Man giving a shaka sign with his right hand at an outdoor restaurant at sunset, with vibrant red umbrellas, palm trees, and a lively crowd in the background in Waikiki.

8 Best Restaurants in Waikiki With a View From a Local

ByKody B

Since making Oahu our home, my girlfriend and I have turned exploring new dining spots in Waikiki into our favorite hobby. We came here with a handful of favorite restaurants from our past visits but have since discovered incredible new places that we now love. 

Today, I’m thrilled to share our top picks for the best restaurants in Waikiki with a view that are worth visiting.

Our list covers a range of dining experiences, from casual beachfront spots to upscale fine dining with panoramic ocean views and the best restaurants for happy hour and budget travelers.

So whether you’re looking for a romantic date recommendation or want to enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying the picture perfect scenery, we’ve got you covered.

If you are in a hurry and don’t have time to read our entire list, here are our top three recommendations:

  1. Azure Restaurant: The best views and overall dining experience
  2. Mai Tai Bar: Perfect for happy hour and people-watching, with spectacular views
  3. House Without a Key: A classic Hawaiian setting with live music and great food

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    (1) Azure Restaurant

    If you’re searching for the ultimate dining experience in Waikiki with a view that takes your breath away, Azure Restaurant should be at the top of your list. The sunsets here are breathtaking, provided the weather is on your side.

    Azure offers a pre-fix four-course menu priced at $130 per person with an optional $55 wine pairing, which might seem steep, but the experience and the views justify the expense. 

    What we ordered: We started with the mixed green salad (we asked to substitute for the beet salad). For the second course, we both preferred the Ahi Cruso. And for the third course, the short rib was unanimously our favorite, perfectly cooked and seasoned.

    We were lucky enough to dine during a spectacular sunset. The views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head from Azure are unmatched. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and sophisticated. It’s a unique experience to watch people strolling along the beach while enjoying the upscale atmosphere of a fine-dining restaurant.

    Tip: For the best seats in the house, especially those with a better sunset view, booking in advance is crucial. Be sure to request a sunset view table when you make your reservation. Although we were pretty happy with our seating, snagging one of those prime spots would have made our evening even more perfect.

    Best For: Fine dining, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and sunset views 

    Price: $$$$

    Location: Click here for Google Maps

    Visit Website: Here

    A man at Azure restaurant in Waikiki enjoying the sunset view, with people strolling on the sand and palm trees lining the horizon.
    Evening view of a restaurant in Waikiki, showcasing red umbrellas and dining tables with the iconic Diamond Head in the background.
    A couple seated at a table at a Waikiki restaurant, enjoying a meal with a scenic view of the beach and Diamond Head volcano in the distance.
    A fresh salad with crisp greens and colorful vegetables served in a black bowl, presented at Azure restaurant in Waikiki.
    A beet salad in a black bowl, presented at a Azure restaurant in Waikiki.
    Gourmet fish dish accompanied by sautéed greens and a creamy sauce, served on a circular black plate in a fine dining restaurant in Waikiki.
    Elegant dinner setting featuring a meat dish with puree and roasted cauliflower, served at a Waikiki restaurant with ambient lighting.
    Assorted dessert selection with chocolate tartlets, whipped cream, and chocolate shards on a black slate, served at Azure.

    (2) Mai Tai Bar

    The Mai Tai Bar, despite its popularity among tourists, undoubtedly earns its place on our list of must-visit restaurants in Waikiki. 

    Located at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, right next to Azure, it offers a fantastic alternative for those looking for a less formal dining experience without sacrificing the breathtaking views. The Mai Tai Bar is also less expensive than Azure, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.

    We mainly come here for drinks and happy hour, arguably one of the best in Waikiki. It’s the perfect spot for enjoying appetizers and bar food while soaking in the stunning scenery as you people-watch. The atmosphere here is lively, complemented by the exceptional live music that adds to the overall experience.

