When it comes to fresh island flavors, nothing compares to the seafood restaurants in Kona. With the Pacific Ocean right at its doorstep, Kailua-Kona is home to some of the most incredible seafood dining experiences in Hawaii. Whether you’re craving poke bowls, grilled ahi, or lobster with a view, Kona delivers.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top 5 best seafood restaurants in Kona Hawaii, including their locations, best dishes, and what makes each one stand out.
Fish Hopper Seafood & Steaks
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Location: 75-5683 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI
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Why It’s Popular: A staple among Kailua-Kona seafood restaurants, Fish Hopper is famous for oceanfront dining with breathtaking views.
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Best Dish: Clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl or the fresh catch of the day.
Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill
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Location: 74-5599 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI
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Why It’s Popular: One of the best seafood restaurants in Kona HI, Umekes is known for its farm-to-table poke and locally sourced dishes.
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Best Dish: Signature Ahi Belly poke bowl.
Kona Inn Restaurant
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Location: 75-5744 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI
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Why It’s Popular: A historic gem among seafood restaurants Kona HI, Kona Inn offers casual charm with unbeatable sunset views.
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Best Dish: Fresh-caught mahi-mahi with macadamia nut crust.
Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill Kona
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Location: 75-5995 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI
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Why It’s Popular: Consistently voted as one of the best seafood restaurants in Kona, Jackie Rey’s blends island flavors with global cuisine.
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Best Dish: Crab cakes and seared ahi.
Quinn’s Almost by the Sea
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Location: 75-5655 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI
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Why It’s Popular: A casual local favorite, Quinn’s stands out among seafood restaurants in Kona Hawaii for its friendly vibe and hearty portions.
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Best Dish: Fish tacos and coconut shrimp.
Why Kona is a Seafood Paradise
What makes seafood restaurants in Kona truly special? One word: freshness. Kona’s location on the leeward side of the Big Island means calm, deep waters—ideal for fishing. Local fishermen head out each morning and return with the day’s catch, so when you order ahi, mahi-mahi, or ono, chances are it was swimming in the Pacific just hours earlier.
It’s not just about the food—it’s about the experience. Imagine savoring a perfectly grilled fillet while gazing at sunset over Kailua Bay or enjoying poke prepared with island-grown ingredients as waves crash nearby. This combination of ultra-fresh seafood and stunning oceanfront views transforms every meal into more than just dining—it becomes a memory of Hawaii itself.
See Also Kailua-Kona Coffee Shops Blog
Final Thoughts on Seafood Restaurants in Kona
From upscale oceanfront dining to laid-back local gems, the best seafood restaurants in Kona capture the spirit of the islands with every bite. It’s not just about the meal—it’s about the connection to Hawaii’s land and sea. Whether you’re savoring a traditional poke bowl, indulging in buttery lobster, or enjoying seared ahi paired with a sunset view, each dish reflects the Big Island’s bounty and culture.
No matter your style—romantic dinner, family-friendly outing, or casual beachside lunch—you’ll find a seafood spot in Kona that feels just right. And with the freshest catches arriving daily, you’ll always have a reason to come back for more.
Want to Live Near Seafood Restaurants in Kona?
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