Waiola Shave Ice is a classic, must-have for locals and visitors. I always get the Strawberry Cream, but all their flavors are delicious and go great with the wide assortment of toppings that they offer. Some of the most delicious syrups and softest ice on the island. The workers are friendly and fast! Vibe: They have outdoor seating and a little shop full of snacks, merchandise, and trinkets inside. Parking: They have a small parking lot, but parking can be difficult. We usually park on the street. read more

See all

7/15/26 First dessert stop on the island is waiola shave ice of course!!! Large shave ice with sugar syrup for $5 melt in your mouth yum! Service is quick and easy! Mini mart style with goodies to sell avail inside. Always a line but usually quick. Located in a residential area with a small parking space or street parking! Takes CC and cash. read more

See all

Really is the best shave ice in Hawaii. The texture of the ice can't be beat and the syrups are not too sweet. Prices are also very reasonable. A small cup (perfect size for me) is $4 + toppings. The service is always quick. Parking is difficult though as it's only street parking. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Lilikoi + Li Hung Mui with condensed milk and mochi - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Waiola Shave Ice has been operating for at least 20 years now, and located in a residential neighborhood away from shopping centers and malls. I remember my father taking me when I was in Elementary School, and for nostalgia sake, I decided to return after work. Open everyday from 11a-6:30p, its rare to see a local mom and pop shave ice shop open that late. The shave ice was as good as I remembered it 20 years ago. Can't wait to get the azuki bean one next. read more

See all

The ice is smooooth and they had good selections of flavor. Service was standard and the establishment had its own parking lot and small seating areas for patrons. . read more

See all

This is a spot I go to whenever I am in Honolulu. It's a great price with so much flavors! I love their tigers Blood with lychee, ice cream and condensed milk! I would give more but the people serving you are not very friendly. But hey, you're just there for some shaved ice so it's ok! Haha! They also have a little store in the back to get some li hing candies or other goodies! Super small location in a neighborhood. Parking is ok too it all depends how busy they are during the day but they do have street parking and parking to the right of their store if you're facing it. But definitely one of my go to spots! Must try! read more

See all

Waiola Shave Ice is the perfect treat after a long day at the beach. The shave ice is incredibly soft and fluffy, almost like fresh snow, and the flavors are refreshing without being overly sweet. Exactly what you want when you've been out in the sun all day. The portions were generous, and every bite helped cool us down. It's easy to see why this place is so popular with both locals and visitors. Whenever I'm in Honolulu, stopping at Waiola is a must. A simple treat done exceptionally well! read more

I've been going to Waiola's the past 20 yrs and have tried other shaved ice places but...This is best shaved ice in town! The consistency and finely shaved ice makes it my the best. My go to is the rainbow shaved ice with vanilla ice cream. It can get packed at times but parking is super easy, and rarely is it hard to find a spot. Lastly, they have super cute merch. I would put this on top of the list of shaved ice spots to visit when in town in Oahu! read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Exterior signage - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

We always come here because it remains untouched by all the tourists visiting. It's really inexpensive but how much can shaved ice cost? It's very simple and clean. read more

See all

Came here to see what the hype is all about. Although the shave ice was pretty tasteful. The presentation sucks! The customer service is even worst! No Aloha what's so ever, just another establishment capitalizing from all the hype. Although it does taste slightly better than Matsumoto's Shave Ice, the Aloha and customer service beats this place, no question. I tried to love the place, people that work here sucks! Would have gave this place more stars but customer service and cleanliness lacks. read more

I've had my fair share of shave ice on the Hawaiian islands, and this one was just so disappointing. Yes the ice is soft, but the syrup flavors all tasted the same and was just meh. Also, if you ask for mochi they put it on the bottom so you have to dig it up and save it for your last bites which makes no sense. The service was super strange too. The workers don't greet you they just stare at you and you just have to talk and say your order to them. Not a fan, go to Ululani's (the goat). read more

