Aloha, my thirsty traveler! In this global mocktails series, we’ve taken you to the colorful flavors of Mexico and the boujee boulevards of France. But our adventure isn’t over yet. Next on our itinerary are the tropical shores of Hawaii.
Nothing screams summer more than a delicious cold drink made from the freshest tropical fruits; think mocktails made with pineapple or coconut. And what better place to get them from than in this paradise where the sun doesn’t just shine—it dances? Here, the waves, with their mighty roars, feel like powerful anthems echoing across the island, and the horizon paints a clear line where the sky meets the sea. What an absolute bliss.
Okay, but before we get too poetic, let’s keep it real: In a place this chill, the only thing that should be pounding really is the surf, not your head.
So whether you’re reminiscing about past visits or planning spontaneous trips to this Pacific paradise, these non-alcoholic Hawaiian drinks are for you.
Contents
Mocktails in Hawaii: A Brief History
Before we share our top five favorite nonalcoholic Hawaiian drinks, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. You’ve probably heard of the Shirley Temple. Many say it’s the OG mocktail. There are a bunch of stories of where it originally came from, with spots from Beverly Hills to Hawaii claiming they whipped it up for young Shirley during her visits. But who really knows?
All we know is that Hawaii’s drink game has always been legendary. All we know is that Hawaii’s non-alcoholic drink game has always been legendary. Whether you want something fizzy, fruity, or slushy, you don’t have to travel too far, no matter where you are in Hawaii to find a delicious and unique non-alcoholic drink.
They’ve been enjoying fresh pineapple juice concoctions, coconut water, and the ceremonial ‘awa (kava) long before the mocktail trend even began.
Fun fact: The sober bar scene isn’t a new kid on the block and has been around since the 19th century, all thanks to the temperance movement. But today’s sober bars are for everyone. So expect this isn’t just a fad; it’s here to stay just like the evergreen Hawaiian palm trees.
How Easy Is It to Order Mocktails in Hawaii Today?
With 34% of Americans trying to drink less alcohol in 2023, it’s easy to see why the world is going mocktail-mad. Like a pro surfer, Hawaii is riding that wave too. Ordering a legit mocktail (not just a fruit juice) while visiting the islands is super easy!
We’ve got a list of our fave spots with a great mocktail selection or a virgin version of your favorite drink, so next time you’re in paradise, you can have your drink, and yes, remember it too!
Best Restaurants for Mocktails in Hawaii
1. Merriman’s in the Big Island
This is not just any restaurant; Merriman’s in the Big Island is Hawaii’s first carbon-neutral spot! Peter Merriman started this gem back in ’88, and it’s been all about supporting locals since day one. They’re committed to investing in sustainable projects like making the world’s first carbon-friendly goat cheese (thanks to a special seaweed diet for the goats) and opting for lighter wine bottles. They’re definitely on a mission to give our planet a little extra love.
Oh, and to name a few awards, they’ve earned Hawaii Magazine’s “Best Restaurant” and have made it to Yelp’s “Best Places to Treat Yourself List.”
Drink Not to Miss: Strawberry Cooler
2. Moku Kitchen in Kakaako, Honolulu
Moku Kitchen is where upcountry vibes meet downtown cool. From the food to the drinks, they’re dedicated to sustainability and craft. And it’s not just a solo act; they’ve been collaborating with local farmers, brewers and artisans to deliver the highest quality.
The man behind it is none other than Chef Peter Merriman, aka the “Pied Piper of Hawaii Regional Cuisine.” He has been redefining the Hawaiian culinary scene for over two decades by highlighting Hawaii’s best.
Drink Not to Miss: Coconut Charcoal Lemonade
3. DECK at Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel
Awarded by Honolulu Hale Aina’s best outdoor dining and hotel brunch, DECK. is an open-air gem on the 3rd-floor rooftop, offering breathtaking views of Diamond Head which is just a stone’s throw from Waikiki beach.
Their menu is inspired by American Pacific flavors and has a diverse drink selection. Committed to authenticity, DECK. makes sure their ingredients are locally sourced to deliver a real island dining experience.
Drink Not to Miss: Awikiwiki
4. Senia in Honolulu
Inspired by “xenia,” the ancient Greek ethos of hospitality, Senia is all about sharing meals in friendship. It’s a place where diverse cultures and culinary expertise come together while celebrating Hawaii’s rich ingredients.
Drink Not to Miss: Yuzu Sour Mocktail
5. Tiki’s Grill and Bar in Waikiki
Have you ever daydreamed about starting a cool hangout spot with your college bffs? That’s exactly what these three university buddies did with Tiki’s Grill & Bar. Freakin’ cool, right?
And they didn’t just set it up and bail – they’re still around, living the dream right there in Waikiki. Their menu is a relaxed mix of American and Pacific-Rim and if you’re a sunset chaser like us, their lanai seating has the best sunset view over the iconic Waikiki Beach.
Drink Not to Miss: Virgin Ube Colada
5 Non-Alcoholic Hawaiian Beverages You Can Enjoy Anywhere
Now it’s time to try and recreate some of these non-alcoholic Hawaiian drinks that’ll have your friends and fam raving at your next beach or pool party. And hey, if you’re flying solo, no worries! You can still recreate these while rocking your most comfy PJs. Because, honestly, who needs an excuse for a tropical treat?
