13 Best Restaurants in Kauai with a View

For those who are seeking a truly magical dining experience, Kauai has some amazing restaurants with jaw-dropping surroundings.

What could be more breathtaking than sipping your favorite tropical cocktail while admiring stunning beach scenery and towering cliffs?

Gather up your friends or that special someone and let’s take a look at the 13 best restaurants in Kauai with amazing views.

Buckle up folks, because this is one feast for your eyes that you won’t want to miss!

1. Duke’s Kauai

Visit Duke’s and you’ll be sure to have a legendary meal. Named after the famous Hawaiian surfer, Duke Kahanamoku, this surf-themed restaurant provides an atmosphere fit for a local legend.

With stunning views of Kalapaki Beach lined with tall palm trees, there’s no other place you’d want to be when dining near the oceanfront.

Make sure to sample some of the menu favorites such as the Korean Sticky Ribs, Sauteed Mac Nut & Herb Crusted Fresh Fish, and for dessert – Kimo’s Original Hula Pie alongside a signature Duke’s Mai Tai.

Address: 3610 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766, United States

Original Mai Tai at Dukes Kauai
Original Mai Tai Photo by Dukes Kauai

2. Hualani’s Restaurant

If you like eating fresh, local island grub with the best views of Kauai, then you’ve got to visit Hualani’s.

It’s an award-winning restaurant located at the luxurious Timbers Kauai resort, and it’s farm-to-table menu makes every meal an adventure.

Dig into Kalbi Lamb, Day Boat Mahi Mahi and Grilled Kealia Octopus (if you dare!).

Or go big with their signature whole-fried Hawaiian fish. And if that’s not enough, they even have A5 Wagyu on the menu – what more could you want?

Make sure you book ahead of time to snag a prime table at this top restaurant with amazing views.

Address: 3770 Ala’oli Way Suite 2, Lihue, HI 96766, United States

3. Sam’s Ocean View Restaurant

Picture this: you, some friends, and an epic view of the waterfront; Sam’s Ocean View Restaurant is calling your name.

Located on Kapaa Beach, this eatery isn’t just a beautiful backdrop though, the food really hits it out of the park.

Don’t let their relaxed bistro vibe fool you; their American-style dishes made with the freshest local ingredients will have you and your crew raving about it long after dinner ends.

If you’ve got a taste for seafood try out the Seared Ahi Steak, or go for their Parmesan Crusted Island Fish – either way, it’s absolutely mouthwatering.

And no meal is complete without their signature Koloa Mai Tai.

Without a doubt, Sam’s Ocean View Restaurant sets a high bar when it comes to amazing food and ambiance.

Address: 4-1546 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States

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4. Seaview Terrace

Nestled in the Grand Hyatt and boasting views of the glistening ocean, it’s at Seaview Terrace where you can treat yourself to a truly delicious meal.

To put the icing on the cake, enjoy some lively Hawaiian music and take your taste buds on an adventure you won’t forget in a hurry.

Order either the Hawaiian Fresh Fish or Pupu-Style New York Steak – both sure to delight!

Address: 1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States

5. Hukilau Lanai

When it comes to unforgettable meals in Kauai, Hukilau Lanai takes the cake.

Not only are they serving up some of the freshest seafood with island flavors around, but they also have live music, every night from Wednesday to Saturday.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or just craving local grub, this restaurant has amazing views coupled with delicious food and great tunes.

If cocktails and wine are more your speed, don’t worry! They’ve got that too. But beware- reservations are required for any chance of paradise.

Address: 520 Aleka Loop, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States

6. RumFire Poipu Beach

At RumFire Poipu Beach at Sheraton Kauai, beautiful views of the south shore are matched by the restaurant’s Hawaii-infused seafood dishes.

Located right on Poipu Beach, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a stunning ocean sunset while chowing down on some of their delicious entrees.

Their Misoyaki Butterfish, Puffed Rice Crusted Ahi, and Hawaiian Fresh Fish will please even the most discriminating palates, while their inventive cocktails like the Poipu Mule keep things interesting.

