Sand under your sandals, the Pink Palace at your back, Diamond Head over your right shoulder — Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian is the original Waikiki sunset cocktail, and 1953 birthplace of the resort-style Hawaiian mai tai. The open-air bar spills directly onto the sand on the seawall side of the Royal Hawaiian, with most seats arranged so guests catch the sun dropping behind Waianae. The Royal Mai Tai — built on premium aged rum, fresh lime, orgeat, and a float of dark Jamaican rum — is consistently voted Hawaii's best by readers of Hawaii Magazine, and the kitchen turns out solid island-inspired bar food including the Royal Smashed Burger and ahi poke. Live Hawaiian entertainment plays from 6 to 10 nightly. It's touristy, crowded after 4pm, and absolutely worth doing once.
"The pink palace of tropical perfection — sunsets are golden, drinks are strong, and the vibes are smoother than a Don Ho ballad. Best Mai Tai up and down Waikiki."