With the vast Pacific at its doorstep, Waikīkī’s seafood restaurants serve up the freshest catch, delivering a true ocean-to-table dining experience.
Living in Waikīkī means enjoying the ocean’s bounty every day. Here, seafood is more than a meal — it’s a celebration of our island home, with every bite capturing the essence of this place.
Waikīkī’s seafood scene excels for its variety and quality. From ahi poke bowls to seafood towers, local restaurants transform the freshest catch into a dining experience like no other.
In this post, we share our local recommendations for the best seafood restaurants in Waikīkī.
Table of Contents
1. Michel’s at the Colony Surf
Oceanfront dining at its finest with indulgent seafood and sunset views.
📍 2895 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: None
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
For the best seafood in Waikīkī, visit Michel’s at the Colony Surf, a French fine dining gem with exquisite raw and cooked seafood dishes, sunset views and an undeniably romantic vibe.
Straight up, the Iced Harvest of the Sea (featured image) is next-level — a decadent spread of lobster, ahi poke, hamachi sashimi, abalone poke, ahi sashimi, fresh oysters, prawns and octopus.
Another standout is the Lobster Bisque, a favorite since 1962. This 48-hour labor of love is finished table-side with a flambé of cognac-soaked lobster meat, a spectacle and treat for the palate.
The indulgence continues with tartars and caviar to bouillabaisse (seafood stew), seared salmon, blackened ahi and even escargots. Finish with one of Michel’s iconic table-side flambé desserts.
INSIDE TIP: For a true “Taste of Michel’s,” try the Tasting Menu starting at $130pp, with an optional wine pairing.
2. Herringbone Waikiki
Stylish ocean-to-table open-air dining with a can’t-miss oyster hour.
📍 2330 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Dinner & Sat-Sun for Brunch
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily from 4-6pm & 9pm-Close *at the bar
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: Eat App or walk-in
Herringbone, perched on the Grand Lanai at International Market Place, brings the open-air charm and coastal cuisine of Southern California to Hawaiʻi — relaxed-yet-refined Waikīkī dining.
The seafood-forward menu is creative, it includes misoyaki butterfish, potato-crusted ahi, mussels tikka masala and gochujang octopus. Splurge-worthy seafood platters pair with furikake fries.
Oyster Hour, Herringbone’s take on Happy Hour, is a must for oyster lovers — $3 shucks, elevated bites and cocktails served daily at the bar and lounge from 4–6pm. No reservations needed.
Weekend brunch is big here — best enjoyed on the patio, mimosa in hand. Start with seafood from the raw bar, or dive into favorites like the Eggs Benedict, Lobster Roll, or Mochi Pancakes.
INSIDE TIP: If you’re dining at Herringbone — or any Aoki Group restaurant like Doraku Sushi or 1938 Indochine — sign up for the Aoki Group Rewards app first. You’ll earn 5% cash back on every visit, unlock birthday perks and access exclusive deals.
3. Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar
Almost 20 years of inventive sushi and fusion Japanese seafood dishes.
📍 2552 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Sun & Mon from 4:45-5:30pm
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
For casual, flavorful seafood in Waikīkī, Sansei Seafood & Sushi is a welcoming spot for sushi lovers, families and adventurous eaters, featuring a creative Japanese-Pacific Rim fusion menu.
Signature dishes keep guests returning — like the Panko-Crusted Ahi, Crab Ramen with truffle butter broth, melt-in-your-mouth Miso Butterfish and cold water Maine Lobster Tails.
The extensive sushi menu has classic and specialty rolls and a deep nigiri and sashimi selection with picks like hamachi, salmon and uni. The Granny Smith Apple Tart is a must-try treat.
Sansei’s Early Bird Special offers 50% off most food and sushi on Sundays and Mondays from 4:45-5:30pm. No reservations. Seating is first-come, so arrive early — the line form fast.
INSIDE TIP: Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar and d.k. Steak House are side-by-side restaurants that share a bar. If you sit at the bar in either one, you can order from both menus.
4. SKY Waikiki Raw & Bar
Rooftop views paired with oysters, poke, sushi, sashimi, cocktails and champagne.
📍 2270 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily from 4-5pm
🎵 Live Music: Daily from 6-9pm
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
SKY Waikiki sits on the 19th Floor of the Waikīkī Business Plaza, with sweeping views of Lēʻahi (Diamond Head), the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Pink Palace — it’s made for sunset sippers!