Address: 2440 Hoonani Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States

7. Brennecke’s Beach Broiler

When picking where to dine on your Kauai adventure, Brennecke’s is a must!

With unbeatable oceanfront views and the claim to fame of having served over one million of their famous Mai Tais, you’d be downright foolish not to visit.

Enjoy the magical ambiance and indulge in their Coconut Shrimp served with a creamy mango sauce.

Plus, sipping on a World Famous Mai Tai will bring all the aloha spirit you seek and then some.

Bonus points for being located a short stroll from one of the best places to spot turtles in Kauai!

Address: 2100 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States

8. Tidepools

Unleash your inner foodie and head over to Tidepools Restaurant at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort.

Nestled on the South Shore of Kauai, you’ll be taken away to paradise with its stunning open-air setting – this is a restaurant that truly melds luxury and aloha together.

The star, however, has to be the food. From inventive appetizers to melt-in-your-mouth desserts and creative cocktails, every bite here will make it seem impossible to choose your favorite dish.

So if you’re looking for a romantic evening with stellar cuisine and great vibes, you know where you need to go!

Address: 1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States

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9. The Beach House

One of the top spots to eat on Kauai, The Beach House is the ideal spot for those seeking delicious, contemporary island flavors and a truly stunning setting.

On Lawai Beach, this gorgeous restaurant offers oceanfront dining with doors wide open to let in the cooling sea breeze.

With a menu that fuses Asian culinary influences with local seafood delicacies, it’s no wonder that this beloved Kauai eatery always draws a crowd.

Craving something succulent? Try the crab-stuffed pork medallions or roasted duck.

Or indulge your inner foodie with unique twists on classics: savory Local Boy Paella or silky Molten Chocolate Desire!

Address: 5022 Lawai Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States

10. Oasis on the Beach

Who said paradise can’t also be delicious? At Oasis On The Beach in Kauai, you’ll experience some of the finest dining the island has to offer.

From breathtaking ocean views to top-notch farm-to-table Hawaiian dishes, this unique restaurant ticks all the boxes.

Seafood lovers will swoon over the Pacific-inspired dishes and fellow carnivores will find their favorites prepared in truly unique ways like ox tail bao bun or lamb pot pie.

And for the finishing touch, don’t forget about desserts! White chocolate chiffon cake, anyone?

Make sure you make a reservation because spots fill up quickly!

11. Red Salt at Ko’a Kea

While the stunning views of Ko’a Kea Resort near Poipu Beach are enough to encourage anyone to visit Red Salt, the mouthwatering dishes will have you staying for dinner.

It’s not just for looks – they only use fresh island ingredients so even your taste buds get spoiled with this dreamy dinner out.

Who could resist something like Wasabi-Crusted Seared Ahi or Wagyu Burgers? Not us!

Get ready for some contemporary tropical ambiance and delicious delights.

Tip: They also serve some top-notch breakfasts if you need a hearty meal to start your day!

Address: 2251 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States

12. Lava Lava Beach Club

Lava Lava Beach Club is where you can find the perfect combination of sand and sun while grabbing a bite.

Staking out a seat directly on the beach, you can enjoy the open air and swaying coconut trees as you sip away on your tropical drink.

From tacos and burgers for light snacks, to more creative iterations of steak, seafood and more high-end ingredients – it’s got whatever floats your boat!

All that said, this fun beachfront restaurant serves up the atmosphere as much as food, so get ready to soak up some rays while chowing down!

Note: Lava Lava Beach Club is also one of the best places for happy hour on the island!

Address: 420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States

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13. Opakapaka Grill and Bar

With oceanfront dining and live music on Tuesday and Saturday nights, Opakapaka Grill and Bar has just the vibes you need.

You’ll find great service, delicious food, and fabulous cocktails here – not to mention amazing views of the waves nearby.

Their fish and chips and catch of the day are absolute must-tries. And let’s be honest, there’s nothing better than washing down some fresh seafood with a Hawaiian-inspired cocktail!

Address: 5-7132 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, United States