While Maui may not claim the spotlight for the ultimate drinks experience among the islands, there are a few places that are definitely worth the visit –

Nalu’s Restaurant Maui

Address: 1280 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States
Business website: https://naluskihei.com/

If you are looking for the best Mai Tai on the island then you must head to Nalu’s South Shore Grill. The restaurant has a nice décor as well as atmosphere, and they often do live music and entertainment. Also the restaurant is dog friendly.

Some of their popular food menu items are: Loco Moco, Poke Bowl of the Day, Island Pancakes, Acai Bowl, Chicken and Waffles, and Corn flake Crusted French Toast.

• Hawaiian cuisine
• Live music
• Upscale casual dining
• Pet friendly

Monkeypod Kitchen

Address: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States
Business website: https://monkeypodkitchen.com/

Located in Whalers village, the Monkeypod is a really large bar. The bar is most popular for it’s Mai Tai which was nice and strong though I wouldn’t say the best I have had. The atmosphere is great at this place, and once you are done, you can always check out the shops nearby or head to another bar.

Monkeypod does get quite busy so there might be a bit of wait before you get a table. If you are visiting this bar then make sure to get credit for your parking.

• Large bar
• Upscale dining
• Waiting time during peak hours
• Free parking available
• American/Hawaiian Cuisine

Milagros Food Company

Address: 3 Baldwin Ave, Paia, HI 96779, United States
Business website: https://milagrosfoodcompany.com/

Milagros is a Mexican restaurant and has a variety of tropical cocktails that they offer. I went with a coconut based cocktail called Coco-Rita which is tequila blended with lime and coconut cream, a potent drink and tasted similar to pina colada with coconut in it. Other popular drinks at the restaurant include – Mermaid water and Cadillac margarita.

• Casual dining restaurant
• Large patio
• Mexican cuisine

Ester’s Fair Prospect

Address: 2050 Main St STE 1B, Wailuku, HI 96793, United States
Business website: https://www.estersmaui.com/

Ester’s Fair Prospect according to me was the most elegant cocktails bar I found in Maui. Whether you are on a date or with a small group of friends, this would be a good spot to go. It has a really nice and cozy atmosphere. Their drinks are great as well!

• Pet friendly
• Upscale casual bar
• Elegant
• Limited food options

Other places to consider for drinks –

Maui Brewing Company (Address: 605 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei, HI 96753, United States)
If you are looking to try some craft beers then why not visit Hawaii’s largest brewery! They also have island inspired dining options. This place is massive and I think one of the large drinking spots on the island.

Tante’s Fishmarket RestoBar (Address: 300 Maalaea Rd Upper Level Maalaea, Wailuku, HI 96793, United States)
If you are looking for a happy hour place then it might be worth going here. Drinks were relatively cheap compared to other places I went. There are a bunch of shopping places and attractions nearby the place so it might be worth visiting for convenience.

Haleakava Bar (Address: 1794 S Kihei Rd Suite 20, Kihei, HI 96753, United States)
Offers non-alcoholic but kava based drinks. This would be a nice place for a relaxed hangout and if you enjoy local live music.