Spring and summer in South Maui bring warm breezes, golden hour sunsets, and the kind of island ambiance that makes every meal feel like a mini vacation. Whether you’re sipping mai tais at happy hour, indulging in a locally sourced brunch, or enjoying a romantic dinner under the stars, Kihei and Wailea offer a vibrant lineup of al fresco dining experiences that highlight the beauty and flavor of Maui. Here are eight of the best outdoor dining spots to check out when you're craving fresh air and flavorful fare.
1. Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman – Wailea
10 Wailea Gateway Place Kihei
Open everyday: 11am - 10pm
A staple in the Wailea dining scene, Monkeypod Kitchen delivers a lively atmosphere with an expansive open-air patio that often hosts live music during happy hour. Sip on a signature lilikoi foam-topped Mai Tai while sampling crowd favorites like the pumpkin patch ravioli or kiawe wood-fired pizzas. The locally sourced menu and sustainable practices make it a win for both taste and conscience.
2. Gather on Maui – Wailea
100 Wailea Golf Club Dr Kihei
Lunch: 11am – 3pm
Happy Hour 3pm – 5pm
Dinner: 5pm – Close
Perched above Wailea's Gold and Emerald golf courses, Gather on Maui (previously Gannon’s) boasts one of the most scenic dining terraces in South Maui. This elevated outdoor lanai offers sweeping views of the Pacific, making it a favorite for sunset dining. Happy hour features refreshing fruit-infused cocktails, beer, wine and a flavorful sampling of modern-eclectic cuisine. Try the smoked catch dip or the hurricane fries for a meal as memorable as the view.
3. The Pint & Cork – The Shops at Wailea
3750 Wailea Alanui Dr Wailea
Open everyday from 12pm - 11pm
An elevated gastropub nestled within The Shops at Wailea, The Pint & Cork offers a relaxed, shaded outdoor space that’s perfect for people-watching with a craft cocktail or locally brewed beer in hand. Their diverse menu includes everything from truffle fries and ahi poke nachos to decadent burgers and whiskey flights. It’s a go-to spot for casual, open-air dining with upscale touches.
4. Morimoto Maui – Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
3550 Wailea Alanui Dr. Wailea
Open everyday from 12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 8:45pm
If you’re looking for luxury with a side of ocean breeze, Morimoto Maui delivers. Celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto blends Japanese elegance with Hawaiian ingredients in this sleek, open-air space overlooking Mokapu Beach. Fresh sushi, sashimi, and inventive dishes like the tuna pizza or ishi yaki buri bop shine on a menu that’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious.
5. Kihei Caffe – Kihei
1945 S Kihei Rd, Kihei
Open everyday from 6am - 2pm
A beloved breakfast spot for both locals and visitors, Kihei Caffe offers sidewalk seating just steps from Kalama Beach Park. Start your day with their hearty banana macadamia nut pancakes, loco moco, or cinnamon rolls the size of your head. The energy here is always bustling, and the casual, open-air vibe is as comforting as the food itself.
6. Nalu’s South Shore Grill – Kihei
1280 S Kihei Rd #132, Kihei
Open everyday from 8am - 9pm
This casual indoor-outdoor eatery is known for its relaxed atmosphere, live local music every night, and community-focused spirit. Nalu’s serves up island-inspired dishes like the kalua pork sandwich, seared ahi, and fresh poke bowls. Their outdoor seating area is spacious and dog-friendly, and the breakfast cocktails (hello, guava mimosas) make it an especially fun weekend brunch destination.
7. Maui Brewing Co. – Kihei
605 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei
Open everyday from 11am - 10pm
For a laid-back vibe and local brews, Maui Brewing Co.'s flagship location in Kihei features a large open-air lanai with plenty of seating, string lights, and ocean breezes. With a rotating selection of craft beers, wood-fired pizzas, and shareable plates like their famous garlic fries and poke nachos, it's the perfect spot for casual gatherings, happy hour, or a night out with friends.
8. Three’s Bar & Grill – Kihei
1945 S Kihei Road, Suite G Kihei
Restaurant Hours: everyday 11am - 9pm
Happy Hour: Mon - Sun: 3pm - 6pm
A true triple threat, Three’s serves up Hawaiian, Southwestern, and Pacific Rim cuisine in a casual surf-inspired setting. Their outdoor courtyard is a local favorite for happy hour, featuring discounted tapas, sushi rolls, and cocktails. Don’t miss their award-winning fish tacos or pork belly bao. With live music and a friendly vibe, it’s a great place to kick back after a beach day.
Whether you're a longtime Maui resident or a visitor looking to savor the best of South Maui, these al fresco spots offer more than just good food—they deliver the full island experience. From sunrise breakfasts to sunset dinners, dining outdoors in Kihei and Wailea is a must-do for anyone who wants to soak in the flavors and lifestyle of paradise.
So next time the trade winds call and the skies stay golden, grab a seat on the patio and taste the aloha. Cheers to good meals, good company, and unforgettable Maui nights!