in Newport Beach. The business didn't do well initially, until the manager Tom Ham took it over and renamed it Bali Hai. Atop the building, you can still see "the Goof," a funny-looking guy who was the mascot for Christian's Hut. Bali Hai developed their own mascot, Mr. Bali Hai, whose droopy-lidded face can be seen at the front door, and on the tiki mugs. Today, Bali Hai remains a popular Polynesian restaurant, with many fine examples of Polynesian art both indoors and out.

Bali Hai is located on Shelter Island in San Diego, along with Humphrey's Half Moon Inn

classic

Humphrey's Half Moon Inn

San Diego, CA

Hotel/Motel

8.8

and Trader Mort's Liquor

classic

Trader Mort's Liquor & Deli

San Diego, CA

Store

6.8

How to find it

street view
pictures

When you arrive at Shelter Island's large roundabout, take it to the left, to the island's north-east end.

Parking

Bali Hai has its own free parking lot.

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Comments

KukePuluke

KukePuluke has visited Bali Hai Restaurant.

September 26, 2016, 7:08 PM

I like this place. The old school atmosphere helps....and the views of the water are wonderful.
On my second visit here I ordered a Mai Tai.
I recommend NEVER ordering a Mai Tai here if you like Mai Tais.
I have that drink probably in every Tiki bar in the world, and have concentrated on making my own version of the drink at home. The Bali Hai version is simply too strong and heavy, lacking the subtleties and complexities of, for instance, the Mai Tai at the nearby False Idol.
And again, despite the Mai Tai, I like this place.
One is not bludgeoned with the Tiki-ness of the place. It's strong old-school presence and the lovely views are winning elements.

Merry Mermaid

Merry Mermaid is a semi-regular at Bali Hai Restaurant.

April 26, 2016, 3:07 PM

I grew up going to this San Diego iconic restaurant with its gorgeous view. In the last five years though, they have perfected the menu and the food is fantastic. The Mai Tais are very true to Polynesian culture, as they aren't sugared up with juices or mixes. It's all about the rums. Mai Tais and other island style drinks can be served in a Mr. Bali Hai collectible mug, which is cool! The reason I make it a point to return to Bali hai at least once a month is the live music. As far as I know, they only have one musician who plays there and he is AMAZING!!! He makes me feel like I'm on a beach in Maui. His voice is wonderful and he plays authentic Hawaiian songs. I bring my friends to hear him play and we don't leave the lounge to eat dinner until his set is over! He makes it well worth the price.

Mai Tai Mike

Mai Tai Mike has visited Bali Hai Restaurant.

January 20, 2016, 9:38 PM

Not your typical Mai Tai, but one I love. No fruit juice here just lots of rum. Limit yourself to two...trust me.

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