The Tastiest Shaved Ice in Honolulu

Halo Halo Craze

★★★★☆ 4.4 (5)

"Halo halo taste just right! With Ube halaya, Ube ice cream macapuno, leche flan, nata de coco and banana..so goood! Worth the price."

Fenua Shave Ice & Snack Shop

★★★★★ 4.8 (23)

"In Hawaii when you want to cool off, shave ice is a good way to do it. Fenua is one of the newer kids on the block located in the building on the corner of Liliha St and Vineyard Blvd. There is free parking located behind the building. You can place your order from the back where you park your car as there is a window to do so. If you want to go inside to order and or check out their other snacks and things they have, you can enter from the entrance in the front (Vineyard Blvd) side.The workers are very nice and friendly. What I like is that they put enough flavored syrup so you don't get tasteless ice down on the bottom like some other stingy places. Wide assortment of flavors to choose from. The shaved ice is on the smoother side and not chunky pieces of ice. The better half and I enjoyed the shaved ice so we will be back when we need to cool down and find ourselves in this part of town."

Kawaii Ice Wave

★★★★★ 4.6 (100) • $

"We got the strawberry cheesecake ice wave - so good! It's a large size, enough to share and good for the price. It's definitely kawaii in there - super cute location with good spots for pictures. The girls t the register was really friendly and kind. Would recommend this place especially on a hot day. You could take it and sit by the water after getting a coffee or tea from Island Brew as well, which made this taste so much sweeter."

Haleiwa Town Shave Ice

★★★★★ 5 (60)

"Chris and his wife are masters of this trade! We have been trying to find a good shave ice place on this side of the island for quite a while and I daresay we finally found THE ONE. Nestled down some stairs in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Waikiki is some of the best shave ice you will ever eat. The texture of the ice is perfectly fluffy and the syrups are drizzled on in the perfect ratio. They offer a variety of flavors, not only syrups but also ice cream! Chris let us sample a few and he does not skimp on making sure you get the best quality all around. The ice cream is amazing and he even offers natural all fruit syrups with plenty of flavor! We shared a large between four of us and it was plenty big... though, there was a part of me that wanted to go back and get another all to myself! His prices are amazingly reasonable too, he truly goes above and beyond to make sure you get a quality product without breaking the bank. Feel free to show up with high expectations because I promise you they'll be met! Can't wait to come back! TIPS & TRICKS: * Never forget the sweet and condensed milk on top! * They can get pretty busy at night, so try to make a trip in the middle of the day--plus that's when shave ice is the best, when you escape the heat after spending the morning on the beach!"

Rajah Dat Snack Shop - Wahiawa

★★★★☆ 4 (2)

"Came right before closing and grabbed some mini treats for a friends bday. They were delish and the worker was very kind. Nice treat after a beach day"

Slice By HB Baking

★★★★★ 4.6 (94)

"Cute little place in Kilohana Square in Kapahulu that you wouldn't know was there unless you happened upon it. The same location as Threadfin, so could be a dinner and dessert follow up or dessert before dinner kind of thing . Quite a few options for ice cream cake by the slice, ice cream cupcakes, shave ice, and ice cream. Wanted to try a slice of cake, but decided on Coffee & Bailey's ice cream. Came with two scoops ($5)...love liquor ice cream that you can actually taste the liquor. One bite and yup, there it was.There is a small seating space along the window to dine in. But, this place might be more like takeout or at least sit in your car to eat. There was a big group of 8-10 people when we went, so it was very crowded inside, making it a challenge to look at the case and navigate to get in and out. Still it's a good place for dessert, as they're open until 8 or 9.Will be back to get me some cake!"

Wing Shave Ice & Ice Cream

★★★★☆ 4.1 (489) • $$

"I love black sesame ice cream, milkshakes, cake, almost anything with that flavor. I finally scored some from Wing Shave ice & Ice Cream and it was so delicious. Service is always great there and I dig the music and the drum set and posters. The black sesame was so good that I never got a photo. My partner got the Cookie Monster and it was also top notch. I had the rose the week before and it was the essence of a rose and so creamy."

