenues - Updated June 2026

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