Aloha! I’m excited to share my favorite spots for live music on Maui with you. There’s something magical about enjoying island tunes while the sun sets over the Pacific. Whether you’re visiting for a week or living here year-round, live music adds that special touch to your Maui experience.
From beachfront bars in Ka’anapali to intimate venues in Paia, Maui offers amazing live music options every night of the week. I’ve spent countless evenings exploring the island’s music scene, and I’m happy to guide you to the best spots where local and visiting musicians showcase their talents. These venues not only provide great entertainment but also give you a taste of Hawaii’s rich musical heritage.
Kahale’s Maui’s Local Dive Bar
I recently visited Kahale’s in Kihei and it’s definitely one of Maui’s best spots for live music! This beloved dive bar has been around since 1994 and recently celebrated its 30th anniversary.
The atmosphere is incredibly laid-back and welcoming. I loved how the place brings together both locals and tourists, creating a genuine community vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere on the island.
The live entertainment is fantastic, with local bands playing regularly. I was impressed by their long happy hour (the longest on the island!) and their specialty cocktails are worth trying.
They open daily from 10am to midnight, with early 8am openings on Sundays for football fans.
What makes Kahale’s special is its authenticity. From naughty bingo nights to various events, there’s always something happening. It’s no wonder they’ve been voted the best dive bar in Maui and rank among the top dive bars in the U.S.
Rating: 4.6 (264 reviews)
Location: 36 Keala Pl, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 215-9939
Website: Visit Website
Hula Grill Kaanapali
I recently visited Hula Grill Kaanapali and was blown away by the live music experience. Located right on Ka’anapali Beach, this beachside eatery offers the perfect mix of great food, tropical drinks, and amazing entertainment.
Every evening from 6:00 to 8:30 pm, the restaurant comes alive with music that perfectly captures the island vibe. What makes it extra special is the hula show that accompanies the music from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. It’s a truly authentic Hawaiian cultural experience!
I loved sinking my toes in the sand at their Barefoot Bar while enjoying fresh, locally-caught fish and Maui-grown produce. The open-air setting gives you amazing views of the beach while talented musicians create the soundtrack for your meal.
For the best experience, I recommend arriving before sunset to grab a good spot. The combination of delicious Hawaiian cuisine, island cocktails, and live entertainment makes Hula Grill one of my favorite places to enjoy music on Maui.
Rating: 4.4 (4791 reviews)
Location: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact: (808) 667-6636
Website: Visit Website
South Shore Tiki Lounge
I recently visited South Shore Tiki Lounge in Kihei and was blown away by their live music scene. The tropical tiki bar atmosphere creates the perfect backdrop for enjoying local musicians who play regularly throughout the week.
Their outdoor patio is my favorite spot to sip on one of their famous cocktails while listening to island rhythms. I tried their traditional Mai Tai and it was perfectly balanced – strong but not overwhelming.
The food here is surprisingly good for a music venue! Their pizzas are some of the best on the island, and the burger I had was juicy and flavorful. It’s no wonder they’ve earned the title of “Best Pau Hana” spot.
What makes this place special is how the music complements the laid-back vibe. Some nights feature acoustic Hawaiian melodies, while others might have more upbeat reggae or rock. The sound quality is excellent and never overpowers conversation.
Rating: 4.4 (1468 reviews)
Location: 1913-J S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 874-6444
Website: Visit Website
Kai Bar
I recently discovered Kai Bar, a hidden gem tucked away in Wailea. This stylish bar offers a refreshing escape from the usual tourist spots on Maui. The atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, making it perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach.
What really stood out to me was the incredible cocktail selection. The bartenders craft some amazing island-inspired drinks that perfectly capture the spirit of Maui. I particularly enjoyed sipping my drink while taking in the warm Hawaiian breeze.
While I was there, the vibe was fantastic, with locals and visitors mingling together. The bar’s location at the AC Hotel Maui Wailea gives it an upscale feel without being pretentious. I found it to be a wonderful spot to listen to music and enjoy the evening.
Rating: 4.9 (19 reviews)
Location: 88 Wailea Ike Pl, Kihei, HI 96753
Website: Visit Website
Lehua Lounge
I recently visited Lehua Lounge at the upscale Andaz Maui resort, and I was blown away by the atmosphere. The poolside setting offers stunning beach views that create the perfect backdrop for live music performances.
