Gay Maui – Ultimate Travel Guide, Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Activities (Updated 2024)

Are you ready to escape to a tropical paradise where you can be free to be yourself? Look no further than Gay Maui – the perfect getaway destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Whether you’re traveling with your partner or going solo, Gay Maui offers a welcoming and judgment-free environment that will make your vacation unforgettable.

Indeed, it’s no surprise that the LGBTQ+ community thrives in Hawaii, which has long been known for its open-minded attitude but if you’re only interested in visiting and exploring one of the state’s islands, Gay Maui is the place to go.

Gay Maui – also known as ‘The Valley Isle’, is the second-largest island in Hawaii and the 17th largest island in the United States.

This island is renowned and is beloved for its world-famous beaches, the Sacred Iao Valley, humpback whales, homestead cuisines, and the ever-so breathtaking sunrise and sunset from Haleakala.

It’s no surprise that Condé Nast Traveler readers have chosen Gay Maui’s ‘Best Island in the United States’ for the past 20 years.

Surfing, snorkeling, and diving are all popular Hawaiian activities, and they’re sometimes complemented by windsurfing, parasailing, or scuba diving for the more adventurous travelers.

Maui has a lot to offer, and so as the locals say, “Maui no ka oi” (Gay Maui is the best!).

If you are thinking about going somewhere else you can try other Gay Travel Guides.

Remember to always check out the latest rules and restrictions before you leave.

Gay Scene in Gay Maui

Gay Maui is ready to welcome gay couples looking for a romantic getaway amid a bright rainbow.

Although Gay Maui doesn’t have a distinct gayborhood and does not have the same number of bars and clubs as Honolulu on Oahu, this does not rule out the possibility of having a good time.

Whether you want to surf, canoe, or kayak, Gay Maui has plenty of options for outdoorsy types. It is the premier whale-watching center in the Hawaiian Islands.

One of the main reasons for visiting Gay Maui is to see the incredible coastline, and Little Beach is the island’s most popular gay beach. This secluded beach is in Makena State Park, south of Wailea at the end of Wailea Alanui Road.

To get there, you’ll have to go past the Big Beach and across the lava-flow trail. It’s a terrific spot to meet and greet the gay community in the area as well as gay travellers from all over the world.

After a day of sunbathing, you may opt to check out the gay nightlife in the area. Ambrosia is one of the island’s most popular gay and lesbian bars, featuring daily entertainment and a creative décor.

There are other bars and clubs that you might also want to check out during your stay on this island and you’ll surely have a great time.

Gay Maui Safety

Gay Maui is still one of the most popular Hawaiian Islands for LGBTQ+ visitors, and the island’s flourishing tourism economy makes it a highly welcoming and friendly environment for everyone.

Both travelers and locals generally find Gay Maui a safe area to visit and live in. Every year, approximately 3 million people visit the island, and the vast majority of them leave with nothing more serious than a sunburn.

There is still a risk of petty crime in this area, just as there is in any other part of the world, so precautions should be exercised to avoid unpleasant situations. 

With the ongoing global pandemic, make sure to also check out Gay Maui County’s safety travel requirements and travel restrictions. You can click here for more details.

Best Time to Visit Gay Maui

Gay Maui is an island blessed with warm and favorable weather all year round.

There isn’t a bad time to visit Gay Maui, but if you want the ‘best time’ to visit this island, the months of April to May, as well as September to November, are ideal.

The nice weather that Hawaii travelers seek is available throughout the spring and fall shoulder seasons, which are free from the high rates and crowds.

If you want to go surfing, you should travel in the winter for the best conditions. Just make sure to book as soon as possible to obtain a discount as flights and accommodations are much higher during these times.

Gay Maui boasts warm and favorable weather year-round, making it an ideal destination no matter when you choose to visit.

However, if you’re looking for the best time to experience the island’s beauty without the crowds, consider planning your trip during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to November. These months offer pleasant weather, lower rates, and fewer tourists, allowing you to fully enjoy the island’s charms.