    What we ordered: A personal favorite of ours is the beef short rib pasta, a dish we love sharing. It pairs well with their cocktails, especially the original Mai Tai, a must-try. 

    A word to the wise: seating at the Mai Tai Bar is on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re aiming for a table by the beach to catch the sunset, planning and arriving early around 5:00-5:30 pm is key. Also, patience goes a long way here, as it does get busy, but trust us when we say the wait is worth it!

    Also, the prices here will be much more expensive than your average bar prices, but you are in Hawaii, right on the beach, enjoying views of Diamond Head at the Pink Palace. 

    Best For: Casual Dining, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head and sunset views 

    Price: $$

    Location: Click here for Google Maps

    Visit Website: Here

    Man in a casual shirt and cap giving a shaka sign at the Mai Tai Bar in Waikiki, with red umbrellas and a vibrant atmosphere as the sun sets, offering a spectacular dinner views.
    Nighttime at the Mai Tai Bar in Waikiki, featuring outdoor seating under red umbrellas with purple accent lighting, surrounded by tall palm trees, providing a relaxed dining experience with a view.

    (3) House Without A Key

    House Without A Key, located within the prestigious Halekulani Hotel, is another prime dining destination in Waikiki with spectacular views. It’s the perfect spot to experience a Hawaiian sunset, with the iconic Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach in the background.

    Whether you’re coming in for cocktails at sunset or planning a dinner to enjoy the live performances and hula dancing that take place from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, you’re in for a treat.

    While dinner is popular for many, we often visit House Without A Key for lunch. But you honestly can’t beat the sunset views and live music, so we might have to reconsider.

    What we ordered: The grilled fish tacos are exceptional, and we always order from their brick oven. The flatbread margherita pizza is our favorite, a seemingly simple dish executed to perfection every time. We’ve also tried the House Without a Key Burger and the island loco moco, and both have been fantastic.

    Best For Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head views, and sunset views, live music

    Price: $$$-$$$$

    Location: Click here for Google Maps

    Visit Website: Here

    Sunny view from the House Without a Key restaurant in Waikiki, featuring white lounge chairs, umbrellas, lush greenery, and a clear view of Diamond Head.
    Man walking past an outdoor dining area at the House Without a Key in Waikiki, with palm trees framing the view of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean.
    Guest enjoying a casual lunch at the House Without a Key in Waikiki, with a spread of tacos and flatbread on a wooden board, and an ocean view under white umbrellas.
    Man tipping his cap at the House Without a Key restaurant in Waikiki, seated comfortably with a view of the ocean and palm trees under a canopy of white umbrellas.
    Close-up of a wooden serving board with fish tacos and a prosciutto flatbread, ready to be enjoyed at the House Without a Key restaurant in Waikiki with a seaside view.

    (4) Orchids

    Orchids, located at the Halekulani Hotel, is another great restaurant in Waikiki with great views. While it may not have the best overall views, it still offers excellent views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. 

    The ambiance here, both indoors and outdoors, is spot-on, creating a perfect setting for a casual day out or a special occasion.

    Sunday Brunch here is a hit, but we love coming to Orchids for breakfast and lunch. 

    What we ordered: The Haupia French Toast is something we can’t get enough of, and it’s our absolute favorite. Other popular breakfast items include corned beef hash, steak & eggs, and the loco moco, each with a unique flavor. 

    The tomato soup is a warm, comforting choice for lunch, and the Orchids Burger never disappoints. The catch of the day is also always a great choice, assuming you like seafood.

    We’ve also tried the homemade seafood lasagne, a treat for any seafood lover.

    Tip: If you plan to go during Sunday brunch, make a reservation in advance, as it can get pretty crowded.