Waiola Shave Ice

★★★★☆ 4 (935) • $$

"The best in the neighborhood since we were kids. My friends that went to Punahou used to run cross country and Waiola Shave Ice would be the reward after a long run. Now I find myself in the area, looking at the line at Shimazu next to Rainbow Drive-in and driving past and headign to Waiola Shave Ice instead. It's a hidden gem at this point. Off the beaten path. For a few years Obama made it quite popular again with it being his Shave Ice of choice. Their shave ice is very finely cut and it has all the bells and whistles as well such as ice cream, condensed milk, azuki bean etc. There is plenty of parking and its off the main road, so it feels relaxing if you have to park on the street. The prices are still good, didn't go up too much. Overall a good choice for Shave Ice just outside of Waikiki without the crowd."

Kainalu Surf Shop

★★★★★ 4.6 (43) • $

"You will not know how special this place is until you get there. Yes, its a surf shop. Yes, the clothing is on point. I bought a cool shirt from here. Shave ice is the kind I like, and they got the extras that go with it. Sunglasses. Bodyboards. Fins. Mask & Snorkels. Boom!But what you dont know is that THEY SELL POKE BOWLS TOO! Yup. Poke by the pound. Poke Bowls. And our favorite...POKE NACHOS. If you dont believe me, go look for yourself. I went there plenty of times just for the poke. IYKYK. And now you know."

Malia’s Hawaiian Shave Ice

★★☆☆☆ 2.4 (71) • $

"Goes by the name "Haleiwa Shaved Ice". Even though Matusmoto's was just down the street, we decided to stop here. It was $5 for one size shaved ice (it was huge!, but they only take cash) and several different flavors to choose from. I got the coconut and my dad got the pineapple. It wasn't as finely shaved as I thought it was going to be, but the flavor was good. The gal at the counter was friendly and it wasn't all that busy at the time. There was parking out back, with a few benches to sit on across the street. 2022 #8"

Shaka Shave Ice

★★★★★ 5 (6)

"Summer nostalgiaMy favorite is the classic rainbow, which comes with red strawberry, blue vanilla and yellow banana. Combined these flavors showcase the colors of the rainbow, hence the name. And you absolutely must get your shave ice with condensed milk. If your shave ice doesn't look like a fresh blanket of snow on top a colorful mountain, you are doing it wrong.The ice is soft. They offer a ton of flavors and toppings. Most importantly, the ratio between shave ice and syrup has to be proportionate. Otherwise, you'll end up with mostly melted shave ice or a pile of ice at the end. Shaka Shave Ice has the perfect ratio.You can find a list of the flavors on their Instagram. The flavors aren't too sweet, so you can enjoy more.Keeping this one in my back pocket for my next event.Thanks for reading my reviews! Let me know what to try next!"

Mountain Magic Shave Ice

★★★★★ 4.8 (110) • $

"Mountain Magic Shave ice is the best shave ice that I have found on the island, and trust me I have been on the hunt for years!! Their ice couldn't get any softer, they have all sorts of flavors that are made in house, not to mention all the toppings. DO NOT SKIMP ON THE TOPPINGS!! I love the ice cream, snow cap, azuki beans, and mochi. Also the sizes are huge. Two people could share a small easily. In my photo I have a small!Every time I am on west sideI make sure to stop here!!"

Ice Monster Hawaii

★★★★☆ 4.3 (898) • $$

"Ice Monster Hawaii is a Taiwanese dessert place specializing in iced desserts. The unique thing about this place is that instead of topping finely shaved ice with flavored syrups, a block of ice with fresh fruit infused in it is shaved to create a light texture like cold cotton candy. Fresh Mango Sensation ($17) - This was a light and fluffy mango shaved ice dessert complimented with a mango sorbet, panna cotta and topped off with fresh mango and a mango sauce. Although it was pricey, it was refreshing and didn't taste artificial like the other shave ice places. A slightly smaller version is available for $3 less. Other fruit flavors are available but mango is their most popular one.Overall, I really enjoyed the mango sensation here for it's uniqueness and taste. Other flavors that are available are papaya, strawberry, tapioca, matcha and coffee. Only 1 flavor is available per order, and this dessert really needs to be shared with multiple people, it's not designed for 1 person."

