Maui’s beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets aren’t the only things to enjoy on this island paradise. After a day of adventure, one of the best ways to unwind is by taking advantage of the many happy hours offered throughout the island. You can find amazing deals on drinks and appetizers at restaurants and bars in popular areas like Wailea, Kaanapali, Kihei, and Lahaina.
Happy hours on Maui offer more than just discounted prices. They provide a perfect opportunity to experience upscale dining without the premium costs. I love how these special times let me sample local flavors and specialty cocktails while soaking in the aloha spirit.
From oceanfront establishments to hidden local gems, Maui’s happy hour scene has something for everyone to enjoy.
Three’s Bar & Grill
I absolutely love the happy hour at Three’s Bar & Grill in Kihei! This casual spot offers an amazing fusion of Hawaiian, Southwestern, and Pacific Rim flavors that you won’t find anywhere else on the island.
When I visited recently, I was blown away by their creative menu. The restaurant was featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives” not just once, but twice! Guy Fieri clearly recognized what makes this place special.
Three’s has been serving South Maui for 15 years now, having opened back in 2010. It’s become something of a local institution, and I can see why. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach.
Their happy hour is one of my favorites on the island. The prices are reasonable, the drinks are strong, and the pupus (appetizers) feature some of their fusion specialties. I recommend grabbing a seat at the bar to chat with the friendly bartenders who can tell you all about their specialties.
Rating: 4.4 (2918 reviews)
Location: 1945 S Kihei Rd Suite G, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 879-3133
Website: Visit Website
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman – Wailea, Maui
I recently stopped by Monkeypod Kitchen during my Maui vacation, and their happy hour is truly something special! With a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day at the beach.
The handcrafted cocktails stole the show for me. Their mai tais topped with lilikoi foam are absolutely worth trying. They also offer a great selection of local craft beers that pair wonderfully with their happy hour food menu.
Speaking of food, I couldn’t get enough of their appetizers. The pumpkin patch ravioli and garlic truffle oil fries were my favorites. The farm-to-table approach means everything tastes incredibly fresh.
I found the service friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even better. The Hawaiian-inspired dishes and island vibe create that perfect Maui happy hour experience that keeps both locals and tourists coming back.
Rating: 4.5 (6596 reviews)
Location: 10 Wailea Gateway Pl B-201, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 891-2322
Website: Visit Website
Mala Ocean Tavern
I recently enjoyed happy hour at Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina, and it was truly a magical experience. The restaurant sits right on the oceanfront, providing breathtaking views while you sip on delicious drinks and sample their fantastic appetizers.
The happy hour menu features a great selection of fresh seafood options, which makes sense given their location right by the water. I tried their ahi dish and was impressed by how fresh it tasted. You can literally watch the waves while enjoying some of the best seafood on the island.
The atmosphere is both romantic and family-friendly, making it perfect for any occasion. I loved feeling the ocean breeze while enjoying my cocktail. The staff was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall pleasant experience of dining at this intimate beachside tavern.
What makes Mala special is how they blend Pacific Rim and Mediterranean flavors in their happy hour offerings. It’s the perfect spot to catch a spectacular Maui sunset while enjoying discounted drinks and appetizers. Trust me, the combination of great food, ocean views, and island vibes is hard to beat.
Rating: 4.6 (2378 reviews)
Location: 1307 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact: (808) 667-9394
Website: Visit Website
The Pint & Cork
I stumbled upon this lively gastropub in Wailea and was immediately drawn to its convivial atmosphere. The Pint & Cork offers that perfect balance of upscale pub food with a relaxed sports bar vibe that’s hard to find on the island.
During happy hour, I enjoyed some creative craft cocktails that went beyond the typical mai tai offerings you find everywhere else on Maui. Their beer selection is impressive too, featuring both local Hawaiian brews and mainland favorites.
The food here really stands out from standard bar fare. I tried some of their elevated pub dishes that use fresh, local ingredients while still delivering that satisfying comfort food experience you crave after a day at the beach.
Sports fans will appreciate the multiple TVs throughout the space. I caught a game while sitting at the bar and loved how the energetic atmosphere never overwhelmed the experience. Just remember it’s first come, first served – no reservations accepted!
Rating: 4.4 (1030 reviews)
Location: 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 727-2038
Website: Visit Website
Nalu’s South Shore Grill
I discovered a fantastic happy hour spot in Kihei that locals and tourists alike flock to. Nalu’s South Shore Grill offers daily happy hour from 3 pm to 6 pm in their open-air, casual dining space.
