Construction starts on Hawaii's second Sonic restaurant
Sonic Drive-In Hawaii opened Hawaii’s first Sonic location on Maui in 2023.
ground.newsLooks like the latest updates place Sonic Drive-In in Kapolei as Oʻahu’s first drive-in, with openings in May 2026 and first-weekend operations already reported.
Key points from recent coverage
- Kapolei location: 5001 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei. News outlets confirm construction updates and a May 16, 2026 opening, marking the brand’s Oʻahu debut and Hawaiʻi’s second Sonic restaurant overall.[2][3]
- Opening details: Reports indicate a May 16, 2026 opening with drive-thru and patio walk-up service during opening weekend, followed by full carhop-style service (subject to store operations and staffing).[3][5]
- Local franchise context: The Kapolei Sonic is operated by a Hawaiʻi-based group connected to the Prather family, continuing Sonic Hawaiʻi’s expansion after Maui’s location opened in 2023.[6][2]
Illustration (what to expect)
- A retro-inspired drive-in experience with carhop service, five drive-in stalls, and a menu featuring Sonic classics plus Hawaiʻi-specific items as the brand rolls out on Oʻahu.[5][2]
If you’d like, I can compile a concise timeline with dates and confirm the current operating status, or pull quotes from the latest articles. I can also summarize the menu highlights, including any Hawaii-exclusive items. Would you like a quick timeline or a menu snapshot?
Citations
- Kapolei Sonic opening details and location:[2][3][5]
- Franchise context and Hawaiʻi expansion:[6][2]