Discover the joy of resort dining at Hua Kea. Conveniently situated within the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, this casual establishment provides the perfect opportunity to grab a laid-back meal or a drink after a busy day. Its location near the beach makes it a top option when gearing up for fun in the sun — or for grabbing a bite after a busy day in the sand.
Beyond its proximity to the beach, this restaurant is perfectly situated in that it provides an idyllic vantage point for the sunset. The open-air, gazebo-style bar provides a lovely view whenever the restaurant is open, so there’s never a wrong time to stop by.
As one of the hotel’s most popular bars, this is your go-to location for a margarita or a mai tai. There is also a decent wine selection, plus a few local beers worth trying. Non-alcoholic beverages include soda, iced tea, and a variety of delicious smoothies.
The food is decent, although certainly not the best at the hotel. Still, the vast selection of appetizers and entrees should ensure that everyone (including vegetarians or gluten-free eaters) should find something to enjoy.
Many visitors express a preference for Hau Tree’s drinks as opposed to its meals — so if you’re choosing between the two, opt for a cocktail and save your appetite for Manta or the Number 3 Restaurant. If you’re on the hunt for an alternative to these high-end establishments, however, Hau Tree should give you a taste of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel experience.
A few of our favorite menu items include the following:
Summer Beach Salad
On the hunt for something light? Treat yourself to a fresh salad that is incredibly healthy but doesn’t feel like a compromise. This wonderful salad features mixed greens, artichoke, tomato, cucumber, and avocado. Kalamata olives and an herb lime vinaigrette add a wonderful dose of flavor.
Kalua Fries
This may be a starter, but some visitors will find it satisfying enough to stand in as a meal. This option certainly ups the ante as compared to ordinary fries, especially since kalua pork hoisin BBQ forms the delectable topping. Asian-inspired sambal aioli and green onions enhance the effect.
Tofu Steak
A great option for vegetarian visitors, this tofu meal provides a wonderful take on the real deal. Seared to satisfaction, it’s served alongside jasmine rice and kimchee apple slaw. A sesame vinaigrette further adds to the appeal of this memorable dish.
Ala Plancha Fish Tacos
When you crave fish tacos, you can’t go wrong with the tasty version served at Hau Tree. Combining blackened fresh fish with flour tortillas, these tacos also include salsa roja, citrus crema, avocado, and cabbage slaw for an extra crunch.
Ovaltine Froth
Hau Tree serves a variety of desserts that sound delicious, but visitors are often most excited by the Ovaltine Froth. This might not sound all that interesting, but give it a try before you pass up on this iconic treat. A true classic, it has been on the menu for years and remains a great option for keeping young visitors happy.
Enjoy a casual meal with a gorgeous view at Hau Tree, where you can relax with your favorite cocktail as you indulge in a variety of enticing appetizers, entrees, or desserts. Take advantage of its convenient location as you discover what the Mauna Kea Beah Hotel experience is all about.
Insider Tips:
-Casual resort attire should be more than sufficient, so don’t feel as if you need to dress up for your visit. If you have a coverup for your swimsuit plus basic footwear, you will be good to go. Should you choose to dine elsewhere at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, however, you’ll want to check the dress code first.
-Valet parking tends to be the most convenient option for anyone staying offsite, although some visitors hike in from the hotel’s neighboring beaches.