We stop here every Honolulu visit! Its veteran owned and they do offer a tour (worth it) that shows you how they make their whiskey. Staff is always friendly, and I love their ube cocktail. Whiskey is the cat (and official mascot) hes so friendly, and love seeing him as hes living the good life (much bigger than on my last trip lol!!). Super chill place! Its definitely hard to find, in a warehouse area but they have tons of signs and Google maps will take you right there. Definitely worth the drive! read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Whiskey & Ube - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

Great space hidden in the back of an industrial zone (with nice landscaping FYI) this distillery offers tours and craft cocktails with live entertainment / trivia nights plus food trucks. The night we went there were 2 musicians playing great music and taking requests. One even had a trombone! There are lounge couches, high tops and picnic style tables, some indoor, some outdoor under a tent. Nice local art on walls. We loved the craft cocktails especially the Old Fashioned. The tasting board of their different blends was great too! Taco night was some darn good home cooking ! Carlitos is a family run business and you can tell they really care about the food. We had the pork tacos and the pork was amazing! The refried beans were some of the best we ever had. This distillery is fun for couples, families, and groups of friends. There are also some games around for little kids, who were hanging in the outdoor tent. Definitely worth a visit ! read more

Really enjoyed visiting this distillery -- the cocktails and spirits themselves were excellent. The tasting room vibe was relaxed and the drinks were creative and well-balanced. I'd absolutely come back just to sit, sip, and hang out. That said, I'd probably skip the tour next time. Our guide is clearly an important part of the operation, but they came across bored, a bit hard to follow, and not very engaged with the product, which made that portion feel awkward and took away from the experience. Bottom line: highly recommend stopping in for the tasting room and cocktails -- they're worth it -- just go for the drinks rather than the tour. read more

Came here a total of 2 times. First time was for the tour om my birthday, second time was just to stop by and have a quick drink due to just being in the area. Each time did not disappoint. Enjoy coming here even though it is no where near where I live. At least 40 minutes away from my house. But besides that, this place is great. In somewhat of an industrial area, but the distillery and lounge area are great. Awesome and friendly staff that are very helpful if you are unsure what to drink. They offer their in-house alcohol, but also offer other drinks including beers. Games available to play while you're there. Will for sure be back. Definitely a place to visit if you're into distilleries. Also recommend their tour even though it isn't very big big read more

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Amazing distillery! Staff were so kind and the cocktails were absolutely delicious. Whiskey was fantastic. We visited as tourists but this is definitely a hidden local gem(in the back of a business park). Enjoyed all the military paraphernalia as well. FYI, Google Map and Waze took us directly to the correct location. read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Ube bae cocktail - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

The last time we were here, I wasn't able to enjoy the drinks because I was pregnant. This time, I didn't know how much of a treat I was about to give myself! The ambiance of this place is so cozy. I love that they have board games to play and are family friendly. We brought the kids because we had a couple family members go on the whiskey tour (which they loved, by the way!) We had a grand ol' time hanging out in the warehouse. I got myself a Bloody Mary because I can't help myself whenever it's on the menu and it definitely HITTT. We all love a blood Mary that's not so tomato-y. The bartender also made it with spicy tequila and mannnn, I'm surprised I didn't order another one! Apparently, they only sell bloody Mary's on Sundays so don't say I didn't warn ya. I love that it's a veteran-owned business too. You can see the craft that these guys have for whiskey. They have these cool 3D whiskey glasses that have the islands in the bottom of the cup. So dope. We're gonna have to make this a spot to bring the family when they come to visit. read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Beer Menu - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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Located in a warehouse type place so it took us a couple wrong turns to find it but glad we did. Nice space with comfortable seating inside and some picnic type tables outside. There's also indoor and outdoor games which was nice because we brought kids. Ordered a chili water drink, ube drink, espresso martini type drink and a creamy pineapple drink. All drinks were great and differently made to give it that Hawai'i touch. They also have mocktails available which were pretty good - my daughter had the mocktail margarita which was a little on the tart side. It is a distillery and they have tours available with tastings, but we didn't sign up for that and instead just sat and enjoyed the cocktails. Cocktails were same prices as if we were at a bar. Nice place to lounge and try some good drinks. Bartender was really nice and provided good service. read more

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Such a cute distillery. My first time at one of these things for my partner who is really into whiskey and we really enjoyed the tutorial of how they make their stuff. And boy was the tasting spicy! read more

