Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and Hawaiian culture. But did you know that the state also has a growing and thriving craft beer and spirits scene? With an abundance of new and innovative craft breweries and distilleries popping up in the islands, there’s never been a better time to explore Hawaii’s top craft breweries and distilleries.
Craft Breweries In Hawaii
Whether you’re a hophead or prefer lighter, more refreshing beers, Hawaii has it all when it comes to craft beer. Here are just a few of our favorite craft breweries in Hawaii:
1. Maui Brewing Company
Maui Brewing Company is one of the top craft breweries in Hawaii and an absolute must-visit for beer lovers. The brewery produces a wide variety of beers, from year-round staples such as Bikini Blonde Lager, Big Swell IPA, and Coconut Hiwa Porter to innovative seasonal and limited-edition brews. The brewery also has a popular brewpub located in Kihei on Maui.
2. Kona Brewing Company
Kona Brewing Company is another popular craft brewery in Hawaii. Their flagship beers, Longboard Lager and Big Wave Golden Ale, have won numerous awards at international beer competitions. The brewery, which has locations in Kailua-Kona and Honolulu, also produces an array of tasty seasonal and limited-edition brews.
3. Lanikai Brewing Company
Lanikai Brewing Company is a small, family-owned brewery located in Kailua on Oahu. The brewery specializes in creating innovative and unique beers using locally sourced ingredients. Some of their popular brews include the Pillbox Porter and Moku Imperial IPA.
4. Beer Lab HI
Beer Lab HI is a small and cozy brewery located in Honolulu. The brewery produces small batch, experimental beers using a variety of unusual ingredients such as lemongrass and watermelon. If you’re looking for something truly unique and flavorful, Beer Lab HI is the place to go.
Distilleries In Hawaii
If spirits are more your thing, Hawaii has a growing craft distilling scene that’s worth exploring. Here are a few of our favorite Hawaii distilleries:
1. Ko Hana Distillery
Ko Hana Distillery is a rum distillery located on a farm in Oahu’s central plains. The distillery produces a wide range of high-quality rums using traditional Hawaiian methods and locally sourced heirloom sugarcane. The distillery offers tastings and tours where visitors can learn more about the distilling process.
2. Koloa Rum Company
Koloa Rum Company is another popular rum distillery in Hawaii. The distillery, located on the island of Kauai, produces a variety of rums, including white, gold, dark, and spiced rums. The distillery also offers tours and tastings where visitors can learn more about the distilling process and sample some of their delicious rums.
3. Hawaii Sea Spirits
Hawaii Sea Spirits is a distillery located on the island of Maui that produces a unique and delicious vodka called Ocean Vodka. The vodka is made from organic sugarcane and mineral-rich ocean water sourced from a depth of 3,000 feet off the coast of Hawaii. The distillery also offers tours and tastings, as well as a beautiful organic farm and gift shop.
4. Manulele Distillers
Manulele Distillers is a farm-to-bottle distillery located on the island of Oahu. The distillery produces a high-quality gin called Ko Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum and recently added a whiskey to their lineup. The distillery utilizes local and sustainable farming methods to create their spirits, and they offer tours and tastings for visitors.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beer lover or a spirits aficionado, Hawaii has a growing and thriving craft scene that’s worth exploring. From Maui Brewing Company’s innovative and delicious beers to Ko Hana Distillery’s traditional Hawaiian rum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So next time you’re in Hawaii, be sure to take some time to visit some of the top craft breweries and distilleries in the islands and experience the unique flavors and history of Hawaiian craft spirits.