Hi Reader,
Welcome to Come Travel with Melodie.
Every week I'll share a travel experience, a practical travel tip, and a tool or app that's helped make our travels easier. My goal is to help you travel smarter, discover great places, and make the most of your adventures.
A few years ago, we discovered Paia Fish Market in Lahaina on Maui and quickly became fans. The seafood was fresh, the atmosphere was casual, and the prices were surprisingly reasonable for Hawaii.
Sadly, that original Lahaina location was lost in the devastating Maui wildfires of 2023.
When we visited Oahu after the fires, I was excited to discover another Paia Fish Market location right across the street from one of my favorite spots, Marugame Udon.
We enjoyed it so much that we returned several times during that trip. Then, when we visited Waikiki again this February, it was one of the first restaurants we added to our list.
In fact, we ate there three times during the trip.
Sometimes that's the best travel recommendation I can give.
When a restaurant makes it onto our must-visit list on multiple Hawaii vacations, I know it's worth sharing.
π€ This Week's Must Do
Paia Fish Market Waikiki
If you're looking for fresh seafood in Waikiki that won't completely blow your vacation budget, put Paia Fish Market on your list.
We've eaten at Paia Fish Market on multiple trips to Hawaii, most recently this February, and the food has been consistently excellent every time.
My husband loves the grilled snapper, and one thing we really appreciate is how accommodating they are with his food sensitivities.
Over the years, I've worked my way through quite a bit of the menu. The shrimp tacos are one of my favorites, the shrimp quesadilla is excellent, and even the teriyaki chicken was surprisingly good.
The atmosphere is casual, the portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable for Waikiki.
One important tip before you go.
Avoid the dinner rush if possible.
The line can stretch for close to an hour during peak dinner times. We had much better luck at lunch or by having an early or late dinner.
π Read my full review:
βhttps://travelmustdos.com/paia-fish-market-waikiki/β
π‘ Travel Tip of the Week
How I Find Great Local Restaurants While Traveling
People often ask how I find local restaurants when I travel.
Here's my process.
β’ Watch YouTube videos before a trip
β’ Check Google Reviews and Yelp
β’ Look at ratings and photos
β’ Search sites like Resy and OpenTable
β’ Ask other travelers for recommendations
β’ Hotel concierge or staff for recommendations
β’ Pay attention to where locals are eating
One of my favorite tricks is finding a place with a long line or lots of local customers and then returning at a less busy time.
If locals are willing to wait, there's usually a good reason.
π± Travel App of the Week
Flush
This free app has become one of my favorite travel tools.
Flush helps you find public restrooms around the world using your phone's location.
We've used it in several countries and throughout the United States.
It's one of those apps you hope you won't need, but when you do, you'll be glad you downloaded it.
Apple:
βhttps://apps.apple.com/us/app/flush-toilet-finder-map/id955254528β
Android:
βhttps://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=toilet.samruston.com.toilet&hl=en_USβ
π΄ More Waikiki Favorites
Planning a trip to Oahu? Here are a few more guides you might enjoy.
π Marugame Udon Waikiki Reviewβ
π½οΈ Best Places to Eat in Waikikiβ
β Reader Question
What's the best local restaurant you've discovered while traveling?
Hit reply and let me know. I'm always looking for new places to add to my travel wish list.
Until next time,
Melodie
βTravel Must Do'sβ
P.S. Join the Come Travel with Melodie Facebook group to share travel tips, ask questions, and connect with fellow travelers.
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