Waiola Shave Ice - mango strawberry - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I'm continuing my review from May 22 because I didn't know there were two locations. Today we went to the second location in Kapahulu. This time we tried a small rainbow cup with vanilla ice cream and condensed milk. It was refreshing, not too sweet and oh so lovely. I preferred this location because there was ample space to park a car and sit to enjoy the shave ice. The location being in a neighborhood was great. I love seeing places that find their way into a neighborhood during the day. Best of luck and continue to do what you enjoy. It's worth it. We will be back when we return to Hawaii. You cannot get shave ice like this in Pacific Northwest. read more

I can see why this shave ice is so well loved and rated very high. Waiola is in a residential area but has a parking lot and some street parking. Theres also a cute store inside with tote bags, stickers, and tee shirts, and some other snacks too. As for the shave ice, the ice is really fine and soaks up all of the syrup. I got a small POG and lychee with condensed milk. My boyfriend and I ordered really quick and got our order within 5 minutes. Even though the ice is really good, I felt like their syrups were a bit lackluster and it tasted more artificial to me. My boyfriend really liked his, since he tried their melon and Thai tea flavors, which I thought were decent, but I couldn't help but notice the artificial taste for all of the syrups. I like how affordable this place is, and maybe I should've tried something else, but POG and lychee were one of their popular flavors. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This is my favorite place to get shave ice in Hawaii! I usually get lililkoi and guava syrup which is always really fresh tasting! I always get ice cream on the bottom and li hing mui powder on top. If you're not local, you should give that a try. Its s popular crack seed in Hawaii from plum seed so it hint of bitterness with the sweetness of the fruit syrup. Delicious!!! Or ONO we say in the islands ! There are a couple benches out front so you can hang out and eat without making a mess in the car. Also check out the store which has lots of other snacks. The lady and keiki's that work there are always so nice, so be kind back to them! read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

A fairly popular shaved ice place recommended to many. You can get an affordable shaved ice for $4-8 depending on the size and topping. As we wanted to get to another place quickly, we opted to pay a little more for DoorDash pickup which came by pretty fast, but you lose a lot on the presentation as it is like an ice plate instead of shaved ice pile on top. This won't be my first and last time trying shaved ice, but it is something worthwhile to consider if you want the presentation. As for the shaved ice, I wish the texture was more smooth. I bit several chunks of fairly large ice and the liquid syrup tasted a bit artificial. We got the Obama rainbow which had cherry, lemon-lime, and passionfruit, and the passionfruit was my favorite while the lemon-lime tasted like cleaning liquid. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Obama rainbow shaved ice large - pickup order - IG @bougiefoodieboi - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Waiola is my bar for comparison of good shave ice. Finest ice and best flavors. Comes out fast and has parking right next door. POG with mochi is the best! read more

Waiola Shave Ice - menu - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Unbelievably good shaved ice. Window service was quick and fairly priced. They have a large menu of flavors, add ons, and premade bowls. I really enjoyed the "Obama rainbow". read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Obama rainbow - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

It was a hot friday afternoon and we came here to get shaved ice. They have A LOT of different flavors that its hard to choose which one to get. I wanted to get a few but that will be too much. I ended up getting the Melona flavor which reminds of the Korean ice cream flavor Melona. The ice on their shaved ice is very fine that it makes it very light. And my partner got the Pina Colada and said it was good. His only comment is that there was more pineapple flavor which he wanted it to be balanced between pineapple and coconut. Dont be fooled by how the outside looks. It does look like a hole in a wall BUT trust me, its really good here. It was too good that we forgot to take pictures of our shaved ice read more

This is where the locals go to get their shaved ice! I love the flavor combinations variety and the branding of this place. They're also one of few places that carry good ahhh flan (they called it custard). Service was very quick, they have a small window to take your order, and a shop to buy merch/candy/toy. read more

See all

Waiola Shave Ice is an old-school spot that feels authentic and classic. Shave ice is very cold and refreshing, perfect for the weather, with a good variety of flavors and great taste. Prices are decent, and there's plenty of parking, which is a plus. The place definitely shows its age -- the restroom is old, and there were quite a few flies around, which can be distracting. Still, if you're looking for traditional, old-style shave ice, this place delivers. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Azuki bowl w Uber mochi - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

