Imagine watching the sunset from the westernmost part of the country (well, technically Niihau is the westernmost part of the United States, but good luck finding a decent martini). Now imagine you are on a beautiful tropical island in the middle of the Pacific Island famous for romance. The good news is that if you’re on Kauai, this dream manifested into reality! Here’s our favorite places to enjoy a romantic sunset from one of the most beautiful places on Earth. That’s something to celebrate!
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.
If you’re happy with your meal, tag us @LocalGetaways on Instagram to share the love.
For more suggestions on best restaurants in Kauai, the best things to do in Kauai, and the best places to stay in Kauai, click here.
Featured Photo: RumFire Poipu Beach Club
TIP: Be sure to sure to make your reservations about thirty minutes before the sun sets.
Sunset Dining on Kauai's North Shore
5-5161 Kuhio Hwy., Hanalei
808.826.7081
The menu is based around Hawaii’s freshest local and seasonal ingredients. For the past 15 years, Bar Acuda has been serving some amazing meals. The tapas style menu is designed to be shared amongst friends, the wine list is great and the cocktails really set the tone for a great meal in Hanalei.
Family-owned and -operated for over 20 years, the Dolphin is serving seriously “ono-licious” (really tasty) food. The vibe is hip, the fish is as fresh as it gets, and the menu has got something for everyone, including all you plant-loving folk.
Sunset Dining on Kauai's South Shore
The Beach House Restaurant keeps things simple with a classic Pacific Rim dining experience mixed with Hawaiian Hospitality. Passionate about their locally sourced ingredients, try one of their freshly caught makai (towards the sea) options complimented with a Monkeypod Mai Tai.
2100 Hoone Rd., Koloa
808.742.7588
Brennecke’s Beach Broiler has both oceanfront views and outdoor seating. It’s just the place to sip on some Mai Tais and snack on friend coconut shrimp as the sun goes down. This American style cuisine has all the basics, including some gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options.
2440 Hoonani Rd., Koloa
808.742.4786
With each seat featuring a 180 degree oceanfront view, it’s hard to beat Rumfire Poipu for sunset dining. Executive Chef Gabe Balenzuela brings a global influence to the locally sourced cuisine and the diverse craft cocktail list has a beverage for everyone.
Sunset Dining in Central Kauai
3610 Rice St., Lihue
808.246.9599
Duke’s is serving Global cuisine beachfront and offers 2-tier outdoor seating. This is just the place for a delightful dinner while watching the sunset over the crystal blue waters of Nawiwili Bay. Enjoy live entertainment Monday through Saturday 5pm to 7pm and Sunday 10am to 2pm. There’s a lot of tasty items to choose from, but whatever you get, make sure you save room for the Hula Pie.
520 Aleka Loop, Kapaʻa
808.822.0600
Hukilau Lanai sources only sustainably caught fish and is part of The Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch. The views here are great, and everything is made on site from scratch. There are several gluten-free options on the menu, and every night there’s a five-course tasting menu for $65, offered from 5-5:45pm. Reservations are recommended.
