An island-hopping Hawaiian brewery trail

Hawaii’s reputation as a tropical paradise is hardly a secret. In 2014 alone, more than 8 million travelers trekked to the middle of the Pacific to marvel at this island chain, rising majestically from the depths of the ocean floor. Visitors endure a lengthy voyage to the world’s most remote stretch of land expecting sensual splendor in return: sun and surf, emerald sand beaches and active volcanoes, luaus and lava. Rarely do they anticipate spectacular suds will be included in the deal. But the craft beer movement that’s submerged the mainland has washed ashore here, and the Aloha State finds itself in the throes of a full-fledged hop frenzy.

Hawaii now counts more than a dozen active breweries scattered across its four most populated islands — more than ever before. Add to that a growing number of gastropubs, beer gardens and sleek pubs with state-of-the-art draft systems. Even the high-end resorts are offering their own beers these days. Taken together, its compelling evidence that the islands have established themselves as a bona fide craft beer destination, assigning new meaning to the term, ‘island-hopping.’

Beyond a mere production increase, the local beer scene has developed its own distinct style, strongly indicative of the Hawaiians who make it. Here you’ll taste free-spirited, adventurous liquids incorporating the exotic flavors of a far-flung land, beers infused with an easily identifiable sense of place and purpose seldom seen elsewhere. And now it’s possible to chart an adventure built entirely upon seeking it out. Here’s how.

Browse the gallery above for a trail of 10 Hawaiian breweries, and you probably should take some time to explore the scenery along the way. After all, each and every one of Hawaii’s natural wonders is somehow even more wondrous with a frosty brew in hand.

Plus, see indoor beer halls for staying warm on the mainland.