If you are looking for a shaved ice place then this is the right spot. Not only do they have everything, Waiola is probably more affordable than all your other shaved ice places in the area. Their menu is also easy. You can customize your own or you can get one of their popular combinations. And you can get it with ice cream! For sizes Waiola offers a small, medium, large, or jumbo size. For a small you can get up to 2 flavors which is nice. I love that they have so many options of flavors, toppings, and drizzles. They even have azuki beans if you like that. I got their $4 small with two flavors: li hing and lychee. I topped it off with li hing and condense milk and it was heavenly. Every bite was delicious and the small size was perfect for me. The shaved ice was soft and perfect. It was definitely worth it and I recommend it if you are in the area and are looking for an affordable sweet treat. This place also has a store that sells snacks and candies as well. There isn't a spot to sit inside and eat your treat but they have benches outside. read more

See all

This was the best shave ice I had while in Hawaii! I don't know how they make the shave ice so fluffy and soft but the texture is incredible. I got the "Da Works" and it was amazing. I will 100% be back! They have a good amount of parking but not really any seating. read more

Excellent shaved ice. Super friendly staff! Worth the wait! Kinda hidden in a basement but seek them out. You won't be disappointed!

Waiola is a longtime favorite of mine for shave ice. Super nostalgic, and perfect if you love the soft ice shave ice (more like slushy). Can't beat their prices at $6 for a special bowl. My bf got the Obama Bowl, still delicious even if they were out of mochi. I always get a small POG, so refreshing, and they'll add more syrup for free. There are tables around the side and a small shop. Staff are always very friendly. We love coming after the beach. Waiola has some parking, but it fills up quickly, and also clears quickly. We had no problem on a Wednesday at 4pm getting a spot nearby. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Menu Jan 2026 - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Love coming to this place for shaved ice. Made more popular by the TV series Hawaii 5-0. There's always a line but the line moves quickly. The shaved ice is soft and the flavors are great - my favs are the lychee and pineapple flavors. On this particular visit, I discovered that they also offer lychee jelly as an added option. I had this and I am sold! They are quite generous with their syrup and they taste very natural and not made with articifical flavors. The staff there are usually friendly but they are so busy most times that they don't have time for plesantries! -Can't really blame them. The price listed is for cash payment. If you want to use your credit card, there is a surcharge. There are some seats available to sit and enjoy the shaved ice. There's a parking lot next to the store but it's not very big - can probably accomodate about 8-10 cars, I think. read more

See all

Such a diamond in the rough away from the crazy traffic of Waikiki. If you want a non-touristy place that is super authentic, look no further. We arrived with a party of 7, each ordering something different. The shop owners were super nice and we didn't feel rushed. I tried the one with the custard in the middle just because it was something new to me. It was delicious! I love how the kids can order mini sizes since the regular ones are usually too big. We enjoyed our shaved ice on the benches right outside. Couldn't ask for a better afternoon break. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Outside - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This is an unassuming & wonderful shave ice spot. It was busy this afternoon, but the line moved quickly. The prices are very fair and the icy sweet treats come out fast. Service is friendly. Order at the window counter outside but be sure to check out the little store inside for some trinkets & souvenirs. There tons of flavors and add ons to customize your shave ice. It's so much fun! I highly recommend this cute spot for anyone craving the softest and most delicious shave ice in Waikiki! Mahalo! read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Sign - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

This is a super popular and well-loved shave ice spot in the Waikiki! It's a cute little spot located in a neighborhood. Parking can be a little hard to find close to the shop, but if you don't mind a little walk or maybe a loop or two, it's not too difficult to find a spot. They move very quickly, so the wait is not too long, and they have a large variety of flavors! I think this is a decent spot, but the ice itself does clump and is a little inconsistent. The ube flavor that I ordered was also not very strong so it tasted a little diluted. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Ube shave ice (small) - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

