Guide To West Maui Nightlife.

West Maui Night Life

Where should we go tonight?

Ive been a bartender on west Maui for seven years now and I cant tell you how many times Ive been asked that question. Usually it comes from a group of singles thats stuck on a family trip or young couples looking for a fun night on the town. Maui is a small, mellow place. The majority of people visiting are families or retirees, not party animals. But dont loose hope there are lots of singles, 18 -35 who come to work the restaurants and hotels here. They are some of the most fun, free spirited people youll ever meet.

This article is designed as a guide for Maui nightlife from a locals point of view. The following is meant as a guide (not a strict set of rules). Bars are constantly opening and closing and crowds always change. But use this for starters and you wont be disappointed.

Monday Night
Hard Rock Caf

Monday has been Hard Rock night for as long as I can remember, which is funny because theres not any rock on this night. Its Reggae night, featuring music from Marty Dread (a great local entertainer). Youll find a mixture of tourists and locals filling the bar. There is a five-dollar cover charge, but there are some great drink specials and youll find its worth your money.

Tuesday Night
Moose McGuilicuty

Tuesdays go off and for good reason. Its dollar drink night (not just beers all the well liquors too). This is definitely a local hot spot, I suggest you get there before ten or youll risk waiting in line (it barely moves because no one leaves, so get there early). The atmosphere can be a little tough inside. Dont worry though, show respect to the locals and youll have a great night.

Wednesday Night
Santa Fe Cantina

Weds have always been a mellow night on Maui (everyones hung over from dollar night). A new off the map Mexican restaurant called Santa Fe Cantina is changing that. Its a small venue and doesnt really get going until after 11 (thats when all the locals get off work at various restaurants). If you cant wait till eleven to start your night, head down the street to the Kimos bar. Kimos is a restaurant, with a great locals bar scene, the food is ok. Actually its a great place to start any of these nights, youre sure to meet some cool locals and strike up some good conversations.

Thursday Night
Sanseis Sushi Bar

Ready to sing some karaoke? No? Then lay off the sake or youll probably find yourself on stage. Sanseis is a sushi restaurant in Kapalua (northwest Maui) that re-opens for the late night on Thursdays, its a great fun, classy scene! Theres 1/2 off sushi (which is delicious) from ten till close. They usually shut the doors around nine thirty, a line builds and then they re-open the doors at tenand theres a bit of a dash to reserve a table. I like to get there just before nine-thirty, sneak into a table and cocktail until ten, then order my sushi.

Friday Night
Mai Tai Lounge

If you havent been to the Mai Tai lounge yet, then youre missing out. Its my favorite place to watch the sunset in Lahaina (between six thirty and seven thirty depending on the time of year). The atmosphere is lounge with djs spinning cool beats and fun tropical drinks. Try to get one of the three booths on the upstairs deck (best seats in the house). Mai Tai is a great place to chill and enjoy some good company, so make sure you bring the right people.

Saturday Night
LuLus @ the Cannery Mall

Saturdays are Lahainas biggest night out. Lots of places have been hot over the years but these days the place to be is LuLus. This place cranks! Awesome atmosphere, dancing, dining, Lulus has it all! Youll find a great combination of locals and tourists enjoying themselves. The best part is its halfway home for those of you visiting and staying in the Kaanapalii area. But promise me you dont drink and drive! Your best bet is to take a cab, trust me youre going to end up having fun and staying longer than you think. Besides a cab only costs about eight bucks. Be safe!

Sundays
Mulligans and Merrimans

Sundays is another mellow night (everyone partied at Lulus all night). But here are two great places you should checkout - Merimans in Kapalua has a great sunset cocktail hour. The atmosphere is very upscale, so know that in advance and dress accordingly. The second place is Mulligans at the wharf in Lahaina. Mulligans is an Irish dive bar thats very casual and local, it doesnt get going till after ten. Sundays are usually open mic nights; youll hear some great local talent and enjoy real island beats!