Rainbow House Shave Ice

★★★★★ 4.6 (136) • $

"This is my new fav shave ice place in terms of total package- yummy shave ice, not crowded (at least when we went there!), seating, and bowls that aren't spilling over with shave ice (clean and easy to eat!) And the mochi toppings were great. Best of all, they have a kamaaina rate! We will definitely stop here every time we go to the north shore!"

Kaimana Shave Ice

★★★★★ 4.9 (219) • $

"FLAVOR (5/5): Solid shaved ice here, loved the flavors and the texture of the ice itself. Only wish that their mochi was better but it's the standard ones you get anywhere so can't complain too much! INSTAGRAM WORTHY (5/5): The bowls come out super cute. The shop itself is very small but very aesthetically pleasing. If you walk out to their back portion is absolutely breathtaking as it opens up to a body of water, it's of green open space and patio seating! Super lush. SERVICE (5/5): Decided to go here instead of Matsumoto because we had Big Wave Shrimp for lunch and they have a discount if you visit this shaved ice place after and we're so glad we did! The workers aren't the quickest with producing the bowls but everyone was really friendly! TAKEAWAYS: You might see some small green friends when enjoying your cold dessert. Don't forget to check out the open space in the back!"

Kenekes Waimanalo

★★★★☆ 3.7 (530) • $

"Broke da moufWat moa neeed b saidShoyu chicken da bombAnd get unreo lunch kine specialz"

$5 Bento

★★★★☆ 4.2 (57) • $

"Today, I visited and got the shave ice because it was so very warm. It's rich in flavor, and for the price, it's quite good. The service was fast, and the owners are so very kind. The ambiance of the truck is such that it is nicely situated near where the boats are and makes for an amazing place to visit each Saturday while visiting the nearby Kakaako Farmers Market.Their fish bentos are also quite lovely. Highly recommend!"

Matsumoto Shave Ice

★★★★☆ 4.2 • $

"The line was around 30 deep but we got our shaved ice in about 20 minutes.I've tried a few other shaved ice spots on the island and this was my favorite! Choose your 3 favorite flavors and make sure to add condensed milk, ice cream, and mochi. This was the best 5 mochi balls that I've ever had!"

Island X Hawaii

★★★★★ 4.5 (165) • $$

"My 3rd or 4th time here. Nice alternative to the lines for Shave Ice at Matsumoto's and Aoki's. Lot's of souvenirs sold here for those visiting the island while you are waiting for your Shave Ice!"

Island Vintage Shave Ice

★★★★☆ 4.2 (239) • $$

"Shaved ice is a refreshing treat especially in the hot humidity weather in Waikiki. Some flavors I ate:Hawaiian Rainbow: A vibrant mix of strawberry, pineapple, and coconut that blends the sweetness and tang of the condensed milk, icecream and the chewiness of the mochi. The colorful layers are as visually appealing as they are flavorful, making it a fun and nostalgic choice.Heavenly Lilikoi: This passionfruit-based flavor is bold and tropical, balancing tart. Taste great great with the momochi, boba and lilikoie paired with cream or condensed milk.Green Island: This has a matcha, earthy, light flavor and is less sugary. It's a refreshing and nuanced choice, enhanced by mochi or red beans.Each flavor offers a unique take on shaved ice, from fruity and fun to bold and refined. Perfect for any mood or craving!"

Cafe Parkside

★★★★★ 4.6 (14)

"Love da food made onoz with love wen u in da kalihi area come check it out. Bring ur kekiz Mahalo"

Wilson Store

★★★★★ 4.7 (132) • $

"Review: 092422This spot is literally a hole in a wall but well worth the visit! The auntie that helped us out (I'm going to assume that she was the owner) was friendly and oozed out of aloha-ness.The menu was simple but the favorites were all there! I opted for a regular with ice cream, lychee, coconut, and with a snow cap (condensed milk). My bro and sis-in-law both liked their orders (I forgot them). I asked the auntie for the tipping option on Square and she said don't worry about it. Support local businesses and this is one spot that I would recommend post-Lanikai beach outing like ourselves. Good people, good shave ice!"