Dine on elevated seafood — smoked ahi dip, a poke sampler (ahi, hamachi, octopus and salmon) and garlic shrimp. The oyster bar has six types, and the seafood tower lets you mix it up.
Happy Hour runs daily from 4-5pm with $3 oysters, $5 Modelo and $10 bubbly. It can get hot and breezy, so dress accordingly. Reservations are recommended — ask for a table by the glass.
The only seafood spot in Waikīkī with live music nightly from 6-9pm, SKY Waikiki also transforms into a rooftop nightclub every Friday from 9pm ‘til late. Sip on Icy Mai Tai, Mimosas, or Bellinis.
5. Eating House 1849
Custom fish meals: Choose your local catch, pick your prep and select a sauce.
📍 2330 Kalākaua Ave #322, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Dinner & Sat-Sun for Brunch
🍹 Happy Hour: Daily from 4-5pm
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: OpenTable or walk-in
Eating House 1849, a Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine restaurant by Chef Roy Yamaguchi, honors Hawaiʻi’s plantation-era history by fusing local ingredients with global culinary influences.
This breezy, open-air space on the 3rd Floor Grand Lānai at Waikīkī’s International Market Place is perfect for family dinners, date nights, holiday celebrations and special occasions.
The creatively prepared dinner menu dives deep into seafood with raw platters including oysters, poke, sushi rolls, paella with lobster, butterfish, Manila clams and a shrimp and scallop pasta.
Their “Build Your Own Local Catch” is a choose-your-own-adventure in seafood: select your fish, style (grilled, sautéed, steamed, tempura) and one of seven tantalizing sauce preparations.
INSIDE TIP: Eating House 1849 is kid-friendly, offering a keiki menu for kids 12 and under, complete with crayons and a coloring book on request. Let the staff know if you’re celebrating — chances are, dessert will come with a spark of aloha.
7. Paʻia Fish Market
A seafood café with freshly-caught fish cooked to perfection on every plate.
📍 2299 Kuhio Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Lunch & Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: None
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: Walk-in only
Paʻia Fish Market, tucked beneath The Laylow hotel, is a casual spot with counter service and communal seating — perfect for a quick lunch before the dinner lines stretch out the door.
Founded in the Maui surf town of Paʻia in 1989, this Waikīkī outpost has become a go-to for locals and visitors craving hearty portions and no-fuss, flavorful seafood.
Fresh Catch Plates are the star! Pick your fish (mahi mahi, ono, snapper, ahi, or salmon), prep (charbroiled, sautéed, Cajun, or blackened) and a side. Each comes with their zesty coleslaw.
Also on the menu: fish burgers, crispy tacos, shrimp or calamari and chips, seafood pastas, fresh salads and creamy clam chowder — portions are generous, perfect for sharing.
INSIDE TIP: Pair your meal with a local beer, kombucha, or nitro cold brew on tap.
8. Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood Market
A tasty seafood market, perfect for on-the-go Waikīkī adventures.
📍 2005 Kālia Rd, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: None
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: Walk-in only
Family-owned, Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood Market began as a food truck in Kahuku. Original recipes by two brothers helped grow it into a beloved islandwide seafood brand.
Now with a location at Hilton Hawaiian Village’s Rainbow Bazaar and a food truck in Wahiawā, it’s a go-to for surf (seafood), fresh catch (fish) and turf (meat) in a relaxed courtyard setting.
Garlic and Coconut Shrimp are must-tries for North Shore flavor without the drive. Other highlights include Fresh Clams, Calamari Steak, Brazilian Rock Lobster Tail and Sirloin Steak.
All entrées come with rice, green salad and corn — plus a fresh orchid, a small detail that adds aloha. Its proximity to Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Lagoon makes it a great beach day treat.
INSIDE TIP: Cool off with one of their non-alcoholic drinks like a Pineapple Smoothie — sweet and refreshing.
6. Kirin Restaurant
30+ years of Chinese cuisine with Hawaiian abalone, live crab and lobster.
📍 2424 Kalākaua Ave #103, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Daily for Lunch & Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: None
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: Yelp or walk-in
Operating for over 35 years, Kirin Restaurant is a Waikīkī staple for northern and southern Chinese cuisine. Don’t miss the photo wall of high-profile guests who’ve dined here through the decades.
