Top-rated cocktails on Maui: where to find them and which ones offer an ocean view too?

Maui is home to some of the best oceanfront cocktail spots, blending local ingredients like Maui Gold pineapple and calamansi with island-distilled spirits. Whether you’re savoring a lilikoi margarita at Mala Ocean Tavern or enjoying a honey-lilikoi foam Mai Tai at Monkeypod Kitchen, these venues combine breathtaking Pacific views with expertly crafted drinks. Many spots also offer happy hours, live music, and sunset dining experiences, making them perfect for a relaxed evening.

Here’s a quick highlight of must-visit locations:

These bars and restaurants are more than just great places to drink – they’re a way to experience Maui’s charm while supporting local businesses, many of which have rebuilt after the 2023 wildfires. Don’t forget to book reservations early for prime sunset seating!

Maui's Top 9 Oceanfront Cocktail Bars: Signature Drinks, Views & Happy Hours

Maui’s Top 9 Oceanfront Cocktail Bars: Signature Drinks, Views & Happy Hours

1. Mala Ocean Tavern‘s Signature Cocktails

Mala Ocean Tavern

Mala Ocean Tavern sits at the northern end of Front Street, offering stunning Pacific views where you might spot sea turtles or even whales during the winter months. Recognized with the Gold Award for "Best Oceanfront Dining" in the 2022 ‘Aipono Maui Restaurant Awards, it also boasts an impressive 4.8/5 rating on Apple Maps from over 10,000 reviews. With limited seating, it’s a good idea to book ahead on OpenTable – aim for a 4:45 PM reservation to catch the sunset from an outdoor or window table.

The cocktail menu is packed with island-inspired creations, priced between $10 and $15. The Lilikoi Margarita combines fresh passionfruit puree and tequila for a perfect mix of sweet and tangy. Other highlights include the Coconut Mojito (coconut rum, mint, lime), the Pau Hana Punch (rum, pineapple, coconut cream), and the Lahaina Lemonade (vodka, lemon juice, honey syrup).

Stop by during happy hour, held daily from 2:00–4:00 PM and again from 10:00 PM–midnight, for discounted handcrafted cocktails, beer, wine, and pupus like ahi poke and pork belly bao buns. There’s also live local music to set the mood.

"The oceanfront seating lets diners peer down on sea turtles foraging in the surf." – Jeanne Cooper, Frommer’s

Parking can be tricky, so plan to use the on-site lot or park at the nearby Lahaina Cannery Mall.

Next, take a look at Hula Grill Ka’anapali’s signature Mai Tai.

2. Hula Grill Ka’anapali‘s Mai Tai

Hula Grill Ka'anapali

Hula Grill Ka’anapali offers a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience at its Barefoot Bar, located right on the sandy shores of Ka’anapali Beach. Here, you can enjoy two signature versions of the classic Mai Tai: the Akamai Tai and the Fresh Squeezed Mai Tai. Both are crafted with fresh-squeezed juices and a touch of Hawaiian tradition. Picture yourself sipping these tropical delights while standing in the sand, shaded by thatched-roof umbrellas, and soaking in uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean.

The atmosphere becomes especially magical at sunset. From 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, live Hawaiian music fills the air, and from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, hula performances bring an authentic Maui vibe. As one reviewer from Vacation-Maui.com described it:

"The vibe here is truly romantic, especially at sunset."

Beyond the Mai Tais, the bar serves other tropical favorites, like the Pele Mango-Rita, which combines mango puree with a kick of jalapeño, the Maui Mule featuring local vodka, mint, and ginger beer, and the refreshing Lilikoi Mojito.

If you’re looking for deals, the daily Aloha Hour from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM is the perfect time to visit. Cocktails are $13, select 16‑oz draft beers are $7, and wine is $9. Regular cocktail prices range from $10 to $15. Pair your drinks with pupus like the Kiawe Charred Ahi ($16) or the Poke Tacos, which feature fresh ahi served in crispy wonton shells.

