I’ve been there, you’ve been there, we’ve all been there. Excited by the prospect of an all-expenses paid trip to Maui, courtesy of a close or distant relative (let’s be honest, unpaid internships and retail jobs won’t get you further than a road trip to Destin), you pack your shiniest selfie stick and prepare for a week of tropical bliss in paradise. Vacation on fleek and hashtag blessed, amirite?
Whatever. Something like that.
But unlike Oahu, Maui doesn’t offer much in the way of ‘spring break woohoo!’ types of entertainment. Not that hula hoop contests with your little sister and auntie aren’t fun, but you know…
The Early 20s Guide to Maui
While you are most likely going to spend a decent amount of time bonding with your family, whether it be for a relative’s wedding or annual family getaway, you also have options once your family duties are done for the day.
ArT=Mixx – Central Maui
About four times a year, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) hosts a ginormous party called ArT=Mixx. Combining performing and visual arts, and including every ingredient for solid party success – live music, dancers, costumes, a dance floor, fancy light shows, food trucks and a full bar – be sure to check it out, assuming you’re lucky enough to have your vacation coincide with the next one. Also browse the MACC’s calendar for upcoming music festivals, concerts and events.
90’s Night at Charley’s – North Shore Maui
One Friday a month, good sir Brendan of Wailuku’s Request Music hosts a 90’s Dance Party at Charley’s Saloon in Paia. It’s loud, it’s sweaty, it’s full of dancing awesomeness and all-around good time funky fun. Keep on eye on Brendan’s Instagram for date announcements, and keep in mind that it starts at 10pm (get there early!), the entrance fee is $10, and it’s 21 and up. Heyo!
Ladies’ Night at Casanova – Upcountry Maui
Held every Wednesday night in Makawao, Casanova’s Ladies’ Night boasts bumping tunes from various DJs, cocktail specials, and a dance floor. Music starts at 10pm, and the cover is $5 before 11pm and $10 after (or free with a college ID). 21 and up only.
The Triangle – South Maui
Alright, so the Triangle isn’t exactly an event, and it is known to attract the occasional party-ruiner looking to throw an ill-advised punch, but if you want to dance, sing karaoke, play trivia or simply kick back and drink a mai tai in your own personal carafe, this is the place to do it in South Maui. Hit up Life’s a Beach for happy hour, Sansei for late night sushi and karaoke, Ambrosia for the world’s tiniest dance floor, and Thursday night trivia at Dog & Duck.
Xclusive Saturdays at Lulu’s Lahaina – West Maui
Despite the fact that Lulu’s is located in an odd section of a strip mall, it’s actually one of the best places to get down on west side weekends. Xclusive Saturdays, held weekly from 10pm to 1:30am, includes multiple DJ sets, dancing, and a VIP booth and complimentary bottle of champagne for parties of 4 or more. I’m not sure how ‘VIP’ one can get in a booth where toddlers were dining hours beforehand, but you can’t knock it till you try it, I suppose.
Just remember, there’s a reason you’re not old enough to rent a car. Make bae proud and use Uber, or join a carpool for ultimate squad goals. Close enough? Mahalo for reading!
