Night Shift

In deep

by Dean Carrico | Jan 3, 2007

Bars in general are many things to many people, running the gamut from sanctuaries for those weary of their home life to social clubs for the lonely. In theory, it seems like the easiest business in the world: Get a full-length mirror, some beer paraphernalia, stock the shelves with liquor and employ a person who is willing to listen to others blather on for hours about innocuous subjects, and you’re ready to sedate a nation. Of course, here in Hawai’i you have to do things a little differently, particularly if you’re in the heart of Waikiki. First come the theme nights, then the bikini contests, the drink specials, live entertainment and cover charges. Some places make it impossible to get a simple whiskey and Coke without having to watch the bottle and glass fly through the air. The most egregious violators of the if-you-pour-it-they-will-come rule are the hotel bars. And for good reason. Waikiki is teeming with tourists with fat wallets–what bartender wouldn’t want them on their stools? But you don’t want to forget the people who live and work here, who just might, after having one more drink topped with a fruit salad/flower ensemble, go off the deep end. Or rather, to The Deep End Pool Bar.

Haven’t heard of it? Not surprising, especially considering that it’s hidden away on the fifth floor of Ohana Maile Sky Court Hotel. Even after taking the elevators up, walking down the hall makes you think you’re headed for a corner with an ice machine, not a fully-stocked bar. Besides the bar, there are also three pool tables and an atmosphere that transcends the how-can-we-bilk-these-people-out-of-more-money vibe. The result is more like your favorite neighborhood watering hole, where draft beers start at $1.75 and the average drink costs four bucks. The clientele is fast with a drink and a story, and trivia nights and pool tournaments make socializing easy. Having a pool and a Jacuzzi ready for use never hurts either, and both are ready for use as long as you’re buying from the bar, which makes the entire experience like having friends with benefits.

Of course, if you’re a smoker, the thought of going up and down five flights to feed the habit might make you rule the place out, but as we said, it’s a pool bar. While we can’t say smoking was officially sanctioned, it was easy enough to get outside and take in a great view that’s more than 20 feet away from any person who might cough in a melodramatic fashion.

To quote legendary comedian Bill Hicks, ‘That’s a hell of a cough there, buddy. Good thing you don’t smoke, huh?’

The Deep End Pool Bar

2058 Kuhio Ave., Ohana Maile Sky Court Hotel, 5th floor

Getting In: No cover, 21+ Dress Code: Whatevahs Soundtrack: A variety, usually dictated by the person behind the bar or the person that tips the most. Sightings: Da locals Signature Drink: Mai Tais, Blue Hawaiians ($4), nightly specials

Celebrating Hawaii, nature, culture and wellness for over 35 years!
SURFER, The Bar

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