Best 21 Gay Nude Beaches Around the World

Best Gay-Friendly Hotels in Gay Maui

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua offers a luxurious Hawaiian experience with beachfront dining, a Hawaiian spa, recreational activities, and 466 guestrooms including 107 residential suites.

The resort also features a fitness center with ocean views and Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program.

Activities	Swimming Spa Dining Water Sports Island Experiences
Price	$$$-$$$$
Location	The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua 1 Ritz Carlton Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact	Call +1 808-669-6200 kapalua.guest.relations@ritzcarlton.com
Website	Maui Resorts – Kapalua Hotels | The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua (ritzcarlton.com)

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows is one of the original Kaanapali resorts, offering spacious accommodations and a prime location on Maui’s beautiful sandy beach.

It’s a stylish and unforgettable place to relax, unwind and reconnect with life’s simple pleasures.

Activities	Swimming Dining Spa
Price	$$$
Location	Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows 2780 Kekaa Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact	Call 808-661-3611 reservations@royallahaina.com;
Website	Royal Lahaina Resort | Official Site

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Gay Massage in Maui

Gay-Friendly Dining in Gay Maui

Gay Maui is not only one of the most widely visited islands in the world, but it also has some of Hawaii’s most exquisite dining options.

Make sure to taste the island’s various flavors, which range from innovative food trucks to amazingly fine dining restaurants, when visiting the legendary island of Gay Maui.

1. Betty’s Beach Cafe

This café is located at Maui’s south end of Lahaina’s traditional main street.

On the menu, you’ll find a great selection of local and international cuisine along with handcrafted drinks, burgers, and main meals.

Although the fish and chips were a little pricey, the other meals looked nice, and we found it a perfect spot to have a good time.

Types of Food	Pupus, Burgers, Sandwiches and Salads, Chicken, Steaks
Price	$$
Location	505 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
More Information	Betty’s Beach Cafe – Lahaina, Maui (bettysbeachcafe.com)

2. Maui Thai Bistro

In a modern bistro style, Gay Maui Thai Bistro provides handcrafted, authentic, and contemporary Thai cuisine to South Maui.

Their chef’s unique Hawaiian fusion flair is evident in his famed Thai single-dish lunch offerings as well as classic evening dishes.

In 2014 the Open Table Diner’s Choice Awards named it ‘Best Food Overall’ followed by ‘Best Lunch Spot’ in 2015.

Types of Food	Curries, Soups and Salads, Noodles, Desserts
Price	$$
Location	2439 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
More Information	Maui Thai Bistro | Authentic and contemporary Thai food

3. Lahaina Pizza Company

The Lahaina Pizza Company is a local landmark, having taken over the former location of the world-famous Blue Max Restaurant.

The upper restaurant, which is right across the seawall, has breathtaking views of the ocean. While eating Lahaina Pizza Company’s famous deep-dish pizzas, house-made sandwiches, and pasta, watch surfers and fishermen leave Lahaina Harbor.

Sunsets over Lanai go perfectly with the Mai Tai, which is created with Grand Marnier and served with award-winning Buffalo Wings.

Types of Food	Pizza, Buffalo Wings, Ravioli, Salads, Sandwiches, Pastas, Desserts
Price	$$
Location	730 Front St Ste 2, Lahaina, HI 96761
More Information	Home | Maui, HI 96761 – Lahaina Pizza Company | 730 Front Street Lahaina

4. Maui Tacos

‘A Vacation You Can Eat’ is the catchphrase for Maui Tacos.

Their menu includes fresh fish tacos, rainbow mango salads, Hawaiian BBQ pork burritos, chicken enchiladas, pineapple salsa, and coconut flan.

Types of Food	Fresh Fish Tacos, Salads, Hawaiian BBQ Pork Burritos, Chicken Enchiladas, Pineapple, Salsa, and Coconut Flan
Price	$$
Location	5095 Napilihau St, Maui, HI 96761
More Information	Maui Tacos» Napili Plaza » Napili Plaza

5. Nalu’s South Shore Grill

Located in the Azeka Shopping Center – Makai in Kihei, Nalu’s South Shore Grill is a family-style open-air counter-serve bar/restaurant that serves locally produced cuisine.