This distillery is a gem !!!!! Surround by a beautiful scenery, this distillery is a must see!!! Cute and quaint, very cozy and the bartender is amazing. If you're lucky enough to get served by Lacey !!!! 10/10 Ps. Chili pepper water is dank read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Espresso martini - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

This distillery is so cool! Beautiful and comfortable interior that features a full bar and relaxing environment. We did a whiskey tour and tasting where we were taken on a behind-the-scenes tour of this active distillery- so glad we signed up. The tour was led by the Lead Distiller, Olivia. She shared such an interesting and abundant background on their unique location and distillery. However she also made it a comprehensive educational experience on the distillation process in general. All this information was served up with such a dry and witty humor that it felt like a tasting and a show! My son got to bottle and label a bottle of whiskey and even number the bottle that we took home with us. Such a wonderful way to spend a couple hours while exploring the island of Oahu. Highly recommend! read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Gorgeous copper still - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

Okay we just love this place!! Not only do they have great events but you and take tours, do tastings, or hand out with your friends and enjoy the amazing mixed drinks they offer! And I will say it again you HAVE to try the PINEAPPLE SIPPING JUICE!!!! oh it is soooooooo good!!!! Service is always great and everyone will always make you and your family feel welcome. read more

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We always love supporting local businesses and this one was also veteran owned. Met the master distiller who was also our tour guide. She was funny and extremely knowledgeable. Learned about the process and tasted some spirits. Stayed after for a few drinks and loved the chill vibe. Def recommend checking them out when in the area for something different and fun. read more

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This was our first time visiting Ko'olau Distillery, and it's a fantastic hidden gem near Kailua! This veteran-owned spot offers a relaxed, local experience that is definitely worth seeking out. We were impressed with the cocktails! My Whiskey Tai was perfectly balanced and refreshing, and hubs loved his Old Fashioned made with their signature spirits. They also host Trivia Night on Thursdays, which sounds like a fun way to spend an evening! Highly recommend stopping by for quality drinks and a great local atmosphere! We will definitely be back, maybe for Trivia Night! read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Old Fashioned - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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This is not for the food, just for the drinks and vibe. Been here several time within the last month. Drinks and service consistent and excellent. Good for date nite or with friends. Live music a plus. Food is hit or miss, but we not here that. Will be back. read more

WHY WE WENT HERE: - after a day of fails, why not end it with a drink or 2 THE LOOK (FROM THE OUTSIDE): - located off Kapaa Quarry Pl THE LOOK (FROM THE INSIDE): - I think because we came in the later hours, the distillery itself was closed; however we only had access to the outdoor seating/food vendor onsite, the bar and karaoke section inside - love the living room vibes of the couches by the karaoke area THE MENU: - flights - whiskey - non-alcoholic - cocktails - beer WHAT WE ORDERED: - Ube-Bae - Moonshine Margarita - Crushed Oranges THE TASTE: - the cocktails were very tasty! presentation (other than the Crushed Oranges) was very nice as well! CUSTOMER SERVICE: - drinks made promptly - karaoke was OK, the song choices of the people were just not in our personal arena, so it didn't make me feel like getting up to sing myself read more

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Roaring 20's / Prohibition Party! Gave me a reason to stop by again. Everyone arrived dressed up in vests, flapper dresses, accessories, the whole shebang! It was nice to see people dress up for the event. The live music playing 20s tunes was great too! The espresso martini (not on the menu) was an event special using their very own chocolate vodka and coffee liqueur made in house, along with Traditions Coffee from next door. Yum! I pray they make this a regular cocktail item. Not many places do cocktails well here, but Ko'olau Distillery definitely knows how to make a mean drink. Nice for a change of scenery and company. Hopefully they have more themed events like these in the future! read more

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Well if you have a love for distilleries and a taste for good spirits this is a must. We got here pretty early little before they opened and waited. So welcoming once we walked in. It's owned by military owner Veteran owner business of the year! If you are in the area on vacation I highly recommend coming. They do tours and the inside is filled with RECON paddles , beautiful surfboards hanging from the walls. The seating area outside is truly nice sit out there and look at the Oahu mountains simply breathtaking! Love this place! read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

Wow! What a cool hidden gem! For our honeymoon we were gifted this distillery tour! Olivia was the best host and absolutely hilarious! The tastings were yummy and I have never learned so much about how something is made! Like literally down to the science of every part of how they make their spirits! Cool veteran owned spot with a lot of memorabilia on the wall and a down home feel! read more

