The other night, my sweet husband took me out for a special Valentine’s Day dinner at one of our favorite beachside restaurants in Waikiki (which books up a whole year in advance of the holiday). And, it reminded me how special a meal can be when it’s alongside a spectacular view, like that along Waikiki Beach.
The experience got me thinking of you visitors — how would you know where to go for the best beachfront dining in Waikiki? Looks like I had an idea for my next blog! Read-on to find out which restaurants provide both the ambiance and cuisine you want in Hawaii:
The Best Waikiki Beach Restaurants
1. Hau Tree Lanai
Bathed in pink tablecloths, the Hau Tree Lanai is the perfect place to set up shop for a relaxing afternoon of eating in Waikiki. The menu features mostly brunch dishes, and the decor screams Ladies Who Lunch. But, the restaurant is suitable for anyone who wants to chill by the beach while eating fantastic food. USA Today says, “dinner, especially at sunset, is sublime, and fresh fish is de rigueur. Grilled, steamed, or blackened, its delicate flavor matches the setting; you’ll also find shrimp and crab cakes to sample.”
2. Michel’s
USA Today gets poetic when talking about Michel’s in Waikiki, “Fabulous French cuisine tempts diners at this elegant oceanside restaurant, making for potent sensory stimulation.” My experience at Michel’s was fantastic — who doesn’t love excellent French cuisine while absorbing While you revel in beautiful views and romantic sunsets?
3. La Mer
If you’re looking for exquisite French cuisine with an idyllic ambiance, look no further than La Mer, which is located inside of the beautiful Halekulani Hotel. The restaurant is revered as Honolulu’s top hotel offering high end services and an exquisite experience. USA Today says, “Everything conspires towards culinary luxury, and fresh fish, lovingly prepared and dressed with relishes and confits to bring out the flavor, are amazing. Other stunning options include roast duck, veal and lamb chops, Angus beef, and lobster.”
4. Orchids
This is where my better half and I spent this last Valentine’s Day, and the experience reminded me why it’s been one of our favorite restaurants for years. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a table by the lawn, where you can gaze upon not only the beach and ocean, but also the outdoor cafe next door, where live music and hula are part of the ambiance. At Orchids, I never leave without getting some sort of lobster dish, and this time was no different. I had the linguine with lobster, and it was heavenly!
5. Duke’s Canoe Club
Whenever I have visitors in town, I try to take them to Duke’s Canoe Club in Waikiki because, to me, the restaurant represents what’s great about Hawaii: Relaxing attitude, beautiful scenery, and great cuisine. When visitors think of having a Mai Tai on Waikiki Beach, I can bet this kind of ambiance is what they imagine! In addition to the great atmosphere, you’ll also find memorabilia, live Hawaiian music, fruity cocktails, and fresh local seafood.
Bottom Line
Waikiki is the epicenter of Oahu’s visitor industry, and for good reason. It offers incredible outdoor experiences, such as surfing lessons, stand-up paddle board lessons, and parasailing. But, it also offers some of the most outstanding cuisine in the state. So, make sure you reserve at least one meal for beachfront dining in Waikiki!