Reservations are highly recommended, as this spot is in high demand. You can join the online waitlist or arrive early to claim your place in the sand. Parking is available at Whaler’s Village, but keep in mind that spaces can fill up quickly during busy hours.

Next, discover the oceanfront cocktails at Leilani’s on the Beach.

3. Leilani’s on the Beach Cocktails

Leilani's on the Beach

Leilani’s on the Beach graces a historic three-mile stretch of Ka’anapali Beach, affectionately called "Dig-Me Beach." This iconic spot, once a playground for Hawaiian royalty, now offers a blend of history and relaxation. The restaurant boasts an elegant dining room with sweeping ocean views and a laid-back beach bar, both serving a menu infused with Maui’s tropical charm.

The Classic Mai Tai stands out as the signature cocktail, perfect for sipping while soaking in the stunning Ka’anapali Beach scenery. Other highlights include Lei’s Lemonade and their Signature Margaritas. For an even more memorable experience, visit during their famed Aloha Hour (3:00–5:00 p.m.), where specialty cocktails take center stage. During this time, you can indulge in drinks like:

Each of these specialty cocktails is priced at $13 during Aloha Hour, and live local music adds to the ambiance Monday and Wednesday through Sunday.

Regular cocktails generally range from $10 to $15. To elevate your visit, pair your drinks with appetizers like the Hurricane Fries – topped with gochujang and furikake – or the Dig Me Beach Ceviche, a true taste of the tropics.

"Enjoyed an incredible meal on the ocean! From the moment we walked in, to the moment we left the staff was on point and so kind." – Ariana P., February 2026

Condé Nast Traveler captures the vibe perfectly, describing it as "breezy and casual" with genuine aloha vibes.

For the best sunset views, reserve a table in the upstairs dining area. The beach bar welcomes walk-ins, making it ideal for spontaneous visits. You’ll find Leilani’s at Whalers Village, located at 2435 Ka’anapali Parkway, with convenient parking available at the shopping center.

4. Sea House Restaurant‘s Happy Hour Drinks

Sea House Restaurant

Perched right on the sands of Napili Bay, Sea House Restaurant offers more than just a meal – it’s the perfect spot to soak in Maui’s famous sunsets. This award-winning gem combines stunning ocean views with a menu of tropical cocktails that capture the island’s spirit. Its retro Hawaiian charm and beachfront setting make it a go-to for anyone craving cocktails with a view.

Happy hour here runs daily from 2:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., featuring five signature tropical drinks: Aloha Bite, Mai Tai, Strawberry Mint Lemonade, Sea House Mule, and Rum Heaven, all priced at $12. While the Rum Heaven is a sunset favorite, the classic Mai Tai remains a crowd-pleaser. These drinks pair perfectly with the restaurant’s extensive happy hour menu.

"Sea House is a fabulous place to watch the sunset. Romantic. Flavorful food. Poke nachos were delicious… Rum heaven cocktail was perfect." – Lauren S.

Beyond cocktails, the happy hour lineup includes draft beers for $7, wine by the glass ranging from $8 to $11, bottled beers priced at $4 to $5, and small bites like Hurricane Fries ($7) and Poke Nachos ($14).

Since the bar often operates on a waitlist, arriving early is your best bet to snag a prime outdoor seat with unobstructed ocean views. With its award-winning drinks, tasty bites, and unbeatable beachfront vibe, Sea House delivers a quintessential Maui experience.

5. Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman’s Craft Cocktails

Monkeypod Kitchen

Chef Peter Merriman brings his farm-to-table philosophy to the cocktail menu at Monkeypod Kitchen, with locations in Wailea and Ka’anapali. The standout drink? The Monkeypod Mai Tai, which AFAR magazine has called "Hawaii’s best mai tai". This twist on the classic cocktail swaps traditional almond orgeat for a house-made macadamia nut version and tops it with a luscious honey-lilikoi foam, giving it a sweet and tangy flair.

"Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman brings his genius to the classic cocktail, adding a thick head of honey-lilikoi (passion fruit) foam." – Amanda Castleman, AFAR

Each location offers a unique vibe. Wailea boasts limited outdoor seating with stunning ocean views, while the Ka’anapali spot is nestled in Whalers Village, offering a lively beachfront shopping center setting. Both locations amp up the atmosphere with live music three times daily – usually at 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. – making it the perfect backdrop for enjoying a drink.

Happy hour is a crowd-pleaser, running daily from 3:30–5:00 p.m. During this time, handcrafted cocktails are $4 off, wines by the glass are discounted by $3, and draft beers are $2 off. Most signature cocktails during happy hour are priced between $10 and $15. Food specials include 50% off many appetizers and $12 pizzas (excluding the "bourgeois" pizza).

If you’re heading to the Wailea location, be sure to book ahead through the restaurant’s website and request outdoor seating to snag one of the coveted oceanview tables. Arriving before happy hour or scheduling your reservation just before sunset increases your chances of enjoying the breathtaking views while sipping on your expertly crafted cocktail.

6. Pilina at Fairmont Kea Lani‘s Oceanfront Bar

Fairmont Kea Lani

Pilina, nestled within the revamped Fairmont Kea Lani lobby in Wailea, delivers a cocktail experience that celebrates Hawaii’s rich flavors. Using 90% locally sourced ingredients, the bar embodies Maui’s dedication to showcasing authentic island tastes. Even its name, chosen by a cultural advisory committee, reflects this ethos – Pilina signifies a connection to the land, a concept infused into every drink on the menu.

One of the standout offerings is the Pilina Mai Tai, featuring a house-made orgeat crafted from Big Island macadamia and kukui nuts – an ingredient rarely found in cocktails. This unique creation is complemented by Maui Gold pineapple shrub and a float of Ko Hana Kokoleka, a cacao and honey-aged rum. Another must-try is the ‘Āina, blending a custom rum made exclusively for Pilina by Kuleana Rum Works with grilled banana oleo saccharum, Lāi’e vanilla bean, and Kona coffee bean. For gin lovers, the Mauka combines Fy Hawaii Wet Gin with ʻŌhiʻa Lehua honey, Aliʻi Kula lavender, butterfly pea flower, and a touch of smoked Big Island bee pollen.

The bar’s ambiance is just as impressive as its cocktails. With an open-air design and wooden arches framing sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Pilina offers a front-row seat to Maui’s natural beauty. During whale season in the winter months, guests often spot whales breaching while sipping their drinks. As one reviewer from Dining Maui described:

"I sat at Pilina for an hour and saw countless whales jumping left and right. Aside from being out on the water, I can’t think of a better place for whale watching on Maui."

Pilina also features a daily happy hour from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., where cocktails and select appetizers are offered at discounted prices, with drinks ranging from $10 to $15. Arrive early to snag a bar seat – perfect for capturing breathtaking sunset views through the architectural arches.

Earning a 5/5 rating from Dining Maui reviewers, Pilina has been hailed as "an instant gamechanger for the Hawaiian cocktail scene", thanks to its dedication to showcasing distinctive local ingredients. General Manager Cameron Hall summed it up perfectly:

"We wanted to highlight unique ingredients you don’t see on other beverage menus, hoping our guests gain new insights."

7. Ulu Kitchen by Merriman’s Waterfront Selections

Ulu Kitchen by Merriman’s, located at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa in Ka’anapali, offers a cocktail experience that blends stunning oceanfront views with expertly crafted drinks. Its outdoor South Lanai provides an uninterrupted view of Ka’anapali Beach, making it an ideal spot for watching the sunset while enjoying a drink. With a 4.6/5 rating from 1,221 OpenTable reviews, guests frequently highlight the "fantastic ocean view" and the venue’s laid-back, casual vibe.