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This place might be tricky to get to, but it's a definite hidden gem. They rent out their back room for parties, so I highly recommend renting it out and telling all your friends to uber up Kapaa Quarry Rd for a fun night! Excellent cocktails and liquor selection! I can not wait to go back for another fun event! read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Inside the distillery - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

The tour they offer is amazing, as are their different types of rum. Definitely try their product tasting options and other products, including coffee and hot sauce. All in all this distillery tour is great fun and very educational. read more

Each time we are visiting the island, this is a must go to place. The people are great, the drinks rock and Whiskey the cat is the best companion read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Perfect Old Fashioned - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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We were visiting family and we did the tour with Olivia. It was very informative and we were given a few tips on how to sip the spirits. I'm not a vodka or gin drinker put theirs were amazingly great tasting! If in the area be sure to stop there. I shipped some home. Had an old fashion with their aged gin and was so good! Everyone was so friendly! read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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Was really excited to try a local whiskey and made the trek over. The ambiance is great and could easily see hanging out there. Spoke with the bartender and said I was a bourbon fan and was excited to try theirs. She told me nothing about the brand, the whisky, anything and just asked what I wanted to order. I got the flight since apparently that's the only way to sample the whisky? Long story short, 3 gins, 1 whisky for $15. I'm not a gin guy but the aged one was fine. The others were awful for my pallet. The whisky was really flat. Nothing exciting, no noticeable improvements from any other random $20 bottle. Real shame this was such a miss. read more

This is just a Saturday night accidental stop. I just had a feeling that I wanted to drive around the area since I heard a lot more businesses and renovations to the Kipapa gulch area. As we're driving by, I notice a party atmosphere, so onward we go. It's a pizza truck parked outside the warehouse doorway, which is tented out to the parking area with picnic tables s and a reserved party area. Inside is a bar area, open to the public. So we check it out, looks good to give some drinks a try. Ask to share seats with another couple on the tall table. Great idea. Tried several specialty drinks for fun. Pineapple sipping cream -served in a cute pineapple shaped shot glass. The Hawaiian-Hoki served on a copper mug. Both drinks were delicious. Our neighbor tried the liquor sampling. They liked 2 out of 4. The other 2 were too harsh to handle straight, but were great in their mixed specials. Cute stop behind the scenes, tucked away. Glad we stopped in to enjoy and support local businesses. read more

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The five star rating is for real. Great service, great vibe, and most importantly, great drinks. Also, a selection of local micro brews, if you are not into the liquor. read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Whiskey Tai - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

I was introduced to Koolau distillery at a yelp event I was lucky enough to get into. I had a fantastic experience with the tour and tastings and I felt the vibe was pretty chill. The owners seemed nice and they also sell a bunch of merchandise. I like that there is a little area with tables and a couch area. It makes it feel homey. The place is owned by retired military people, so there is a lot of military memorabilia up on the walls. It also attracts a lot of customers who are or were in the military. I ended up following koolau distillery on IG and they post the food trucks and entertainment line up because it changes nightly. I've checked it out a couple times since the yelp event. We even considered it as one of the venues for one of our wedding events, but we didn't want people drinking over the Pali intoxicated. I like the distillery for its drinks too. I'm not really a beer girly, so I like that there are several drinks I would order here. I particularly like the pineapple shot drink. It comes in a cute shot class and the alcohol definitely sneaks up on you. Parking can be a little bit of an issue when it's really crowded. However, out of all the bars on the east side, this is definitely top 5 for me and I'll keep coming back for those yummy pineapple shots. read more

This little distillery was one of my most favorite tours we did on our honeymoon. I'm not a whiskey drinker but our tour guide Olivia taught us how to taste and drink whiskey and it made a huge difference!!! She was absolutely amazing she made the little tour so much fun, entertaining, interesting and educating she has a funny and witty sense of humor!!!! We did the big package we got to bring home the whiskey we put in our bottle and got to label the number how we wanted it!!! Sooo much fun. And Whiskey the cat just topped everything off!! I will miss that friendly chunky cat!! Actually we're going back today to buy more bottles for souvenirs. read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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This is a great little spot to stop at when you're in Kailua. We enjoyed a flight (moonshine, whiskey, 2 gins) and a relaxing time after the beach. After looking at other reviews and photos, I realize I missed out on some drinks that I'd love to try. (ube & pineapple cream) Guess I'll have to head on back soon! read more

