At the top of the beautiful beach at Napili Bay, Maui is Sea House Restaurant. Built in the 1960s, long before laws forbade construction so close to the beach, Sea House is the restaurant you can go to after hours of sunbathing, while wearing your beach cover and sandals. What better way to enjoy Hawaiian seafood and local produce?
The best part is, the award-winning eatery hosts a formidable happy hour, with everything from prosecco and rosé to cocktails and beers. Helmed by acclaimed Chef Alex Stanislaw, the menu is a celebration of Hawaiian cuisine with a focus on flavors from the Pacific Rim. But at Sea House, it’s the location that’s the star of the show.
One of the few true beachfront restaurants in Maui, Sea House is a characteristically Hawaiian experience, from the food and friendly service to the stunning view and dining at the water’s edge. Doors open early for breakfast and the service continues with happy hour beginning at 2 p.m., winding down into a gorgeous dinner service where the party begins.
Fresh local ingredients are a delight for the tastebuds thanks to Chef Stanislaw’s passion for the produce in Maui. The restaurant uses local farmers, fishers, and purveyors to create its delightful dishes. Whether you're digging into the 60-second ceviche that’s bright and fresh with pops of acidity, indulging in the Huli Huli lamb chops, or devouring some heavenly truffle gnocchi, you can see the New Yorker’s respect for Hawaiian cuisine shine through his dishes. With over 30 years of experience and a Best Chef on Maui award win, Stanislaw brings an aesthetic flair to his creations that makes his food look almost too good to eat.
The sounds of the waves crashing almost feel surreal in this picturesque setting. It’s a feast for the senses, with the salty air, sounds of the beach, and hearty meals setting the perfect scene. With a bright interior that is more casual than upscale, this is the perfect place for a late lunch with friends or a boozy dinner in an idyllic setting.
While there are few downsides to being steps away from the beach, in the afternoon it can get quite hot and humid at the Sea House, given the open-air seating is located on a part of the island where the sun is particularly prominent. However, that’s nothing a few heavenly rum cocktails, Kona brew lemongrass luaus, or mai tais can't fix.
The servers are generous, friendly, and happy to help with any issues you may have. In fact, the team is so brilliant and endearing you just might end up becoming friends with them by the end of your meal.
So, whether you’re watching the sunset or the moonlight reflect on the waves, good vibes, great food, and an even better view make the Sea House one of Maui’s most magical restaurants.
