Whenever I visit the Big Island of Hawaii, I always look forward to the cool, sweet treat of shave ice. This Hawaiian favorite is the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy a splash of local flavor.
I want to help you discover where to find the very best shave ice on the Big Island. Whether you’ve tasted it before or it’s your first time, you’ll love exploring the local spots with me.
Original Big Island Shave Ice Co, Inc.
I stopped by Original Big Island Shave Ice Co. at the King’s Shops in Waikoloa. The place is bright and welcoming, and I could smell the sweet syrups as soon as I walked in.
The staff greeted me right away and explained their menu. Lorraine Kaono, known as the “Shave Ice Lady,” started this shop as a simple food truck back in the 1950s.
Her family has kept the tradition going, passing down their skills for making shaved ice through four generations. Every bowl looked colorful and piled high.
When I got mine, the ice felt fine and soft, and the flavors tasted really fresh. People of all ages enjoyed their treats, and the line moved pretty fast.
Rating: 4.6 (586 reviews)
Location: 69-250 Waikōloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
Contact: (808) 895-6069
Website: Visit Website
Scandinavian Shave Ice
When I visited Scandinavian Shave Ice in Kailua-Kona, I found a steady crowd, but the line moved fast. Locals call it “Scandi’s,” and it’s been here since the early ‘90s.
The shave ice here feels soft, almost like snow, not crunchy like some other places. I picked three flavors from their long list—over 60 choices!
I chose mango, passion fruit, and li hing mui. They also let me add a scoop of ice cream in the middle, which tasted great with the ice.
To finish, I picked coconut cream for the top, making the treat rich and refreshing. There’s shaded seating outside, just steps from the beach and shops.
Rating: 4.6 (1096 reviews)
Location: 75-5699 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 326-2522
Website: Visit Website
Ululani‘s Hawaiian Shave Ice
When I walked into Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice in Kailua-Kona, the staff welcomed me with warm smiles and true aloha. The place felt clean and bright, and the team helped me decide on flavors.
It was hard to choose, but their suggestions were great. The ice was fine and soft, melting right in my mouth and soaking up every bit of their sweet, bold syrups.
My favorites were lychee and passion fruit, but there were many unique choices, even pickled mango. You can also add fun toppings like condensed milk or mochi balls.
The care they put into each order stood out. It felt like more than just a quick snack—it was a little taste of Hawaii’s spirit.
Rating: 4.5 (362 reviews)
Location: 75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 877-3700
Website: Visit Website
Kula Shave Ice
I walked into Kula Shave Ice and saw a menu full of creative flavors. The staff made syrup right behind the counter, so I knew everything was fresh.
The line was long, but people seemed excited to wait. When I finally got my shave ice, I could taste the difference.
The ice was soft, and the syrups weren’t too sweet. Each bite was light and refreshing.
The shop focuses on using organic and local ingredients. The friendly team added to the relaxed atmosphere, and I could tell that regulars love this spot.
Rating: 4.8 (548 reviews)
Location: 57 Mamo St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 731-4166
Website: Visit Website
Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice
I stopped by Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice during my trip up the Kohala Coast. The walk-up window made it quick and easy to order.
There was a long list of flavors for both shave ice and ice cream. I tried their shave ice and loved how fine and fluffy it was.
The syrups tasted fruity and fresh, and the staff answered my questions. They also served milkshakes and had a few snack options.
It’s a good place to cool off, especially after exploring the area. The shop is part of a small shopping center, so it’s convenient to stop by if you’re out running errands or sightseeing.
Rating: 4.6 (394 reviews)
Location: 61-3665 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 882-1109
Gecko Girlz Shave Ice and Ice Cream Shop
When I stopped at Gecko Girlz, I could tell right away it was a relaxed and friendly spot. The small stand had outdoor tables, and people seemed happy with their treats.
The menu offered more than just basic shave ice. They had many unique flavors and toppings, from haupia ice cream to lilikoi puree and mochi.
I tried a combo with yuzu citrus syrup, macadamia nut crunch, and a coconut cream snow cap. It tasted fresh and different from the usual options.
Their ice cream options stood out too. There were choices like ube, Kona mud pie, and macadamia nut classic.
I saw many people ordering both shaved ice and ice cream together, or adding fun extras like popping pearls. The vibe was welcoming, and the staff was patient while I looked over the menu.
Rating: 4.6 (818 reviews)
Location: Coconut Grove Marketplace, 75-5809 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Website: Visit Website
Bubba & Finn’s
When I stepped inside Bubba & Finn’s, I noticed how clean and welcoming it felt. The staff greeted me right away and helped me choose from their menu.
They answered all my questions and made sure I knew about the different toppings. Their shave ice was fluffy and full of flavor.
I liked that they had both classic and creative options. It was easy to find a seat and relax by the window while enjoying my treat.
The location is right in Kailua-Kona, close to the ocean. I appreciated being able to stop here after walking along Ali’i Drive.
The shop’s setup makes it easy to pop in for a quick dessert or sit down and take in the sights. The people running the shop really seem to care about making a good experience for everyone.
