Bartender Salary in Honolulu, HI
Bartenders in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $21.20 per hour, which translates to about $848.00 per week, $3,674.67 per month, and $44,096.00 per year.
The job demand for Bartenders in Honolulu is growing positively at about 5% per year, signaling a promising outlook for employment opportunities in this vibrant hospitality market.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Bartender in Honolulu can vary based on experience level and workplace, but generally follows this range:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $26,960.00 |
Do Bartenders in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Bartenders typically earn a significant amount in tips. In Honolulu, they can often make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, substantially boosting their overall earnings beyond their base salary or hourly wage.
Bartender Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn about $17.80 per hour, translating to roughly $37,024 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Honolulu earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $21.20 and annual earnings of $44,096.
This difference may be due to local factors such as tourism demand, cost of living, and hospitality industry dynamics unique to Honolulu.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Bartenders
Nearby areas offering higher Bartender salaries include:
- Waikiki: $22.00 per hour
- Downtown Honolulu: $21.50 per hour
Bartenders working in Waikiki may find the best pay, reflecting the area's strong tourist appeal and upscale venues.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Honolulu?
Several key factors affect how much a Bartender earns in Honolulu:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders with advanced mixology and customer service skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end hotels, resorts, and exclusive bars typically pay more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Bartenders working late-night or weekend shifts might receive shift differentials or higher tips.
- Certifications and Training: Completing bartender training and certifications can enhance job prospects and salary potential.
- Local Market Demand: Honolulu's tourism industry heavily influences wage levels given the high customer volume in certain areas.
How To Become a Bartender in Honolulu
Becoming a Bartender in Honolulu involves several practical steps to maximize hiring and salary potential.
- Complete Required Training: The Honolulu Liquor Commission Server Training is essential, covering liquor laws, responsible serving, and handling intoxicated persons.
- Obtain Licensing: Bartenders must secure the Honolulu Liquor Commission Liquor Card by passing the server training and exam to legally serve alcohol.
- Consider Certificate Programs: Programs like the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program focusing on beverage management and mixology provide valuable foundational knowledge.
- Pursue Additional Certification: National credentials like the ServSafe Alcohol Certification help demonstrate professionalism in responsible alcohol service.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level roles or internships at local bars, restaurants, or resorts offer essential practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Honolulu
Some of the leading hospitality employers seeking skilled Bartenders in Honolulu include:
- Moku Kitchen
- Shorefyre
- Mina Group
- Marriott International
- Hyatt
Establishments That Bartenders in Honolulu Work At
Bartenders in Honolulu typically work across a diverse range of establishments such as:
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: These venues often pay higher wages and rely heavily on Bartenders with refined mixology skills.
- Cocktail Lounges and Nightclubs: These usually offer competitive pay, with supplemental income from tips during peak hours.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These establishments offer steady employment but generally lower pay compared to high-end venues.
- Beach Bars and Tourist Hotspots: These locations provide opportunities for bartenders to earn significant tips, especially during busy tourist seasons.
The type of establishment directly affects the Bartender’s earning potential through base pay and tip volume.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Bartenders
If you're exploring careers related to Bartending, consider the following roles with similar skills and work environments:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, each of which involves related beverage service responsibilities and offers distinct career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Honolulu
Bartenders should familiarize themselves with local and federal laws affecting their employment and pay in Honolulu.
- The Official website of the Honolulu Liquor Commission provides comprehensive information on liquor laws, licensing, and mandatory training.
- For labor laws and employment regulations, visit the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
- Federal labor regulations and wage standards are outlined on the U.S. Department of Labor website.