About
Tropical Flavors Meet Local Lihue Charm
Positioned right in the heart of Lihue, Driftwood Bar And Grille captures the essence of Kauai’s laid-back lifestyle. This isn't a place for white-tablecloth pretense; it is a straightforward, open-air spot where the sound of clinking glasses often competes with the tropical breeze whistling through the rafters. If you are looking for a place that feels like a genuine neighborhood hangout rather than a tourist trap, this is your landing pad.
Island-Style Comforts
The menu leans heavily into local cravings, with a reputation built on hearty, no-nonsense portions. Their take on the classic local moco loco and fresh catch platters highlights what diners in this part of the island appreciate most: reliable execution using accessible ingredients. You will often catch the scent of garlic butter and grilled proteins drifting out toward the street, drawing in hungry surfers and local residents finishing their shifts.
A Local Perspective
The atmosphere is informal, defined by wooden fixtures and an unhurried service style that prioritizes a cold beer over quick turnover. Keep in mind that the acoustics can get quite lively during peak dinner hours, so it is the perfect spot for a loud, laughter-filled meal with friends rather than a quiet romantic date. Parking can be a bit of a shuffle depending on the time of day, but once you snag a seat, the view of the Lihue streetscape serves as a perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening. Whether you are grabbing a midday bite or winding down after exploring the Garden Isle, this grille remains a consistent staple for those wanting to eat like a resident.
Amenities & Features
Location
4331 Kauai Beach Dr, Lihue, Hawaii, 96766-8109
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 56 community reviewsMetellingtruthGoogle Maps
Recently
This place is a daytime vibe. Sitting in the middle of a resort and its water park, the atmosphere is awesome. The drinks are fantastic and the bar food options are delicious. Kauai is expensive and the prices are fair for what you get. The bar food is original but my only gripe is it’s served in take out containers which is convenient pool side but I prefer small plates at a bar. Really good place to hang out.
Kate JacobsGoogle Maps
Recently
Great poolside cocktails, food and service. The nachos were delicious!
OTsGoogle Maps
Recently
They serve food from main restaurant,bit is delicious.
bronson wilbornGoogle Maps
Recently
It is a good pool side bar and grill. It is a little on the expensive side but that’s to be expected for what it is. The server was very quick and charming. I ordered the poke and the pulled pork quesadilla with pineapple salsa (sounds kind of weird but was delicious). Both were very good. The drinks were tasty and strong and the view is beautiful.
Lisa FergusonGoogle Maps
Recently
Amanda at Driftwood was very friendly and made amazing drinks. We had Blue Hawaiians of course, and saw whales from our seats at the outdoor bar space! The food was delicious and the whole crew worked hard and efficiently.
Panagiotis ChatzitzanosGoogle Maps
Recently
Nothing much to say. Just the pool bar of the hotel. Food was blunt, service was so and so and the prices are out of this world.
Lisa QianGoogle Maps
Recently
Perfect meal for a lazy pool day. You order at the bar and they deliver the food to you at your lounge chair by the pool. We ordered a fish wrap and it was ok, the season fries were good! Definitely hit the spot. Service was good and they give out bubbles/lollipops/play doh to the kids.
Marc PichonGoogle Maps
Recently
$14+ small drinks. But they're good and the view/environment can't be beat. So just know you're paying for it. Had to initiate contact with the bartender. She passed by 2 or 3 times helping people that arrived after us before I had to get her attention. They were not busy at all, so not sure what happened but she was nice and made a good drink.
Ryanne DeanGoogle Maps
Recently
Met up w/ my cuzzy here who was staying at KBR for a pool day. We had Amanda and Marla as servers and they were great! Very personable and friendly. The Passionfruit, vodka and mint blended drink is delicious!! Not sure if it's on the menu but Marla made it for us and it needs to be on the menu.
Brittany WGoogle Maps
Recently
Everyone was very accommodating for my week here. I ate 3 meals at the restaurant and had majority of my vacation beverages ordered here. They were attentive, thoughtful and very quick to get my order in. I felt very taken care of and it made my experience very nice. Super speedy service and nice little acoustic performances a few of the nights I was there. I recommend grabbing meals and drinks here a night or two while you stay at the resort. :)
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Frequently Asked Questions about Driftwood Bar And Grille
Common questions from diners about Driftwood Bar And Grille in Lihue.
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