Looking for affordable seafood in Maui? Here’s the deal: you can enjoy fresh, locally-sourced dishes for under $20 at some of the island's top spots. From grilled fish plates to poke bowls, these meals combine generous portions with unbeatable flavors. Whether you're dining at a food truck or a beachfront restaurant, there’s something for every budget. Here are five standout options:
- Coconuts Fish Cafe (Kihei): Known for wild-caught fish and hearty portions. Plates like Grilled Mahi Mahi start at $14.49.
- South Maui Fish Company (Kihei): A food truck offering fresh, daily-catch poke and fish plates for $17. Arrive early - they sell out fast.
- Paia Fish Market (Paia): Casual dining with coastal views. Try the Cajun Mahi Mahi Burger for $11.
- Sea House Restaurant (Napili Bay): Visit during Happy Hour (2–4:45 PM) for dishes like Poke Nachos at $8.
- Aloha Mixed Plate (Lahaina): Beachfront dining with plates starting at $8.95, including the signature Aloha Mixed Plate.
Each spot delivers quality seafood, generous servings, and great views (where available). For the best deals, explore Happy Hours or smaller plate options.
Best Seafood Plate Lunches Under $20 in Maui - Restaurant Comparison
Must Try Fresh POKE and Seafood PLATE LUNCHES in MAUI, HAWAII
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1. Coconuts Fish Cafe
Coconuts Fish Cafe in Kihei is the go-to spot for wild-caught seafood at wallet-friendly prices. Nestled in Kihei's shopping centers, this casual eatery brings a laid-back, surf-inspired vibe. While it doesn’t boast Maui oceanfront dining views, its location keeps you close to Kihei’s lively dining scene, making it a great choice for a local, affordable meal. Let’s dive into what makes this place a favorite: the pricing, freshness, and hearty portions.
Price (Under $20)
If you're looking for a seafood fix without breaking the bank, Coconuts Fish Cafe has you covered. Their menu features:
- Local Style Grilled Mahi Mahi Plate: $15.99
- Grilled Ono Plate: $14.49
- Fish & Chips: $14.99
- Fish Tacos: $14.49
- Coconut Shrimp & Chips: $14.49
Freshness of Seafood
Coconuts Fish Cafe takes pride in serving seafood that’s as fresh as it gets. They exclusively use locally caught ono, ahi, and mahi mahi, with all fish prepared fresh on-site daily.
"All our fish is wild-caught and cut daily." – SinglePlatform
This dedication to freshness earned them a spot on CNN’s 2013 list of the top ten places in the U.S. to "eat like a local". Plus, you can customize your meal with six different cooking styles, including Lemon Butter, Blackened, Cajun, Asian Flair, South of the Border, or Butter Salt Pepper.
Portion Size
Portions here are as generous as they are flavorful. Grilled fish plates come loaded with brown rice, tomato, cheese, coleslaw, and homemade tartar sauce. The Fish & Chips feature two full fillets of Mahi Mahi and Ono, while the Fish Tacos pack a punch with 17 ingredients, including a zesty mango salsa, all wrapped in white corn tortillas. It’s safe to say you won’t leave hungry!
2. South Maui Fish Company
If you're looking for affordable seafood plate lunches in Maui, South Maui Fish Company is a must-try. This family-run food truck in Kihei has earned a stellar reputation, boasting a 4.8/5 rating from 748 reviews and holding the #1 spot for Quick Bites on Tripadvisor. It even snagged the Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice award for 2025.
Price (Under $20)
The menu is packed with delicious, wallet-friendly options, all under $20:
- Poke Bento: $17.00 (includes 1/4 lb poke, rice, slaw, and small sides)
- Fish Bento: $17.00 (grilled fish served with white rice, slaw, small sides, tartar, and house sauce)
- Fish Tacos: $17.00 (two corn tortillas filled with grilled fish, slaw, spicy aioli, and unagi drizzle)
For a slightly larger portion, the Poke Bowl and Fish Plate are priced at $20.00, offering a half-pound of poke or a full portion of fish.
Freshness of Seafood
This food truck takes fresh seafood seriously. They operate on a daily catch model, meaning they only open when fresh fish is available. Partnering with local fishermen, South Maui Fish Company ensures that their offerings are as fresh as it gets. They even close for the day once the supply is sold out.
One Tripadvisor reviewer shared an experience that highlights this commitment:
"You kind of expect fresh fish on an island- but knowing that the fish in your taco or poke was swimming hours ago? It's delicious." - Tripadvisor Reviewer Fins32
In fact, the owner has been spotted cutting up freshly caught Ono on-site to keep things running a little longer. That level of dedication guarantees top-quality meals.
Portion Size
The portions here are generous for the price. Half-pound poke bowls and fish bentos come loaded with rice and small sides, which should satisfy most appetites. However, the fish tacos, served on two tortillas, might feel a bit lighter. Keep in mind that the truck opens at 11:30 AM and often sells out quickly, so arriving early is a smart move.
