Guests attending The Hukilau in South Florida on June 3-7 are encouraged to relax enjoy the unique surroundings, a totally immersive escape from the craziness of today’s modern world. These “villagers” have ample opportunity to unwind at the oceanfront Beachcomber Resort & Club in Pompano Beach, then step back in time at the historic Mai-Kai restaurant in nearby Fort Lauderdale.
MORE BELOW: Sneak preview of the official event mug by Eeekum Bookum
• Bands and entertainment | Symposiums and classes | Bars and cocktails
But they can’t relax too much. Like most other Tiki weekenders, the 24th annual event includes a robust schedule full of live music and other performances, tastings of craft cocktails and spirits, symposiums hosted by experts in their respective fields, plus a marketplace containing 30 vendors selling a wide range of art and collectibles.
This is the event’s sixth straight year at the Beachcomber, a small boutique hotel just steps from the Atlantic, and the 19th full live event at the Mai-Kai (est. 1956), generally considered to be the last remaining mid-century Polynesian supper club in the world. Many of this year’s participants are new to both The Hukilau and Tiki events in general, so it will be fun to enjoy the diversity and variety amid the familiar surroundings.
2025 recap: We tasted 45 cocktails; here are the Top 15
Bonus recipes: You Remind Me of the Babe (Bar Tiki) | Blackbeard’s Ghost (Aku Aku) | Peach Emoji (Tiki Tatsu-Ya)
The Hukilau 2026 – June 3-7 at the Beachcomber Resort & Club in Pompano Beach and Mai-Kai restaurant in Oakland Park. Featuring live music, special guests, symposiums and classes, 20 guest cocktail bars, pool parties, Tiki Treasures Bazaar, plus more.
Buy tickets: Weekend passes, Charles Phoenix presentation
Book a room: More info on the Beachcomber
• The Hukilau on social media: Instagram | Facebook page and group
While the official schedule is full of activities every day, villagers can participate at their own pace, a literal “build your own Tiki adventure” weekend of sorts. We hope to guide you through some of the highlights with this extensive preview of the bands, symposiums and pop-up bars. Complimentary cocktails flow nearly non-stop every day and night, one of the most under-appreciated features of the event. Sponsors Ron Diplomatico and Tanduay will also offer complimentary rum tastings throughout the weekend.
Five-day tickets range from $489 for the Aloha Pass to $659 for the all-inclusive South Seas Pass. The best bet for locals and those coming in at the last minute is the two-day Palm Pass ($199), which gets you access to most of Saturday’s festivities (including unlimited cocktails and the vendor marketplace), plus Sunday’s finale at the Mai-Kai. Rooms at the Beachcomber are still available starting at $255 (plus fees) per night. You must buy an event pass online first, then call (954) 941-7830 to book through the resort.
Check out the links below to our previous coverage, the first of which includes details on the special tribute to the late Danny ‘Tiki Diablo’ Gallardo at the Mai-Kai, plus a full rundown on the Tiki Treasures Bazaar vendors. The second story covers the exclusive Florida appearance of pop-culture expert Charles Phoenix during the Sunday finale at the Mai-Kai.
Previous Atomic Grog coverage
• The Hukilau welcomes Charles Phoenix for ‘Floridaland’ slideshow at the Mai-Kai
• The Hukilau honors a legend, welcomes new faces to 24th annual Tiki weekender
Sneak preview of the official event mug by Eeekum Bookum
Florida artist John Mulder has created some of the most distinctive mugs in recent Hukilau history, many inspired by the Mai-Kai. Last year’s release features the iconic Mystery Girl, while the 2024 mug is based on the distinctive tiki that peers through the window outside the Molokai Bar. More recently, he produced the Mai-Kai’s Christmas Rum Barrel. [Photos, video, interview]
For 2026, Mulder decided to go back to The Hukilau’s roots for inspiration. The mug is a nod to the event’s “Huki” character, designed by artist Kevin Kidney in the event’s early days. Kidney was inspired by Tangaroa, the principal deity of the sea, rivers and all aquatic life in Polynesian and Maori mythology. As envisioned by The Hukilau’s founders in 2002, the event’s name is a play on the traditional communal fishing tradition in Hawaiian culture, made famous in song.
At The Hukilau, the intention is to cast a net out into the ocean of Tiki culture and pull villagers to shore for a weekend of communal festivities. Kidney was an early influencer in the fledgling 1990s Tiki subculture, and also known for his extensive work (with partner Jody Daily) at Disney theme parks. In addition to the logo, he created other artwork for the event including glassware and the 2009 event mug based on Huki.