Rating: 4.7 (192 reviews)
Location: 75-5744 Ali’i Dr, Suite 111, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (360) 836-2706
Da Hawaiian Brain Freeze Shave Ice & Ice Cream
I stopped by Da Hawaiian Brain Freeze Shave Ice & Ice Cream while in Hilo. The shop is easy to spot and has a fun, inviting atmosphere.
I saw a bunch of flavors on the menu, from tropical fruits to classic rainbow. The shave ice is super light and fluffy, and they give you a good amount.
You can add ice cream on the bottom, which makes it even better. The staff was friendly and patient when I took my time choosing flavors.
There are a few tables inside, so I just sat and enjoyed my treat. The vibe is casual, and it feels comfortable to hang out for a while.
Rating: 4.7 (347 reviews)
Location: 1263 Kilauea Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 961-5935
Website: Visit Website)
Hilo Ice Shave
I visited Hilo Ice Shave and found a laid-back vibe and friendly staff. The shop feels local, mixing old-style Hilo tradition with new, quick service for a fast cool treat.
They call it “Wiki Wiki Ice Shave,” which means fast in Hawaiian pidgin. The staff make the ice from Hilo’s rainwater, filter and freeze it, so it tastes clean and light.
I noticed the difference right away—the ice tasted fresher than at other places. They offer a self-serve flavor station, perfect for mixing different syrups.
There’s plenty of parking, so I found a spot easily. The relaxed atmosphere had both locals and visitors enjoying their treats.
For parties or events, the shop brings out a mobile “Ice Shave Express” service. The staff provide genuine customer service and quickly fix any problems.
Rating: 4.7 (61 reviews)
Location: 500 Manono St #104, Hilo, HI 96720
Website: Visit Website
Kona Wave Cafe
When I arrived at Kona Wave Cafe, I felt the cheerful atmosphere right away. The shop is small but easy to find along Ali‘i Drive in Kailua-Kona.
The staff greeted me with a smile and answered my questions about the menu. I tried their popular açaí bowls and noticed they also serve fresh shave ice.
My order came with bright syrups and plenty of toppings. The shave ice was soft, refreshing, and the flavors tasted natural.
Inside, there’s a cozy seating area where I enjoyed my treat out of the sun. This spot is perfect for a cool snack after a beach walk or while exploring the town.
Even when it got busier, the shop never felt rushed. They also offer coffee and dessert treats for more options.
I left happy and plan to visit again next time I’m in Kona.
Rating: 4.6 (510 reviews)
Location: 75-5669 Ali‘i Dr #1109, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 331-2899
History and Culture of Shave Ice in Hawaii
Shave ice is a sweet, refreshing treat that is part of daily life in Hawaii. Its story connects people, flavors, and the islands’ unique past.
Origins of Shave Ice
Japanese immigrants brought shave ice to Hawaii in the late 1800s and early 1900s. In Japan, people called it kakigori.
When plantation workers arrived for sugar field jobs, they brought this icy dessert with them. Families used hand-cranked machines to shave blocks of ice.
After work, people lined up at small stores for a bowl of shave ice with fruit juice or syrup. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reports that these stores spread across the islands, making shave ice an affordable snack.
Flavors changed over time as local ingredients like coconut, pineapple, and guava were added. The treat began to look and taste like the shave ice we know today.
Cultural Significance on the Big Island
On the Big Island, people treat shave ice as more than a snack. It’s a favorite way to cool down after the beach or visiting farmers’ markets.
Family-owned shops often have a long history in the community. Some, like The Original Big Island Shave Ice Co., have made shave ice for generations before opening their shop in 2014, according to Hawaiian Airlines.
Getting shave ice is part of everyday life. People enjoy it at birthday parties, gatherings, and family outings.
Shops use local syrups and fresh fruit toppings, which highlight the Big Island’s culture and natural resources. Sharing a bowl of shave ice shows the island’s diverse roots and the treat’s importance in Hawaiian life.
What Makes Shave Ice Unique on the Big Island
Shave ice stands out on the Big Island because of special local ingredients and unique preparation. Each spot offers a new taste or texture experience.
Local Flavors and Ingredients
When I order shave ice here, I find syrups made with fresh tropical fruits grown on the island. Popular flavors include lilikoi (passion fruit), mango, guava, and coconut.
Shops use real ingredients instead of artificial colors and sweeteners. Some places serve organic syrups or options for people with dietary needs, such as vegan ice cream or local honey.
At Kula Shave Ice in Hilo, they focus on organic fruit-based syrups, which makes their menu special. I also see toppings like azuki beans, mochi, and li hing mui powder for a delicious local twist.
Shave Ice Preparation Techniques
Shave ice vendors on the Big Island use special machines to shave large blocks of ice. This process creates a soft, fluffy ice texture.
The texture is different from crunchier snow cones or slushies. When I take a bite, the ice melts smoothly in my mouth.
Shops like Original Big Island Shave Ice Co. make their own natural syrups and carefully shave the ice. Some places add a scoop of ice cream at the bottom or pour sweet cream on top.
Here’s a quick list of classic techniques:
- Finely shaved ice for soft texture
- Layering with syrups and creams
- Optional fillings like ice cream, beans, or mochi
