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Without question, the best evening dining on this side of the island. The East-West food is genuinely innovative and focuses on seasonality and the freshness of ingredients.

At low tide on a weekend, drive slowly on Kamehameha Highway just past He’eia Kea Boat Harbor. A little way offshore, you’ll see watercraft of every description clustered around seemingly nothing at all. In fact, just above sea level is a sandbar, and locals like to fetch up here, light the hibachi and hang out. Rent a canoe or kayak and join them.

Straightforward Italian food of the marinara-with-everything school, prompt service, and a family-friendly atmosphere are the hallmarks of Assagio.

Italian-Thai cuisine, but not as a fusion. The restaurant serves both simply because its owners know both – and it’s a yummy combo.

This stacked-high bookshop is a rare find in Hawai’i: a place run by readers for readers, with comfy chairs and a mix of used books and new titles. A great supply of locally published works, too.

This venerable spot – a warren of dim rooms scented with the delicious aroma of grilling meat – turns out surf and turf for everyone from Lanikai millionaires to sandy surfers.

Named after a nearby lion-like rock formation, this old-fashioned restaurant ladles out soups, salads, and its specialties: Slavonic Steak and Mile High Pie.

Call to Joe’s isn’t reserved for a wedding – neighboring Ha’ikū Gardens does a booming bride-and-groom business. If open, expect steaks, seafood, and sandwiches.