Waiola Shave Ice is an exquisite shave ice shop located just a short distance from Waikiki.
Among the many shave ice shops, this popular spot has even been voted number one in the “Best of the Best” shave ice category by Hawaii locals.
Established in 1940, it has a long history and is a historic shop said to have been frequently visited by former President Obama.
The dry, sunny climate of Hawaii makes shave ice taste many times better, so it might be fun to enjoy it as a sweet treat with a slightly different atmosphere than you might be used to.
You might not immediately think of having shave ice in Hawaii, but the delicious taste here will surely make you want to visit again and again.
The Azuki Bowl at Waiola Shave Ice
While the “Rainbow” flavor evoking a tropical image is popular for Hawaiian shave ice, the number one favorite at Waiola Shave Ice is the Azuki Bowl!
It features azuki beans, condensed milk, and mochi rice cakes, creating a quintessentially Japanese flavor.
The exterior of the shop also reminds you of an old-fashioned local store, creating a relaxing atmosphere.
The ice is not crunchy but melts fluffy in your mouth, a texture like powdery snow that is rare in Hawaii.
Other popular menu items include the Obama Rainbow with the three flavors of lime, cherry, and lilikoi that the former President loved, as well as the Matcha Bowl, Green Tea Bowl, and the Hawaiian-style Mango Milk Ice.
Menu and Ordering Method at Waiola Shave Ice
Ordering is easy if you choose a set menu item like the Azuki Bowl or Rainbow, but it can be difficult to order if you want to select each flavor individually.
In fact, Waiola Shave Ice has about 40 types of syrup, and various toppings such as ice cream, mochi, pudding, and mango.
You can also add chocolate sauce or condensed milk.
So, here is an introduction on how to order smoothly!
1. Decide on the Size
You can choose from three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large.
You might feel that even the small size is quite a substantial amount.
The easiest way to tell is to look at the bowls other people are eating.
To distinguish them, if it is shaped like an ice cream cone it is “Small,” if it is shaped like a drink cup it is “Medium,” and if it is shaped like a bowl it is “Large.”
2. Decide on Toppings
Since the order might be considered complete once you order the flavor, be sure to state your toppings first!
Additional toppings can be added for 50 cents each, so feel free to add them.
However, if you are choosing syrups yourself, having too many flavors mixed might not taste good, so many people stick to just ice cream and do not add much else.
As for the “Special Bowls” made with popular combinations, the form is already decided, so you do not need to give a detailed order!
3. Decide on Flavors
At Waiola Shave Ice, you can basically choose two of your favorite flavors.
For the Rainbow, it is like a value set where you can choose three flavors for the same price.
Incidentally, there are several types of Rainbow besides the Obama Rainbow, so it is recommended to order a Rainbow with fixed flavors as it is easier and prevents mistakes in combination.
Basic Information about Waiola Shave Ice
| Name | Waiola Shave Ice |
| Address | 2135 Waiola St, Honolulu, HI 96826 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 11:00 AM – 5:50 PM |
| Holidays | None |
| Restroom | None |
| Parking | Available (Free) |
| Stores | Total 2 locations (Moiliili, Kapahulu) |
Recommended Transportation to Waiola Shave Ice
TheBus [Cheapest Public Transport Covering All of Hawaii]
Biki [Shared Bicycles for Easy Travel in the Honolulu Area]
Waikiki Trolley [Large Buses Specialized for Sightseeing Standard Spots]
Taxi & Uber [Charter Vehicles Ideal for Small Group Travel in Hawaii]
Area Surrounding Waiola Shave Ice
[Complete Guide] Recommended Popular Sightseeing Spots in Waikiki & Ala Moana, Oahu, Hawaii