Mulder told us that the goal of the new mug is to “stay true to the Tangaroa and fisherman god with an eye to the Kevin Kidney logo.” The fish that you see front and center on the mug is also from Kidney’s design of the original logo. The mug is currently in the final steps of production in Mulder’s Eeekum Bookum studio in St. Petersburg. [See 2025 video tour]
South Seas passholders traditionally get first shot at the limited-edition mugs. Look for Mulder in the Tiki Treasures Bazaar selling recent releases, and check The Hukilau merch booth in the lobby for more past event mugs.
Bands: From surf and rockabilly to horror and garage rock
Live music is always a big part of The Hukilau, though not necessarily the center of attention. You can’t miss the bands performing all day and night Thursday through Saturday on the poolside stage at the Beachcomber. But unlike a traditional concert setting, much of the audience can be found cooling off in the water or socializing at the nearby pop-up cocktail bars. At the Mai-Kai, bands will perform in the Molokai Bar during events on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Following is a rundown of the performers in order of appearance, from Wednesday’s “Mutiny at the Molokai Party” to Sunday’s “Last Chance Party” at the Mai-Kai. Check the official schedule for updates.
Skinny Jimmy Stingray – Hailing from nearby Deerfield Beach, this veteran instrumental surf guitarist has played 10 previous Hukilau events, cranking out memorable classics and powerful original tunes with his three-piece band. Molokai Bar, 5-9 p.m. Wednesday.
The Mermers – Returning from Gainesville, Fla., for a third time, this four-piece “supernatural surf” band is known for its experimental approach to instrumental rock, combining exotic and beachy sounds with a modern, technical flair and punk/alternative edge. The latest album, All Shallows Eve, Vol. 1 (2025), pays tribute to some of the band’s favorite creepy TV shows with covers of memorable theme songs. Poolside stage, 8-9 p.m. Thursday, 3-4 p.m. Saturday.
The Kreepy Tikis – This “doom surf / garage rock” band from Jacksonville will play its first Hukilau after making a splash at the Mai-Kai in January. The Doom Lagoon album was self-released in March 2025. Poolside stage, 11 a.m.-noon Friday and Saturday.
The Patina Turners – Serving up Florida surfabilly, this Fort Myers three-piece has released two albums and an EP since 2020 while building a strong local following through appearances at classic car shows and Tiki events. This is their first time at The Hukilau. Poolside stage, 1-2 p.m. Friday, 5-6 p.m. Saturday.
Black Valley Moon – Also new to The Hukilau is this garage rock band that seamlessly blends surf, rockabilly, horror punk, and goth into a cinematic soundscape. Formed in 2019 by guitarist Sam Williams (Down By Law), the band has released multiple albums, EPs, and singles. Poolside stage, 3-4 p.m. Friday.
Slip and the Spinouts – A longtime Mai-Kai favorite (and also a Hukilau veteran), South Florida’s Slip Mahoney leads an old-school three-piece band through a vast catalog of rock ‘n’ roll, rockabilly, swing, and surf covers and originals. Molokai Bar, 3-7 p.m. Friday.
The Intoxicators – It wouldn’t be The Hukilau without this fearsome foursome from Tallahassee, marking their 20th appearance since 2005. Formed in 2001, the instrumental surf and rock band has released multiple albums and performed at events across the country. Molokai Bar, 7:30-9 p.m. Friday. Poolside stage, 1-2 p.m. Saturday,
The Disasternauts – With a past shrouded in mystery, it’s hard to tell how many times this simian supergroup has performed at The Hukilau after crashing the party unannounced in the early days. They’re now the unquestioned headliner on Saturday night, channeling unbridled primal energy into tried-and-true instrumental classics. Poolside stage, 9-10 p.m. Saturday.
Jackie Colada – The South Florida vocalist conjures up a smoky lounge vibe of the mid-century, performing jazz, bossa nova and Latin standards with her band. Molokai Bar, 1-5 p.m. Sunday.
All of the above performances are accessible to villagers with passes for those days. Two other special shows featuring the state’s premiere Polynesian dance troupes require a dining reservation or special ticket. [Get details] This is believed to be the first time performers from both shows have appeared at the same Tiki event.
