If you’ve ever been to Maui—or are planning your very first vacation to this beautiful Hawaiian island—you may have heard about the iconic Mama’s Fish House.

Located on the north shore of Maui in Paia, Hawaii, Mama’s Fish House is about 20 minutes from Kahului Airport and sits right at the beginning of the famous Road to Hana. If you're staying in Wailea, expect about a 45-minute drive. If you're based in Ka’anapali, plan for roughly an hour on the road.

Mama’s Fish House got its start in the 1960s, thanks to the Christenson family and their first trip to Maui. When they opened the restaurant at its current location in 1973, most dining options on the island were steakhouses. They wanted guests to know that they served primarily fish.  Not only fish, but LOCAL fish.  Soon after, a loyal following began, and now some 50 years later, the restaurant is not only iconic, but very popular, and in my opinion worth a visit.

Over the past 50 years, Mama’s has developed a loyal following and has become one of Maui’s most popular and iconic restaurants.

We visited Mama’s most recently in February 2025. We were lucky enough to snag a reservation at 2:20 p.m.  about a week before our arrival. Typically, reservations fill up six months in advance, so be sure to book yours as soon

I recommend a reservation before the sun goes down.  The area is so beautiful, you won’t want to miss seeing any of it.  I also recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your reservation.  Photo opportunities are endless, and you don’t want to feel rushed.

Something you need to know ahead of time.  Mama’s Fish House is expensive.  Dining anywhere in Hawaii is going to be a bit pricey, but you’ll need to find a little extra in your budget for a meal here.  Our meal (two people) came to $300 including tip. We each enjoyed:  A mocktail, appetizer,  main dish, and we shared a dessert.  We didn’t splurge on the most expensive items but didn’t hold back either.

Many people might gasp at the cost—and understandably so—but if you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a truly memorable and  upscale Hawaiian dining experience, Mama’s is absolutely worth the splurge.

3 of My Favorite Things About Mama's Fish House

*The fish is incredibly fresh and delicious. The menu is printed daily and adjusted for the catches they received that day.  They tell you exactly where the fish was caught.  The chefs really know what they are doing.  Everything is cooked to perfection and presented in impeccable fashion.  My all-time favorite dish is the fish collar.  Think of it like a seafood version of bone-in chicken wings.  It varies depending on what they catch, and always delicious.

*The service is always impeccable. Starting with the valets, and all the way through dessert, everyone is always friendly, knowledgeable, and professional.  Our server even knew that paprika is a form of bell pepper when discussing food allergies!

*The setting is as Hawaiian as you can get. From the minute you step out of the car, it feels a bit like you’ve been transported back in time to a very special Aloha era.  The beach, the building, the décor, and the historical memorabilia are all worth savoring.  So, take your time and enjoy it all.

Is Mama’s Fish House worth it?  Absolutely.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience that captures the heart and spirit of Maui—perfect for a special night out during your Hawaiian vacation.

If you have any other questions about Mama’s Fish House or traveling to Maui, I’d love to hear from you!

Feel free to reach out to me at www.vincentvacations.com/agents/anneking.

🌺 Aloha and happy travels!

Why use a travel advisor when traveling during hurricane season?

I am currently sitting on my hotel room in Clearwater, Florida.  We were supposed to be in Jamaica right now, but Hurricane Beryl is headed for a direct hit.  So...we changed our plans.  (The biggest red island in the picture is Jamaica--currently under a hurricane warning.)

But that's not the point of this post.

I have clients in Cancun right now.  (See the pink line on the map, which is currently a hurricane watch for The Yucatan.)  They arrived on Sunday and have been having a fabulous time as a family.  They are supposed to leave for home on Friday...the same day Hurricane Beryl is supposed to hit the Cancun area.

My clients were wise and purchased travel insurance.  If they do face cancellations or long delays, their additional expenses will be reimbursed.  Knowing that is helping them to be proactive.

As the storm's path has been developing, I've been watching.  This morning, while they are enjoying their vacation, I booked them new flights home on Saturday.  They now have a guaranteed way home if things get dicey on Friday and their original flights get canceled.  Flights are always the hardest part in situations like these.  We will get them an extra night at the hotel when we know more.

If they are able to leave as scheduled, they will have flight credit to use on future travel.  If they get stuck, they have flights home and won't have to wait in endlessly long lines at the Cancun airport.

All this done while they enjoy a snorkel trip as a family.  They aren't scrambling trying to figure things out.  I'm sure there is some stress regarding the unknown, but for now, they are OK.

This is what I do as your travel advisor.  Even when I'm on vacation myself!

Lessons from this experience? 

1.  Hire a travel advisor to help you with your vacations! 

2.  Buy travel insurance--especially during Hurricane Season!

 

Jamaica!!  It's a place where the sun dances on the turquoise waves, where the air is filled with the rhythm of reggae, and every moment feels like paradise!

I absolutely love this gem of the Caribbean and think everyone should vacation here at least once in their lives.

Here are a few reasons why

The Beaches:  There are so many picture-perfect stretches of powdery sand, swaying palm trees, and sunsets like no other. Whether you're lounging in the shade of a thatched-roof cabana, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or simply strolling along the shoreline, Jamaica's beaches are a slice of paradise.  My favorite is 7-mile beach in Negril.

The People:  From the moment you step off the plane, you're greeted with smiles as warm as the Jamaican sun. The service here is more than just friendly; it's genuine, heartfelt, and always delivered with a side of Jamaican charm. Whether you're chatting with a local vendor at the market, being served a fruity drink on the beach at your resort, or being serenaded by a street musician, you can't help but feel the joy and positivity in every interaction.

The Food:  Jamaica is a culinary delight, with flavors and influences that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. From the fiery heat of jerk chicken to the comforting embrace of a Jamaican meat patty, every dish tells a story of tradition, history, and passion. And the best part? You'll find these mouthwatering delights everywhere you go--from roadside shacks,  to the all-inclusive resorts, and at any of the amazing five-star restaurants overlooking the ocean.

The Convenience:  Getting to Jamaica from DFW couldn't be easier.  There are  regular flights, many non-stop,  between Dallas Airports (DFW or DAL) and the MBJ International Airport. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer escape, you'll find that Jamaica is an easy flight away.  The convenience makes it the perfect destination for spontaneous adventures, indulgent honeymoons, destination weddings, anniversary trips and more.

The Safety:  While no one can guarantee a trouble-free vacation, tourist safety is a top priority here.  Tourism is the countries largest industry, and therefore they have many dedicated efforts to ensure that visitors feel secure and well-cared for throughout their stay. Jamaica goes above and beyond to see that your vacation is worry-free and filled with nothing but the best memories.  It is essential for travelers to exercise typical caution and be mindful of their surroundings.  Keep with reputable guided tours, avoid sketchy areas (especially at night), and enjoy the many amenities offered at your resort.

Jamaica stole my heart from the first moment I arrived, and it continues to be one of my favorite destinations. From its breathtaking beaches and friendly service, to its mouthwatering cuisine and ease of travel, Jamaica is a destination like no other.  It's a place where every moment feels like a dream and every day is a celebration of life, love, and the beauty of the Caribbean.

See my Jamaican Honeymoon Package