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It was ok. The prices of their bottles reflect high local costs. They released 375 ml bottles of bourbon, which was ok, as a special release, but $80. If they sold full bottles it would be $160. It has to be a special bottle for that much, this just was not it for my price point. (They only had one barrel, so don't go expecting to get some) They charge $25 for a tour n tasting. This is a small distillary in an older commercial park, not exactly old rickhouse tour. Here us where it got really annoying. They have a bar area where they pour tastings and roughly $15 drinks. We asked about the tours and ordered some drinks, 2 minutes before the tour. They give us the drinks and say we can't drink them on the tour.. of the next room. They offer to hold the drinks for us, the iced drinks until after the tour (so they will be warm and watery after the tour!). We warned other who came in for the tour as it was about to start. One of the employees strolled by and said "counterintuitive, isn't it you can't bring drinks on the tour". I get it if it is the rules, they should have told us. The options are whisky (meh), vodka (good), moonshine (good), gin(pretty good). So, if is a rainy day, I'd recommend going to a liquor Store and doing a tasting at home or heading to a bar with views before I did this tasting. read more

Good service and decent drinks. Service was friendly and helpful. Only reason for 3 stars is the location. You are literally in a warehouse with pretty much a zero breeze and definitely zero view in Hawaii. read more

Total hole in the wall place in an industrial storage looking facility, but they have it decorated and make it an inviting place to hangout and have a drink. The tour is fun because it's done by the distiller and she has a science background which was fun because she was able to actually articulate why they use certain parts of the distillation products verses not. I'm a chemist and have been on many tours and this was one of the only ones where they actually explained a bit more of the science so I really liked that. Their tour was fun because you get to get involved in preparing a bottle of spirits. Very fun! I'd say they have a unique taste to their spirits compared to others. It was nice to have some variety! read more

We took the premium tour today and Eric , the CEO gave the tour. Very informative and personal. Tried the old fashioned made with the barrel aged gin. Very tasty! Highly recommend, 10 out of 10!! Premium tour is definitely worth it! read more

Good drinks, fun local ambience. Good music when we were there. Everyone was very friendly.