They also provide nightly specials and live music.

Types of Food	Super Foods, Omelets, Salads, Burgers and Sandwiches, Seafood
Price	$$
Location	1280 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
More Information	Kihei Restaurants | Nalu’s South Shore Grill | Family Style Restaurant and Bar (naluskihei.com)

Gay-Friendly Bars and Clubs in Gay Maui

In comparison to cities, Maui’s nightlife is generally more casual and laid-back.

Tiki bars and restaurants are likely to be busy late into the night, however, liquor licensing laws prevent the service of alcohol after 2 am.

There aren’t as many gay bars and clubs in Gay Maui as there are in Gay Honolulu, but the fun you can have is equal.

1. South Shore Tiki Lounge

For the past seven years, Gay Maui Time Weekly readers have picked this bar as the best bar on the island.

Every night, they offer a DJ roster and live musical acts for happy hour.

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Both Offered
Location	1913 S Kihei Rd Ste J, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact	+1 808-874-6444
Website	South Shore Tiki Lounge – Bar and Restaurant in Kihei, Maui, Hawaii

2. Vibe Bar Maui

At this bar, the martinis are superb, and in the evenings, musicians play live music.

Many travelers are also fond of the adorable and friendly staff, as they offer excellent service. Vibe Bar Maui offers a wide variety of foods at reasonable costs.

Guests can unwind here thanks to the trendy décor and pleasant ambiance.

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Both Offered
Location	1913 S Kihei Rd Ste H, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact	+1 808-891-1011
Website	No Website

3. Diamonds Ice Bar and Grill

At this Sports bar in Kihei, drink specials are a big hit. Grab a cheap beer, play a game of pool, or watch a game on one of the many TVs, and have a good time at Diamonds Ice.

On weekends, you can enjoy and listen to DJs and live music. 

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Both Offered
Location	1279 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact	+1 808-874-9299
Website	Diamonds Bar and Grill | Kihei HI | Facebook

4. Kahales – Maui’s Local Dive Bar

Kahale’s is situated in the ‘Bar’muda triangle in Kihei.

Open every day of the year, it is the oldest dive bar on Gay Maui, offering live music, sports, and the island’s longest Happy Hour.

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Both Offered
Location	36 Keala Pl, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact	+1 808-215-9939
Website	Kahales – Maui’s Local Dive Bar

5. The Dirty Monkey

Voted the Best Whiskey Bar on Gay Maui, The Dirty Monkey is a laid-back bar on Maui’s westside with a view of Front Street.

To quench your thirst, there’s artisan and local beers, Maui-style cocktails, and delicious bar food to fill your tummy too.

You can play shuffleboard in their game room, listen to live acoustic music every day, watch the next big athletic event, or even jam out to a concert.

Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, don’t forget to check out the DJ line-up too.

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Both Offered
Location	844 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact	+1 808-419-6268
Website	What’s On – The Dirty Monkey

Gay-Friendly Activities and Attractions in Gay Maui

Gay Maui, the second-largest island in the Hawaiian islands, offers a wide range of enjoyable activities. Some of the Gay Maui entertainment options available are unique to this island.

Whether you like water or land-based activities, this fantastic island will provide you with just what you are searching for.

1. Maui Pride Festival

The Maui Pride Festival is Gay Maui Island’s largest LGBTQ+ celebration.

Maui Pride is a fun and welcoming event that aims to promote, celebrate, and educate all people about the positive diversity of the LGBTQ+ community.

Maui Pride includes a variety of LGBTQ+ events such as hikes and a gala, among other great celebrations.

