14 Best Bars near Wailea

“The birdcage area is absolutely cool and stunning, but the dining experience was just okay - we went there for drinks/light dinner one evening. Our waiter was very friendly, but he forgot our drinks and a meal item. We received 1/3 meal item prior to our drinks and started eating. When we finally caught our waiter’s attention, we asked for the drinks and he admitted he had forgotten to put them in. When the drinks did finally arrive, we were waiting for two other items. When we asked about the food, we learned that one item was coming and the other had also been forgotten. We had almost finished the drink when the remaining food came - overall, not a great experience. We were also shocked that the $28 chicken skewers were literally two 2-inch pieces of chicken and a 2 short pieces of green onions on two 8-inch skewers. That was absolutely insane pricing. We did not return.“

“We attended on a Friday evening in October and had an excellent experience. It’s definitely a splurge, but worth it.

Arrival: You can check-in near the front desk of the hotel or down by the actual show. Our table was pre-assigned, so there was no need to line up before the doors opened at 5:15 for the 6PM show. Upon arrival, they gave us each a nut lei and a mai tai. Ahead of showtime, there was a local vendors market, free lawn games, and a professional photographer - latter was $50.

Seating: We opted for the premium seating, which is more expensive, but worth it from our perspective. You’re closer to the stage (first two rows). The tables were also pre-assigned, so we didn’t have to arrive early to line up.

Food: There are four courses: chip/dip, salad/bread, entree, and dessert. There’s also an open bar with a wide assortment of cocktails and non-alcoholic options. The food was decent quality - a bit bland in some cases, which isn’t unexpected in these types of situations when you have to appeal to a broad demographic, particularly those less inclined toward any kick of spice or anything too deviant from the norm. The quantity was massive - there was far more than we could eat and we ended up leaving at least half of what was delivered to the table. The waiter was very accommodating of a food allergy, which was appreciated.

Entertainment: The show was good - there were about 8 or so acts spanning nearly 2 hours. The fire thrower at the end was most impressive.

Cost: It’s pricey - nearly $900 total for 2 premium seats. But everything in Hawaii is expensive and this is the Waldorf Astoria, so as to be expected.

Atmosphere: the show was in the large green lawn next to the beach. The show starts right around sunset, which allows for excellent pictures. The sun is to your back while watching the show, so no glare.“

“A fabulous spot... actually the best kava lounge I've been to anywhere. Awesome variety, great music and chill atmosphere.“

“We got screwed over by a bike rental company so we had to kill about 90 minutes before we could get the next rental. This place saved the day, they open at 10am, served some strong drinks at what was the best price we paid anywhere in Maui and were very welcoming. Maybe the Aloha spirit isn't dead yet. Thank you so much!“

“Fun poolside bar with well crafted cocktails and plant based menu options.

Staff was very friendly and attentive.

Would LOVE to see a couple more vegan options on the menu. The Tofu & edemame poke bowl was extra tasty - definitely recommend!“

“Amazing service, food, drinks and sunset views. Kai Bar is a hidden gem in Wailea located at the AC hotel. We came back on a second night because we had such an amazing experience and sunset views. I highly recommend the Chicken Katsu sandwich and the Kai sliders. The servers did such a wonderful job both nights.“

“staff is amazing food and drinks are 100 percent 😋“

“We had a wonderful time sitting at the lobby lounge watching the hula dancer and singer over drinks and sushi. The singer really amazed us with his wonderful voice our whole table could not get over how great he was. We could have stayed and listened to him sing all night. We asked and he said he could be found on Spotify as Hoaka. That music is him with another guy and it’s not exactly the same as what he was doing solo. I wish I could find a playlist of just him and what he was singing during the hula show. It was so good! Everybody we encountered from the hostesses to guys clearing tables to the manager, everybody was just so sweet. Our waitress was not that friendly but everybody else made up for it. It was my sisters birthday and we just loved our time there. The drinks, alcoholic and non, were very good. Sushi was great. It’s a beautiful resort with the ocean view and breeze coming through. There was a guy that came and blew the conch before going to light torches around the resort. We wanted to keep listening to the singer so we didn’t follow him. Definitely would recommend lobby lounge and would come back again!“

“Lovely cocktail bar that conveniently converts into a small club later at night. When we stopped by there were barely any folks and within 30 mins that place was buzzing with locals and tourists alike. The cocktails here were fabulous and wish we could stay longer but the music was too loud to even sit and have a drink. While its a cool spot it is not my vibe but I will stop by for cocktails for sure. Cheers!“

“The food was really good! We got the stone ahi, grilled chicken, Korean ribs and crispy kampachi. All hit the mark. Cocktails were nothing to rave about. I got the Mai Tai and would still prefer Monkeypod’s.

Service on the other hand needs work. For a Fairmont restaurant, calling your server to get you plates and silverware after your food had arrived isn’t expected. Cocktails coming after the food arriving. We were celebrating our anniversary which we had informed them about and the host even mentioned it when we got there but there was no acknowledgment from the server. They did nothing special which is unusual.“

“What a lovely little restaurant with amazing vegan ramen soup and delicious mochi dessert. We loved it! Beautiful and friendly folks! So enjoyable! Mahalo!“

“Our server, Isaiah, was most helpful with the menu choices. We had the roasted beet salad and the Steak and Frites. We asked for the steak to be cooked medium plus, but it came out less than medium and had to be sent back to be cooked further. Other than that, it was a delicious meal in a great location.“

“The luau at gilligans was absolutely amazing!! The staff is an amazing group of people, very friendly and inviting, the luau was interactive and at the end we felt like old friends! The food was plentiful and amazing and the drinks were even more so!! Would recommend if you’re looking for a smaller more intimate luau.“

“What a fantastic performance Brenton put on with Mulligan's Magic Show! I had heard about this show from another family we met while horseback riding one day on our trip to Maui and we literally altered our Road to Hana day to be back in time for this show... and we were SO GLAD we did! It was the perfect evening and a nice break away from just seeing the beauty of nature. Brenton was funny, engaging, family friendly, and full of energy but he was also SO talented with his magic! I have a 21 and 18 year old and they were so impressed, laughing most of the night. We caught a couple of his tricks on video and posted them and our Facebook friends were in awe too! This show is WELL worth your time and money, and Mulligans offered fantastic dinner options too. Go see the show if you get the chance - you won't regret it! It's truly... well, "magical". :)“