Whenever I visit the Big Island of Hawaii, I always look forward to enjoying fresh seafood with beautiful ocean views. The island offers local catches, friendly service, and a tropical atmosphere.
I want to help you find the best seafood restaurants on the Big Island, so you can have a tasty and memorable experience. Whether you like classic dishes or want to try something new, you’ll find plenty of options.
Fish Hopper Kona
When I stopped at Fish Hopper Kona, I noticed the views of Kailua Bay right away. The big windows gave me a perfect spot to watch the water while I ate.
The restaurant felt relaxed, and the staff greeted me with a smile. I wanted to try the seafood because I heard they use fresh, local fish every day.
My meal started with their clam chowder. It was creamy and full of flavor.
Knowing the fish was caught that morning made it taste even better. For my main dish, I ordered their seafood pasta.
The pasta had a good mix of shrimp, fish, and clams. Every bite tasted fresh, and I could tell they care about quality ingredients.
The menu also offered steak and a variety of cocktails for anyone who wants other options. Fish Hopper Kona is a great spot if you want fresh seafood and a nice view of the bay.
I liked how everything felt casual, but the food still stood out.
Rating: 4.4 (1441 reviews)
Location: 75-5683 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 326-2002
Website: Visit Website
Quinn’s Almost by the Sea
I stopped by Quinn’s Almost by the Sea on my trip to Kailua-Kona. When I walked in, I noticed the laid-back vibe right away.
The restaurant feels unpretentious, and the staff greeted me with a friendly smile. The menu has lots of seafood options.
I tried the fresh catch of the day. Local fishermen caught the fish, and the kitchen prepared it simply.
My fish tasted fresh and flavorful. I could tell they use local Ono, Ahi, and Mahi Mahi.
The spot is busy but welcoming. TVs play sports throughout the bar and dining area.
Even when there’s a game on, the atmosphere stays relaxed enough to enjoy a good meal. They also run daily specials, so there’s always something new to try.
Quinn’s is in a great location, right across from the pier in the heart of town. It’s easy to find whether you’re out for a walk or driving by.
They also host private events, making it a good choice for gatherings.
Rating: 4.5 (2233 reviews)
Location: 75-5655 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 329-3822
Website: Visit Website
Jackie Rey’s Kailua-Kona
When I stepped into Jackie Rey’s in Kailua-Kona, I saw how colorful and lively it felt inside. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.
Locals and visitors both enjoyed themselves. I tried the seafood specials, and the freshness of the fish stood out.
The menu had a great variety, and I liked the mix of Hawaiian and Asian flavors. My dessert looked beautiful and tasted just as good.
The staff were friendly and polite during my visit. I also liked that there was plenty of parking, and the location felt convenient—just a short drive from the ocean.
Some people around me were celebrating birthdays or dining with a group. It seemed like a great spot for special occasions.
Rating: 4.5 (2,378 reviews)
Location: 75-5995 Kuakini Hwy STE 1, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 327-0209
Website: Visit Website
South Kona Grindz
When I stepped into South Kona Grindz, I felt right at home. The place has a cozy, local vibe.
I was impressed by the variety on the menu. There were fresh fish options, tasty tacos, and even vegan plates.
I tried the fish and chips, and the batter was crisp without being too heavy. The fish tasted like someone caught it that day.
There were also different choices for sides, like fries or salad. I liked that they served coffee and had a small gift shop area inside.
It seemed like both tourists and locals stop in often. The staff was friendly and quick with service.
My food came out hot, and I didn’t have to wait long. I appreciated how clean the restaurant was, and I noticed lots of smiles from other tables.
Rating: 4.6 (1033 reviews)
Location: 83-5315 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704
Contact: (808) 328-9000
Website: Visit Website
ULU
When I walked into ULU, I noticed the beautiful oceanfront views right away. The setting is relaxed but upscale, perfect for a special night or even a laid-back breakfast.
The smell of the grill and ocean air made me feel comfortable. The menu features Hawaii’s freshest seafood, with about three-fourths of the ingredients coming from the Big Island.
