It was a treat to welcome long-time Waikīkī entertainer and friend of Tiki’s, Kimo Kahoano, for lunch this week.
True to his aloha spirit, Kimo was pulled up on stage by his friend Keoni Coehlo, who plays here at Tiki’s Grill & Bar a few days a week, most often during lunch. Together, they delighted the crowd with a quick Haka — a powerful Māori ceremonial dance that combines chanting, rhythm, and movement to express strength, unity, and respect.
Kimo began his career as a Polynesian fire knife dancer and went on to become an accomplished actor, singer, DJ, and emcee. Over the years, he has hosted countless local charity events, lending his voice and energy to support the Hawai‘i community.
His on-screen career is just as legendary, with roles in:
Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. (2021), I Was a Simple Man (2021), Water Like Fire (2020), Waikiki (2020), Magnum P.I. (2018), Kalewa (2018), A Midsummer’s Hawaiian Dream (2016), Parts of the Same Circle (2012), Hawaii Five-0 (2012), Hawaii (2004), Blue Crush (2002), One West Waikiki (1996), The Byrds of Paradise (1994), Raven (1993), Island Son (1989), Magnum, P.I. (1986), The Jeffersons (1980), Barnaby Jones (1979), The MacKenzies of Paradise Cove (1979), Hawaii Five-O (1975–1978), Big Hawaii (1977), Inferno in Paradise (1974), The Little People (1974).
From stage to screen, and from the mic to the community, Kimo has done it all — a true ambassador of Hawai‘i’s culture, music, and aloha spirit. Mahalo, Kimo, for sharing a moment with our guests and reminding us of the magic of live performance in Waikīkī.
Legendary entertainer Kimo Kahoano gives the shaka at Tiki’s, with our iconic wooden tiki looking on.