Everyone loves a sunset, and it doesn’t get much better than a Hawaiian sunset. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic meal with your partner on the terrace or celebrating a milestone with the whole family, no meal, music or candlelight will set the mood quite like a sky dappled in pinks, oranges and purples. Here are some of the top places on Maui to get the best of both worlds — great dining and prime sunset views.
But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.
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For more suggestions on best restaurants in Maui, the best things to do in Maui, and the best places to stay in Maui, click here.
Feature Photo: Courtesy of Mimi Towle
TIP: Be sure to sure to make your reservations about thirty minutes before the sun sets.
Sunset Dining on Maui's South Shore
Intimate yet inviting, this upscale restaurant features world-class cocktails, a robust international wine list and a team of award-winning chefs cooking up meals that you’ll never forget. The scenic views and waterfall pool put guests over the edge.
Snack on complimentary edamame and treat yourself to signature items like kalua pork empanadas and the potato crusted fish. Our favorite desserts include the pineapple upside down and the soufflé, which both take about 20 minutes, but are well worth the wait — a perfect time to look up from your plate and watch the sunset.
The excellent service, the A5 Wagyu prepared “ishi yaki” style, and of course the remarkable views are hallmarks of this restaurant. Inventive sushi rolls and the soft shell crabs are not to be missed.
Sunset Dining on Maui's West Side
Cliff House, 1 Bay Dr, Lahaina
808.662.6505
Against the stunning backdrop of the Kapalua Bay, Champagne Hale serves small, fresh and seasonal bites that’s complemented by an expansive drinks menu. Order a tasty cocktail or a crisp glass of wine to accompany sunset views.
1295 Front St, Lahaina
808.667.9390
This spot is the right place to be for a modern, oceanside dining experience. They specialize in fresh, locally sourced seafood and craft drinks, all in complement to the views, of course. Come thirsty and hungry, ready to taste all they have to offer.
This just may be the prime local along the beautiful Kaanapali beach walk. The open-air atmosphere is designed to honor the tradition of Hawaiian wayfinding. Every table in the house has a great view of the sunset — until everyone stands up for a photo.
200 Nohea Kai Dr., Lahaina
808.667.4796
The award-winning Japengo is located beachfront at the Hyatt Regency, allowing for stunning views of the Pacific and the resort’s waterfalls. Choose from steak, seafood or sushi for your evening meal, but whatever you do, be sure to make reservations well in advance.
1307 Front St., Lahaina
808.667.9394
Pro tip for those who like their meals with a side of excitement: get a table right by the ocean or beach if possible. Yes, you’ll be in the splash zone, but there’s no better views of the turtles. Attentive service and well-balanced drinks are also standard at this spot.
1 Bay Club Place, Lahaina
808.669.6400
On the edge of the point in Kapalua Bay, Merriman’s embodies the ever-popular farm to table concept, boasting a menu that’s at least 90% locally grown or caught, using only sustainable methods. Enjoy fresh cuisine, gorgeous views, and an oceanfront point lounge that is open to walk-ins when weather permits. The Point menu features high end items like a raw bar platter for two, 1/2 dozen oysters, bone-in USDA Prime ribeye appetizer and some of the world’s finest Champagne. Their A la Carte dinner menu is offered exclusively in the open-air dining room or on the Kapalua Bay lanai — advanced reservations are highly recommended through tock.com. Menus are seasonally inspired and do change often but are always up to date on their website.
Sunset Dining in Paia
Though there is only a brief time of year that the sunset is visible over Kuau Cove, when you get the chance to see it, it’s a sunset that’s been described as out of the movies or even better. Even when the sun isn’t in clear view, the colors on the water and mountains are beautiful. An elevated yet warm service makes this restaurant one of the best places to end of fun in the sea and sun. The signature Polynesian Black Pearl dessert (lilikoi chocolate mousse in a pastry seashell) doesn’t hurt either.