I loved how each dish highlights local flavors and mixes in Asian touches. The Ahi Tuna “Wellington” was one of the most interesting plates I tried.
The crudo selections tasted fresh and bright. Breakfast here is just as popular as dinner.
The buffet had lots of fresh fruit and pastries. The à la carte menu included Hawaiian favorites.
For dinner, the Chilled Queen’s Platter had lobster, crab, poke, and oysters. Every bite tasted super fresh.
The staff offered friendly service, and even though the restaurant is inside a resort, I felt comfortable in shorts, sandals, or dressed up. I enjoyed a great view of the sunset while sipping a tropical cocktail from the bar.
Rating: 4.6 (439 reviews)
Location: 72-100 Ka’upulehu Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 325-8000
Website: Visit Website
Moon and Turtle
I stopped in at Moon and Turtle during my last visit to Hilo. The inside felt welcoming, with a relaxed vibe.
Friendly staff greeted me at the door and helped me with the menu since it changes often. What stood out most to me was the focus on local seafood.
I could tell the ingredients were fresh, and each dish had creative Asian-inspired flavors. I tried a seafood bowl that tasted both new and comforting.
The restaurant also has a small bar area, which gave it a casual feel. Locals and visitors enjoyed their meals together.
I found it easy to talk with friends because the space wasn’t too loud or busy. The menu isn’t very long, but everything I tried was full of flavor.
The service was quick, and I didn’t have to wait long for my food.
Rating: 4.6 (596 reviews)
Location: 51 Kalakaua St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 961-0599
Website: Visit Website
Pahoa Fresh Fish
When I visited Pahoa Fresh Fish, I noticed how relaxed the place felt. It’s a small, no-frills spot with a comfy, local vibe.
The staff greeted me with a smile as soon as I walked in. I ordered the fried fish and chips, which is their specialty.
The fish tasted fresh, and the batter was crispy without being greasy. The waffle fries on the side were a nice change from regular fries.
The menu is simple and focuses on what they do best—fried seafood. The kitchen served everything hot and quickly.
People seemed to enjoy eating there, and I saw many locals coming in for takeout.
Rating: 4.6 (967 reviews)
Location: Pāhoa, HI 96778
Contact: (808) 965-8248
Website: Visit Website
Merriman’s Big Island
When I walked into Merriman’s Big Island, I noticed the calm, welcoming feeling right away.
The mountain views add quiet beauty, and the wooden décor creates a warm, inviting space.
The menu offers lots of locally caught seafood dishes.
I tried the fish special, which tasted fresh and flavorful with simple sides.
They focus on high quality, local ingredients from Hawaii.
Lunch and dinner are available, and the Sunday brunch looked especially good.
The staff greeted me with friendly service and helpful suggestions.
I felt cared for from start to finish.
Because it’s a popular place, I made a reservation and was glad I did.
The dress code is casual but still feels a little special.
There’s plenty of parking right out front.
Rating: 4.7 (1820 reviews)
Location: 65-1227 Opelo Rd B, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 885-6822
Website: Visit Website
Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill
When I walked into Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill in Kailua-Kona, I felt the relaxed vibe right away.
The space feels open and easy-going, perfect for a meal with friends or family.
I liked that it wasn’t busy or loud, so I could enjoy my food and talk.
The poke bowls stood out to me.
Every bowl tasted fresh, and I could tell the fish came from nearby.
They use local ingredients from Hawaiian farmers and fishermen, which made each bite special.
The menu also had other Hawaiian favorites, and everything I ordered was full of flavor.
Lunch and dinner are both available, and there’s a bar if you want a drink with your meal.
The staff were friendly and quick to help with menu questions.
Making a reservation was easy, but I saw plenty of people walk in and grab a table.
If you want to try classic poke in a calm setting, Umekes is a great choice.
Rating: 4.4 (5,877 reviews)
Location: 74-5599 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 238-0571
Website: Visit Website
Kona Inn Restaurant
I stopped by the Kona Inn Restaurant during my trip to Kailua-Kona and enjoyed the amazing ocean view from my table.
