Hula Grill Kaanapali

Overview

Set right on Kā‘anapali Beach in Whalers Village, Hula Grill Kaanapali nails the breezy Maui vibe: open‑air tables, ocean views, tiki torches, and a casual scene that leans festive at sunset. You can choose between the relaxed, sand‑floor Barefoot Bar and the more polished dining room.

What to Eat & Drink

The menu centers on Hawaiian regional flavors—line‑caught fish, Maui produce, and all‑natural meats. Crowd favorites called out in recent reports include poke tacos, sashimi ahi, lobster‑shrimp‑scallop pot stickers, and a 28‑day dry‑aged ribeye, plus island cocktails and local beers. Save room for the shared‑by‑many Hula Pie.

Vibe & Seating

The Barefoot Bar is casual and first‑come, with live music nightly 6:00–8:30 pm and a hula show 6:30–7:30 pm. The dining room takes reservations and features chef specials. Families are welcome and there’s a kids’ menu.

Logistics

• Hours: Brunch Sat–Sun 10:00 am–2:00 pm; Lunch daily 11:00 am–4:00 pm; Dinner daily 4:30–9:00 pm; Barefoot Bar daily 4:00–9:30 pm.
• Getting there: Walk the beachfront boardwalk from nearby resorts, or use the complimentary Kā‘anapali Trolley/Islander Bus Route 25.
• Parking: Use the Whalers Village garage; the restaurant validates (space can be limited, so transit can be easier).
• Restrooms are available within/near Whalers Village.

Best Time to Visit

Sunset is the show—expect peak crowds around 6–7 pm when music and hula are underway. For an easier seat, try late lunch before 4 pm or weekend brunch from 10 am. If you’re aiming for sunset in the dining room, reserve; for the Barefoot Bar, arrive early and be ready to wait. There’s also a daily happy hour 2–4 pm.

Is It Worth It?

For a classic toes‑in‑the‑sand meal with live Hawaiian entertainment right on the water, this is an easy yes. It’s popular and priced accordingly, but the setting and vibe carry the experience—especially if you time it right.