    Best For: Fine Dining, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head and, sunset views 

    Price: $$

    Location: Click here for Google Maps

    Visit Website: Here

    Man in a light green polo shirt standing in front of the elegant Orchids Restaurant in Waikiki, with its two-story facade and outdoor dining area visible behind.
    Smiling woman in a yellow dress seated at Orchids Restaurant in Waikiki, presenting a plate with a gourmet burger and a side dish, with tropical greenery in the background.
    Close-up of a delicious seafood pasta dish at Orchids Restaurant in Waikiki, with succulent shrimp and vibrant greens on a white plate.

    (5) Hula Grill

    Located above Duke’s Restaurant and Bar in the International Marketplace, Hula Grill offers beautiful views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. 

    It offers excellent food, an inviting atmosphere, and stunning views, making it an ideal spot for any occasion. 

    This spot has become our go-to, especially for breakfast or weekend brunch, though it’s also well-known for lunch and dinner. 

    What we ordered: The omelets at Hula Grill are a highlight, with the seafood omelet being a favorite choice among seafood enthusiasts. Another dish we can’t get enough of is the mochi waffles. They offer a unique twist on a classic breakfast item, which is absolutely delicious. 

    No visit to Hula Grill would be complete without indulging in the famous Hula Pie. We were pleasantly surprised despite initial skepticism and thinking it might be overhyped. It’s one thing you must try for yourself to appreciate its appeal.

    Best For: Casual Dining, Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Views

    Price: $$

    Location: Click here for Google Maps

    Visit Website: Here

    Man in casual attire thoughtfully looking out from the Hula Grill in Waikiki, with a view of palm trees and the beachfront through the railing.
    Sunny beach view from the Hula Grill Waikiki, showcasing palm trees, blue umbrellas, and the ocean, with a relaxing dining area in the foreground
    Woman at Hula Grill Waikiki smiling with a hearty breakfast plate of omelette and potatoes, with the restaurant's pleasant outdoor setting around.
    Plate of golden-brown waffles topped with strawberries and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, served with syrup at Hula Grill Waikiki.
    Famous Hula Pie dessert with a chocolate cookie crust, macadamia nut ice cream, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce served at Duke's Waikiki Restaurant.

    (6) Duke’s Waikiki

    Let me start by mentioning that Duke’s Waikiki and Hula Grill are among the most tourist-frequented restaurants in Waikiki. If you’re active in any Facebook group focused on Hawaiian travel, you’ve likely seen them recommended more than a few times. 

    While this is the case, there’s no denying the food quality and the fantastic views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. While not the best views you will get, they are certainly up there and make for a great dining experience.

    Duke’s is a solid choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, but lunchtime is when we find ourselves coming back the most. Its location, especially if you’re spending the day on Waikiki Beach, couldn’t be more convenient.

    The menu features typical lunch fare like burgers, tacos, and sandwiches. A personal favorite of ours is the panko-crusted calamari—it’s perfectly crispy and flavorful. 

    And, of course, no visit is complete without the Hula Pie. It’s massive, indulgent, and something we always order to share.

    We’ve also tried the breakfast buffet on occasion and found it quite satisfying, offering a great variety of options.

    The sauteed Mac Nut & Herb-Crusted Fresh Fish is our go-to dish for dinner. We’ve never been disappointed with the quality and taste of their seafood options.

    Best For: Casual or fine dining, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head and sunset views

    Price: $$

    Location: Click here for Google Maps

    Visit Website: Here

    Woman enjoying a slice of Hula Pie at Duke's Waikiki Restaurant, with a thatched umbrella overhead creating a tropical dining atmosphere with diamond Head views.
    Woman in a yellow dress standing at the entrance of Duke's Waikiki Restaurant.
    Man at Duke's Waikiki Restaurant sampling a plate of pasta and potato salad, with the restaurant's busy interior and thatched decor in the background.
    Smiling woman about to enjoy a plate of calamari at Duke's Waikiki Restaurant, with a view of the outdoor seating and tropical plants.

