People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Everything about this restaurant was wonderful! Highly recommend the pork ribs and ahi tuna dish. Food was all soo delicious! Service was great and view was beautiful. ”
“ Wonderful restaurant and experience. Isaac the waiter was great. The poke was great. Tuna was super fresh, had the coconut shrimp and steak skewers. Great place but Isaac did a fantastic job and was incredibly helpful. ”
“ Great Polynesian restaurant on the water. The restaurant is on the second floor with good views. We had kalua pork, lobster tacos, salmon and fish & chips (all delicious). We also had a maitai (strong!) and a Pina colada. We sat outside on the patio and had a great meal. We'll be back. ”
“ I love their risotto salmon dish and my favorite dessert is the orange cake with horchata ice cream. Always friendly staff. Beautiful view. The restaurant does get very loud so be prepared for the noise level to be on the louder side. ”
“ A good friend and her husband had their wedding ceremony and reception here, and it was incredible! I can't say enough nice things. The ceremony spot with the North San Diego Bay in the background is amazing. There are several reception areas, and ours outside was fantastic, offering amazing views of the bay and downtown San Diego as well. The food was very good, and the entire staff was friendly and attentive. A experience all around ! ”
“ The service was EXELLENT! if you order the Mai tai..wow what an experience its STRONG. So just a heads up The food was some of the best i have ever had!!! We had the steak. But the dessert..HOLY MOLY!!! WHAT AN EXPERIENCE!!! CANT WAIT TO VISIT AGAIN!!! ”
“ Absolute classic. You’ve got to go and experience this place. Amazing decor, such rich history, a San Diego staple. The Mai Tais are not well balanced at all and will kill you if you’re into that kind of thing, and the food is expensive and only mehh (besides the spring rolls which are bomb) but I would still go back a 100 times over because of his much fun it is to just be there for the tiki magic and have a drink by the water. Tons of vegetarian options as well! ”
“ Richard and I went to Bali Hai today for Pau Hana – Happy Hour, and it was the perfect mix of history, culture, and island-inspired flavors. Open since 1954, Bali Hai is a true San Diego tiki institution, known for its legendary Mai Tais, Polynesian decor, and stunning bayfront views. The moment you step inside, the mid-century tiki culture is alive and well, from the carved wooden statues to the iconic "Goof on the Roof" overlooking Shelter Island. This place has been serving up tropical vibes for nearly 70 years, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves a bit of old-school island charm. I started with a cocktail, because when you come to Bali Hai, you have to! They are known for their famously strong and rum-forward drinks, and this one did not disappoint. For food, I had the island beef skewers with pickled banh mi salad, a perfect balance of rich, smoky flavors with a fresh, tangy crunch. The Bali fries were another highlight—crispy, well-seasoned, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting. Richard, of course, enjoyed his portion in the car as you can see in the videos. And yes, you’re not imagining things—his portion is always bigger than mine! Whether you come for the food, the drinks, or just to take in the unmatched views of San Diego Bay, Bali Hai is a place with history, character, and a little bit of magic in every visit. ”
Menu
Ali’i Tasting*
US$18.00Fall Brewing Co. Let’s Go IPA
US$8.00Hurricane
US$11.00The Jetty
US$12.00Lava Slide
US$12.00
About
Bali Hai Restaurant
If you're seeking a culinary escape infused with tropical flair, look no further than Bali Hai Restaurant, nestled on the picturesque Shelter Island in San Diego. With its breathtaking views of the North San Diego Bay, this Polynesian dining gem promises an unforgettable experience, both in its stunning ambiance and delightful dishes.
Bali Hai specializes in a menu that blends traditional island flavors with innovative twists. From the moment you peruse their lunch options, the enticing selections are bound to ignite your taste buds. Notable highlights include the coconut shrimp with ginger lime dipping sauce, a personal favorite that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and zest (US$15). Meanwhile, the Bali Hai tuna poke garners rave reviews, celebrated for its freshness and harmonious flavors, served with avocado cream cheese and a touch of masago (US$19).
The restaurant’s salads also deserve a shout-out. The crab Louis, with its lump crab and creamy island dressing, presents an exquisite blend of texture and taste at US$18. Coupled with their friendly staff and stunning vistas, every meal feels like a celebration.
Don’t just take my word for it; guests rave about their experiences at Bali Hai. One diner, Alyson, enthused about the standout pork ribs and ahi tuna, commending not only the flavor but the attentive service. Another patron, Kimberly, shared her fondness for the vibrant outdoor setting, enjoying dishes like kalua pork and salmon while sipping strong mai tais.
One of the standout features of Bali Hai is its versatility. Whether you’re indulging in a romantic dinner, hosting a wedding reception, or simply enjoying a casual lunch with friends, the atmosphere is electric and welcoming. The combination of attentive service—often highlighted by patrons—and stunning scenery creates a dining experience that feels special every time.
As you leave the restaurant, the lingering taste of their risotto salmon and the enchanting buzz of conversation serve as sweet reminders of the culinary journey you’ve just embarked on. For anyone tempted by the allure of Polynesian cuisine, Bali Hai Restaurant offers a feast for the senses, merging island delights with San Diego charm. Prepare yourself for an experience rich in flavor and warmth—Bali Hai is indeed an oasis of unapologetic culinary joy.
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