“Healthy” and “delicious” rarely go hand in hand. The Diamond Head Cove Health Bar is an exception to the rule. They serve the tastiest acai bowls on the planet. In case you’re still living in the dark and have no idea what acai is, let me explain. It’s a palm tree berry from the nation of Brazil with the highest antioxidants of any fruit (found so far), not to mention the natural sugar and caffeine for a healthy boost of energy in the morning. The folks in Brazil have been chomping down on these acai berries for quite some time. The reason they have only been made known to the American public recently is due to the fact that they are highly perishable. These suckers don’t last long once they’re picked from the tree. However, thanks to modern technology, some genius decided to puree and freeze the berries for transport, bringing a delicious and healthy new fruit to the United States. That being said, most food and juice companies are now trying to cash in on this miracle berry. Even Jamba Juice sells acai bowls. I’m a fan of the berry myself, and I have not found it used any better than at the Diamond Head Cove Health Bar. The bowls are filled with blended acai berries and natural granola as the base and are then combined with sliced bananas, strawberries and bluberries. As if that weren’t enough, they are topped with Hawaiian honey and bee pollen — making it more delicious and healthy than any decadent ice cream dessert. Other meal options range from veggie-hummus wraps to fresh-fish plates — even smoked Blue Marlin.

The health bar is a fun environment filled with local Hawaiian and surf memorabilia. In addition to the healthy meals, Diamond Head Cove serves a variety of smoothies. One unique smoothie in particular is the Awa Smoothie made from kava. Kava is a natural and non-toxic beverage made from the root of the Kava plant. Consuming the beverage has similar effects to intoxication, but without the nasty hangover. In fact, it’s good for you and relaxes the mind and body. The plant is grown in Polynesia, Micronesia, Melanesia and Hawaii. Although many people do not enjoy the earthy taste of kava, I found the awa smoothie to be quite wholesome. It wasn’t until my face went numb that I became aware of the effects of kava. Soon after, my mind and body became relaxed, almost like a meditative state. Unlike alcohol, I remained entirely aware of my surroundings and actions. Diamond Head Cove serves kava on their Awa Nights, which boasts live music. Awa Nights take place every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday until 12 a.m.

My only complaint about the Health Bar is that they don’t open early enough. Their acai bowls and smoothies make fantastic breakfast meals, but they don’t open until 10 a.m. If Diamond Head Cove opened a couple hours earlier, I would be there first thing in the morning. They’re usually a packed house regardless, so I’m sure they’re not hurting for the extra business.

The acai bowls are overflowing with sweet and delicious flavor.

The food can be on the pricey side for a smoothie bar — about $10 for an acai bowl. But the portions are generously made with fresh, natural ingredients. Besides, you should feel much healthier than if you were to have a heaping plate of Spam and eggs. The taste is much better than your local Jamba Juice, and only slightly more expensive.

Overall, the Diamond Head Cove Health Bar is a fun and unique hangout with delicious, healthy food options near Waikiki but far enough away from the crowds. It’s a great place to spend a weekday night and share some kawa with a few friends.