[maui oceanfront dining[waterfront restaurants and romantic dining in maui[Where to find family friendly beachfront dining in Maui]]]

Looking for beachfront restaurants in Maui that welcome families? Here’s the good news: Maui offers plenty of options combining ocean views, kid-friendly menus, and relaxed atmospheres. From fresh seafood to casual bites, these spots cater to both parents and kids, with features like dedicated children’s menus, live music, and even hula performances.

Highlights:

Top Picks: Mama’s Fish House (upscale), Hula Grill (casual with live hula), and Monkeypod Kitchen (free mac & cheese for kids under 3).
Reservations: Plan ahead – Mama’s Fish House requires bookings 3–6 months in advance.
Budget: Options range from $15–$50+ per entrée.
Tips: Arrive early for walk-in spots like Gazebo Restaurant and validate parking at Whalers Village venues.

For a seamless experience, use the Maui Oceanfront Dining Directory to filter by family-friendly features, like keiki menus and outdoor seating. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a memorable dinner, Maui has something for every family.

TIKI HUNTING: MAMA’S FISH HOUSE, NORTH SHORE MAUI , HAWAII

6 Best Beachfront Restaurants for Families in Maui

Discover some of Maui’s best beachfront dining spots that combine local cuisine, family-friendly menus, and welcoming atmospheres.

Monkeypod Kitchen at Whalers Village in Kaanapali

Chef Peter Merriman’s Monkeypod Kitchen brings a farm-to-table experience to the shores of Kaanapali Beach. This open-air restaurant is perfect for families, offering a laid-back vibe complete with live evening music. The menu features locally inspired dishes like poke tacos, macadamia nut-crusted Mahi Mahi, and hand-cut fries. A bonus for families: kids three and under can enjoy mac and cheese at no cost. For a different beachfront dining experience, head to Leilani’s on the Beach.

Leilani’s on the Beach in Kaanapali

Leilani’s on the Beach offers two distinct dining areas. Upstairs, you’ll find a more refined setting with fresh fish and prime rib on the menu. Downstairs at the Beach Bar, the atmosphere is casual, serving up fish tacos and burgers. Both spaces embrace Hawaiian traditions, and its location at Whalers Village means you’re just steps from the sandy shores. For more beachfront fun and entertainment, Hula Grill is a great option nearby.

Hula Grill at Whalers Village in Kaanapali

Hula Grill’s "Barefoot Bar" delivers a true beachfront dining experience. The menu focuses on fresh local seafood, prime rib, and family-friendly classics like fish and chips, with most entrées priced between $30 and $45. Families will love the live music and hula performances held daily from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. The restaurant also offers a gluten-free menu for guests with specific dietary needs. For a resort-style meal with ocean views, Duke’s Beach House is another excellent choice.

Duke’s Beach House at Honua Kai Resort in Kaanapali

Located at Honua Kai Resort, Duke’s Beach House offers a relaxed oceanfront setting on the northern end of Kaanapali Beach. Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring pancakes and other morning favorites, or enjoy the keiki menu available for lunch and dinner. Families will appreciate the direct beach access, ample parking, and convenient facilities. If you’re in the mood for a casual breakfast with stunning bay views, head over to Gazebo Restaurant.

Gazebo Restaurant at Napili Shores in Napili

Perched above Napili Bay, Gazebo Restaurant is a favorite spot for breakfast and lunch, offering breathtaking views of the bay. Known for its macadamia nut pancakes, this open-air eatery provides a laid-back atmosphere, making it easy for parents to enjoy their meal without worrying about formal dining rules. The restaurant’s proximity to the bay is perfect for combining a meal with some beach time. For a more upscale dining experience, Mama’s Fish House on the North Shore is a must-visit.