Activities	Pride Parade, Hiking, Gala
Location	Maui, Hawaii
Price	Free
Availability	October
More Information	Pride Festival – Aloha Maui Pride

2. Maui Ziplines – Ka’anapali, Waikapu

While Gay Maui is known for its many water sports and activities, zip-lining is a land activity that far outweighs any ocean thrill. Zip-lining is a fantastic way to combine sightseeing on the island with thrills and excitement.

On your Gay Maui zipline excursion, take in the beauty of the island while soaring through the skies. You can zipline through eucalyptus groves and even see the beach from some ziplines.

Activities	Ziplining, Sightseeing
Location	2580 Kekaa Dr Ste 122, Lahaina, HI 96761
Price	$$$
Availability	All Year Round
More Information	8-Line Zipline Tour – Voted Best Zipline Tour | Skyline Hawaii

3. Whale Watching Cruise from Lahaina Harbour

Whale Watching is undoubtedly one of the top things to do on Gay Maui.

One of the most amazing experiences you will ever have is seeing North Pacific humpback whales gracing Maui’s seas during their yearly winter migration.

Activities	Whale Watching
Location	612 Front St Lahaina, HI 96761
Price	$$
Availability	All Year Round
More Information	Lahaina Whale Watching Tours | Pacific Whale Foundation

4. Sunrise at Mt. Haleakala

Starting from the peak of Mt. Haleakala on Gay Maui, hike 10,000 feet above sea level and you’ll witness a spectacular Gay Maui sunrise.

There’s nothing like a Maui sunrise (except perhaps a Maui sunset), and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see one while on the island.

Your first morning on the island is the best time to witness the magnificent view of the sunrise.

Activities	Sightseeing, Hiking
Location	Haleakala National Park, HI
Price	$$
Availability	All Year Round
More Information	Sunrise – Haleakalā National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

5. Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is one of Gay Maui’s most popular excursions for a variety of reasons, including breathtaking views, waterfall visits, and the opportunity to see less-frequented places.

It is also an opportunity to get a unique insight into old Hawaii. You can experience utterly stunning natural treasures and learn about indigenous Hawaiian culture.

Activities	Sightseeing
Location	Hana Highway, HI
Price	Free
Availability	All Year Round
More Information	Road to Hana Maui | Preparation for Hana Highway

LGBT+ Romantic Getaways

Top 10 Things To Do in Gay Maui

• Experience Mars at Haleakala Crater – It’s hard to believe that such a place can exist on a tropical island as the crown jewel of Haleakala National Park. East Maui was formed by the volcano Haleakala.
  
  Haleakala, also known as “the world’s largest dormant volcano,” rises to a height of 10,023 feet and is responsible for much of the island’s strange weather. Early risers, space scientists, and ferocious winds flock to its accessible summit, while hikers flock to its crater.
  
  The hiking portion of the Sliding Sands Trail is the best way to see Haleakala. The difficult climb descends to the crater floor, providing a unique perspective of Haleakala’s beautiful crimson hues, exotic flora, and odd cinder cones.
  
  
• Take part in Hawaiian culture – Maui’s top sensory experiences reflect the island’s diverse population’s creativity. Native Hawaiian song and dance are always moving, evoking a strong sense of aloha ‘aina which means respect for the land.
  
  Several ethnic groups contributed significantly. Hula dancing was both a solemn ceremony and a lighthearted pleasure in ancient Hawaii.
  
  
• Snorkeling and Diving at Molokini Crater – All that remains of the Molokini Crater is a narrow slice of land resembling a week-old moon halfway between East Maui’s south shore and the former bombing range island of Kaho’olawe.
  
  What’s interesting is not what’s above the waterline, but what’s beneath the waves. Molokini is one of the top diving spots on the Hawaiian main islands. Divers may expect crystal clear waters and close encounters with sharks, big lobsters, sea turtles, and a plethora of tropical species.
  
  Snorkelers can take in all of this splendor while hovering above but be advised that Molokini cannot keep up with tourist demand, so get there early unless you don’t mind when the snorkelers outnumber the fish.
  