On Friday, guests with 5 p.m. dinner reservations at the Mai-Kai will be treated to the first new show since the Mai-Kai’s 2024 reopening by the Polynesian Islander Revue, the oldest continually-running authentic South Seas stage show in the United States (including Hawaii). On Saturday, performers from Central Florida’s Polynesian Fire will be part of the evening’s 7 p.m. luau dinner.
Symposiums and classes: Learn about rum and cocktails, Tiki history, and how to build your own bar
The Hukilau has an eclectic assortment of education opportunities on the 2026 schedule, from rum tastings and explorations of cocktails, to deep dives into the history of Tiki godfather Don the Beachcomber and the Mutiny on the Bounty films. The most intensive instruction comes courtesy of a faculty of nine experts who will instruct guests on how to create the most engaging Tiki bar in your own home. The Charles Phoenix slideshow and the Build Your Own Bar classes require an extra ticket (and are open to the general public). Other lectures and presentations are included in the price of your weekend pass. Passholders need to register for classes and workshops, which require extra fees for supplies.
We’ve listed all of the symposiums and classes in the order they appear on the schedule. Be sure to check for updates. All take place at the Beachcomber, except for Charles Phoenix on Sunday at the Mai-Kai. There are several different sites around the resort where these sit-down events are held, from the lobby lounge to a large tent in the courtyard where Saturday’s Tiki Treasures Bazaar is held. They aren’t hard to find and are all within a short walk from the poolside parties.
Build Your Own Tiki Bar Conference – An intensive, two-day series of classes and lectures with a who’s who of industry experts and experienced crafts people led by Hukilau organizer Rodney Ray of HeadHunter Props and Fabrication. The other VIPs on the staff of nine instructors are Tiki carver and bar designer Billy Crud, designer and artist Ignacio “Notch” Gonzalez of Top Notch Customs, carver and designer Frank Simotics (aka Tiki Rancher), multi-disciplinary artist and builder Bill “The Doktor” Lynn of Fez Monkey Studios, South Florida artist and Mai-Kai staff carver Tom Fowner, animatronics and effects expert Ethan Barnes, lighting expert Richard Barnes, and beverage director Devon “Kitty” Lopez of Bar Tiki. Ray, Crud, Gonzalez and Simotics return from last year’s inaugural conference, which also included the late Danny Gallardo (aka Tiki Diablo), who will be honored during The Hukilau’s Friday night dinner at the Mai-Kai. Ray came up with a new curriculum for 2026, including bar layout, materials, lighting, design workflow, decor, and creating a drink program. Six sessions are spread over four hours of instruction on Wednesday (1-5 p.m.) and six hours on Thursday (10 a.m.-4 p.m.), giving attendees a comprehensive crash course in creating their own immersive space. The cost of the symposium series ranges from $50 for South Seas passholders to $150 for those without a pass. Aloha and Palm passholders pay $75 and $100, respectively.
Donn Beach: The Man, the Myth and the Legend – Join author Tim “Swanky” Glazner for an in-depth exploration of the life of the godfather of Tiki culture, looking at the truth and fabrication of his life, his many stories and his legacy. Pick up a copy of Searching for Don the Beachcomber, the newly released biography, and have it signed. Glazner will also sell and sign books in the Tiki Treasures Bazaar starting at noon Saturday. Friday at 10 a.m.
Black velvet Tiki painting – Get expert instruction on how to create a dramatic Tiki scene using layered color-pencil and paint techniques from Crazy Al Evans, who was inspired by last year’s class by fellow California artist Tiki Tony Murphy. ($25 supply fee) Friday at 10 a.m.
Create a light-up fish float pendant – South Florida artist Tom Fowner will teach villagers how to tie a fish-float-style pendant to take home as a functional Hukilau souvenir. ($7 supply fee) Friday at 10 a.m.
Confessions of a Fire-Eating Mermaid – MeduSirena Marina reveals the story behind her iconic exploits, from performer and Mystery Girl at the Mai-Kai, to aquaburlesque performer, to photographer, to Taiko drummer. The presentation includes a documentary film and Q&A session. Friday at 11:30 a.m.
Trobriand shield painting – Local artist LuRu (Hammerhead Hideaway and LuRu Studios) will show villagers how to make their own replica of a wooden war and dance shield from the Trobriand Islands in Papua New Guinea using a stencil system. No art experience required. ($15 supply fee) Friday at 11:30 a.m.
Desktop vignette workshop – Captain Cowfish, better known as South Florida artist Todd Ashbaugh, will lead students in building a commemorative Tiki display piece using a pendant, shells, and a Hukilau souvenir sign. ($7 supply fee) Friday at noon.
