Everything about the Hawaiian Islands screams tropical paradise, including many of our remarkable restaurants. While tiki bars can easily be considered a dime a dozen here in the Aloha State, there are few options that cater perfectly to locals and tourists alike. There’s one tiki bar, in particular, that we can’t seem to get enough of. Nestled near the north shore of Kauai in Hanalei (population: 450), this local gem absolutely must be added to your Hawaii dining bucket list.

Welcome to Tahiti Nui, a popular watering hole that has been delighting locals and tourists alike for more than 50 years.

Featured in the film, The Descendants and founded as a small diner in the 1960s, Tahiti Nui has undergone multiple changes over the years but is still as authentic as it gets.

You won’t find unnecessary kitsch, glasses shaped like totems, or fabric flower leis here, just carved bamboo doorframes, thatched walls covered with photos snapped across Polynesia, and plenty of Aloha.

Like any good tiki bar, start with a drink. Sip on a perfect mai tai made with a still-secret recipe or choose from a variety of signature tropical cocktails, wines, and beers from Hawaii and around the world.

Feast on tender shredded kalua pork cooked in an imu, a traditional Hawaiian earthen oven or enjoy fresh, locally caught seafood prepared in a variety of tasty ways.

Of course, non-seafood lovers will also find something to satisfy their taste buds here: the menu features a variety of salads and pizzas, as well as chicken, beef, and pork entrees.

No matter what you order — food or tropical cocktail — you will leave Tahiti Nui feeling happy, relaxed, and satisfied.

If you’ve never experienced the old Hawaiian charm found at Tahiti Nui, what are you waiting for? This authentic, 1960s tiki bar is one of our all-time favorite destinations, and we guarantee you’ll love it, too.

Address: 5-5134 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei, HI 96714

Tahiti Nui is open at 11 a.m. daily and closes at 10 p.m. on Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 12: a.m. on Monday, and 1 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and dinner is served from 5 to 9 p.m. Visit during happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. for drink specials. For more information, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.

To discover another classic Hawaiian tiki bar worthy of a visit, click here.