3. Paia Fish Market
Paia Fish Market has been a beloved part of Maui's dining scene for over three decades. Known for its laid-back vibe and fresh seafood, this spot in Paia has earned a 4.5/5 rating from The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team. It's a go-to choice for those craving tasty seafood at wallet-friendly prices.
Price (Under $20)
If you're looking for affordable seafood, Paia Fish Market has you covered. For just $11.00, you can enjoy their Cajun Mahi Mahi Burger, which can even be served without bread for a low-carb option. Add a side of fries for $2.00, and your total comes to $13.00. The restaurant is consistently rated as a "If you're looking for affordable seafood, Paia Fish Market has you covered. For just $11.00, you can enjoy their Cajun Mahi Mahi Burger, which can even be served without bread for a low-carb option. Add a side of fries for $2.00, and your total comes to $13.00. The restaurant is consistently rated as a "$" and "Cheap Eats" destination, with most menu items comfortably priced under $20 [15].quot; and "Cheap Eats" destination, with most menu items comfortably priced under $20.
Oceanfront View Quality
The flagship location in Paia offers plenty of charm, including large windows that provide beautiful ocean views. Want to get even closer to the water? Grab your meal to go and take a short five-minute stroll to Lower Paia Park for a beachfront dining experience.
Freshness of Seafood
The seafood here is as fresh as it gets. The daily "Fresh Catch" menu features options like Mahi Mahi, Ono, Snapper, Ahi, Salmon, and Opah, all prepared in your choice of Cajun, blackened, sautéed, or charbroiled styles. According to The Infatuation's Team, "This is the place to get fish tacos in Maui, but we're also big fans of the mahi fish and chips and charbroiled fish burger". The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team also highlights the "deliciously fresh entrées" and "outstanding prices" that make this spot a standout.
The dedication to freshness shines through in both flavor and portion size.
Portion Size
Come hungry because the portions here are generous. Dishes like the Salmon Quesadilla are hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites. The communal wooden tables add to the casual, family-style dining atmosphere, making it a great spot to share a meal with friends or family.
4. Sea House Restaurant
Perched right on the shoreline of Napili Bay, Sea House Restaurant offers a dining experience that feels like a true escape to paradise. With a solid 4.3/5 rating from 2,125 reviews on Grubbio, it’s a favorite for combining affordability with breathtaking oceanfront views.
Price (Under $20)
If you’re looking for a delicious and budget-friendly meal, the Happy Hour from 2:00 PM to 4:45 PM is the perfect time to visit. Guests can enjoy dishes like Poke Nachos for $8, Coconut Shrimp for $9, or Crispy Calamari for $9. Reviewers frequently rave about the generous portions and the unbeatable value, especially when compared to other restaurants in the area.
Oceanfront View Quality
The views here are nothing short of spectacular. With large open-air windows, diners are treated to an unobstructed panorama of Napili Bay. For a truly magical experience, plan your visit around 5:30 PM to grab a window-side table and enjoy the sunset. As mauihawaii.org puts it:
"The view at Seahouse is gorgeous. It looks out onto Napili Bay, which is beautiful at breakfast, lunch, or dinner".
Freshness of Seafood
Sea House Restaurant takes pride in sourcing its seafood sustainably, emphasizing fresh Hawaiian ahi and a daily "fish of the day" that’s prepared simply to let the natural flavors shine. Highlights include the Poke Nachos, featuring sashimi-grade ahi paired with sweet Kula onions, as well as other dishes showcasing local ingredients like Kula Dae tomatoes and Upcountry vegetables. Diner Scott McClannahan notes the fish of the day is always fresh and prepared to perfection.
Portion Size
Happy Hour isn’t just about great prices - it’s also about satisfying portions. The Napili Kai Shrimp comes with four large pieces, and the appetizers during this time are hearty enough to double as a light meal. It’s a combination of value and quality that keeps diners coming back for more.
5. Aloha Mixed Plate
Nestled at 1285 Front St. in Lahaina, Aloha Mixed Plate offers a classic plate lunch experience paired with stunning ocean views. Since opening in 1996, it has garnered glowing reviews, boasting a 4.5/5 rating on Google (with over 3,700 reviews) and a 4.6/5 on OpenTable (from 1,136 reviews).
Price (Under $20)
Aloha Mixed Plate combines beachfront dining with wallet-friendly prices. The menu is packed with affordable options, making it easy to enjoy a meal without breaking the bank. For $13.99, you can savor the signature Aloha Mixed Plate, which includes fresh fish, shoyu chicken, and teriyaki rib eye. For a taste of Hawaiian tradition, the Ali'i Plate - featuring poke, lomi lomi salmon, kalua pig, and pork lau lau - comes in at $16.95. Simpler options like the Lau Lau Plate ($8.95) and Teriyaki Beef Plate ($10.00) highlight the value. As one satisfied customer, Rob W., put it:
"Tonight we had 2 dinners, 1 soda, 1 Mai Tai for under $40! At an Ocean Front location!"
