Sex on the Beach in the Mountains: Denver’s Tiki Getaways

Your island getaway is closer than you think. If you’re looking for a little innuendo and a lot of island vibes, look no further than Adrift and Hapa. 

Hot for Hapa

If Hawaiian sushi is what you crave, you don’t have to travel all the way down to our island neighbors to get a taste. Hapa Sushi in Denver and Boulder has some of the best sushi in the rocky mountain region. 

Plus, from drinks like the G-spot to sushi rolls like the multi-o roll, there’s plenty of fun innuendo to make your date interesting at this tropical spot nestled where you’d least expect it. And it’s not just good for a laugh—you may be pulling a When Harry Met Sally after tasting some of these decadent, layered sushi rolls or cold, refreshing drinks.

Not a drinker, or not into raw fish? No worries—Hapa boasts a full menu and is more than just a drinks-and-sushi spot. We can’t get enough of their bowls either, from classic, teriyaki realness to Japanese curry we’re dying to learn how to make. 

So, next time you’re planning a steamy, sexy night on the town, make sure to stop at Hapa first for drinks, dining, and debauchery. 

Come Get Lei’d at Adrift 

Just down South Broadway, beyond the hustle and bustle of the main drag and the rainbow crosswalk, two giant tiki men guard an all-black building. If you’ve ever wondered what culinary delights and libations lay beyond that black curtain between the foreboding faces, wonder no more. 

Once inside, you’ll marvel at a setup that isn’t kitschy or trite, but downright delightful. Slide into a gorgeous, circular booth, and as you sink into the dark, dimly lit interior under the glow of the puffer fish lights and screen depicting nature scenes, get ready to be transported to an island getaway. 

“When we bought Adrift, it was definitely more of a dive bar; people would come here to drink Sailor Jerry’s and PBR,” says owner Loren Martinez. “And there’s nothing wrong with that, but we wanted to be known as the tiki bar that offers something the rest of South Broadway doesn’t. So we joined forces and collaborated with a bunch of different folks to bring you what you see today.” 

We won’t guarantee you’ll get lei’d after your indulgent trip, but you’ll certainly have a full belly and a nice rum buzz, should you choose to partake. Boasting the largest rum selection in Denver and some seriously delicious cocktails, you absolutely need to try their piña colada. Their signature grapefruit juice in the mix cuts through the chatter to create something absolutely delightful. 

The food is absolutely can’t-miss as well, from melt-in-your-mouth pork belly to savory jerk chicken and delicious rice and macaroni. If you’re a fan of tropical culinary delights, this needs to be on your list.

Photos courtesy of Hapa and Adrift