Canoehouse - Waimea

Located in the Moana Lani Resort, this charming restaurant offers beachside seating with breathtaking views of the sea and stunning sunsets. It's the only truly romantic and somewhat stylish spot I know of on the Big Island that caters to vegans, making it perfect for birthdays or special occasions. The menu is inspired by Japanese cuisine, though it does not feature sushi.

Reservations are necessary, so be sure to request the vegan menu! I loved everything I tasted, but the roasted corn was definitely the standout! This restaurant is situated in Mauna Lani, offering a lovely view of the sea. If you can, try to make a reservation for just before sunset for an even better experience.

There’s so much to say about this place! The service is excellent, and there are plenty of seating options with beautiful views of the sea and Kohala Mountain. They even have a separate vegan menu with 12 options! Considering the value, the prices are reasonable; for two people, our total bill was under $120, not including tip, drink, or alcohol. While it might not have been the best vegan dining experience I’ve ever had, it was definitely enjoyable and worth it!

For the main course, I enjoyed the Tofu and Mushroom pot, while my son opted for the Hearts of Palm pasta. Both dishes were packed with unique and delicious flavors that truly represent Hawaii, and they were beautifully presented. Our server brought out a panna cotta dessert for my son and me, topped with a coconut cream that was incredibly smooth, perfectly rounding off our meal along with a coffee martini, which was also completely plant-based. The two meat-eaters among us thoroughly enjoyed their mahi mahi dish, paired with pulled bread and garlic fried rice. This was an extraordinary culinary experience shared by my mother, sister, son, and me as we celebrated my sister’s birthday. They even surprised her with a special dessert to accompany the chocolate flourless cake she ordered for my mother. The sunset, service, and overall experience were remarkable! You won’t be disappointed! Mahalo!

At Moana Lani Resort, this restaurant offers a stunning beachside setting with breathtaking views of the sea and sunset, making it the only truly romantic and somewhat stylish dining option I've found on the island that caters to vegans. It's perfect for celebrating a birthday or any special occasion. The aromas are excellent, particularly in the incredible sauces used in the dishes. I especially enjoyed the Japanese-inspired menu (not sushi).