Forbidden Island

This was Martin Cate's first tiki bar in the Bay Area, before he crossed the bridge and opened Smuggler's Cove in San Francisco. The drinks are great, the decor is better than average but nowhere near as amazing as Smuggler's Cove or even Pagan Idol. Good selection of tiki classics made by top-notch bartenders who know their stuff. Just make sure to get their early unless you want to stand.

Forbidden Island is a not-so-hidden gem on the island of Alameda. There is often a line to get in on a warm summer evening. The Kill Devil Club is their VIP club of super sippers who have sampled the 150+ rums available. Fun atmosphere augmented with live music and tiki puupuu snacks. Sometimes, it's hard to get in, and due to its location, there are some severe constraints on their outdoor patio.