Found downstairs at Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort, this 220-seat restaurant is best known for its Tai Shan Style Live Dungeness Crab with black bean, pork, egg white and garlic.
While the huge menu features familiar Chinese dishes and dim sum, the seafood specials shine — think Maine lobster, Hawaiian abalone, Kahuku shrimp and a rich soup with imitation shark fin.
Service is efficient — a pleasant foodie escape from the bustle of Kalākaua Avenue above. Perfect for family-style dining, large groups and special occasions in VIP private rooms.
9. Maguro Brothers Hawaii – Waikiki
High-grade raw seafood, fresh from Honolulu’s fish auction to your plate.
📍 2250 Kalakaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Mon-Sat for Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: None
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: Walk-in only
Maguro Brothers Hawaiʻi is a cult favorite among sashimi and poke purists. This counter spot is renowned for auction-fresh seafood and ultra-premium ingredients, prepared with precision.
Open evenings only (closed Sundays) inside Waikīkī Shopping Plaza, it regularly draws a line out the door. It’s your chance to savor top-tier raw seafood — grab it to-go and enjoy beachside.
Sashimi fans can build a platter with silky cuts like salmon, ahi, hamachi, tataki, chutoro, or rich, buttery toro — “The King of Tuna.” Upgrade with uni, amaebi (sweet shrimp), or scallops.
Poke bowls and cups come with shoyu (soy sauce), spicy mayo, mac nuts, avocado, fried onions, limu (seaweed), or wasabi. Can’t choose? Try a sashimi-poke combo.
10. Royal Lobster
Maine lobster specialists serving classic lobster rolls and lobster salad.
📍 2250 Kalākaua Ave, Waikīkī
🕒 Open: Tue-Sat for Lunch & Dinner
🍹 Happy Hour: None
🎵 Live Music: None
🎟️ Reservations: Walk-in only
If you’re craving lobster, Royal Lobster is the top choice in Waikīkī. Tucked below the Waikīkī Shopping Plaza (off Royal Hawaiian Avenue), this local gem serves 100% Maine lobster.
The menu is simple with two choices: the Simply Butter’d lobster roll on a warm brioche bun and the chilled Lobster Salad with balsamic greens. Each roll gets a full tail, claw and knuckle.
While prices run at market rate, the quality and portion size more than justify the splurge. It’s a high-end but casual seafood experience that supports a local small business.
There’s a cozy dine-in corner, or you can order online for pick-up. We picked ours up to-go and drove to Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon — a perfect spot for a laidback picnic.
INSIDE TIP: Wicked Maine Lobster is another fabulous option for lobster rolls, open daily for lunch and dinner in the Pāʻina Lānai Food Court at the Royal Hawaiian Center. Enjoy lobster-loaded rolls, tacos, sliders, queso fries and mac n cheese.
In summary, seafood enthusiasts have plenty of options in Waikīkī — whether it’s oysters, sushi, sashimi, poke, lobster, fish, scallops or shrimp, you’ll find it all.
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Visitor FAQs
Yes, there is one Red Lobster in Hawaiʻi, conveniently located in Waikīkī, Honolulu, on Oʻahu. This popular chain serves up classics like lobster, shrimp, fish and scallops, all paired with its iconic Cheddar Bay Biscuits — free with every meal! Families will appreciate the kids’ menu, which includes an entrée, choice of side and a drink for under $12.
For a satisfying clam chowder experience, visit Pāʻia Fish Market for their hearty Clam Chowder appetizer. Another excellent choice is Chart House, where you can enjoy New England Clam Chowder by the cup or bowl alongside boat harbor views. For a unique twist, head to Wicked Maine Lobster in the Pāʻina Lānai Food Court at Royal Hawaiian Center, where their creamy Clam Chowder can be ordered in a garlic bread bowl.
For an exceptional seafood buffet in Honolulu, visit Plumeria Beach House at The Kahala Hotel & Resort, just a 10-minute drive from Waikīkī. Their renowned Seafood Buffet Dinner (available Fridays and Saturdays) offers a sumptuous spread of fresh seafood, including poke, nigiri and shrimp cocktail, alongside a carving station with prime rib of beef. Hot dishes like a seafood boil, steamed snow crab, misoyaki butterfish and house-smoked salmon round out the savory options, all topped off with indulgent desserts. Reserve your spot for the Seafood Buffet under the Experiences section on OpenTable.
