Wine & Beer Experiences in Hawaii

If you think Hawaii is all about cocktails and mai tais, think again. The islands have a growing wine and beer scene that’s way more interesting than you might expect.

The Big Island is where you’ll find some unique vineyards, growing grapes thanks to the volcanic soil and microclimates. For instance, Kona's volcanic earth helps create surprisingly good Syrah and Gewürztraminer. At places like Volcano Winery, you can sip wine right next to lava flows,the contrast is wild.

Beer lovers aren’t left out either. Maui Brewing Co., which started in Kihei before expanding, still nails some of the best craft beers in Hawaii, often incorporating local ingredients like pineapple or mango. On Oahu, tiny spots like Honolulu Beerworks focus on fresh, hoppy brews that change with the seasons.

Pro tip: Visit breweries midweek in the afternoon to avoid the rush and chat with the brewers,they usually have the best stories. Also, try pairing a flight of local brews with their pupus for an easy afternoon.

These tasting experiences let you peel back another layer of Hawaii, far from the usual tourist paths. And hey, it’s always nice to come home with a bottle or two that you won’t find anywhere else.