Gay Travel Maui
In Hawaiian, locals say "Maui no ka oi" - "Maui is the best."
Maui is Hawaii’s second-largest island and is known as “The Valley Isle.” Maui is known for its breathtaking beaches, farm-to-table cuisine, the famous Sacred Iao Valley, and its exquisite sunsets from Haleakala. The island is also a premier whale-watching destination, with Humpback Whales wintering off the coast annually. There’s also Haleakala National Park on the island if you’ve ever wanted to hike across a dormant volcano. The traditional Hawaiian activities of surfing, snorkeling, and diving are also readily accessible and often complimented by windsurfing, parasailing, or scuba diving for the more adventurous travelers.
Haleakala from above
The Valley Isle is also renowned for its romantic atmosphere, and the weather definitely helps contribute to that reputation. Maui’s large size and rugged topography make the weather here a little bit more unpredictable than most places. Warm, sunny days are commonplace, though, and it’s almost always 80ish degrees. While rainfall is less prominent during the summer months, it’s still expected daily, and it doesn’t typically last long. This is paradise, after all!
It is not a surprise to us that the locals say, “Maui no ka oi” – “Maui is the best!”
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What Do You Want to Discover?
What's the Maui Gay Scene Like?
Top Things to See and Do in Maui
MUST DO: Maui Attractions & Activities
MUST EAT: Maui Gay-Friendly Dining
MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Local Expert: Gay Scene in Maui
Maui may not have a gay scene or hub per sé, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be anything fun to do! Some say many in the LGBTQ+ community socialize near the local beaches, so hit the beach (why else would you go to the islands anyway?).
Being a predominantly couple-centric island away from the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities on Oahu means Maui doesn’t have any gay-specific clubs or bars. Hawaii’s “aloha” spirit makes it generally laid back, though, and people are understandably welcoming and friendly in places often described as ‘paradise.’ You shouldn’t have any problem making friends.
South of Wailea, in Makena State Beach, there's a nude beach that's popular with gay locals and tourists called "Little Beach." Out Traveler has called it one of the t'op 5 nude beaches in the country." Maui also has a Pride celebration in June, and make sure to check out Both Sides Now’s and Maui Gay Pride’s sites to see if there are any scheduled events for when you might be visiting!
Makena State Beach Maui
Best Time to Visit Maui
The best time to visit Maui is from April through May and September through November. These times of year would offer optimal weather and a pleasant experience. Generally speaking, Maui has temperate temperatures year-round, so it's always best to pack summer clothes while visiting, and maybe a light jacket for the evening. Keep in mind when you are at higher altitudes, it can get chilly. December through March is known for its rainy season but will still offer a great and memorable experience.
Top Things to See and Do in Maui
MUST DO Maui Attractions & Activities
- Maui has some of the best hiking and views around. While visiting the island, make sure to take some time to explore and see what the island has to offer.
- Hit the beach - This should sound like a given, but make sure to visit the beach! Maui has some incredible beaches that one can visit. You can snorkel, swim, or just lay back and enjoy the rays. Either or you will be able to enjoy yourself!
- Watch a Haleakala sunrise- Haleakala is Maui's highest point. This dormant volcano sits at an impressive 10,023 feet! This will give optimal views for one of the greatest sunrises you can experience. Many people take the trail up the mountain around 3 am to experience the dramatic sunrise. After the fact, you will be able to explore the rest of the national park.
- Explore the Road to Hana - The road to Hana is not like any road trip you will ever experience. It is a 68-mile long road with over 600 winding turns and 50 one-way bridges. While hiking, you will immerse yourself in lush green rainforests, bamboo forests, waterfalls, rivers, freshwater caves, and more. You can explore the place yourself, or you can even find a guided tour.
MUST EAT Maui Gay-Friendly Dining
There's a bit of a resort feel to Maui, but if you venture out, you’ll be able to find some delicious local specialties and plates. While visiting, try giving some of these local delicacies a try.
Poke- Poke is sushi-grade tuna that has been marinated in soy and sesame oil and is served raw over sushi rice. It's then topped with different toppings and dressings. It can be prepared in a variety of different ways. Why not give it a try while you're visiting the island!
Farm-to-Table - for health enthusiasts, you'll find delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients and local fare.
Spam Misubi - is a popular snack food served throughout the island. It is a grilled slice of spam that is served on top of rice, drizzled in a bit of teriyaki sauce, and wrapped in seaweed. It almost looks like a sushi roll, but it's not. This can be enjoyed any time of day throughout the island.
Hawaiian Breakfast - As mentioned already, Spam is a very popular lunch meat that is served throughout the island. The locals love incorporating it into their food. So a Hawaiian breakfast would have some Spam in it! While it might not be the healthiest, a Hawaiian breakfast consists of white rice, fried egg, Portuguese sausage, and Spam. It's so popular Mcdonald's even has it on their menu.
MUST VISIT: Maui Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
While Maui doesn't have a gay scene, that doesn’t mean that you cant have a good time! Hawaii's laid-back atmosphere offers a welcoming environment for everyone. No matter where you go out for a few drinks, you are guaranteed to have a great time and be surrounded by fun and welcoming people.
Travel Safety Tips
Maui remains one of the most popular of the Hawaiian Islands for LGBTQ tourists, and the thriving tourism industry on the island means it's a very welcoming and friendly place for everyone. You can expect a safe and welcoming trip while vacationing on Maui.
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