Coladas

A Slice of South Maui Spirit

Perched along the sun-drenched shores of Kihei, Coladas brings an unpretentious, open-air energy that defines the South Maui dining scene. The space carries that distinct island breeze, where the clinking of glasses competes with the soft hum of local surf rock. It is the kind of spot where you show up in flip-flops after a morning at Kamaole Beach, and nobody bats an eye.

Crafting the Tropical Pour

As the name suggests, the cocktail program is the engine here. The bartenders specialize in elevated takes on classic frozen drinks, trading cloying syrups for fresh-pressed juices and premium spirits. Watching the blender work is a hypnotic sight, though you might find the hum of the machine a bit loud during peak sunset hours—a small trade-off for a cold drink in the heat.

Island-Inspired Bites

While the drinks draw the crowd, the kitchen keeps them anchored. Expect a rotating menu that leans heavily into Pacific Rim influences. The blackened fish tacos are a standout, featuring whatever catch was pulled from the Maui waters that morning, finished with a bright, zesty slaw that cuts through the richness of the fish. If you happen to grab a seat at the bar, you’re in for a front-row view of the prep work, which feels more like a communal kitchen than a sterile restaurant line.

Who Should Stop By

Coladas is built for the spontaneous crowd. It works just as well for a casual afternoon cooldown as it does for a laid-back evening with friends. The seating is tight—which usually means you’ll end up striking up a conversation with the person at the next table—but that is part of the charm. If you are looking for a place that captures the relaxed, salt-in-the-air soul of Kihei without the stuffiness of the larger resorts, this is your home base.