When I stopped by last weekend, a talented local musician was playing Hawaiian melodies that perfectly complemented the tropical setting. The craft cocktails are exceptional – I tried their signature Mai Tai which uses local ingredients and fresh fruit juices.
The light bites menu is perfect for sharing while enjoying the music. I particularly enjoyed the poke bowl and coconut shrimp which paired wonderfully with my drinks. The service was attentive without being intrusive, allowing me to fully enjoy the music and ambiance.
The lounge tends to get busy around sunset, which is actually the best time to visit as you can watch the sky change colors over the ocean while listening to soothing island tunes. I recommend making a reservation if you want to secure the best seats with ocean views.
Rating: 4.5 (129 reviews)
Location: 3550 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 573-1234
Website: Visit Website
Mulligans on the Blue
I recently visited Mulligans on the Blue in Wailea and was blown away by the lively atmosphere. This Irish pub offers an amazing combination of traditional Irish hospitality with breathtaking Maui ocean views.
The live music scene here is incredible! They showcase talented local and international artists Thursday through Sunday. I caught The Island Soul Band on a Sunday evening and couldn’t help but dance to their funk and soul rhythms.
What makes Mulligans special is their variety of entertainment. They host Maui’s only magic show on Thursdays with Brenton Keith, who had everyone laughing and amazed. The open-air setting lets cool island breezes flow through while you enjoy perfectly poured Guinness or their famous Mai Tai.
I found their menu diverse and delicious, offering both hearty Irish classics and fresh island favorites. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home in this little piece of Ireland in paradise.
Rating: 4.2 (592 reviews)
Location: 100 Kaukahi St, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 874-1131
Website: Visit Website
Guava Tree Bar & Grill
I recently discovered a hidden gem for live music on Maui – the Guava Tree Bar & Grill in Wailuku. This cozy spot has quickly become one of my favorite places to unwind and enjoy some incredible local talent.
The atmosphere is perfect – lively enough to feel the energy but intimate enough that you can still have a conversation. I love how the staff makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a local or just visiting the island.
Their live music lineup features some of the best musicians on Maui. I was blown away by the quality of performers they attract to this venue. The sound system is excellent too, so you can hear every note clearly no matter where you’re sitting.
While enjoying the music, don’t miss out on their food and drinks. I found their menu offers delicious options that pair perfectly with the entertainment. It’s the ideal combination for a memorable night out in Maui.
Rating: 4.7 (57 reviews)
Location: 270 Waiehu Beach Rd Ste 106, Wailuku, HI 96793
Contact: (808) 446-3949
Gilligans Bar & Grill
I recently visited Gilligans Bar & Grill in Kihei and was blown away by their live music scene! Located at the Maui Nui Golf Club, this place offers the perfect mix of entertainment, food, and stunning views.
The venue has a relaxed atmosphere where I enjoyed listening to local musicians while sipping on their tropical drinks. The outdoor lanai is my favorite spot to catch performances with the breathtaking backdrop of ocean views, Haleakala volcano, and the golf course.
I found Gilligans to be a versatile spot that works well for different occasions. Whether you’re looking for after-golf refreshments, a casual lunch, or a fun night out with friends during happy hour, the live music adds a special touch to the experience.
The friendly staff and supportive local community vibe make this place stand out among Maui’s entertainment venues. I particularly recommend timing your visit for sunset performances when the scenery and music create an unforgettable island experience.
Rating: 4.2 (386 reviews)
Location: 470 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 868-0988
Website: Visit Website)
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman – Kaanapali, Maui
I recently visited Monkeypod Kitchen in Kaanapali, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots for live music on Maui. The casual, welcoming atmosphere made me feel right at home as soon as I walked in.
The restaurant combines Hawaiian cuisine with farm-to-table freshness, which really impressed me. I loved sipping on their craft cocktails while listening to talented local musicians perform. The mix of food, drinks, and music creates a perfect island vibe.
Monkeypod special is how they balance being a great restaurant and a live music venue. The sound is just right—loud enough to enjoy but still allowing for conversation. I found myself tapping my feet to the music while enjoying their delicious Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
I particularly enjoyed visiting in the evening when the place comes alive with energy. The combination of sunset views, island tunes, and their friendly staff made for a memorable Maui experience that I’d highly recommend to anyone visiting the island.
