Wailea is home to resort restaurants plus a variety of nifty finds for those seeking ocean views, a relaxing place that welcomes families or an upscale spot to celebrate being on vacation.
Planning a trip to Maui? Stay in one of our Wailea vacation rentals.
Eskimo Candy
Casual and cheeky, Eskimo Candy in nearby Kihei is a spot you’ll want to try for lunch. It’s always hard to find affordable options when you’re on vacation and, conveniently, this fish market offers the best and freshest seafood. It’s open only on weekdays and takeout is available, good for a nearby picnic or on-site (they offer wraps and salads). Popular picks here are the fish and chips and the clam chowder.
Capische
Visitors want a dining experience much like the treasured souvenir they take home. Good food, a restaurant that provides a changing menu with signature dishes, intimate settings, locally-owned serving local food and a great view are amenities that place a restaurant on top of the list. Capische at the Hotel Wailea is a favorite among locals and guests. Tables are limited, so reservations are strongly suggested to avoid disappointment, but once you’ve got a table, take in the great view, enjoy dining garden-side and try the ever-popular mushroom risotto. Great place for a romantic evening, but children’s menu available for family dining.
Zen Zen Restaurant Pacifica
Enjoy all of these great restaurants from one of our Wailea luxury rentals.
Makena Beach & Golf Resort is home to a selection of eateries, including Zen-Zen Restaurant Pacifica. Sushi and sashimi are innovatively served here, with plenty of favorites plus items with an island stamp. It’s pricy but acclaimed so worth a trip if you love sushi. The atmosphere is great however, with sunsets and ocean views. Alternatively, Ko at the Fairmont Kea Lani is also a notable restaurant if you’re seeking the Pacific Rim experience that locals find nostalgic and visitors can’t stop talking about (curry lamb chops, Filipino Pancit, and edamummus—edamame hummus!).
Matteo’s
Craving pizza in the Pacific Rim realm? Matteo’s is fast, busy and affordable. Fresh toppings, the usual dishes you’d expect from an Italian restaurant and homemade gnocchi are part of the mix. Island topping favorites include Kulua pork, bacon, pineapple, and Maui onion. Order and pay for your food at the front and grab a table. The restaurant is family friendly, take out is available and they’ve got just about every pizza and pasta dish you’d want. Enjoy the multi-color wild streaks of a Wailea sunset with some drinks outdoors.
5 Palms Beach Grill
Happy Hour here is a great deal, with drink specials and half-priced pupus. The huge windows make all the difference in atmosphere because a few lucky patrons get an unobstructed sea view with windows flung open like doors, welcoming the salty air and soft breeze. Breakfast and lunch are served till 2:30pm, convenient if you want a leisurely sleep or have an activity in the morning to work up an appetite. Located in the Mana Kai Resort, this place serves a good mix of seafood, island fare and hearty comfort foods. Try ribs with Maui twist or pasta or stuffed peppers with upcountry vegetables. Vegan and gluten-free requests are accommodated.
Also, please consider our Wailea condos.
Jawz Fish Tacos
An additional treat is Jawz Fish Tacos in nearby Kihei. Food trucks have become increasingly popular and you can dine and head to the beach, but either way, the fish tacos, shave ice and plate lunches are tasty and affordable. Drink specials and happy hour events throughout the week, a casual (with a cheesy charm) atmosphere screams island fun. Menu items include wet burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas and enough sides to keep you going back for more. the chili relleno plate and cilantro rice are favorites.