South Florida’s Art Deco and mid-century architecture – Tour Fort Lauderdale’s iconic buildings, motels, and roadside landmarks that shaped the region’s tropical aesthetic with Abby Laughlin, an artist, author and owner of Gallery 600. Friday at 1 p.m.
Globetrotting with Daniele Dalla Pola – A veteran bar owner and author of an upcoming book, master mixologist Daniele Dalla Pola will explore Tiki culture and drink development from a global point of view. After opening the influential Nu Lounge Bar in his native Italy in 2000, he went on to own and operate Esotico Miami and his current Tiki speakeasy, Kaona Room. Friday at 1 p.m. He’ll also be serving cocktails with Kaona Room in a Friday night bungalow party.
Palm frond hat workshop – Learn how to turn fresh palm fronds into a finished wearable tropical hat from Tom Fowner, one of the creative artists working on the Mai-Kai restoration. ($15 registration fee) Friday at 2:30 p.m.
Mutiny on the Bounty film history – Take a journey on the high seas, from the Hollywood productions to real-world venues such as Catalina and the Mai-Kai, with film historian Mark McKinnon. Saturday at 10 a.m.
Story of the cocktail – Find out how storytelling, intention, and thematic design give a drink meaning beyond its ingredients with Devon “Kitty” Lopez (Bar Tiki) and “Dr. Dizz” Fernandez (Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, Permanent Vacation). Saturday at 2 p.m. Lopez is also part of the Build Your Own Bar faculty and will be serving Bar Tiki cocktails on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (see below).
$1,000 rum tasting – Joe Horstkamp and Myssi Davis, who explore rum distilleries and events as the Rum Traveler, will treat villagers to an ultra-premium tasting of rare and high-end rums. ($15 supply fee) Saturday at 2 p.m.
Tiki time machine: Modern riffs on Tiki classics – Author and mixologist Tiki Lindy will explore updated takes on foundational Tiki drinks in one of her signature cocktail seminars. Saturday at 4 p.m.
Floridaland with Charles Phoenix – The retro pop culture expert from Southern California will make his first appearance at The Hukilau since 2008, taking the stage at the Mai-Kai with a whirlwind road trip adventure exploring the Sunshine State’s unique roadside attractions, tourist traps, souvenir shops, motels, and more. Known for his vintage slideshows that celebrate classic and kitschy American life, Phoenix is a humorist, performer, author, explorer and collector. Tickets range from $25 for South Seas passholders to $75 for non-passholders. Sunday at 1 p.m. Reserve your seat now.
Bars and cocktails: More than 20 acclaimed bartenders serve villagers daily
Besides the oceanfront location and association with the Mai-Kai, the other main feature that distinguishes The Hukilau from other Tiki weekenders is the quality and quantity of cocktails. The event sometimes gets dismissed as “just another cocktail event,” but this is unfair.
Not only are there other notable features, but the cocktails are world class and offered virtually non-stop. And all are free with your event pass, usually presented in larger than sample servings. There’s a reason Spike Marble raved about the drinks on his YouTube show in 2024. Scroll down to see reviews of some of our favorites from last year.
According to this year’s schedule, the cocktails will flow at the Beachcomber from 6 p.m. to midnight on Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight on Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight on Saturday, and 9 to 11 a.m. on Sunday. That’s 32 solid hours of free and open bars, to be conservative. The schedule ends at midnight, but that doesn’t mean the infamous bungalow parties stop serving immediately. Some continue into the a.m. hours.
This doesn’t even factor in the Mai-Kai, where a historic bar program awaits guests less than 5 miles away. The only reason for the gap in Friday’s schedule is that evening’s pilgrimage to the 69-year-old Tiki temple for an extended happy hour and a brand new show by the Polynesian Islander Revue.
While the cocktails are not free, there are more than 50 classics and new creations by beverage directory Cory Starr and his team for that you can choose from during the Friday event, plus Wednesday’s pre-party and Sunday’s finale. Some of The Hukilau’s guest bartenders may pop up and serve their own drinks on some days as well. And the sprawling 2.7-acre tropical paradise is close enough that you can pop over there whenever you want – before, during and after The Hukilau. Opening times are 1 p.m. Saturday, noon Sunday and 4 p.m. all other days.
