Crooked Surf: A Vibrant Taste of Island Life at Sheraton Kauai

There’s something deeply comforting about a place that can transport you instantly to the heart of Hawaiian culture without stepping off the mainland—or even beyond the pool deck. Crooked Surf, the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort’s tiki bar and grill, does just that. With its open-air layout, ocean breeze, and a lively surf-inspired vibe, this spot invites you to relax, sip on a Mai Tai, and savor flavors that celebrate the islands’ bounty in an approachable, casual way.

Savoring the Island Breeze and Menu Highlights

Stepping into Crooked Surf feels like joining a beachfront luau where the ocean is your backdrop and the energy is unmistakably island. The tiki bar’s design, with its thatched roofs and surf-themed décor, pays homage to Kauai’s coastal scenery and local surf culture. It’s easy to see why the resort’s recent $30 million renovation, completed in 2019, chose this concept to capture the laid-back, breezy spirit of the island itself.

I arrived for an early dinner on a late afternoon, just in time to catch the fading light on the ocean while the live Hawaiian music began to set the mood. The staff greeted me with warm aloha spirit, a testament to the friendly atmosphere noted by many guests. The open patio seating, just steps from the pool and shoreline, made it impossible not to feel the calming pulse of the island.

The menu, a casual Hawaiian-American fusion, reads like a love letter to local favorites—think hearty comfort food with a tropical twist. I couldn’t resist ordering the loco moco, a quintessential Hawaiian dish featuring a perfectly fried egg perched atop wagyu beef and rice, drenched in a rich gravy. The balance of flavors was satisfying, with the wagyu adding a lushness that elevated this humble dish beyond typical bar fare. Equally memorable was the Seared Ahi Tuna BLT, a clever take on the classic sandwich that layered fresh, pepper-crusted ahi tuna with crisp bacon and a tangy mayo—each bite vibrant and fresh, a nod to the island’s abundant seafood.

A highlight of the experience was their cocktail program. Crooked Surf’s Mai Tai, crafted with fresh juices and house-made syrups, offered a refreshing complexity without being overly sweet—ideal for enjoying with the sea breeze and live ukulele melodies. The full bar also features other tropical classics like piña coladas and local beers, rounding out a drink menu that truly celebrates Hawaiian flavors.

Balancing Ambiance with Practicalities

• Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM with live music from 5:30 to 7:30 PM
• Happy hour (3–6 PM) offers $3 off selected pupus and discounted cocktails
• Valet service available (fee), with ample free parking on-site
• Family-friendly with high chairs and a grassy play area for kids
• Casual dress code welcomes beachwear and flip-flops

However, Crooked Surf isn’t without its share of imperfections. While the food shines brightest in its signature dishes, some bar-style options—like the fish tacos or dynamite bowls—land in the “good but not spectacular” territory, a critique echoed by several diners. The pricing, moderate but leaning toward premium for casual fare, may give pause to those expecting a rustic beach shack vibe rather than a polished resort eatery. Additionally, service can lag when the place fills up during peak hours, particularly around sunset and live music sets, which might frustrate diners seeking a more leisurely meal.

The ambiance is another double-edged sword. The festive tiki bar environment—with televisions broadcasting sports and upbeat Hawaiian tunes—creates a lively, fun mood that’s perfect for families or groups looking to unwind. Yet, if you’re chasing a quiet, intimate dinner, the energetic vibe and occasional crowd noise might detract from the experience. For a more serene meal, I recommend arriving right at opening or after 7 PM, or requesting seating closer to the garden area away from the bar.

Verdict: Who Should Dive In?

Crooked Surf is a winning choice for those who prioritize atmosphere as much as flavor. If you’re visiting Kauai, staying at the Sheraton, or simply craving an oceanfront meal with island-inspired cocktails and friendly service, this spot checks all the boxes. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly layout and casual dress code, while couples and friends can revel in the sunset views and live music.

That said, if you’re a culinary purist seeking innovative or fine-dining Hawaiian cuisine, or if your ideal meal calls for hushed tones and meticulous service, Crooked Surf may feel too casual or bustling. It’s best embraced as a vibrant tiki bar experience where the cocktail craftsmanship and tropical setting outshine the kitchen’s occasional predictability.

In sum, Crooked Surf embodies the spirit of Kauai’s beachside culture: fun, relaxed, and full of aloha—a place to kick back, raise a glass, and celebrate island life with a plate of loco moco or a fresh ahi tuna BLT in hand.