Dive Into Maui’s Seafood Spots

Maui • April 1, 2020

When you’re vacationing in the middle of the Pacific, it’s only natural that you’d want to sample some of the ocean’s bounty. Fortunately for you, Maui has some great seafood spots offering dishes cooked in familiar styles or with a unique island vibe.

Fish Salad at Down the Hatch
Grilled Fish Salad at Down the Hatch

Seafood is made fun at Down the Hatch . This Lahaina eatery offers selections “Between the Buns and On Top of Tortillas,” plus appetizers, salads and “Big Plates” like macadamia nut-crusted ahi and cajun-grilled fresh catch.

Enjoy locally sourced fresh fish in entrees such as the Fish n’ Chips, Mahi Mahi Tacos or delicious Ahi dishes. Experience the flavors of the South with their Shrimp Po’ Boy. Chill out in the evenings with handcrafted cocktails and local beers during an extended daily Happy Hour.

Sauteed Fresh Market Fish at Mala Ocean Tavern
Sauteed Fresh Market Fish at Mala Ocean Tavern

If you’re looking for a restaurant that’s intimate and relaxed, you can’t go wrong with Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina. Mala’s serves tasty small plates and entrees with a healthy twist of organic, whole grains and no hydrogenated oils. All sandwiches come on a house-made flax chia seed bun. They have a full bar and an extensive wine list.

Mala’s  enticing oceanfront setting has it all—exceptional cuisine, delicious handcrafted cocktails, and an excellent wine selection chosen by their head sommelier.

Homemade Clam Chowder Bread Bowl at Captain Jack's Island Grill
Homemade Clam Chowder Bread Bowl at Captain Jack’s Island Grill

As Sean Corpuel’s culinary skills outgrew the burger-focused menu of his Cool Cat Cafe , he decided to venture out into newer waters, so to speak. Enter: Captain Jack’s Island Grill , right next to Cool Cat on Front Street. “We created the concept around different ports o’ call. Captain Jack’s serves some of my favorite foods from all over the world, foods that we tested on the menu at Cool Cat before opening.” Their menu offers up all sorts of goodies in the way of salads, appetizers and specialty entrees like their award-winning lilikoi hand beer-battered Captain Jack’s Fish-N-Chips.

Captain Jack’s is a great place to enjoy a casual meal or a cocktail as the sun goes down, a respite amidst all the action and a bird’s eye view of the famous Lahaina Banyan tree.

[A version of this article appeared in print in the pages of This Week Maui]

 A person scuba diving next to a large school of fish in clear blue water, learn how to start scuba.
By Cheryl Lee January 21, 2026
Learn how to start scuba diving in Hawaii with clear steps, beginner essentials, top islands for training, safety tips, and what to expect on your first dives.
The peak of Mauna Kea on the big island of hawaii covered in snow
By Cheryl Lee January 19, 2026
It snows on Hawaii - and this post is here to break down the where, when, why, and how. Learn more about Hawaii’s snowfall and unique geography.
By Cheryl Lee January 16, 2026
Snorkeling in Hawaii is one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve dried off. The islands’ warm, clear waters are home to coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and a variety of other marine life. Whether you’re a beginner testing out your first mask or a seasoned snorkeler chasing reef walls, Hawaii offers some of the best snorkeling conditions in the world. But before you grab your fins and jump in, it helps to understand what makes each island unique, how to snorkel safely, and how to protect the fragile ecosystems beneath the surface. Read our complete guide to making the most of snorkeling during your visit to the Hawaiian Islands.
1966 and 2026 This Week Hawaii magazine cover image
January 8, 2026
Discover the evolution of This Week Hawaii, from its 1966 founding to becoming Hawai‘i’s most widely read visitor magazine and digital travel resource.
Nene geese, what Hawaii  is known for.
By Cheryl Lee November 12, 2025
Discover what makes each Hawaiian Island unique, from Oahu’s surf culture to Kauai’s lush beauty and Maui’s luxury resorts. Learn more about what every Hawaiian island is about.
driving down a one way road on the coastline of hawaii with a view of the ocean and neighborhood
By Cheryl Lee October 27, 2025
Learn essential Hawaii driving etiquette and rules. From speed limits to local customs, here’s what you need to know for safe, respectful travel.
A kii statue in Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park in Hawaii
By Cheryl Lee October 19, 2025
Looking to learn more about Hawaii’s history during your visit? This is our full guide to some of Hawaii’s best historical locations to visit during your stay!
Discover the best time to visit Hawaii.
By Cheryl Lee October 16, 2025
Plan your Hawaii trip smart! Learn the best months for sunny weather, fewer crowds, and good deals—plus insider tips from local island experts.
What Hawaiian Island Should You Visit? First-Timers Guide
By Cheryl Lee September 15, 2025
Planning your first Hawaii trip? Compare Oʻahu, Maui, Big Island & Kauaʻi in this guide to help you choose the best island for your perfect vacation.
By Cheryl Lee September 7, 2025
From farm-to-table fine dining and fresh island seafood to local shave ice and hidden roadside gems, Maui’s culinary scene offers something for every taste.