You’re walking down Palani Road in Kailua-Kona, the humidity is hugging you like a warm towel, and your stomach is starting to growl. You see the sign. Quinn's Almost by the Sea. It's been a staple since 1979.
But honestly? The name is a bit of a tease. You aren’t exactly on the sand. You’re across the street from the pier. You’re "almost" there. Yet, for some reason, this place is consistently packed with locals and travelers who know exactly where to find the best fish and chips on the Big Island.
Why Quinn's Almost by the Sea in Kailua-Kona HI Still Matters
Kona has changed a lot. Fancy resorts have popped up, and prices for a simple mahi-mahi sandwich have gone through the roof at most "oceanfront" spots. Quinn's is the holdout. It’s a casual bar and grill that feels like a cross between a dark Irish pub and a tropical garden.
The vibe is eclectic. You’ve got mounted sportfish on the walls and Hawaiian murals competing for your attention. It’s the kind of place where you can show up in sandy flip-flops and nobody blinks. They’re the southernmost official Packers bar, too. So, if you’re a football fan visiting in the fall, you know where the energy is at.
The Menu: Freshness Over Fancy
Most people think "bar food" means frozen patties and bagged fries. At Quinn's, that’s a mistake. They serve fresh fish daily—the real stuff like Ono, Ahi, and Swordfish.
- The Fish and Chips: This is the heavyweight champion. We’re talking beer-battered fish, golden brown, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce. It’s a massive portion.
- The Burgers: They actually brand the Quinn’s logo right onto the bun. It’s a nice touch. The Kona Bleu Burger is a standout if you like that sharp, funky cheese kick.
- Pupus (Appetizers): Don't skip the Cajun Ono sashimi. It’s one of those dishes that reminds you that you're in Hawaii, not just any old pub.
Finding the Secret Garden
The front of Quinn's looks like a standard dark bar. It’s cool, air-conditioned, and great for watching a game. But if you walk through to the back, there’s an outdoor garden seating area. It’s lush. It’s quiet. It’s dog-friendly.
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Basically, you get two different experiences in one building. You can have the rowdy sports bar energy or a relaxed, tropical lunch surrounded by flowers. It’s a weird contrast, but it works.
Parking: The Absolute Must-Know
Parking in Kona is a nightmare. Seriously. If you try to find a spot on the street near the pier, you’ll be circling for forty minutes.
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Pro tip: Use the hotel parking lot across the street. Quinn's usually validates parking (double-check with the hostess when you arrive). It saves you a massive headache. Also, don't just stand there waiting; go up to the hostess immediately to get on the list. This place fills up fast, especially when the cruise ships are in town.
The Reality Check
Is it perfect? No. Sometimes the service is "island time" slow. You might wait a bit for your Mai Tai. A few reviewers lately have mentioned the soup can be hit or miss, or the fish might be a tad overcooked if the kitchen is slammed.
But for the price? In 2026, finding a spot in Kailua-Kona where you can get a "Mini Catch of the Day" for around $22 is rare. It’s high-value dining in a high-cost area.
What to Do Next
If you’re planning a visit, here is how to handle Quinn's Almost by the Sea like a pro:
- Time it right. They are usually closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays (always check their current hours at 808-329-3822 as things shift). Sunday mornings are great for breakfast—try the banana pancakes.
- Order the Ono. If it's on the "Catch of the Day" list, get it. Whether it's in the fish and chips or as a grilled entree with Quinn’s potatoes, it’s usually the freshest thing in the building.
- Validate your parking. Seriously, don't pay the full price at the lot across the street.
- Sit in the back. If you want the "Hawaii" vibe, ask for the garden. If you want the "Pub" vibe, stay by the bar.
Quinn's isn't trying to be a five-star Michelin experience. It’s a reliable, salty, friendly neighborhood joint that serves better seafood than half the tourist traps on Ali'i Drive. It’s almost by the sea, but it’s exactly where you want to be for a real Kona meal.