But for cocktail fans, the Mai-Kai is just icing on the cake. The Hukilau has lined up another all-star lineup of bars and bartenders at the Beachcomber. Below is a list of the 20 confirmed guest bars in alphabetical order, along with the times they will be serving (subject to change). While the drinks are free, please show your appreciation by dropping some change in the bartender tip jars.
And all this talk of unlimited cocktails should also come with a warning to please, please drink responsibly. You want to have your wits about you to enjoy all of the other event features described above, not to mention the amazing restoration of the Mai-Kai. It’s easy to call a rideshare to take you back and forth.
Hukilau 2026 guest bars
The 11 first-timers at The Hukilau are noted as NEW. Check the schedule for exact locations at the Beachcomber.
Adrift – This Tiki bar and grill in the heart of Denver features well-crafted cocktails and island hospitality. The bar program is led by Trader Vice Polizzi. NEW Friday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday: 9 p.m.-midnight.
Aku Aku Tiki Bar – This longtime Orlando hot spot and a veteran of many past Hukilau events returns for a second year in a row. Established in 2014, Aku Aku was one of the first bars to open in Florida during the current Tiki boom. Thursday: 9 p.m.-midnight. Friday: 3-7 p.m. Saturday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
• 2025 bonus recipe: Blackbeard’s Ghost
Bar Tiki – Devon “Kitty” Lopez will once again represent this waterfront Clearwater Beach party spot, bringing her distinctive flair and delicious cocktails to The Hukilau. In addition to popping up around the resort, she’ll team up with Dizz Fernandez for a seminar on the “Story of the Cocktail” on Saturday afternoon and participate as the cocktail expert in the Build Your Own Bar lecture series on Wednesday and Thursday. Thursday: 3-6 p.m. Friday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday: 9 p.m.-midnight.
• 2025 bonus recipe: You Remind Me of the Babe
Black Jack’s Rum Bar & Grille – A new Caribbean-inspired bar focused on our favorite spirit, Black Jack’s has two locations in South Florida (Davie and Fort Lauderdale) offering a large collection of rum plus signature cocktails. NEW Thursday: 9 p.m.-midnight. Saturday: 3-7 p.m.
Boca Island Tiki Lounge – Former Mai-Kai bar manger Michael DeMahy has a new gig at this recently opened venue in nearby Boca Raton. He brings award-winning skills to the multi-layered space, which includes an exclusive “Dark Tiki” speakeasy. NEW Thursday: 9 p.m.-midnight. Saturday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Campfire – Welcome Abbie Kermodie and Campfire, known for a rustic approach to seasonal craft cocktails and California cuisine. Housed inside a midcentury Quonset hut in Carlsbad, this unique restaurant is included in the 2026 Michelin guide. NEW Friday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Hula Kai – Get an exclusive preview of cocktails from this modern Tiki bar and restaurant coming to Fort Lauderdale this summer. The interior decor is being designed and installed by Rodney Ray (HeadHunter Props and Fabrication), organizer of the Build Your Own Bar Lecture Series. NEW Friday: 9 p.m.-midnight. Saturday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Joyface – Say aloha to bartender Morgan Robinson from this 1970s-style lounge serving innovative cocktails in New York City’s East Village. Robinson is also a member of The Hukilau’s back-of-house bar team. NEW Thursday: 6-9 p.m.
Kahala Koa – Back at The Hukilau for the third year in a row, mixologist Bruce Barton celebrates classic tropical drinks with a twist at his combination island-themed pizza restaurant and authentic Tiki bar in Arlington Heights, Ill. Friday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday: 9 p.m.-midnight.
Kaona Room – A hidden speakeasy in downtown Miami owned by global Tiki ambassador Daniele Dalla Pola, Kaona Room is a fixture at The Hukilau known for its world-class cocktails and hospitality. Dalla Pola will also share his expertise and adventures in a Friday seminar. Friday: 9 p.m.-midnight.
Murray’s Tavern – Bartender Ally Brennan will represent this gastropub (est. 2023), hailed as one of the best new restaurants in Austin, Texas, for its classic New York style tavern food and eclectic cocktails. She’s also part of The Hukilau’s back-of-house bar team. NEW Saturday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday: 9-11 a.m.
Odd Birds – Back for the first time since 2019, Odd Birds is an eclectic St. Augustine, Fla., restaurant and craft cocktail bar “where oddness rules.” A Miami location with even more of a Latin flair opened in Calle Ocho in 2025. Friday: 9 p.m.-midnight. Saturday: 3-7 p.m.
