Restaurant reservations

Question

We have never been to Maui and are headed there last minute arriving Monday. Looking for restaurant suggestions that I might need to book in advance (yes I know it’s kinda late for that). Type of food is less important than quality and ambiance….are there any with water views etc?

Thanks!

Answer

Maui, especially the Ka'anapali area, offers a wonderful variety of restaurants with stunning ocean views and excellent ambiance. Since you’re arriving last minute, securing reservations can be a bit tricky, but there are still options available if you act quickly. Here are some suggestions based on quality, atmosphere, and proximity to the water:

Leilani’s on the Beach: Located at Whalers Village in Ka'anapali, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and Hawaiian-inspired dishes with beautiful beachfront views. Reservations are recommended, especially for sunset dining.
Duke’s Beach House: Also in Ka'anapali, Duke’s is iconic for its beachfront location and relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. Famous for fish tacos and tropical cocktails, it’s a great spot to enjoy the ocean view.
Lahaina Grill: While not directly on the beach, it’s in historic Lahaina and is known for its fine dining experience, excellent service, and romantic ambiance. Highly recommended to book in advance if possible.
Hula Grill Ka’anapali: Located above Whalers Village, offering panoramic ocean views and live music in the evenings. The menu focuses on fresh local seafood and steaks. Reservations can be made online and are advised for evening dining.
Merriman’s Kapalua: A bit further north from Ka'anapali but worth the drive for its exceptional farm-to-table cuisine and breathtaking sunset views over the ocean. Perfect for a special occasion dinner.

Additional tips for last-minute visitors:

Check OpenTable or call the restaurants directly; sometimes they have same-day cancellations or bar seating with ocean views.
Consider dining slightly earlier or later than typical dinner hours to increase chances of getting a table.
Ask the concierge at your hotel—they often have the inside scoop on reservations and hidden gems that might still have availability.

Even if your time is limited, prioritizing one or two dinners with ocean views will give you a memorable Maui dining experience, combining great food with the natural beauty of Ka'anapali’s coastline.