Shave ice, loved by everyone in Hawai‘i, is a must-try treat for visitors. Its roots trace back to Japanese immigrants who came to work on sugar and pineapple farms in the 1800s. Originally simple, with just sugar or molasses syrup, modern shave ice is a burst of colors and flavors, often topped with treats like mochi and ice cream.
For the best experience, the ice should be soft like snow, not crunchy, and the flavors should be bright. Here are the top spots to enjoy this refreshing treat:
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Wishing Well Shave Ice
At this stationary food truck in Hanalei, you’ll discover a variety of syrups, including organic and artificial options, as well as fresh fruit and honey toppings. Indulge in their recommended combinations like Tropical Bliss, featuring macadamia nut ice cream covered in liliko‘i and coconut syrups, garnished with papaya chunks and coconut flakes.
Location: 5-5080 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714
Phone: (808) 639-7828
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Wailua Shave Ice
Run by Brandon Baptiste, a shave ice expert with culinary training, this spot offers natural, seasonal flavors in retro-style surroundings.
Location: 4-831 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746
Phone: (808) 634-7183
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The Fresh Shave
Located in a cute 1960s trailer, The Fresh Shave offers preset combinations, from healthy to decadent, named after mustache styles.
Location: 3540 Koloa Rd, Kalaheo, HI 96741
Phone: (808) 631-2222
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Matsumoto Shave Ice
A staple since 1951, Matsumoto serves over 1,000 shave ice daily with vivid colors and flavors.
Location: 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Phone: (808) 637-4827
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Waiola Shave Ice
One of the oldest shave ice shops, Waiola offers classic rainbow-colored shave ice that melts in your mouth.
Locations: 2135 Waiola St, Honolulu, HI 96826
Phone: (808) 949-2269
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Island Vintage Shave Ice
Located in posh shopping centers, Island Vintage serves intensely flavored syrups with creamy toppings.
Location: 2201 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
Phone: (808) 922-5662
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Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha
Formerly known as Doe Fang, Uncle Clay’s offers natural fruit syrups and a cozy atmosphere.
Location: 820 W Hind Dr #116, Honolulu, HI 96821
Phone: (808) 373-5111
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Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
With five locations on Maui, Ululani’s offers velvety ice with a wide range of flavors, both natural and classic.
Location: 790 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Phone: (808) 877-3700
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Kula Shave Ice
Using house-made syrups without artificial flavors, Kula Shave Ice offers tropical delights like guava and soursop.
Locations: 57 Mamo St, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 987-0245
Whether you’re on Maui or Oahu, there’s a perfect spot to indulge in the cool delight of shave ice. If you want more information on food and recipes, keep following us: https://www.bygoody.com/
