Best Places to Spend New Year’s Eve in Maui, Hawaii

One of America’s most popular winter vacation destinations, Maui offers a vibrant place to spend New Year’s Eve. Golden sand beaches, lush tropical foliage, breathtaking sunsets and starry skies provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration. Get the scoop on New Year’s Eve in Maui and what to do.

New Year’s Eve in Maui: How to Celebrate With Locals

Drums of the Pacific Luau

Enjoy native dancing and the beat of island drums at a traditional Hawaiian luau. Drums of the Pacific Luau at the Hyatt Regency features a special Polynesian review with hula dancers and fire countdown as midnight approaches. See intricate costumes, a knife dance and professional performers before the new year arrives. A large buffet dinner with dessert bar follows the entertainment.

Fireworks Cruise

Ring in the New Year at sea. The three-hour Pride of Maui cruise ranks as the most popular way to spend New Year’s Eve in Maui. Board around 9:45 p.m., and sample gourmet foods, sweets and refreshments, while listening to live entertainment. Then watch the fireworks show and get ready for a new year. This cruise sells out, so make sure to get tickets in advance.

Local Restaurants

Several Maui restaurants host special dinners and entertainment during New Year’s. Trying a new restaurant allows visitors to try different menus, meet friendly people and relax. A few popular places include Merriman’s, Hula Grill and Five Palms. After dinner, take a walk on the beach and watch for fireworks. Residents and other visitors may put on a small show on the beach.

Where to Stay

After deciding what to do, pick a place to stay. Maui has hundreds of vacation rentals near these events, and many offer plenty of space to relax and enjoy the area’s tropical beauty. Vacation rentals offer guests more privacy than hotels and provide a more intimate setting for ringing in the new year. Reserve a vacation rental in Hawaii and spend New Year’s Even in Maui!