The restaurant sits in a historic inn, so it feels classic with big open windows and the sound of waves as you eat.
I liked how relaxed the space felt, especially after a long day exploring the town.
The seafood tasted fresh and was cooked well.
I tried the grilled catch of the day with a side of local vegetables.
The menu also had Hawaiian classics, and people around me enjoyed their poke bowls and fish tacos.
The bar, shaped like a horseshoe, made it easy for people to chat.
I ordered a mai tai while waiting for my food, and it tasted just right.
The staff were friendly and never rushed me, so I could enjoy the sunset.
It was busy, but I never felt crowded.
Rating: 4.2 (1842 reviews)
Location: 75-5744 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 329-4455
Website: Visit Website
What Makes Big Island Seafood Unique?
Big Island seafood stands out because it is fresh and rooted in local traditions.
Both the way fishermen catch the fish and the cooking methods make it different from seafood elsewhere in Hawaii.
Locally Sourced Fish and Shellfish
When I order seafood on the Big Island, much of it comes straight from the surrounding ocean.
Fishermen often catch fish like ahi (yellowfin tuna), opah, ono, and mahi-mahi using sustainable methods.
This means the seafood hasn’t traveled far and usually arrives at the table within a day or two.
The flavor is bright and clean thanks to this freshness.
I often see shrimp, crab, and shellfish that come from local waters.
Some places, like Seaside Restaurant, even raise their own seafood in on-site ponds.
This local sourcing lets restaurants serve dishes that are environmentally friendly and full of flavor.
Seafood lovers can really taste the difference compared to imported options.
For a list of local favorites, I check guides about the best seafood spots on the Big Island.
Traditional Hawaiian Cooking Techniques
Eating seafood on the Big Island means tasting dishes made with Hawaiian methods.
I often see fish cooked over open flames or steamed in underground ovens called imu.
Poke, a favorite, uses small cubes of raw, marinated fish with seaweed, onion, and soy.
This dish highlights freshness and simple seasonings.
Sometimes chefs grill the fish with sea salt or wrap it in ti leaves to keep it moist.
Smoked, salted, or dried seafood is also common.
I taste influences from Japanese and Filipino techniques, creating a mix of flavors and textures.
At spots like Da Poke Shack or Fish Hopper, I can try these traditional foods with local twists.
Some restaurants, like Fish Hopper Kona, blend old methods with fresh ingredients for a unique dining experience.
Tips for Enjoying Seafood on the Big Island
There are easy ways to enjoy the freshest and most delicious seafood on the Big Island.
It helps to know when to go for the best catches and how to pick options that care for the ocean.
Best Times of Year for Fresh Catches
The Big Island’s seafood often changes with the seasons.
Some fish are more common at certain times.
For example, ahi (yellowfin tuna) is most plentiful in the summer.
Mahimahi peaks in spring and fall.
Many local restaurants feature daily specials based on what fishermen catch that morning.
I make it a habit to ask servers about the “catch of the day.”
In Kona, local poke shops offer the best selection earlier in the day, since they may run out of popular items by afternoon.
Seafood festivals and local markets are also a good way to sample fresh catches year-round.
When I plan my trip, I check if any fishing tournaments are happening because these events often bring in even more fresh fish.
For a list of popular seafood spots and their seasonal menus, I check top-rated restaurants on Hawaii Island.
How to Choose Sustainable Seafood
Sustainable seafood choices protect fish populations and the ocean environment.
I look for restaurants that work with local fishermen who use responsible fishing methods.
Menus often mark which dishes use local, sustainable fish.
Sometimes servers answer my questions if I want to know more.
I check for keywords like pole-caught, line-caught, or locally sourced.
I avoid options with overfished or imported species.
Many top seafood places around Kona focus on fresh, local fish.
They highlight their sourcing on their websites, such as these popular seafood restaurants in Kailua-Kona.
I use guides like the Seafood Watch app to see what’s sustainable.
If I shop at a local market, I ask the seller how and where the seafood was caught.
Supporting sustainable seafood helps the island and future visitors.