The vibe here is relaxed and welcoming, with live music every night that adds to the authentic Hawaiian experience. I loved sipping on discounted drinks while enjoying the gentle Maui breeze through the restaurant.
Their menu features locally sourced Hawaiian recipes that change with the seasons. I recommend trying their Classic Loco Moco with grass-fed Black Angus beef or their vegetarian option with homemade organic tofu. Their Chicken & Waffle is another standout dish if you’re looking for something hearty during happy hour.
What makes Nalu’s special is the counter service model – no reservations needed! Just walk in, order at the counter, and find a spot to enjoy your food and drinks. It’s the perfect casual stop after a day at the beach.
Rating: 4.7 (4198 reviews)
Location: 1280 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 891-8650
Website: Visit Website
Moose McGillycuddy’s – Kihei
I love stopping by Moose McGillycuddy’s during their daily happy hour from 4-7 pm. The ocean views from their lanai are absolutely stunning, especially during sunset. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Maui.
Their happy hour menu offers great deals on drinks with $7 specialty cocktails, $6 premium liquors, $6 house wines, and $6 draft beers. I usually pair my drinks with their tasty pupus (appetizers). The Ahi Poke Cups and Baby Moose Wings are my favorites!
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming with over 30 big screens showing sports. I’ve joined their Monday night bingo and Wednesday trivia nights, which are super fun and even kid-friendly. It’s rare to find a place that balances being both a great bar and family-friendly restaurant.
What makes Moose’s special is their combination of good food, friendly service, and fun vibes. The place has been around since 1980, and I can see why they’ve stayed popular for so long. No reservations needed – they always have plenty of seating.
Rating: 4.4 (2009 reviews)
Location: 2511 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 891-8600
Website: Visit Website
Gather on Maui for Food + Drink
I recently visited Gather on Maui and was blown away by their happy hour experience. From 3 PM to 5 PM daily, this upscale spot offers a perfect blend of value and luxury with their special menu.
The open-air setting provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Haleakalā, and Molokini Island. I sipped on one of their signature cocktails while watching the sunset over the Wailea Golf Course, and it was absolutely magical.
Their happy hour menu features Hawaiian regional cuisine with a modern twist. The chefs blend local flavors with eclectic cooking techniques that really showcase the island’s bounty. I particularly enjoyed the fresh poke offerings that paired perfectly with my tropical drink.
Besides great food and drinks, they often have live local musicians playing from 6-8 PM, which creates a wonderful atmosphere. The transition from happy hour to dinner service is seamless if you decide to stay longer, which I definitely recommend.
Rating: 4.4 (1106 reviews)
Location: 100 Wailea Golf Club Dr, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 698-0555
Website: Visit Website)
Sea House Restaurant
I recently checked out Sea House Restaurant during happy hour and was blown away by both the views and the menu! It’s perched right on the beach in Napili, giving you an incredible front-row seat to the waves and sunset while you sip and snack.
Their happy hour runs from 2pm to 4:45pm daily. It’s clear why they’ve won Maui Magazine’s ‘Aipono Award for Best Happy Hour. I tried their famous poke nachos which were absolutely delicious – fresh fish with just the right amount of seasoning.
The atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach. It’s casual and welcoming, but still feels special enough for a vacation treat. I noticed lots of people ordering the crispy crab crusted monchong and lamb chops, which I’ll definitely try next time.
I love that you can come here for any meal – they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner – but happy hour is when this place really shines. With those beachfront views and tropical drinks in hand, it’s a quintessential Maui experience you shouldn’t miss.
Rating: 4.3 (1928 reviews)
Location: 5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact: (808) 669-1500
Website: Visit Website
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman – Kaanapali, Maui
I recently visited Monkeypod Kitchen during my Maui vacation and absolutely loved their happy hour! The restaurant has a casual, welcoming vibe that perfectly captures the island spirit.
Their farm-to-table approach means everything tastes incredibly fresh. I tried their handcrafted cocktails, and the Mai Tai topped with lilikoi foam was spectacular – definitely among the best I’ve had on the island!
During happy hour, they offer discounted prices on appetizers, pizzas, and select drinks. The live music adds to the fun atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day at nearby Kaanapali Beach.