Mama’s Fish House on the North Shore

Nestled on a private beach at Kū’au Bay, Mama’s Fish House is a standout dining destination. Recognized as the second most popular restaurant in the US by OpenTable and a James Beard Foundation Semi-Finalist in 2018, this spot offers an upscale Polynesian menu with a unique twist. Each daily catch is listed alongside the name of the fisherman who caught it, creating a deeper connection to Maui’s fishing community. While the menu leans toward sophisticated dishes, there are kid-friendly grilled options, and the beachfront grounds provide plenty of space for little ones to explore. Complimentary valet parking is also available, making the experience even more convenient.

"Definitely my favorite meal we had in Maui! I loved the Hawaiian decor and music and fresh tropical flowers." – Ellie K., Diner

How to Use Maui Oceanfront Dining Directory 2026 to Find Family Restaurants

The Maui Oceanfront Dining Directory 2026 is a handy tool for discovering family-friendly beachfront restaurants. By using its targeted filters and verified listings, you can easily find the perfect spot for your next meal. Start by selecting the "Kid-friendly" option under the "Diners’ Choice" section. This section ranks restaurants based on millions of recent diner reviews. To make dining with kids even easier, use the "Seating Options" filter to prioritize outdoor or patio seating, offering plenty of space for strollers and high chairs. For added convenience, narrow your search by neighborhoods like Kaanapali, Kapalua, or Kihei to cut down on travel time with little ones.

Pay attention to restaurants with a "Keiki section" listed in their menu descriptions or FAQs. For example, Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina (1307 Front St) offers a dedicated Keiki menu and boasts an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 9,779 verified diners as of January 2026. Another great option is Coco Deck Lahaina, which features a "Keiki Zone" complete with games like a basketball hoop to keep kids entertained during your meal.

The directory also simplifies finding accessible venues. Use the Accessibility filter to locate restaurants with wheelchair access. Check each profile’s "Additional" or "Highlights" section for details on high chairs, accessible parking, and other family-focused amenities.

In light of the 2023 wildfires, the directory has updated its listings to reflect the current status of affected restaurants. For instance, Captain Jack’s Island Grill, previously located in Lahaina, has relocated to the Sands of Kahana and continues to serve its signature Lilikoi Beer-Battered Fish and Chips. When dining in Lahaina, take a moment to review the "Parking details" section to avoid parking in residential burn zones, respecting the needs of displaced residents.

Before making a reservation, double-check the restaurant’s operating status and amenities by reviewing their latest profile updates. This is especially important for establishments in West Maui, where recovery efforts are ongoing. With these tools and filters, you’ll have no trouble finding the ideal beachfront restaurant for your family’s next dining adventure.

Restaurant Feature Comparison

Maui Family-Friendly Beachfront Restaurants Comparison: Prices, Menus & Reservation Requirements

Feature Comparison Table

Here’s a quick look at the standout features of six popular family-friendly beachfront restaurants in Maui. This table can help you pinpoint the best choice for your family’s dining experience:

Restaurant	Children’s Menu	Beach Distance	Price Range (USD)	Reservation Policy
Monkeypod Kitchen	Yes (Free mac & cheese for kids under 3)	Beachfront (Kaanapali)	$20–$35	Recommended for dinner
Leilani’s on the Beach	Yes	Beachfront	$15–$30	Recommended
Hula Grill	Yes	Beachfront	$20–$40	Recommended
Duke’s Beach House	Yes	Beachfront	$20–$40	Recommended
Gazebo Restaurant	Yes	Beachfront	$15–$25	Walk-ins only (long lines)
Mama’s Fish House	Yes	Beachfront	$50+	3–6 months in advance

If you’re looking for the most affordable option, Gazebo Restaurant offers entrées ranging from $15 to $25. However, it operates on a walk-in-only basis, so be prepared for long waits during peak breakfast and lunch hours. On the other end of the spectrum, Mama’s Fish House provides a more upscale dining experience, with entrées starting at $50, and reservations are a must – plan at least 3 to 6 months ahead.