One of the standout offerings here is the signature Monkeypod Mai Tai. This version features a honey-lilikoi foam and house-made macadamia nut orgeat, paired with organic silver and dark rums. As Allie Lebos of Observer describes:

"The honey-lilikoi foam topping… is what makes the mai tai here truly stand out"

This inventive take on the classic cocktail showcases the island’s love for blending local flavors with mixology expertise.

In addition to the signature Mai Tai, Ulu Kitchen offers daily Bartender’s Specials and craft cocktail deals, with prices generally ranging from $10 to $15. Open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., it caters to both early risers and evening cocktail enthusiasts. One OpenTable reviewer, Baron Gold, shared:

"It’s great having a partner location that sells the Monkeypod Mai Tai but a different, and admittedly better menu than Monkeypod"

While some guests mention smaller portions and higher prices, the breathtaking oceanfront location and attentive service often make up for these critiques. For the best experience, arrive early to grab a patio seat and soak in the sunset views over the Pacific.

8. Cane & Canoe Kapalua Bay Cocktails

Cane & Canoe, nestled within Montage Kapalua Bay, delivers an unforgettable cocktail experience in a setting that feels like a Hawaiian dream. The open-air design, inspired by a traditional canoe house, offers sweeping views of Kapalua Bay and the Pacific Ocean. At the heart of the space is a life-size canoe replica, adding to the authentic island vibe. With a stellar 4.7/5 rating from 1,751 OpenTable reviews, visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery and the romantic yet sophisticated ambiance.

The cocktail menu is a celebration of tropical flavors and expert mixology. One standout is the Tradewinds, a refreshing mix of vodka, rhubarb liqueur, strawberry, and lemon, topped with sparkling Moscato for a fizzy finish. Another favorite is the Lilikoiloma, a creative take on the classic Paloma, blending tequila, pink grapefruit liqueur, and the tangy sweetness of lilikoi (passion fruit). For wine lovers, the sommelier-curated list ensures there’s something special to pair with any drink or light bite.

The Cane & Canoe Lounge welcomes guests daily from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., staying open an hour later than the main dining room. While it doesn’t offer a traditional happy hour, the lounge provides a laid-back yet elegant space to enjoy cocktails and island-inspired small plates. Nightly live music from local Maui artists and torch-lit outdoor seating add a magical touch to the experience.

Cocktails are priced between $10 and $15, reflecting the luxurious surroundings. Though portions may lean on the smaller side, the attentive service and stunning oceanfront setting make it well worth the indulgence. Complimentary valet parking adds to the convenience. Arrive early to snag a patio seat and catch the sunset – there’s no better way to enjoy an expertly crafted drink while soaking in the authentic Hawaiian ambiance.

9. Humble Market Kitchin‘s Sunset Drinks

Humble Market Kitchin

Humble Market Kitchin takes Maui’s love for craft cocktails and stunning views to new heights – literally. Situated at the highest point of the Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, this spot offers breathtaking Pacific views from its open-air lanai. Created by James Beard Award winner Roy Yamaguchi, the restaurant pairs Hawaii-inspired Euro-Asian cuisine with an elevated bar program, cementing its place in Maui’s cocktail scene [65, 66, 70, 71]. With a 4.4/5 rating from over 3,095 OpenTable reviews, visitors often rave about the unbeatable atmosphere and scenery.

The cocktail menu is as enticing as the views. Signature drinks like the HMK Lilikoi Mai Tai, Paniolo Mule, and Magnum P.I. are perfect companions to the nightly "sunset toasts" on the terrace. These tropical creations are best enjoyed as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vivid hues. If you want the best seats in the house, grab a spot on the outdoor patio early [64, 65, 70, 71].

Happy hour runs from 5:00–6:00 p.m., featuring specialty cocktails for $16, well drinks for $11, draught beer for $9, and wine by the glass for $14. Pair your drinks with appetizers like calamari, pork ribs, and wings, all priced at $15 during this time.

