Kukui's on Kalapaki Beach - Hawaii Restaurant
#40 of 82 Restaurants in Lihue International

Kukui's on Kalapaki Beach

3.6(42 community reviews)
Moderate ($$)

About

Discover Kukui's on Kalapaki Beach, offering the best Hawaiian experience in Lihue. Enjoy Moderate ($$) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

Savor the Pacific Breeze in Lihue

Steps away from the golden sands of Kalapaki Beach, Kukui's offers a quintessential Kauai dining experience that prioritizes open-air relaxation. You are here for the view—the sound of waves crashing against the shoreline acts as the constant soundtrack to your meal, while the salt air mingles with the scent of grilled tropical catch.

Menu Highlights and Local Flavors

The culinary focus here centers on island-inspired fare. Guests frequently gravitate toward their fresh poke bowls and signature fish tacos, which highlight the day’s haul from local waters. The menu reflects a commitment to Hawaii’s seasonal produce, making it a reliable spot for those looking to eat close to the source while enjoying a refreshing Mai Tai.

The Atmosphere

Kukui's thrives on a laid-back, resort-casual energy. It is an ideal setting for travelers winding down after a morning of surfing or those simply wanting to watch the outrigger canoes glide past the harbor. The space is expansive and breezy, designed to capture the natural light. A minor quirk to note: as an open-air venue, the trade winds can sometimes be quite spirited, so hold onto your napkins if you choose a seat near the water’s edge.

Whether you are staying at the neighboring Marriott or just passing through Lihue, the restaurant offers a seamless transition from beach time to dinner service. It is a no-fuss environment where the primary agenda is enjoying the transition from a sunny afternoon to the vibrant colors of a Pacific sunset.

Location

3610 Rice St Kaua'i Marriott Resort, Lihue, Hawaii, 96766

Directions

Reviews

Showing 8 of 42 community reviews
C

Chris HaynesGoogle Maps

Recently

We tried several of the surrounding restaurants, but Kukui’s was our favorite by far. The food was fresh and flavorfull Everything we ordered was well-executed and exceeded our expectations. The setting right by the beach is absolutely stunning, which made the entire dining experience even better. Between the delicious food, relaxed island atmosphere, and gorgeous views, this place truly stands out.

W

W.A. WattsGoogle Maps

Recently

Great if you like seafood....for anything else not so much. This restaurant just generally doesn't know how to cook meat. If you ask for well done, you end up with medium rare. Send it back and you end up with medium. We gave up and went elsewhere. This wasn't just an isolated incident. It happened with two different filet mignons and as well as a morning breakfast patty Loco Moco. Some people like bloody raw food. I'm not one of them. My wife is not one of them. Then...there was the lack of bread. Most decent sit-down restaurants offer bread and butter before the meal. Especially if you're going to fork out $100 for the whole meal. Not this place. However they DO put down a small plate usually reserved for bread....for nothing. When I ask about bread they said "oh well that's part of the lunch menu. We put all that away.... Well then why did you put down the small plate?" Blank stare. I think the staff that works here genuinely hates their job and hates the people they cater to. There just seems to be something really off about this place. The only thing this place really has going for it is the atmosphere. That does not make up for the menu and lack of good preparation. Surprisingly, the best thing on the menu is from the kids menu, chicken strips and french fries.

M

M. MaxwellGoogle Maps

Recently

This is our favorite restaurant at the Royal Sonesta : Marriott Kaua’i property situated on Kalapakī Beach. It offers the healthiest, most delicious options. Our server, Cherine, is the best server we have ever had at any restaurant in the world. Cherine is delightful and efficient, and she made us feel joyful on our vacation. A photo of the salad she had made with citrus instead of dressing is herein. Props to the kitchen staff too. We went to Kukui’s for breakfast and/or lunch everyday for four consecutive days. Cherine was our server on every visit.

K

Kelly DrakeGoogle Maps

Recently

The Cheese Quesadilla with Kalua Pork was excellent with the extra sauce. Good Porter Beer. Great service and atmosphere!!!!

M

Matera StoffleGoogle Maps

Recently

We are here on our honeymoon and I can honestly say this is the best place I have eaten so far in Kauai. I keep trying to NOT love it, because I'm not rich. But we keep coming back for more! I'm not sure if the chef is vegetarian, but this is somewhere that my wife loves EVERYTHING she gets. Amazing job. This is the first time vegetarian options haven't been a dining concern in 11 years. Thank you 😊 🙏 (she said cauliflower bolognese is #1; a "tie" for #2 with cauliflower curry, eggs Benedict, and grain bowl) And.. The server that has stood out to me, is the wonderful Miss Petra. She managed to lift our energies in milliseconds. She has a positive aura that radiates and I'm truly so grateful for it. Thank you Petra! There hostesses have also been lovely every time ❤️

C

Connie CGoogle Maps

Recently

The broken yolk sandwich is awesome, flavorful and the bun was so soft! The omelette with pulled pork was good too - good flavor and generous portion. The egg white omelette with shrimp was ok, a bit watery. We went here twice for breakfast, quick service to get the day started. If you stay at the hotel I would not recommend getting coffee here - $7 per person for drip coffee.

D

Diedrick GriepGoogle Maps

Recently

Born and raised on the island, i had dinner here a few times but never breakfast. Stayed at the Royal Sonesta overnight and woke up hungry. Breakfast was pretty good. Being located in one of the better hotels on the island it was kinda pricey. It sits right in front of the pool but it's covered. The menu is simple and our plates was hearty. Our service was friendly and our food came quickly.

A

Amanda MGoogle Maps

Recently

This is one of the best on resort restaurants that we have experienced! The wait staff are friendly and attentive and the breakfast food was outstanding - Legit one of the best acai bowls we've had on and off the islands. Ingredients were fresh and cooked to perfection. The location is poolside/beachside and very pleasant with shade. We have made a dinner reservation for tonight as we were so impressed! This entire resort is fabulous - Highly recommend!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Kukui's on Kalapaki Beach

Common questions from diners about Kukui's on Kalapaki Beach in Lihue.

It is located seaside in Lihue, Hawaii, inside the Kaua'i Marriott Resort.

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