Came across this lovely little distillery tucked away in Kailua while attending a birthday party around the corner. It's founded and run by military which is a huge plus in my book as a fellow military spouse. The bartenders are super sweet, extremely knowledgeable and are filled with so much aloha. I ordered a Ube-Bae and it was deep purple and delicious. They had a few little snack baggies if you wanted to pair those with your drinks. The merch was pretty cool if you'd like a hat, tee or some other items to add to your souvenir collection. Will definitely be back for another round or flight in the near future. read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Ube-Bae - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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(Drank 05/19/23 FR @ 12:00pm): Wow... a cool little distillery in the middle of nowhere! I took my friend on an exploration of Kailua into parts I haven't "discovered" yet, which ultimately brought us to Ko'olau Distillery. I scoped out this place and was finally happy to try it with someone who was interested as well. A slight detour from my brewery exploration, libations were still going to be had! Founded in 2018 by a disabled Marine, this was a story I wanted to learn more about and support. Would my usual beer and wine-forward tastebuds be cool with various distilled liquors!? PURCHASE 4pc Flight Taster $15.00 https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=IQo2X6CdEdkU6wvJobiHvg&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw ~Old Pali Road Whiskey 96 Proof 1/2floz: Honey, oaky, and smooth. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=FaXfCv3ENaogjVzcaWzY4w&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw ~Tradewind Gin 95 Proof 1/2floz: Citrusy, floral, and smooth. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=spA-4ve8SG6AOtPl23GZfQ&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw ~Barrel Aged Tradewind Gin 95 Proof ¼floz: Citrusy, spicy, and mouthfeel. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=nhtTGDlHGqyhPOR079nGUg&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw ~Mahealani Moonshine 100 Proof ¼floz: Smoky, sweet, and trailing. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=-aNgaY7PDwR0vD3ifp_UEA&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Pineapple Sippin Cream ($5.00): Pineapple, tropical, and creamy. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=YA5J9WC2EDYQBYGSTRwmYQ&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Old Fashioned ($15.00): Made with their Old Pali Road Whiskey, this was less smoky and more smooth than what I was used to. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=HOD_f8jLm7GmDisDNiB7DA&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Moonshine Refresher ($12.00): Made with their Mahealani Moonshine and POG juice, this was a really refreshing elixir! https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=Q6sTy2aCJ_9IddOPicS6ew&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Hawaiian Hoki ($10.00 HH): Made with their Old Pali Road Whiskey and ginger beer, this was a very light Moscow Mule. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=IMi5QiXI3Wt9Ro9IjM1LOw&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Gin & Tonic ($10.00 HH): Made with their Tradewind Gin and tonic water, this was simply water to me. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=P-6tHq46K6sdTKpP0f7O3g&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Lin's Hawaiian Snacks Ube Chex Mix 4oz Bag ($7.00): There were few eating options other than the food truck, so we opted for this. Nearly every crunchy piece had some slightly sweet ube flavoring on it as we devoured the entire bag while we were there. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=whM-ahBxJC1Kto_Vo8W79w&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Round Sticker ($1.00): I loved stickers and enjoyed placing them at breweries and the like to spread the love. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=IYjAA_oJOgt0fHSBijSHcw&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw SERVICE Greeted by a young friendly female who directed us to sit anywhere, we each eagerly ordered a taster flight which she brought to us minutes later as she explained each one. Throughout the afternoon, we continued to order more drinks and even spoke with the owner. Before we left, live music started. Everyone was helpful and kind - mahalo! PARKING (FREE) It appeared they shared a somewhat spacious outdoor area with a handful of businesses - 'nuff said! ATMOSPHERE, DÉCOR, AMBIENCE Located in an industrial area inside a sizable warehouse with one side for the tasting room https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=9gS0d8Uxf4ygHfXwhILX3w&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw and the other side for to the distillery https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=abUG9z2GnaHa8Ztb87SsIA&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw and tours. There were plenty of places to sit in addition to nice visuals https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=FxeFVi9HondLDXtZHHeRYA&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw hung on the walls. There was a decent amount of natural lighting at the entrance while various electric hung and ceiling lights filled in the rest. There were a couple TVs while I couldn't remember if there was any background music. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=d2YZMMSCxANIsPLXpK3N1w&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw ATTIRE Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt, boardshorts, and flip-flops. OVERALL I had a wonderful afternoon at Ko'olau Distillery and would consider returning with people who haven't been here before. Unless they offered something different, I couldn't see returning by myself. Aside from the tasting sizes (I wished they were at least 1floz), I was pleased with everything else. This also appeared to be a family and pet-friendly place. I found complete value based on the prices, service, and experience noted above (TOTAL paid experience was around $80.00 BEFORE any discounts and/or tip). And, they accepted my credit card of choice... AMEX! 5.0 STARS read more

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Had a great experience during our one hour tour that I booked online. First half hour is the guide explaining the science behind distilling and the history of the distillery. Was surprised to discover that almost all their employees are veterans! The second half was the best part which is the sampling! We got to try the whiskey, gin, and vodka. It was an interactive experience too which I enjoyed. We got to bottle the whiskey and were able to purchase the bottle we bottled. You can also visit the distillery without a tour. They have a bar and seating area to hang out. Would recommend! read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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We had a great time we learned, we labeled, we bottled and corked! Chico was fantastic and our group was enjoyable! Nothing like a craft distillery! read more

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A distillery founded by veterans? I'm in. On my recent trip to Oahu, I scheduled a distillery tour at Ko'olau. Our guide was entertaining and knowledgeable, walking us through all the steps of the spirit-making process. Pay for the upgraded tour - when it comes time to label, fill, and seal some Old Pali Road whiskey, you get to take home the bottle and sign it however you choose! And let's face it, you're bringing home a bottle anyway. The distillery is warm, so don't forget to stay hydrated...with water...and maybe an old fashioned at the bar. Apple Maps gets you to the location accurately, but you might think you're going the wrong way just before you arrive. It's definitely off the beaten path. Plenty of parking at the location. read more

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Best tour and experience! This is a hidden gem! All the employees are so knowledgeable and amazing. The pineapple taster was fabulous! If this was bottled I would ship it home. read more

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Such a fun tour! Luckily our tour was done by one of the owners and It was a great experience! Took a few bottles home with us As well the bartending service was great and patient! The old fashioned was delicious Would absolutely recommend booking a tour read more

Ko'olau Distillery - Distilleries Near Me - Kailua, Hawaii

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