When dreams of time spent out on the water dominate your idea of the perfect getaway, time spent boating in sunny San Diego, California is the only way to go! Known for its wonderful weather, vibrant atmosphere, and scenic shoreline, San Diego is a place where boating enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite hobby year-round. While there are many places to explore and discover on the water, San Diego Bay often holds a special place in the hearts of boaters who come to Southern California to fish, party, sail, and enjoy just about every form of water recreation in between! When your travel plans have you spending time on the waves in this area, there are plenty of savory nearby stops to enjoy as well. When you can’t wait to indulge in weekend delights, make sure to make time to enjoy Sunday brunch at Bali Hai Dock Restaurant.
A Flavorful Waterside Stop at Bali Hai Dock Restaurant
Bali Hai Dock Restaurant is located at 2230 Shelter Island Drive on the shores of San Diego Bay, offering up a sensational place to enjoy Sunday Brunch in a setting that speaks to Polynesian flavors, flair, and style. This impressive eatery is loved for its amazing menu selections as well as its stunning bay views that endlessly inspire. It’s bamboo awning, circular shape, and easy to spot signage make Bali Hai a welcoming brunch destination that’s hard to top. Inside, the restaurant hosts a variety of Polynesian sculptures, artwork, patterns, and designs that bring the island-vibe to life. Patio seating is ideal for guests that are looking to make the most of a charming table setting complete with sweeping waterfront views and paired with friendly service.
A PIECE OF SAN DIEGO HISTORY
The legacy of Bali Hai dates all the way back to 1935, when an entire Tahitian village was built for the film “The Bounty” starring the legendary Clark Gable. After shooting wrapped, the Tahitian-style bar became a full-blown trend, and a location was built on Shelter Island in 1953. This is where Bali Hai stands today, as one of oldest mid-century Tiki establishments still in operation. The success of Bali Hai can be attributed to long-time owner Tom Ham, who fully embraced the tiki theme with colorful Hawaiian shirts and a Polynesian floor show which performed throughout the 1950s and ensured a packed house. In 1973 after Tom passed away, ownership passed to the next generation of the Ham family. Now the 2nd and 3rd generations continue to honor Tom’s legacy. Although it was remodeled in 2010, Bali Hai has never lost its vintage charm and remains one of San Diego’s best and most unique restaurants.
AWARD WINNING DINING
When you brunch at Bali Hai, you are truly enjoying a meal at one of San Diego’s best dining and events spaces! Bali Hai is the proud winner of the Wedding Wire Editors’ Picks award, a Wedding Wire Couples’ Choice Award, and a Diners’ Choice Award. The unique setting and the stunning views make every experience at Bali Hai special.
Menu Favorites to Enjoy at Brunch
Champagne Sunday Brunch seating begins at 9:30 am with the last seating available at 2:00 pm. Reservations are required for Sunday brunch which lasts two hours and includes unlimited Champagne refills. The robust menu, recently updated in October 2020, offers a wide variety of options that are sure to entice even the most discerning of palates! Fruit salad and island-style macaroni are popular starters at Sunday brunch while more robust menu items include everything from bacon and sausage to eggs benedict, pancakes, French toast, and cinnamon rolls. Enjoy a true Hawaiian classic fitting of the location with the chicken fried spam, served with eggs, gravy, and home fries. Those looking to lean more heavily towards lunch items will enjoy selections like grilled Korean chicken, garlic noodles, Hawaiian glazed ham, and prime rib. Diners who are craving seafood won’t be disappointed by Bali Hai’s brunch selection! Shrimp and lobster rolls are also readily available as well as crab legs and oysters on the half shell. If you have any room left by the end of your meal, Bali Hai has an assortment of desserts that are sure to entice you. Enjoy spiced pear cheesecake, raspberry mousse, and more. For those with dietary restrictions, the chocolate sorbet is both gluten and dairy free, while still being delightfully decadent.
BRUNCH WITH A COCKTAIL
Bali Hai restaurant is world-famous for their Mai Tai recipe, with over 2 million cocktails sold! They have brought this passion for mixology to their brunch menu with a variety of adult beverages to go with their spectacular brunch spread. Enjoy a variety of mimosas, including the Bali Hai Mimosa which mixes Stanford Brut with their house made fruit punch. In addition to a classic Bloody Mary, Bali Hai offers a Seafood Bloody Mary Bowl, which is served with a grilled seafood skewer and boiled quail egg. A fantastic cocktail is a perfect complement to a delicious and indulgent meal.
The Best of San Diego Boating
Find your place on the waves by connecting with the Carefree Boat Club of San Diego the next time your travel plans bring you this way. Schedule a tour and learn more about how membership puts the fun back in boating.
