Shave ice is one of the top must-eat foods while you’re in Hawaii. Not only is it the perfect dessert for a hot and humid day, but it is part of the culture in Hawaii.
Hawaii is where shave ice originated from, but did you know it has a long history? In fact, during the sugar plantation days in the mid-1800’s, the Japanese immigrants used their tools to shave big blocks of ice to make “kakigori”, which means shaved ice in Japanese. It became known as shave ice vs shaved ice because of the Hawaiian pidgin – a common language used to communicate between native Hawaiians, English-speaking residents, and foreign immigrants.
I’ve tried many shave ice in Hawaii, Japan, and even “Hawaiian shaved ice” on the mainland, but nothing beats the finely shaved ice that is known shave ice is known for in Hawaii. Here is the ultimate guide on the best shave ice when on Oahu.
Waiola Shave Ice
Growing up in Hawaii, Waiola was the shave-ice place everyone went to in “town” (aka Honolulu). One bite of their ultra-fine ice shavings with their delicious syrup tells you why they’re number one in Honolulu. Even our former president, Barrack Obama frequents this place whenever he’s in Hawaii.
There are now two locations, but I recommend going to the original store on Waiola Street. There’s just something special about the nostalgic, hole-in-the-wall feel of this place. Although, if you’re planning to stop by Leonard’s Bakery, the second location on Kapahulu is nearby. Both locations are less than 10 minutes from Waikiki so definitely check them out!
Matsumoto Shave Ice is famous, if not iconic. They’re the first shave ice store in Hawaii. They started as a mom-and-pop grocery store in 1951, which then converted to selling shave ice with their homemade syrups. If you’re out on the North Shore of Oahu, this is a must-visit place. Lines can get long, but they move pretty quickly. Also, check out their shop that sells everything Matsumoto Shave Ice from tshirts, bags, hats, to even onesies. They have so many fun designs to choose from that would be the perfect souvenir or gift for the Hawaii lover in your life!
Visit: matsumotoshaveice.com Location: 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712 Hours: Open daily 10am – 6pm
Jejubing Dessert Cafe
This place serves a traditionalKorean dessert known as Bingsu. Bingsu is similar to shave ice, but is made from frozen milk or cream to create their fluffy, snow-like dessert. They have many toppings such as mango, strawberries, powder toppings, and condensed milk.
Jejubing Dessert Cafe is a pretty new addition to one of the many dessert stores at Ala Moana Shopping Center. We always make a stop here after the kids play at Jungle Fun.
Hours: Open daily 12pm – 8pm Location: 1450 Ala Moana Blvd Ste 1201, Honolulu, HI 96814 (in Ala Moana Center)
Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha
The best thing about Uncle Clay’s is that their shave ice syrup is made of all-natural and homemade from real fruit. You can tell their syrup is more natural and not overly artificially sweet. They are located in Āina Haina Shopping Center, which is about a 20-minute drive from Waikiki. It’s the perfect stop when you’re on your way to Hanauma Bay.
There’s something about the Mickey ear-shaped shave ice where I had to add this in. It certainly isn’t the most exquisite shave ice out there, but it is an adorable photo opportunity when at Aulani.
Visit: disneyaulani.com Location: 92-1185 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707 Hours: Open daily 11am – 5pm
What is your favorite shave ice on place when on Oahu? Let me know in the comments below!