  
• Driving Along The Scenic Road To Hana – The road that snakes its way up the sea cliffs of East Maui’s tropical and rainy north shore connects the island’s most distant communities with “civilisation” and is one of the most famous and picturesque drives in the United States.
  
  The Hana Highway is part of a 16th-century trail that circles Maui. It’s one of those journeys with no specific objective, just brief roadside stops to take in the scenery, short walks, and rainbow-coloured sandy beaches.
  
  
• Red Sand Beach Exploration – Kaihalulu Beach, the pride of Hana and a must-see stop on the famed scenic route, ranks high among Hawaii’s best beaches.
  
  Because of the red-soiled cliffs that protect it from the outer world, this fantasy beach has been dubbed “Red Sand Beach.”
  
  
• Big Beach – Even without palm trees, Big Beach is breathtaking. Maybe it’s because of the mile-long expanse of golden sand that gleams in the south beach sun, or maybe it’s because of the water’s startling blue colour.
  
  Finding a parking location and leaving it there for the day is a no-brainer in any scenario. The heavy surf might make it dangerous for swimmers at times, but that’s when the bodyboards come out.
  
  
• Taking a Peek at The Needle -The Iao Valley in East Maui is the most magnificent, despite the fact that Maui’s central valley is the reason for the island’s namesake, “Valley Isle.”
  
  The Needle, the crown jewel of Iao Valley State Park, was carved over millennia by the eroding powers of water in the home of one of the wettest areas on Earth.
  
  This pinnacle, which rises to a height of 2250 feet, is the unofficial symbol of Maui and the subject of millions of photographs.
  
  
• Bamboo Forest – The Pipiwai Trail, located in Haleakala National Park’s Kipahulu area, is one of Hawaii’s most rewarding hikes, with a variety of challenges.
  
  Enter the wonder of the bamboo forest as you walk over a wooden boardwalk to the sound of thousands of enormous bamboo trees cracking in the mild wind.
  
  
• Watch the Sunrise and Sunset – Enjoy some breathtaking scenery while watching the dawn and sunset on Maui. The sun is harsh here, but it also has beauty, which is best appreciated during its rising and evening hours.
  
  At least once, visitors should ensure that they get up early enough to witness the gorgeous sunrise from a suitable observatory like the Haleakala Crater or the Red Hill Observatory.
  
  The stunning colours of the sky can be viewed from almost anywhere at sunset, whether you’re on a beach or on a hiking route.
  
  
• Kayaking – Kayaking is another opportunity to see the island’s natural splendor. Lucky passengers might well be joined by some gorgeous sea creatures such as turtles and huge whales, which may leap from the water and rock your kayak with a thunderous splash.
  
  Some excursions even allow passengers to kayak and snorkel at the same time, allowing them to dive into the water anytime they wish to see their favorite sea critters.
  
  

How to get to Gay Maui?

From Canada

Indeed, Maui is one of the most beautiful places on the planet; nevertheless, if you are from Canada and want to enjoy the magic of Maui, flying is the best way to go there.

You may book a flight from Quebec to Maui with AirCanada, which will depart from Kahului Airport this entire flight takes 13 hours and 10 minutes to complete.

From the United Kingdom

Maui is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations on the earth; however, if you are visiting from the United Kingdom and want to experience the charm of Maui, flying is the best option.

You can book a trip from London to Maui with Heathrow Airport, departing from Kahului Airport. The flight will take 15 hours and 15 minutes.

From the United States

Maui is undeniably one of the most beautiful places on the planet; but, if you’re traveling from the United States and want to soak up the island’s charm, flying is the best option.

Heathrow Washington Dulles International Airport offers flights from Washington to Maui, departing from Kahului Airport. It will take 10 hours and 10 minutes to fly.

From Italy

Maui is definitely one of the most interesting places on the earth; yet, if you’re coming from Italy and want to fully appreciate the island’s allure, flying is the best option.

You may book a ticket to Maui from Rome with Rome Fiumicino Airport which will take off at Kahului Airport. The journey will take 19 hours and 25 minutes.