Coffee or Tea?

★★★★☆ 3.9 (184) • $$

"This place is the #1 spot for that quick boba fix. This is one of the OG places that started the boba-craze and they always find ways to come up with new and refreshing drinks. A big bonus is that their drinks always taste the same and the prices are very reasonable too. Some of my favorites are the classic milk tea with boba, blended milk tea, watermelon smoothie, and avocado smoothie. Service here is very good as the workers always say welcome or greet you when you come in. And usually there are only 2-3 workers but even when they are busy making all the orders, they find a way to multi-task and get the drinks out quickly. The little cafe has some seating spots inside and ive seen a few people use it as a study spot as well. The place is always very well cleaned and up-kept. So glad that they decided to open a location in Waipio! Pro-tip, they also do party size drinks where you can bring to your next party! Just order it a day in advanced and you can get enough boba milk tea for a whole party for a reasonable price too!"

Island Soul Shaved Ice

★★★★★ 5 (241) • $$

"My friend sent me an IG reel and we were like ok let's go.... So here we are! They are new, design inside is cute and fun, makes you feel happy. Staff are friendly. Pickled mango is like a locals favorite and what better as shave ice with the syrup and some pickled mango too. I'm salivating thinking about it. There's ample parking out front."

Kogi Aina

★★★★☆ 4.4 (356) • $$

"I came out of Yelp retirement because I'm so irritated by my recent experience.I've patronized this restaurant several times years ago and it easily could get 5 stars. We returned recently and it was pretty awful in terms of service and being empty on a weekend evening was telling. We arrived a little before their happy hour ended and the waitress said she would honor their early bird prices so we ordered our first round. Upon receiving our bill, we were charged full price so we went up to ask and the waitresses said the lady in charge (kitchen) said because we ordered after their happy hour we had to be charged the full price?! Never was that disclosed on the menu not in person because we would've ordered everything the first time! It felt very shady.Food was fresh and good but the service was lacking even beyond that bill incident."

Dave's Ice Cream - Waipio

★★★★☆ 3.6 (167) • $$

"A $2 "custom" charge if you buy a hand-packed quart and want two flavors? Really? There is ZERO extra work or expense to fill the top and bottom half of a quart container with 2 different flavors... same amount of scooping either way, right?That's just nickle-and-dime greed on TOP of an already very stiff $17 cost for a quart.EDIT #1 after owner says they dont do that I attached my receipt. And I was not given any extras like cones/pieces. I'll add some detail... when she was about half done scooping the my flavor, I asked the girl behind the counter if she was allowed to put two different flavors in the carton. She said there was an extra charge. I asked how much. She said she didn't know. I asked her to fill the rest with a 2nd flavor. She added the $2 custom charge (as you can see on the attached receipt). So it certainly seems like that is their policy.EDIT #2 owner sent a nice message, refunded the charge, and said they'd discuss with the employee. edited the stars to reflect it was an employee or training issue not a business policy."

Musubi Boba

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (23)

"My friend and I were walking around Waikiki and had a boba craving. The closest place Yelp took us was this place. I was disappointed to find out that they specialize more on smoothies and blended drinks rather than milk teas. I was actually craving for some milk tea with boba or even fruit tea, but instead they recommended their fruit smoothies. My friend got their Papaya Smoothie with boba, and I got their Mango Smoothie with boba and jelly that came standard (no extra charge for the jellies) with the drink.There was one lady at the store who was very friendly and talkative who made the recommendations. We were so immersed in our conversation that I forgot to request to adjust their sugar level. The drinks came out too sweet!If it wasn't for the lovely and friendly service, I probably would give this place 2-star because I couldn't take a second sip of their drink. It was cloyingly sweet! My drink went to waste as a result.My friend liked her papaya smoothie, but she said, it was also way too sweet, but not as sweet as my drink. So, she finished half of hers.I would still recommend this place, but if you're like me that's not into overly sweetened drinks, be sure to adjust their sweetness level."

