Maui is a tropical paradise, an idyllic island ringed by fine white sand and surrounded by the clear blue waters of the South Pacific. Surely nothing could make this stunning locale more appealing – that is, nothing other than a delicious sunset cocktail enjoyed whilst on the beach.
While nearly every beachside bar and café on Maui can offer beautiful views and breathtaking panoramic vistas, we have compiled a list of seven of the most stunning cocktail bars that are the perfect places to watch the sun dip into the sea.
Bumbye Beach Bar, Hyatt Andaz Wailea
The Bumbye Beach Bar has long been a favorite of sun seekers and cocktail lovers alike, and the opportunity to combine the two is almost too good to be true. Set on the edge of a lagoon pool near Mokapu Beach, this is a place where you can relax and wile away the hours as afternoon fades beautifully into evening. Delectable island- inspired plates pair perfectly with tropical cocktails, all in a chic yet casual atmosphere. If you want a decadent snack, try the lobster grilled cheese and the ginger cookie ice cream sandwich alongside a Lava Flow cocktail (piña colada blended with homemade strawberry or mango purée).
Relish Oceanside, Westin Ka’anapali
Relish Oceanside is situated directly on the beautiful Ka’anapali beach, and so you can very nearly feel the sand between your toes as you sip a sophisticated cocktail and marvel at the sun setting into the ocean. Try the Spicy Cholula Paloma, an assertive combination of Sauza silver tequila, grapefruit and Cholula hot sauce, or an award winning No Ka ‘Oi Mai Tai, a twist on the classic with Cruzan pineapple rum, Grand Marnier, coconut rum and a shot of Old Lahaina dark rum, served in a hollowed out pineapple.
Lanai Bar, Kimo’s Lahaina
Looking for something a little bit more casual? The Lanai Bar at Kimo’s overlooks the touristy but lovely Lahaina Beach, and is well known by locals and visitors alike for its casual dining menu (burgers, cheesy Kalua pork fries, calamari) and its fantastic happy hour cocktail prices – $5 dollars between 3pm and 5pm. Chill, relaxed, friendly and fun, Kimo’s is sure to become one of your favorite sunset haunts.
Duke’s Beach Bar, Kaanapali Beach
If you fancy some expertly prepared seafood and a warm, convivial atmosphere, head to the always happening Duke’s Beach House, named to honor Olympic swimming legend Duke Kahanamoku. In addition to sumptuous fish and generously poured cocktails, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of Lanai and Molokai as you witness the wild tie dye kaleidoscope of a Maui sunset. Happy Hour is between 3 and 5pm, meaning you can grab a great seat to prepare for when the sun starts setting. Try one of their signature “Dig Me” Daiquiris – passion fruit, strawberries, lime and lemon, all blended with a hefty dose of rum.
Serenity Pool Bar, Wailea
Watching the sun set while luxuriating in an adults-only pool has to be one of life’s most enjoyable and memorable experiences – doing so while sipping drinks from the pool bar is even better! The Serenity Pool Bar at the Wailea Four Seasons comes equipped with an underwater sound system, stunning views and, of course, a lengthy cocktail menu that will have you coming back for more.
Leilani’s Beachside Grill, Ka’anapali
No list of amazing Maui beach bars would be complete without Leilani’s – this local favorite makes the top ten lists each year, and it is easy to see why. Offering craft beers, interesting cocktails (including the Anuenue, a drink that they boast “looks like a sunset, and tastes like a rainbow”) and a perfect beachside location, you’re sure to be rubbing elbows with surfers, beach bums and locals, all drawn to Leilani’s for great food and friendly staff.
Capische?, Wailea
Widely regarded to be the finest Italian restaurant on the island, our final entry on the list is less a cocktail bar and more a formal affair, but stunning sunset views of Wailea Beach make this a perennial favorite. Visit Capische? if you want to enjoy some of Maui’s best Mediterranean food accompanied by the island’s most revered wine list. The Lounge is more casual, and offers live music while you enjoy your blissful sunset views.