All you need is a cocktail shaker, the right ingredients, and that aloha spirit.
1. Blue Hawaii Mocktail Punch
The Blue Hawaiian mocktail punch is an ode to Hawaii’s crystalline waters; no blue curacao is needed. Think coconut, pineapple, and a tropical beach in a glass with a hint of tanginess.
Blue Hawaii Mocktail Punch Recipe
What You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup blue Hawaiian punch (If you can’t find it, mix 2 tbsp coconut water with 2 tbsp pineapple juice and a drop of blue food coloring)
- 2 tbsp coconut cream (Or coconut water for a lighter touch)
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Ice
- Cherry and pineapple wedge (for garnish)
- Optional: one shot of non-alcoholic coconut rum
How to Prepare:
- Toss all the ingredients into a blender until the ice is all crushed and you’ve got a smooth, thick texture.
- Pour your masterpiece into your glass.
- Add the cherry on top and a pineapple slice on the rim
More of an ‘On the Rocks’ Person?
You can also serve this beauty chilled over ice. Just skip the blender, pour ice and let the tropical vibes roll. If you want to go all out, serve it in a hurricane glass, a tall, curved glass that’s shaped like a hurricane lamp or vase.
2. Hawaiian Mango Lemonade
If you’re obsessed with mangoes and lemons just like us, here’s a perfect combination of both in one drink. Oh, and they’re super healthy too!
Hawaiian Mango Lemonade Recipe
What to Prepare:
- 2 ripe mangoes (the riper, the better)
- 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 cups water
- Sugar or honey (however sweet you’re feeling)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How to Prepare:
- Puree those mangoes in a blender until they’re nice and smoother.
- In a pitcher, mix the mango puree, lemon juice and water.
- Add sugar or honey to taste. Give it a good stir.
- Pour over ice, slap on some mint and boom! Tropical paradise in a glass.
3. Lava Flow
The lava flow is a creamy blend of coconut, pineapple and banana, with a contrasting strawberry swirl.
Lava Flow Recipe
What to Prepare:
- 1 cup frozen strawberries (for that lava effect)
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup crushed ice
- Coconut flakes and a pineapple slice (for garnish)
How to Prepare:
- Blend the strawberries until they’re all smooth and lava-like.
- In another round with the blender, mix the banana, coconut milk, pineapple juice and ice.
- Layer the strawberry mix first then coconut-pineapple in a glass. It should look all volcanic (like Kīlauea) and cool.
- Garnish with coconut flakes and pineapple. Take a sip and we’re sure you’ll Lava it!
4. Haupia
Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding that’s a bit like blancmange. But why stop there if you can turn it into a delicious coco-nutty milkshake?
This drink recipe has deep roots in Hawaii, making it a favorite at every luaus and local gatherings since way back. Traditionally, haupia was made with coconut milk and Polynesian arrowroot called pia; however, modern recipes often use cornstarch due to pia’s scarcity.
Haupia Recipe
What to Prepare:
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (to thicken)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
How to Prepare:
- Mix coconut milk, water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat it up and stir until the sugar is all dissolved properly.
- In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water.
- Add the cornstarch mix to the saucepan slowly and carefully. Keep stirring to avoid lumps!
- Once it’s thick and pudding-like, let it cool for a bit.
- In a blender, add your Haupia mix, vanilla extract and ice cream.
- Pour it into glasses and sprinkle some coconut flakes on top if you’re feeling fancy.
5. Lilikoi Lani
Passion fruit was introduced to Hawaii in 1880, which quickly became a local favorite. While it’s grown in many tropical regions, in Hawaii, the yellow-skinned variety, known as yellow Liliko’i, dominates. The drink, Lilikoi Lani, is a blend of sweet and tart passion fruit, complemented by a citrusy zing and a bubbly finish.
Lilikoi Lani Recipe
What to Prepare:
- Fresh lilikoi juice
- A splash of lime or lemon juice
- A touch of honey or agave syrup
- Sparkling water or soda water
- Ice cubes
- A slice of lime or a sprig of mint (for garnish)
How to Prepare:
- Combine the lilikoi juice, lime or lemon juice and your chosen sweetener in a glass. Give it a good stir.
- Add ice cubes.
- Top it off with sparkling water or soda for a bubbly lift.
- Garnish with a slice of lime or a sprig of mint.
Pro tip: Up your mocktail game with some tropical garnishes like pineapple wedges, cherries, or even those adorable mini umbrellas. Check out these ideas to stock your at-home mocktail bar.
Go wild and be creative! Oh, and, fresh is best! If you want your mocktail to taste like a Hawaiian sunrise, use fresh ingredients. Trust us; it’s a game-changer.
Ōkole Maluna!
These non-alcoholic Hawaiian beverages offer a genuine taste of the islands’ rich traditions. While enjoying them, let’s remember and appreciate the deep roots and vibrant culture of their origin.
Here’s to experiencing a touch of Hawaii’s warmth and spirit with every sip!
Ōkole maluna! Or, bottom’s up!
Leave a Reply