I know I’m on vacation when I am enjoying a cold adult beverage at lunch with a beautiful view on the beach. In Maui, it is illegal to drink alcohol on the beach, so if you aren’t staying at a hotel and want to feel a cold bottle in your hand or drink a fruity cocktail with an umbrella on top, consider these spots for lunch (or happy hour) off the sand. They aren’t cheap, but the gorgeous views and Instagram photo ops make these restaurants worthy of at least one visit.South Maui

5 Palms Restaurant on Keawakapu Beach in Kihei

Keawakapu Beach is my favorite beach in all of Kihei. Located just south of Kam III and the Kihei boat ramp (and walking distance from Anthurium House), Keawakapu hosts two  restaurants on its north end with views of the islands of Molokini, Lana’i and Kaho’olawe.

The 5 Palms Restaurant at Mana Kai Maui is a great spot for lunch off the beach (be sure to use the outdoor showers to wash off any sand, wear a cover up and try to look presentable) and happy hour.

SECRET: For lunch, stick to the appetizers and sandwiches if you are on a more limited budget. I like the coconut crusted shrimp and mahimahi sandwich.

They also have a very popular happy hour and a second late happy hour (perfect for late arrivals!). Check the menu to make sure they have something you like and enjoy the view.

Sarento’s on the Beach in South Kihei

Sarento’s On the Beach is located next to the Day’s Inn and is a romantic spot serving Italian restaurant and seafood. They do serve food all day, but it is a little more formal with white linens so I prefer it for happy hour or date night. I don’t recommend it for lunch if you are walking up in your bathing suit. This has long been a South Maui favorite, but reviews have been mixed lately…check out Yelp to help you decide.

West Maui

If you are enjoying a day on Napili Beach (maybe after breakfast after the Gazebo), and are getting hungry for lunch or happy hour, walk to the north side to Sea House Restaurant (if you are driving there it is a bit of a walk through a resort).

Sea House Restaurant in Napili

The jaw dropping view of the entire bay alone makes it worthy of a stop, even if it’s just for a drink. I thoroughly enjoyed my poke nachos and Sea House Punch made with POG (enough to order a second)! The Sea House is open for breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner, so take a look at the menu and see what looks best to you.

North Shore

And if you find yourself hungry during the day on the north shore, consider Mama’s Fish House at lunch for a less painful experience for your wallet.

Anyone else hungry now?!?