Oyster Club – Featuring a James Beard Award nominated chef and beverage program, this restaurant is a sister venue to another Hukilau newbie from Mystic, Conn., The Port of Call. Grab a drink from Andrew Martins, also a member of the behind-the-scenes bar team. NEW Thursday: 9 p.m.-midnight.
Palm Valley Cocktails – Open since 2025, this Dublin, Ohio, bar offers vintage vibes inspired by desert resort getaways. Welcome owner Jacob Trevino, who formerly operated Tiki Tiki Bang Bang and heads up The Hukilau bar team. NEW Sunday: 9-11 a.m.
The Port of Call – Don’t miss your chance to get a drink from Stephanie Cohen, representing this nautically themed cocktail lounge and restaurant in downtown Mystic, Conn., at The Hukilau for the first time. Renowned for its world-class mixology, the bar is a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Wine & Other Beverages Program. NEW Thursday: 6-9 p.m.
Tiki Tatsu-Ya – This spectacularly immersive drinking and dining experience in Austin, Texas, features creative interpretations of Tiki classics peppered with Polynesian and Japanese influences. Bar manager Chris DeFelice is a Hukilau veteran, returning for the second year in a row. Friday: 9 p.m.-midnight. Saturday: 3-7 p.m.
• 2025 bonus recipe: Peach Emoji
Tiki Tiki Bang Bang – A familiar face at The Hukilau, Michael “Skipper” Stelzner owns Cincinnati’s premiere tropical escape. The bar’s vibrant cocktails come with a healthy dose of fun and escapism. Friday: 9 p.m.-midnight. Saturday: 3-7 p.m.
Tiki Underground – Another returning favorite, this family-run operation in Cuyahoga Falls has been one of the leaders in the Ohio Tiki scene since 2017. Expect great drinks and aloha from this fun and friendly crew. Friday: 3-7 p.m. Saturday: 9 p.m.-midnight.
Tropic Thunder – A new arrival to the Phoenix cocktail scene, this neighborhood bar is loaded with dark Tiki vibes and extensive tropical drink menu, from classics to inventive originals. NEW Friday: 3-7 p.m. Saturday: 9 p.m.-midnight.
VenTiki Tiki Lounge & Lanai – A veteran of multiple Hukilau weekenders, VenTiki is a fully immersive island oasis featuring cocktails, music and food that sweep you away to Polynesia. Say aloha to owner Duane Couch and his crew from Ventura, Calif. Saturday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
As you make the rounds of the pop-up bars, bungalow parties and the Mai-Kai during The Hukilau, please appreciate the time and effort that went into the cocktails. To give you some idea of what to expect, read on for our review of last year’s bars and beverages, plus three bonus recipes.
Rating the top cocktails from The Hukilau 2025
Events like The Hukilau present many challenges for attendees. How can you see and do everything while still relaxing and having a good time? We recommend a more measured approach, picking your favorites and trying to go with the flow. Because there are so many open so many hours, bars are typically not overcrowded with people. The same approach applies to the complimentary cocktails, though we do admit to setting certain goals every year.
A worthy goal is to sample at least one drink from every participating bar, plus the Mai-Kai. It requires some planning, and the usual mindfulness when it comes to imbibing. Stay hydrated, be sure to eat hearty meals, and get your rest. Last year, we missed just one of the 15 guest bars (sorry, Luau Lads).
Over the course of the five days at the Mai-Kai and the Beachcomber, we sampled 45 cocktails. By we, I really mean me, though Mrs. Hurricane helped here and there, graciously allowing me to sip off of hers. I also am thankful to those who allowed me to sample their drinks, especially at the Mai-Kai, where they are usually not served in the small cups like those at the Beachcomber.
We conducted a similar exercise in 2024, sampling 41 drinks and sharing our ratings in the event recap. You’ll also find several tribute recipes from that year (from VenTiki and Doc Parks).
Following is our highly subjective list of the Top 15 cocktails of 2025, followed by three recipes. These will hopefully give you some idea of the delicious offerings at The Hukilau. As for this year, I’d like to challenge my fellow villagers to follow in my footsteps and give this challenge a whirl. I’m not saying I won’t be completing the task, but it may be time for some new blood to step up. Feel free to email your reviews and ratings to [email protected] and we may share in this year’s recap.