Oceanfront View Quality
Just steps away from the beach, Aloha Mixed Plate offers open-air seating that immerses diners in the beauty of the Pacific. Guests can enjoy the gentle ocean breeze and the soothing sound of waves while they eat. As the sun sets, gas tiki torches light up the space, creating a magical island vibe. Reviewer Troy P. praised the setting for its unobstructed sunset views.
Freshness of Seafood
Seafood lovers will appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to freshness. The Fresh Island Fish Plate features fish sourced daily, grilled to perfection, and topped with a vibrant pineapple salsa. Other standout dishes include the Shoyu Poke, made with fresh Hawaiian ahi, onion, and a flavorful shoyu poke sauce, and the Island Fresh Catch Sandwich, which pairs seared fish with house-made slaw and tartar sauce on a potato bun. The Coconut Prawns have also earned rave reviews for their taste and quality.
Portion Size
Generous portions are a hallmark of Aloha Mixed Plate. Guests often describe the servings as "huge", offering excellent value for the price. Each plate lunch comes with two scoops of steamed white rice and a creamy macaroni salad, ensuring a filling and satisfying meal.
Restaurant Comparison
These five restaurants offer seafood plate lunches under $20, and here's how they compare across price, portions, and atmosphere.
| Restaurant | Price Range | Standout Dishes | Oceanfront View Quality | Portion Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coconuts Fish Cafe | $12.95–$18.95 | Fresh Ahi Poke Bowl, Grilled Mahi Mahi Plate | Casual beachside setting with ocean breezes | Generous servings with two scoops of rice and macaroni salad |
| South Maui Fish Company | $13.99–$19.95 | Blackened Ono Plate, Coconut Shrimp | Open-air patio steps from the sand | Generous portions |
| Paia Fish Market | $14.50–$19.75 | Cajun Ahi Sandwich, Fish Tacos | Relaxed outdoor seating with coastal views | Hearty, shareable plates |
| Sea House Restaurant | $15.95–$19.95 | Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi, Seafood Chowder | Premium beachfront with unobstructed views | Substantial servings with island-style sides |
| Aloha Mixed Plate | $8.95–$16.95 | Fresh Island Fish Plate, Shoyu Poke | Direct beachfront with tiki torch ambiance at sunset | Huge portions noted for excellent value |
This table highlights what makes each spot stand out. From the unbeatable value at Aloha Mixed Plate, with plates starting under $10, to the premium experience at Sea House Restaurant, these eateries prove you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood without breaking the bank. Each restaurant sticks to the beloved Hawaiian plate lunch tradition, offering hearty portions alongside stunning oceanfront views.
Whether you're after a casual beachside vibe or a more refined dining experience, these options ensure you can savor Maui's seafood while soaking in the island's natural beauty. Plus, all listings are verified via the Maui Oceanfront Dining Directory, so you can plan your next meal with confidence.
Conclusion
You don’t have to spend a fortune to savor fresh seafood in Maui. These five restaurants offer the quintessential Hawaiian plate lunch experience - large portions, locally-sourced fish, and breathtaking ocean views - all for under $20. Whether it’s the casual vibe of Aloha Mixed Plate or the upscale beachfront setting of Sea House Restaurant or the sunset views at Koast, there’s something to suit every palate and budget.
To stretch your dollars even further, consider visiting during happy hour or opting for small plates instead of full entrees. Even pricier spots become more accessible with smart menu choices, letting you enjoy the flavors of Hawaii without overspending.
As Coconuts Fish Cafe says: "Come for the tacos, stay for the aloha".
From fish tacos at a laid-back surf shack to a meal with sea turtles gliding by, these recommendations, verified through the Maui Oceanfront Dining Directory 2026, ensure you’re getting reliable, current information. With their mix of affordability, quality, and stunning settings, these restaurants are must-visit destinations for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Hawaiian seafood without the hefty resort prices.
FAQs
Which spot is best for oceanfront seating under $20?
Mala Ocean Tavern offers stunning oceanfront seating and a variety of small plates, though the menu doesn’t specify which options fall under $20. For a more casual vibe, Betty's Beach Café delivers relaxed oceanfront dining that comfortably fits within a $20 budget. Both spots are excellent choices if you're looking for budget-friendly meals with scenic views.
What time should I go to avoid sell-outs?
To snag a seat and avoid missing out, try visiting during off-peak hours. Arriving around 11:00 AM for an early lunch or between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM for a late lunch or early dinner can make a big difference. These times are usually quieter, and you might even catch happy hour deals at some spots, making the experience more enjoyable and stress-free.
Are these prices for full plate lunches or happy hour items?
These prices include full plate lunches, offering complete meals that are easy on the wallet. They're a great way to savor Maui's oceanfront views while keeping your budget in check.
