5 Best Performing Arts in Waikiki and Diamond Head, Honolulu and Pearl Harbor

Music lovers adore this intimate venue, which draws local and national acts throughout the year. Acoustics are fantastic, and seating is at tables, all with excellent views. The atmosphere is sophisticated, and the food here is excellent, too, with small and large plates offered. It's worthwhile to find out who's performing while you’re in town so you can purchase tickets in advance, since the more popular acts sell out quickly. This 300-seat room is centrally located (at the Outrigger resort), so you can grab a drink at Duke’s before or after the show.

As Hawaii's oldest performing arts center (and the third-oldest community theater in the United States), this venue offers a little of everything: musicals, dramas, and experimental productions.

Since the early 1980s, the Honolulu Zoo Society has sponsored hour-long evening concerts branded the "Wildest Show in Town." They're held at 6 pm on Wednesday, June–August. Listen to local legends play everything from Hawaiian to jazz to Latin music. Take a brisk walk through the zoo, or join in the family activities. This is an alcohol-free event, and there's food for those who haven't brought their own picnic supplies. Gates open at 4:35.  This is one of the best deals in town.

With a beachfront location in the middle of Waikiki, the Royal Hawaiian’s Aha’aina luau is an exceptional, upscale event with hula, fire dancing, live music, Hawaiian-inspired and luau-favorite dishes, and more. Options range from "standard dinner and show" to "premium dinner and show." The three-hour event is held two nights a week (Monday and Thursday); be sure to reserve in advance during the high season.

This Waikiki luau is done spectacularly on the rooftop of Hilton Hawaiian Village. There isn't an imu ceremony, but the live entertainment is top-notch, and the views are unparalleled. Prices vary depending on your age and where you want to sit. The event also includes dinner with traditional specialties, games, and cultural activities, such as hula lessons and conch blowing. It's held Sunday–Thursday at 5 pm.