THE HUKILAU 2025: TOP 15 COCKTAILS
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Earl’s Not Grey from Sugarcane (Saturday pool party)
Coconut Ti Punch from Three Dots and a Dash (Sunday finale at Mai-Kai)
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Peach Emoji from Tiki Tatsu-Ya (Saturday pool party) [RECIPE]
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Last Rites from the Mai-Kai (Sunday finale at Mai-Kai)
Rating: 3.8 out of 5
Dreaming of Dragonfruit from Kahala Koa (Saturday pool party)
Three Dots and a Dash from Three Dots and a Dash (Sunday finale at Mai-Kai)
Rating: 3.7 out of 5
Mai Tai from Aku Aku (Saturday pool party)
Rating: 3.6 out of 5
You Remind Me of the Babe from Bar Tiki (Thursday, lobby welcome drink) [RECIPE]
Counselor’s Collapse from Bare Bones Tiki (Thursday bungalow party)
Blackbeard’s Ghost from Aku-Aku (Friday bungalow party) [RECIPE]
Splendor in the Mangrove from Remora (Saturday pool party)
Texas Chainsaw from Tiki Tatsu-Ya (Saturday bungalow party)
Fog Monster from Tiki Tatsu-Ya (Sunday finale at Mai-Kai)
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
WTF (What the Fig) from Bar Tiki (Thursday, Tiki Tent Takeover)
Barkeep Book Rum Gimlet from Swizzle (Saturday pool party)
Bonus cocktail recipes
The pop-up bars at The Hukilau, like many events, provide placards that show the ingredients of most cocktails. This is a huge first step toward developing tribute recipes, like the two below. Devon “Kitty” Lopez was gracious enough to share her official recipe.
YOU REMIND ME OF THE BABE (official recipe)
(Bar Tiki – Clearwater Beach, Fla.)
The Hukilau 2025 welcome cocktail served in the lobby of the Beachcomber Resort on Thursday, June 5.
• 1 1/2 ounces Flor de Caña 4 Year Extra Seco white rum
• 1 ounce Peach Reàl
• 1 ounce lime juice
• 3/4 ounce falernum
• 1/2 ounce macadamia nut liqueur
Shake or pulse blend for 8-10 seconds with 1 cup of crushed ice. Pour unstrained into a double old-fashioned glass pre-loaded with 1 cup of crushed ice. Garnish with an orchid.
An all-around flavor bomb, perfectly timed as we checked into the resort last year. Rich peach and falernum flavors pop, augmented by the tart lime. The rum provides some backbone, while the macadamia nut liquor adds a subtle exotic flavor note.
Ingredient notes: Any premium Spanish-style white rum will work fine, just don’t use anything too cheap. It needs to stand up to all the other flavors. Sponsor Reàl Infused Exotics provided the peach syrup, which we recommend. Use fresh lime, of course, and your preferred falernum. Something with a slight ABV (rather than a syrup) will add some more punch. We used Trader Vic’s macadamia nut liqueur, which is the gold standard.
BLACKBEARD’S GHOST (tribute recipe)
(Aku Aku – Orlando)
Served in the Aku Aku bungalow party at The Hukilau 2025 on Friday, June 6.
• 1 ounce rum blend (see below)
• 1/2 ounce Blackwell Jamaican rum
• 1/2 ounce Giffard apricot liqueur
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce orgeat
• 1/2 ounce guava syrup
Shake or pulse blend for 8-10 seconds with 1 cup of crushed ice. Pour unstrained into a double old-fashioned glass pre-loaded with 1 cup of crushed ice. Garnish with a dried fruit wheel.
Boozy but balanced with tons of exotic flavor, from the orgeat to the apricot and guava. The rums punch through and deliver on the back end.
Ingredient notes: The Aku Aku team revealed that their rum blend was the funky Smith & Cross Jamaican rum, plus the refined Probitas white blend (Jamaica and Barbados). We simply used 1/2 ounce of each, but you could mess around the blend and batch it up with a higher proportion of Probitas, perhaps 2:1 or 3:1. Blackwell has a dark and rich molasses note, which is essential to this grog. In a pinch, you could use Coruba or another dark Jamaican rum. The lemon juice should be freshly squeezed. We used Latitude 29 Formula Orgeat and Guava Reàl, which are both rich and intense, standing up to the potent rums.
PEACH EMOJI (tribute recipe)
(Tiki Tatsu-Ya – Austin)
Served poolside at the Beachcomber Resort during The Hukilau 2025 on Saturday, June 7.
