Ah, Shave Ice: the quintessential Hawaiian treat, the perfect snack for a quick sugar rush after a day spent in the ocean. Is there really any better dessert on a hot Hawaiian afternoon? We sure don’t think so. Before we can talk about where to find the best shave ice, we’ve got to get one thing straight: shave ice and snow cones are not the same. The consistency of true shave ice is that of newly-fallen snow, not the granular and crunchy ice so many are used to. Without further ado, here are 11 of the most popular spots serving the best shave ice in Hawaii.

1) Matsumoto Shave Ice, Haleiwa
Albert Lynn/Flickr
Located in the historic surfing town of Haleiwa, on Oahu’s north shore, is this famous shop. What once began as a small grocery store has transformed into so much more – t-shirts, souvenirs, snacks, and, of course,one of the most popular Hawaii foods - shave ice! On a hot summer day, the store produces more than 1,000 shave ices! Go here to learn more about Matsumoto Shave Ice.
2) Scandinavian Shave Ice, Kailua-Kona
Vipnyc/Flickr
If you’re in Kona, the cold, sweet treat is best at Scandinavian Shave Ice. Pick from approximately 45 flavors (you can try more than one at a time, of course), and definitely grab it snow-cap style, with a drizzle of condensed milk on top, for a little extra richness. Go to the website to learn more about Scandinavian Shave Ice.
3) Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, multiple locations throughout Maui
Michael Kwan/Flickr
With high ratings on both TripAdvisor and Yelp, you know Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice is absolutely to die for. With several locations across Maui, you’re sure to find the shop that’s most convenient for you. Go to the website to learn more about Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice and to find the location nearest to you.
4) Waiola Shave Ice, Honolulu
_e.t/Flickr
This quaint grocery story is said to be the best shave ice in Hawaii's island of Honolulu, but don’t take our word – look to the 2,400 hundred individuals who have left an average 4.5-star review on Yelp, or just try it for yourself. Go to the Facebook page to learn more about Waiola Shave Ice.
5) Original Big Island Shave Ice, Waikoloa Village
Brittney R./Yelp
For the ultimate shave ice experience on the Big Island, head to Kawaihae. It started out as an adorable food truck and has added a storefront that serves up innovative and classic creations alike with all-natural flavors. Go to the Facebook page to learn more about Original Big Island Shave Ice.

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6) Local Boys Shave Ice, Lahaina & Kihei
Winnie L./Yelp
This colorful, family-owned shop serves up housemade shave ice – always with a complimentary scoop of ice cream. Established in 2003 Kihei with little money, the shop also has a second location, and a whole lot of aloha. Go to the website to learn more about Local Boys Shave Ice.
7) Uncle’s Shave Ice, Koloa & Lihue
Christine F./Yelp
This surf-themed dessert bar is known for their classic shave ice with original island-inspired flavors and killer smoothies. Spend the day at Poipu Beach, and grab shave ice from Uncle’s afterwards for the perfect Kauai day. Go to the website to learn more about Uncle’s Shave Ice.
8) Shimazu Store, Honolulu
Eric A./Yelp
This popular neighborhood shop may not look like much, but the shave ice is absolute perfection – and they have some pretty interesting flavor choices as well. Are you brave enough to try their Chili-flavored shave ice? Go to the Facebook page to learn more about Shimazu Store.
9) Anuenue Shave Ice, Kamuela
Lynn F./Yelp
While this particular shop is little more than a walk-up window that only takes cash, they serve up some of the best things to eat in Hawaii: shave ice, ice cream, and milkshakes! Go to the webpage to learn more about Anuenue Shave Ice.
10) Wishing Well Shave Ice, Hanalei
Robert Occhialini/Flickr
Some of the best food in Hawaii comes from unassuming food trucks on the side of the road, and nowhere is that more true than Wishing Well Shave Ice, a Hanalei favorite. Go to the website to learn more about Wishing Well Shave Ice.
11) Uncle Clay's House of Pure Aloha, Honolulu
Christina N./Yelp
Using only locally sourced artisanal syrups, the all-natural Hawaiian shave ice served at Uncle Clay’s is certainly a step above the rest! Go to the website to learn more about Uncle Clay's House of Pure Aloha.

Tell us, are there any other places for the best shave ice in Hawaii that should be added to this list? What’s your favorite place to go and your favorite flavor combination?

If you are looking for some places to explore the cuisine of Hawaii, check out these mouthwatering hole-in-the-wall restaurants.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Shave Ice In Hawaii

Melissa M | April 12, 2021

What restaurant in Hawaii serves only Hawaiian food?

Whether you are traveling to or live in a particular area, there’s nothing better than trying cuisine the area is known for. Poi By The Pound in Kahului serves authentic Hawaiian food in a casual atmosphere. Here, you can try all the local favorites like poi, kalua pork, lau lau, ahi poke, loco moco, and more, all made from scratch!

What are some other sweet treats Hawaii is known for?

Not all sweet treats have to be made of sugar. Hawaii is known for many sweet fruits that can satisfy a sweet tooth just as much as, say, shave ice. Coconut, mango, dragon fruit, starfruit, guava, and, of course, pineapple are just some of the incredible fresh fruit you can get on the islands. But if you are looking for a sugary treat, native desserts like kulolo, which is made with taro and coconut, and guri guri, which is made with ice cream and fruit juice can be found at many eateries.

What are the best ice cream shops in Hawaii?

You can indulge in slow-churned ice cream at Pink’s Creamery in Hanalei, a must-visit for anyone who is visiting the area. If you can’t have ice cream, there are also house-made sorbet and non-dairy options to choose from. Double Three, with locations in both Honolulu and Kailua, has quite the artful take on ice cream presentation when it comes to their bubble waffle cones and colorful sugary toppings. It’s a feast for both your eyes and stomach!

 

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