    (7) La Vie

    Located at the Ritz Carlton, La Vie stands out for its fancy dining experience, complete with views of the amazing Honolulu city lights. It’s an excellent spot for dinner, especially if you’ve got something to celebrate. 

    However, in the spirit of honesty, it’s important to mention that La Vie wasn’t exactly our cup of tea. We included it on our list because dining preferences are highly personal, and what might not have been to our liking could be precisely what you’re looking for. 

    La Vie serves a pre-fixed menu at $139 per person, with an optional wine pairing for an additional $89. Without previewing the menu, we were surprised by the offerings, which included dishes like tuna tartare, Sonoma duck, roasted foie gras, veal, and frog legs, among others that didn’t quite appeal to our tastes.

    So, here’s the bottom line: If you enjoy raw seafood, caviar, or more adventurous culinary experiences, La Vie could be the perfect spot. The views and ambiance are undeniably fantastic. However, if your preferences lean towards the more conventional, you might find places like Azure or House Without A Key more to your liking.

    We’re considering giving La Vie another chance, perhaps for brunch, to see if that suits our tastes better. Regardless, for those seeking luxury and are excited by a menu that pushes the boundaries of traditional cuisine, La Vie at the Ritz Carlton is worth a visit.

    Best For: Fine Dining, views of Honolulu’s city lights

    Price: $$$$

    Location: Click here for Google Maps

    Visit Website: Here

    Elegant outdoor seating area at La Vie Restaurant in Waikiki at night, featuring tables with candles and a panoramic view of the city lights.
    Woman seated at La Vie Restaurant in Waikiki, with a sophisticated interior decor and night views of the cityscape through the open windows.
    Man at La Vie Restaurant in Waikiki, with a small plate of appetizers, ready to dine in the elegant, modern setting.
    Chilled shrimp appetizer elegantly presented on a bed of ice, served at La Vie Restaurant in Waikiki for a fine dining experience.
    Plate of fresh oysters on ice with lemon and cocktail sauce, part of the seafood selection at La Vie Restaurant in Waikiki.
    Woman at La Vie Restaurant in Waikiki, admiring a beautifully plated duck dish.
    Duck breast topped with a vibrant blue flower and a rich sauce, served at La Vie Restaurant in Waikiki for a refined dinner.
    Gourmet dish featuring frog legs on a bed of green puree garnished with herbs and flowers.

    (8) DECK.

    DECK. is a rooftop gem in Waikiki, known for its incredible views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. It’s exactly what you’d expect from a place with a name like DECK. – a stunning rooftop space where the views and atmosphere are unmatched.

    DECK. combines a casual vibe with breathtaking views, making it an ideal place to unwind with friends after a day of exploring.

    They offer great drink specials that won’t break the bank, like $12 mai tais, lilikoi margaritas, and $6 beers. The appetizers are just as appealing, with options like truffle fries, calamari fritti, beef sliders, and chicken wings, all at reasonable prices.

    We decided to try the Mai Tai and the $6 beer, pairing them with beef sliders and calamari. Let me tell you, they did not disappoint. Everything was delicious. The service was impressive, and the overall vibe was energetic but relaxed, making it a place you’d want to return to time and again.

    Best For: Happy hour, casual dining, views of Diamond Head

    Price: $$

    Location: Click here for Google Maps

    Visit Website: Here

    Casual, modern bar scene at Deck Waikiki with patrons seated at the wooden bar, enjoying drinks and the relaxed atmosphere with a view of the lush landscape outside.
    Open-air dining area at Deck Waikiki, featuring comfortable seating, a relaxed ambience, and a view of the surrounding greenery and mountain in the distance.
    Woman in a summer dress sipping a tropical drink at the bar in Deck Waikiki, surrounded by an inviting decor and a glimpse of the beautiful Waikiki scenery.
    Close-up of a refreshing golden cocktail garnished with a dried orange slice, served on a wooden bar at Deck Waikiki.

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