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Hawaiian restaurant in Santa Cruz, California
What should I order at Hula's Island Grill?
What to order
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Crispy Coconut Shrimp Rolls
Mentioned as a standout favorite and described as "the best" by one reviewer; praised for being crispy and delicious.
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Hawaiian Ceviche
Recommended multiple times for being amazing, tasty, and a must-have on the happy hour menu.
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Ahi Tuna Tacos
Repeatedly suggested as a top menu item because it is fresh, flavorful, and one of the dishes people highly recommend.
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4
Kalbi Ribs
Called out as a favorite plate and described as melt-in-your-mouth, fantastic, and one of the best dishes to order.
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5
Kona Wings
Frequently recommended as a favorite happy hour item, praised for being sticky, sweet, and consistently excellent.
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6
Galbi Ribs
Recommended for being melt-in-your-mouth delicious and one of the most memorable dishes in the reviews.
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7
Mai Tai
Specifically recommended in the reviews as a standout cocktail, especially the house version and the original Mai Tai.
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8
Painkiller
Mentioned as a perfectly made cocktail that reviewers highly praised for its flavor.
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9
Hawaiian Fish Soup
Recommended for its sweet, creamy broth and perfect noodles, with one reviewer calling it a favorite.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 4 to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 4 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 12 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 12 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 12 to 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 12 to 9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 12 to 9 PM |
About Hula's Island Grill
Tropical, tiki-inspired outpost offering a range of Hawaiian eats with an American spin & drinks.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked
What is Hula's Island Grill known for?
It is especially known for Hawaiian ceviche and its happy hour food and drink specials, which are mentioned often in reviews. Guests also highlight the cocktails, including the original Mai Tai, and say the value is strong during happy hour.
What dishes are most recommended at Hula's Island Grill?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the Hawaiian ceviche, ahi tuna tacos, sticky and sweet Kona chicken wings, Thai curry bowl, and Hawaiian fish soup. Coconut shrimp rolls, jerk sauce dishes, and sweet potato fries also come up often as favorites.
What is the atmosphere like at Hula's Island Grill?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and trendy, with a tiki-inspired feel and outdoor seating available. Reviewers describe it as a good spot for groups, friends, families, and solo dining, especially when you want drinks and a meal in a lively Santa Cruz setting.
Is Hula's Island Grill good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $30, and many reviewers say the food and drinks are worth it, especially during happy hour. Several mention that the specials make the experience feel inexpensive for the quality and portion size.
Do you usually have to wait at Hula's Island Grill?
Yes, reviews and venue info both suggest a wait is common, even on a Tuesday during all-day happy hour. Dinner reservations are recommended, especially if you want to avoid waiting for a table or to improve your chances of getting a seat.
Is parking available at Hula's Island Grill?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking is available.
Does Hula's Island Grill have vegetarian options?
Yes, Hula's Island Grill offers vegan options.
Is Hula's Island Grill kid-friendly?
Yes, Hula's Island Grill is good for kids.