Kay’s Crackseed

★★★★★ 4.5 (81) • $

"Been coming here ever since small kid time! Love that are now customizing the icees. Our favorite is the strawberry with ice cream, mochi balls and condensed milk (it reminds me of the shave ices that they serve at bon dances except in a cup and much easier to eat). The workers do such a great job making it. They are always nice and friendly so no complaints with the service here. I hope they consider expanding their icee line like how Doe Fang was before."

Rockas Bing

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Best shaved ice I've ever had! I had the Mokuleia Mango and it had fresh mangos and great service. Highly recommend!!"

Shimazu Shave Ice

★★★★☆ 4.4 (401) • $

"Really good and prices are great! Small size is perfect! Make sure you take a look at the sizes because the large is GINORMOUS! One worker so by the time we ordered, the line was soooo long. This was the only downfall if we were even 5 minutes later."

Ice Garden

★★★★★ 4.5 (500) • $$

"Ice Garden has been a family favorite for years! It used to be run by a couple of older ladies but I think some of the younger family now run it. They still occasionally have the best rice cake you can find outside of Chinatown but the focus is on shave ice and all the topping you want to pay to add on top.I'm a root beer with vanilla ice cream fan but I've been known to go to the lime/lemon side. The kids now like mochi balls in addition to the ice cream under the shave ice. The custard cups that are added on top are also awesome add on. We used to live up the hill on Aiea Heights Drive and would come here with our kids....25 years later we're one hill over and bringing our grandkids and great grandkids. Many things have changed in Aiea Shopping Center but this little treat shop is still thriving. Hours are limited. To 12-5 and there's plenty of parking. Almost always a line but it moves fast. Cash only."

Windward Snow Shave Ice

★★★★★ 4.9 (17)

"=== 1. VERDICT/VALUEGreat shave ice and service - fast and priced right :)=== 2. FOODThere's nothing more comforting than shave ice on a warm day (or a warm night) and so what a treat it was to find Windward Snow Shave Ice at the Honolulu City Lights Festival during the holiday evenings.Sure, they don't have fresh fruit toppings or other condiments some of the competition in town have, but there's still something to be said for consistently fine shaved ice with a wide range of tasty syrups served up to you quickly to cool you off sooner - and it's only $4 for the small size or $5 for the large size!=== 3. SERVICEDeborah and her family are fantastic with the friendly service and smiles.=== 4. ATMOSPHEREWe're talking about a pop-up tent at local events and so it's as good as the event - look-wise, parking-wise, and stroller-friendly-wise! The wonderful family running the show really set the mood and the mood is right - for great shave ice and service!"

Fine Time Shave Ice

★★★★★ 4.8 (16)

"We hired Island's Finest Shave Ice for my son's first birthday party and received so many compliments on how delicious the shave ice was! We did the 2-hour unlimited package and it was perfect for our 150 guests, some people even went back for seconds (or thirds!). The ice is super fine and the syrups are really ono and some are unique (ramune, pumpkin spice, natural yuzu). Island's Finest Shave Ice is the best!!!!"

Maili Shave Ice and Snacks

★★★★★ 4.7 (281) • $

"Yelp never lets us down! This sweet family has awesome shaved ice. We tried the highly recommended Vintage Island shaved ice...nope not for us. This place has your classic (not crunchy gravel) shaved ice. Flavors were delicious and their ice cream was delicious."

Tats Shaved Ice

★★★★☆ 4.4 (38) • $

"Small is now $3.50 and $4.00 for the large. $0.50 price increase but still cheap & worth it. Not always consistent with days and times but such a pleasant surprise when you do catch them outside of bay view golf course! 3 flavor max and $0.25 extra for cream flavors. Flavors include: strawberry, banana, vanilla, coconut, pineapple, li Hing mui, grape, cherry, lemon lime, grape & lilikoi"