Rating: 4.5 (4648 reviews)
Location: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact: (808) 878-6763
Website: Visit Website
Nalu’s South Shore Grill
I stopped by Nalu’s South Shore Grill in Kihei and was immediately drawn in by its relaxed, open-air atmosphere. The place has a perfect balance of local charm and tourist-friendly appeal that makes everyone feel welcome.
The food here is amazing! They serve locally sourced Hawaiian dishes all day long, including their famous Classic Loco Moco with grass-fed beef and the vegetarian Nalu’s Loco Moco with a homemade tofu-quinoa patty. Their Chicken & Waffle with brown butter-sage maple syrup is also worth trying.
What really makes Nalu’s special is their live music every night. I enjoyed sipping on happy hour drinks (available daily from 3-6pm) while listening to local musicians. The casual counter service setup means you can easily grab a table, order some food, and settle in for an evening of great tunes.
I love that they’re open from 8am to 9pm daily, making it easy to fit into any Maui itinerary. Just know they don’t take reservations, so you might want to arrive a bit early during peak times.
Rating: 4.7 (4198 reviews)
Location: 1280 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 891-8650
Website: Visit Website
Cultural Significance of Live Music on Maui
Live music on Maui connects the island’s past with its present through traditional sounds and modern interpretations. I’ve noticed how music here serves as both entertainment and a vital link to Hawaiian heritage.
Historical Background
Music has always been central to Hawaiian culture, dating back to ancient times when chants and percussion instruments were used for religious ceremonies and to pass down stories. I’ve learned that when Western explorers arrived in the late 18th century, they brought instruments like guitars and violins that Hawaiians quickly adopted and adapted.
The birth of slack key guitar (kī hō’alu) happened when Mexican cowboys introduced guitars to Maui in the 1830s. Locals created their own tunings and finger-picking styles that remain distinctive today. Many unique Maui venues still showcase this traditional art form.
During the plantation era, musical influences from Japanese, Filipino, Portuguese, and other immigrant groups blended with Hawaiian styles to create the diverse musical landscape I enjoy on Maui today.
Influence of Hawaiian Traditions
Traditional Hawaiian music focuses on vocals, with instruments supporting the storytelling aspect of songs. I’ve found that many performances on Maui still honor this tradition, where lyrics often celebrate specific places, people, or historical events.
The ukulele, though originally from Portugal, has become synonymous with Hawaiian music. At live music venues across Maui, I frequently hear this small but expressive instrument bringing joy to audiences.
Hula remains inseparable from Hawaiian music, with many performances including dancers who interpret the lyrics through movement. Some venues offer both music and dance, creating a complete cultural experience.
Modern Maui musicians often blend traditional elements with contemporary genres like reggae, rock, and jazz. This evolution keeps Hawaiian music vibrant while honoring its roots. I love how places like The Slack Key Guitar Show help preserve these traditions for new generations.
Tips for Enjoying Live Music on Maui
Making the most of Maui’s vibrant music scene requires a bit of planning and understanding of local customs. I’ve found that knowing when to go and how to respectfully enjoy the experience makes all the difference.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to catch live music on Maui is during the evening hours, typically between 6-9 PM. Many venues offer sunset performances, creating a magical atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon.
I’ve noticed that Sunday nights are particularly lively, with special performances at places like Gather On Maui at the Wailea Golf Club from 6-8 PM.
If you’re a jazz fan, I recommend checking out Ku’ia Chocolate Estates on Sundays, while they offer other musical styles on Fridays according to local recommendations.
Weekends naturally draw bigger crowds, so I suggest arriving 30-45 minutes early to secure good seating, especially at popular spots like the Slack Key Guitar Show.
Local Etiquette and Customs
When enjoying Maui’s diverse music venues, I’ve learned that respecting the performers and island culture is essential. Hawaiian music carries deep cultural significance, so I always give my full attention during performances.
Tipping etiquette:
- Leave tips for musicians when possible
- Support venues by purchasing food and drinks
- Consider buying artists’ CDs or merchandise
I make it a habit to silence my phone and keep conversations quiet during performances. Most locals appreciate visitors who show genuine interest in the music and traditions.
If you’re unsure about proper behavior at a particular venue, I find it helpful to simply observe what locals are doing and follow their lead. Many musicians are happy to chat between sets if approached respectfully.