• 1 1/2 ounces Planteray O.F.T.D. rum
• 1/2 ounce Giffard Crème de Pêche de Vigne
• 1 ounce orange juice
• 1/2 ounce coconut cream
• 1/2 ounce peach puree
• 1/2 ounce pineapple juice
Shake or pulse blend for 8-10 seconds with 1 cup of crushed ice. Pour unstrained into a double old-fashioned glass pre-loaded with 1 cup of crushed ice. Garnish with a pineapple leaf or spear.
One of the best drinks of the entire event, very rich and creamy but also rummy and refreshing like a poolside drink should be. The peach, pineapple and coconut is a delicious combination when paired with the potent 138-proof rum. It takes a deft hand to balance all these flavors, but Tiki Tatsu-Ya pulled it off.
Ingredient notes: Giffard makes a great peach liqueur, though another brand should work. Use fresh juices and the highest quality syrups. We employed Coco Reàl and Peach Reàl, which is likely what they used at The Hukilau.
Okole maluna!
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY!
MORE ON THE HUKILAU 2026
Mai-Kai updates: The Hukilau welcomes Charles Phoenix, past event recaps, appetizer ratings
The East Coast’s longest-running Polynesian Pop event returns June 3-7 with an expansive schedule that includes three days and nights at the Mai-Kai, including a special presentation by “the King of Retro.”
Preview: The Hukilau to feature special pop culture presentation
The Hukilau 2026 honors a legend, welcomes new faces to 24th annual Tiki weekender in South Florida
The state’s original Polynesian Pop event returns June 3-7 for an immersive experience at the oceanfront Beachcomber Resort and historic Mai-Kai, which will host a tribute to the late artist Danny “Tiki Diablo” Gallardo.
EVENT PREVIEW: New bands, guest bar teams, Tiki Treasures Bazaar vendors
THE HUKILAU 2025 COVERAGE
The Hukilau 2025: Live coverage, photos and video from the Beachcomber Resort and Mai-Kai
Take a look back and all the fun and festivities at the 23rd Tiki weekender, held June 5-8 in South Florida.
Photos, video: Mai-Kai unveils two large tiki carvings during The Hukilau 2025
Guests are now greeted by two towering tikis in the restaurant’s reimagined entry area, one created locally by a familiar artist, the other in Arizona by a veteran carver.
• The Hukilau returns to the Mai-Kai for five days of Tiki festivities
• Mai-Kai welcomes The Hukilau guest bartenders with exclusive dinner
• Beverage director reunites with old friends at The Hukilau finale
MORE UPCOMING EVENTS
UPDATES: The Tiki Times: Exclusive events guide
Check the calendar for all of the major happenings around the world, from Tiki weekenders to rum festivals to marketplaces and music fests.
FULL MAI-KAI COVERAGE
EXCLUSIVE: Mai-Kai Restoration & Reopening Guide
Check out all past news, photos, video and deep details on the refurbishment and resurrection of the Polynesian palace.
Okole Maluna Society: The Mai-Kai Cocktail Guide
Hurricane Hayward reviews and rates the historic restaurant’s current and past tropical drinks, plus reveals a treasure trove of ancestor and exclusive tribute recipes.
THE HUKILAU PAST COVERAGE
2024
The Hukilau highlights: Photos and memories from 2024 Tiki weekender
Check out The Atomic Grog’s deep dive into all the fun at the Beachcomber Resort and sneak peek at the Mai-Kai, including our favorite moments from throughout the four-day Tiki weekender.
• Live coverage, photos and video from social media
• Inside the Molokai Bar and tour of the Mai-Kai restoration
2023
The Hukilau highlights: Photos and memories from Tiki weekender
The 21st annual event featured four days of nonstop music, cocktails and education on modern and historic Polynesian Pop at the oceanfront Beachcomber Resort in South Florida.
• The Hukilau 2023 live coverage, photos and video from social media
2022
The Hukilau 2022: Daily recap, photos and video
The 20th Tiki weekender featured four days of live music, educational seminars, cocktails and rum tastings, plus lots more.
• The Mai-Kai’s new owner reveals renovation plans during The Hukilau
PREVIOUS YEARS
• 2021: Daily recap, photos and video | Zombie party is final challenge | Full coverage
• 2020: Virtual events honor The Hukilau, help those in need
• 2019: 10 highlights and photos | Social media recap | Full coverage
• 2018 social media recap | More highlights
• 2017 daily recaps, news, photos and video | More highlights
• More recaps: 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2002-2008
Discover more from The Atomic Grog
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.