The service was friendly and attentive, with staff happy to recommend local favorites. I particularly enjoyed sitting on their patio area, where I could feel the gentle Hawaiian breeze while enjoying my meal.
Rating: 4.5 (4648 reviews)
Location: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact: (808) 878-6763
Website: Visit Website
Maui Brewing Co.
I recently visited Maui Brewing Co. in Kihei and was impressed by their amazing happy hour offerings. This local brewery has a relaxed vibe that perfectly captures the island spirit, making it a must-visit spot for beer lovers on Maui.
Their happy hour features discounted pints of their handcrafted beers, which are brewed 100% locally in Hawaii. I tried their flagship coconut porter and the Big Swell IPA, both of which were incredibly fresh and flavorful. The island-inspired food menu complements the drinks perfectly.
What makes this place special is their commitment to the local community and environment. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about their craft beers, always ready to recommend something based on your taste preferences. I loved sitting on their patio, enjoying the Maui sunshine with a cold beer in hand.
Rating: 4.3 (2479 reviews)
Location: 605 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 201-2337
Website: Visit Website
Cultural Insights
Maui’s happy hour scene offers a wonderful blend of Hawaiian traditions and local flavors that go beyond just discounted drinks. I’ve discovered that these social gatherings showcase authentic island culture through unique customs and locally-sourced ingredients.
Unique Maui Happy Hour Traditions
On Maui, happy hours often feature the “talk story” tradition, where locals and visitors share experiences in a relaxed setting. I’ve noticed many establishments like Three’s Bar and Grill offer their happy hours daily from 3-6 pm, creating a reliable community gathering time.
Many Maui happy hours include live Hawaiian music or hula performances, adding cultural depth to your experience.
I’ve found that in areas like Kihei and Lahaina, restaurants often celebrate the sunset during happy hour – a practice called “pau hana” (end of work) that honors the day’s completion.
Local businesses like Maui Happy Hours connect visitors with these authentic experiences across different regions of the island including Wailea, Kaanapali, and Paia.
Local Ingredients in Popular Cocktails
I’ve tasted amazing cocktails made with fresh island ingredients that truly capture Maui’s essence. Many happy hour menus feature drinks with:
- Maui Gold pineapple
- Local sugarcane
- Hawaiian lilikoi (passion fruit)
- Kula-grown strawberries
At places like Gather on Maui (formerly Gannon’s), bartenders often incorporate ti leaf and local honey into their signature drinks.
I’ve learned that many establishments pride themselves on using Maui-distilled spirits like Ocean Vodka and Pau Maui Vodka in their happy hour specials.
The best part? These locally-sourced ingredients don’t just make drinks taste better – they support Maui’s farmers and sustainable agriculture practices. When you order a mai tai at Tommy Bahama’s, you’re often enjoying a truly Hawaiian experience!
Setting the Scene
Maui’s happy hours offer the perfect backdrop for relaxation with stunning ocean views and friendly locals creating a welcoming atmosphere. The right setting enhances your drink specials and makes your experience truly memorable.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
When I’m looking for the best happy hour spots on Maui, the setting makes all the difference. Many top locations feature open-air layouts with breathtaking ocean views where you can watch the sunset while sipping on discounted drinks.
Places like Monkeypod Kitchen in Wailea offer daily happy hours from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM in a casual yet upscale environment. The wooden decor and island-inspired design create a perfect balance of tropical charm and comfort.
I’ve found that establishments near beaches often provide the most magical experience. Nothing beats enjoying half-price appetizers while feeling the ocean breeze and hearing the waves crash nearby.
Most popular spots offer a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, giving you options regardless of weather. The lighting often transitions from bright afternoon sun to subtle evening ambiance as happy hour progresses.
Interaction With Locals
One of my favorite aspects of Maui happy hours is connecting with locals who share insider tips about the island.
Places near the Banyan Tree in Lahaina like Down the Hatch have become popular gathering spots where conversations flow easily.
Local bartenders often become your best resource for discovering hidden gems around the island. They usually recommend activities or less touristy beaches while mixing your drinks.
I’ve made several friends at the Beach House Bar and Grill during their 2-5 PM happy hour, where locals and visitors mingle freely in the relaxed poolside setting at Sands of Kahana.
Many venues host local musicians, creating natural conversation starters as you enjoy the island sounds. The Maui Happy Hours Facebook group is also a great way to find events where locals gather.