A little hole in the wall place in a cute neighborhood! I love the vibes!! We got large size shave ice with mochi balls and ice cream base. They really soaked it with juice!! The ice was super soft like snow!! Loved it! My only complaint is that compared to Ululani's, the syrup isn't as intensely flavored. The flavor was more dilute. read more

See all

This shop reminds me of small corner stores in Japan that cater to children and the young at heart. Lots of sweet and colorful choices in shave ice and ice cream to enjoy on a warm day. My orange creamsicle shave ice was more orange than cream but it was nice and snowy and I enjoyed watching what people ordered out of the tiny window. The vibe was mellow and everyone can use a neighborhood hangout like this. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Orange creamsicle shave ice - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

WORTH IT. Support local business! Their Shane ice was soft and subtle flavors. I got haupia and illikoi with condense milk. Both flavors complement each other well. Parking depends on the time you go but if the line isn't long, you'll have parking. They got candy shops inside~ read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Mochi- 1 star only for the amount but was hard and old Syrups- the girl working there was kinda upset? We asked for guava, Lilikoi and strawberry. We got cotton candy instead of strawberry and I think bubble gum instead of guava? It was pretty awful. Price- decent for shave ice 6.75$ish for a large bowl. read more

This shave ice location is slight outside of Waikiki, but I have to say it's better than those inside Waikiki. Highly recommend you guys stopping by here. There were so many choices and pricing was very reasonable. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Store front and order area - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Waiola Shave Ice is a staple, a classic in Honolulu. Growing up, we would often visit Waiola when visiting town. Their shave ice is always so soft, and their prices are affordable. With plenty of flavors, sides, and toppings, you'll find this classic shave ice spot has more variety than meets the eye. The service is fast, and there's plenty of seating on the benches outside in the shade. Don't forget to check out the inside of the store for some delicious local snacks and candies! read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Two Mediums with mixed flavors - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Always amazing and so conveniently located. Love the Lilikoi cream that is actually more like a syrup! So fresh!!!

Best shave ice on the island!! The ice was so light and thin and melts in your mouth. The syrups were delicious and the condense milk brings everything together. The mochi was a little harder than I would've liked so I wouldn't add it next time but the ice was perfect! They were quick with their service and no line when we went. Cute shop inside as well! read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Lychee, guava, mango, condensed milk, mochi - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Waiola shave ice, second trip here. It's my last day so I'm crushing my top 2, Waiola and Shimazu before I fly home to the 9th island. Waiola is by far one of the best shave ice establishments on Oahu. Their ice is shaved thin and their syrups are full of flavor. They are friendly and they make a quick desert for you to enjoy. Come give Waiola a try if you're in the mood for a delicious treat on Oahu read more

See all

What's Hawaii without shaved ice? Mandatory stop at Waiola every visit! Told my friends to trust me and they were not disappointed! Fast service, friendly staff. read more

Waiola Shave Ice - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

The best shaved ice on the island, if not the planet! This mom and pop store is far more better than Matsumoto! Sorry, I said it! Now try it! read more

Small shaved ice spot tucked away in the outskirts of waikiki. We took a Lyft here to try their shaved ice since my husband said this spot is Obama's favorite in Honolulu. There was a short line when we arrived at around 2 pm but it moved very quickly. You order at the window and wait for your shaved ice. I got the azuki mochi bowl and swapped the sweet milk shaved ice with the coconut shaved ice. The shaved ice is not as smooth as Ululani's and the mochi were a bit hard. In my opinion, it's better to keep the mochi a white color than adding artificial coloring to it (I had some pink and purple mochi in my bowl). The condensed milk and the azuki beans were tied well together and I think it exemplified the coconut flavor. Unfortunately, my shaved ice melted super fast, it transformed into water within 5 minutes of my order which was a disappointment. Prices were very affordable though considering what they give you. If you are in the area, this is a good spot to check out but I wouldn't go out of my way to eat their shaved ice. read more

See all