"What a view and an excellent happy hour to match! Go for good drinks and exceptionally priced happy hour snacks", said Jake S..

Reservations are highly recommended – be sure to request patio seating for the ultimate sunset experience. Plus, enjoy perks like free validated parking and a 20% Kamaaina discount with valid ID [64, 67, 70, 71].

Ready to discover more sunset cocktail spots? Keep reading for a quick comparison to plan your perfect evening in Maui.

Quick Comparison Table

Plan your Maui cocktail adventure with this snapshot of signature drinks and scenic ocean views from the detailed guides above.

Restaurant Signature Cocktails Ocean View
Mala Ocean Tavern Lilikoi Margarita, Coconut Mojito Yes – oceanfront dining
Sea House Restaurant Rum Heaven, Mai Tai Yes – oceanfront
Monkeypod Kitchen Monkeypod Mai Tai (honey‑lilikoi foam) Partial – outdoor patio with ocean breezes

Monkeypod Kitchen has earned a reputation for serving the "best Mai Tai" on the island, largely due to its famous honey‑lilikoi foam topping.

Let this guide help you pick the ideal spot that satisfies your cocktail cravings while treating you to stunning ocean views.

Conclusion

Every oceanfront spot in Maui has its own way of showcasing the island’s lively cocktail culture. But Maui’s cocktail scene isn’t just about delicious drinks – it’s also a way to support the island’s recovery following the 2023 wildfires.

Choosing cocktails made with Maui-crafted spirits and local ingredients like Maui Gold pineapple or Upcountry persimmons does more than satisfy your taste buds. It strengthens the island’s agricultural network and supports the local bar scene. For instance, Tikehau Lounge has hired bar staff who were impacted by the Lahaina fires, and Koholā Brewery managed to reopen in Wailea Village less than a year after its original location was destroyed. Each drink you enjoy becomes a small but meaningful celebration of Maui’s resilience.

"For our guests, it’s more than a drink – it’s a connection to Maui’s ʻāina [land] and to Hawaiian culture." – Cameron Hall, Assistant Food and Beverage Manager, Fairmont Kea Lani

To make the most of your experience, keep a few practical tips in mind. Maui County regulations prohibit drinking alcohol on public beaches, so stick to licensed beachfront venues for your cocktails. Also, by visiting different areas like Wailea, Kihei, or Kapalua, you can help spread economic support to communities beyond those directly affected by the fires.

So, whether you’re enjoying a honey-lilikoi foam Mai Tai or a refreshing lilikoi margarita, you’re not just savoring a drink – you’re playing a part in keeping Maui’s spirit alive. Enjoy responsibly, and know that every sip contributes to the island’s recovery.

FAQs

Which spots have the best sunset ocean views?

For unforgettable sunset ocean views in Maui, check out Merriman’s Kapalua, Leilani’s on the Beach, or Honu Oceanside. These spots combine incredible oceanfront dining with jaw-dropping sunset backdrops, creating a perfect evening experience.

Do I need reservations for oceanfront seating?

Reservations are a must if you’re aiming for oceanfront seating at Maui favorites like Mala Ocean Tavern and Honu Oceanside. These popular spots tend to fill up fast, so booking ahead is your best bet to lock in both the view and your ideal dining time.

What’s the best happy hour for cocktails?

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to enjoy happy hour on Maui, Mala Ocean Tavern should be at the top of your list. Their daily happy hour runs from 2:00–4:45 PM, giving you plenty of time to sip on expertly crafted cocktails like the Aloha Bite, Mai Tai, and Sea House Mule – all for just $11 each.

In addition to cocktails, they also offer discounted beers and a selection of tasty small bites. It’s the ideal place to relax, take in the ocean views, and treat yourself to some fantastic drinks and snacks.

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amy@tatimaui.com
Author: amy@tatimaui.com

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