Here’s the scene. You’re sitting close enough to the ocean that you can feel the seabreeze. The sky is doing that thing it does in Hawaii — all the shades of pink and orange.  There’s a cocktail in your hand with honey-lilikoi foam on top.

That’s dinner at the Beach House on Kauai’s south shore, and if you haven’t already made a reservation, you should probably go do that right now. I’ll be here when you get back.

What Is the Beach House?

The Beach House is a legendary oceanfront restaurant on Kauai’s south shore, right on the edge of Lawai Beach in the Poipu area. And when I say oceanfront, I mean OCEANFRONT — waves-crashing-below-your-feet oceanfront, not “ocean view from the third floor balcony” oceanfront.

Chef Peter Merriman took over the restaurant in 2016 turning the iconic location into a must visit spot. Merrimans has a farm-to-table philosophy and a focus on Hawaiian regional cuisine. 

The vibe is upscale but not stuffy — kind of like a party. Honeymooners, celebrating couples, families doing a special night out. It draws people who want both a beautiful setting AND a seriously good meal.

The Views

One of the island’s best snorkeling beaches sits just steps below the restaurant, and the Pacific is your backdrop for the entire meal. On a clear evening the sun drops directly into the ocean and the whole thing unfolds like a show with everybody stopping to watch.

Timing matters here. You want to be seated with a drink in hand about 30 minutes before sunset. Check the exact time for your travel dates and book accordingly. The restaurant also offers first-come-first-serve lawn seating where the full menu is available. 

This is my favorite spot. If you show up early (when the restaurant opens), you should be able to get a spot on the lawn.  

The Monkeypod Mai Tai

This isn’t a normal mai tai. It’s THE best mai tai in Hawaii.

It’s built on Kula organic silver and dark rums, fresh lime juice, house-made macadamia nut orgeat, and orange curaçao.

But what makes it genuinely famous is the honey-lilikoi foam on top. Lilikoi is Hawaiian for passionfruit, and the foam is whipped into something MAGNIFICENT that puts the whole thing over the top. 

Is it worth the hype? YES. Order two.

The Food

With the views, the atmosphere and the location, the food doesn’t even have to be that good. But it is. 

Fish is sourced directly from island fishermen, beef from neighboring ranches, and local produce is woven throughout the menu. 

The menu leans into Pacific Rim cuisine with creative island-inspired preparations that change seasonally. The mac nut crusted fresh catch is a signature move and almost always excellent. 

Whatever the fresh ahi preparation is that evening, order it.

I’m a fan of the seafood pasta. 

But honestly…I feel like appetizers (pupus) are always the stand outs at a Merriman restaurant. 

If they have the lobster deviled eggs…get those! Also the potstickers are always a favorite. 

The Practical Stuff

Book via OpenTable or arrive early for the first come seating outside. Valet parking is $5 and worth it. Dress resort casual. Families are welcome, though this skews romantic — it’s a special occasion spot, not an every-night dinner.

The Verdict

Some restaurants have great views. Some have great food. But very few have both AND a world famous cocktail. That’s the Beach House!

Don’t skip it!

I’ve made it my job for the last 10 years to explore Maui.

And after hundreds of beach days, rainforest hikes, snorkeling trips, and reconnaissance missions to find the best hotels… and mai tais… I put everything I know into one place.

This is my Maui Digital Map — hundreds of my favorite spots. Beaches, snorkeling spots, hikes, farm tours, scenic drives, places to eat.

Yes, I share hidden spots I don’t talk about so much on social media…but also—tourist doesn’t have to be a dirty word. Popular places are popular for a reason.

So I break down what’s worth it, what’s not, where to spend your money, where to save it, and how to avoid crowds at some of Maui’s most popular (and best) places so you actually enjoy your time.

I’m also sharing all of my travel guides on when to go, where to stay, detailed hotel reviews…
plus dozens of itinerary options based on where you’re staying and what you love to do.

It’s everything you need to see the best of Maui and actually relax. A Vacation in a box…all YOU need to do is pack your suitcase. 

Get access to my Maui digital map and itineraries here.