For families seeking a middle ground, Monkeypod Kitchen is a great pick. It features a special keiki menu, including free mac and cheese for kids under 3. Leilani’s on the Beach also offers family-friendly perks like their "Aloha Hour" from 3–5 PM, where you can enjoy discounted appetizers.

Most of these restaurants recommend making reservations, especially for dinner during busy seasons like December through March and June through August. This overview, paired with the directory’s filters, can help you find the perfect spot to match your family’s preferences and schedule.

Planning Tips for Family Beachfront Dining

When it comes to family beachfront dining, a little planning goes a long way. Start by booking reservations as soon as your flights are confirmed. Some places, like Mama’s Fish House, require reservations 3–6 months in advance, while others, like Monkeypod Kitchen, need just 1–2 days’ notice. For walk-in-only spots, such as Gazebo, aim to arrive right at opening (usually around 7:30 AM) to skip long waits that can stretch up to 45 minutes during peak hours. Locking in your plans early ensures a smoother, more enjoyable outing.

Timing matters too. Opting for early dinner reservations around 5:00 PM not only gives you front-row seats to breathtaking sunsets but also helps you avoid the late-evening crowds. If you’re looking for a more casual vibe, happy hour between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM is a great option, and some restaurants, like Sansei, sweeten the deal with discounts of up to 50% on Sunday and Monday evenings between 5:15 PM and 6:00 PM. For popular breakfast spots, arriving closer to noon can significantly reduce your wait time from 45 minutes to just 15 minutes.

Don’t forget to prepare for Maui’s beachfront conditions. Evenings can get windy and chilly after sunset, so bring along a light jacket or blanket to keep the kids cozy. If you’re dining at Whalers Village locations like Monkeypod Kitchen, Hula Grill, or Leilani’s, make sure to validate your parking to avoid hefty fees. Also, be aware that beachfront dining in Maui typically costs 35%–50% more than similar dining experiences on the mainland.

Lastly, check the restaurant directory for the latest updates on family-friendly amenities and operating hours to ensure your plans go off without a hitch.

FAQs

What are the top beachfront restaurants in Maui for families?

Maui is home to some incredible beachfront restaurants that are perfect for family outings. Mama’s Fish House is a must-visit, known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and stunning oceanfront views that create an unforgettable dining experience. For a more laid-back atmosphere paired with jaw-dropping sunset views, head to Sea House Restaurant at Napili Kai Beach Resort. Their award-winning dishes and warm, welcoming vibe make it a favorite for families.

If casual dining is more your style, Hula Grill Kaanapali offers a lively and family-friendly setting with delicious Hawaiian-inspired dishes that everyone will enjoy. Another great option is Mala Ocean Tavern, where you can savor scenic ocean views alongside a menu thoughtfully crafted to please both kids and adults. These restaurants perfectly blend local flavors with the natural beauty of Maui’s beaches, ensuring a memorable meal for all.

How far in advance should I book a reservation at Mama’s Fish House?

To snag a table at Mama’s Fish House, you’ll want to plan ahead – three to six months in advance is your best bet. This legendary Maui spot is a favorite among visitors and locals alike, and reservations fill up fast, especially during peak travel times.

By booking early, you’ll secure your chance to enjoy their incredible oceanfront setting and dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. If your trip falls during the holidays or other busy times, it’s smart to reserve even further in advance.

Are there affordable family-friendly beachfront dining options in Maui?

Maui has plenty of budget-friendly, family-oriented beachfront dining options that let you soak in the views without emptying your wallet. Food trucks near the beaches are a popular go-to, serving up local favorites like poke bowls, plate lunches, and fresh fish tacos. These casual spots often feature outdoor seating, making them a relaxed and fun choice for families.

Another great idea? Stop by local markets or grab takeout from nearby restaurants and enjoy a picnic right on the beach. Many of these spots cater to kids with simple, hearty dishes and generous portions, so feeding the whole family is both easy and affordable. With just a bit of planning, you can savor Maui’s beachfront charm while keeping costs in check.

Where to Find Family-Friendly Beachfront Dining in Maui