15 Best Ice Cream Shops in Oahu to Beat the Hawaiian Heat
Let’s be real—there’s nothing better than a scoop of ice cream on a warm day in Oahu. So if you’re searching for the best ice cream in Oahu, here are 15 best ice cream shops on the island that don’t disappoint.
Lappert’s Hawaii
If you’re craving some authentic Hawaiian ice cream in Waikiki, Lappert’s is where you need to go.
This place has been serving up rich, creamy scoops since 1983, and they’ve got flavors that just scream “Hawaii.” Think Kona coffee, macadamia nut, and Kauai pie (a dreamy combo of coffee, coconut, macadamia nuts, and chocolate fudge).
Plus, they’ve got locations all over the island, so it’s easy to grab a cone wherever you are.
Bubbies Ice Cream
Bubbies is a bit of an institution in Oahu, especially when it comes to mochi ice cream.
If you haven’t tried mochi ice cream before, it’s basically a scoop of ice cream wrapped in a sweet, chewy rice dough—delicious and totally unique.
Bubbies has a ton of flavors to choose from, like green tea, lychee, and passion fruit. It’s the perfect treat if you’re looking for something a little different in Honolulu.
Must-Try: The mochi ice cream in Lilikoi (passion fruit) flavor.
Scoop of Paradise (PERMANENTLY CLOSED)
If you’re in the North Shore and crave some ice cream, visit the Scoop of Paradis in Haleiwa.
This Hawaiian ice cream shop sells handmade, small-batch ice cream with flavors inspired by the island. You can find classic vanilla or something more adventurous like taro or coconut macadamia ice cream.
The laid-back vibe of the shop is just an added bonus!
Dave’s Ice Cream
With roots going back to 1982, Dave’s Ice Cream is a local legend as far as Oahu ice cream shops go. They’re known for their wide variety of flavors, many of which are inspired by local ingredients. Ube (purple yam), haupia (coconut pudding), and azuki bean are just a few of the unique flavors you’ll find here.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try something you’ve never had before. The Ube Macapuno (purple yam and coconut) is a must-try!
Black Sheep Cream Co.
For those who love a bit of creativity in their ice cream, Black Sheep Cream Co. in Kaimuki is the place to be.
This ice cream shop is known for its innovative, small-batch flavors that change regularly. Expect the unexpected here, with flavors like honey lavender, burnt caramel, and even bacon maple.
Il Gelato Hawaii
For authentic Italian gelato with a Hawaiian twist, Il Gelato Hawaii is a must-visit. This shop offers a wide array of flavors, all made fresh daily using local ingredients. The lilikoi (passion fruit) sorbet is a local favorite!
They also offer dairy-free options, so there’s something for everyone.
Via Gelato
If you’re craving gelato rather than traditional ice cream, Via Gelato is the spot for you.
Located in Kaimuki, this cute little shop is known for its smooth, creamy gelato made with fresh, local ingredients.
They’ve got a rotating menu of flavors, including favorites like green tea, lilikoi (passion fruit), and coconut. Plus, they often experiment with fun, seasonal flavors, so there’s always something new to try.
Must-Try: Their Vegan Lilikoi Sorbetto is a crowd-pleaser.
Island Vintage Shave Ice
Okay, so technically this is shave ice, but Island Vintage Shave Ice deserves a spot on this list.
Located in the Royal Hawaiian Center, they offer a twist on the traditional Hawaiian treat by adding a scoop of ice cream at the bottom. Their shaved ice are SO good!!
With flavors like acai, mango, and coconut, topped with fresh fruit and drizzles of honey or condensed milk, this is a treat you’ll be dreaming about long after you leave the island.
Pro Tip: Try the Coconut Haupia shave ice with vanilla ice cream—heaven in a cup.
Dole Plantation
No list of Oahu’s best frozen treats would be complete without mentioning the famous Dole Whip.
Located at the Dole Plantation in Wahiawa, this pineapple soft serve is a must-try for anyone visiting the island. The Dole Whip is a light and refreshing soft-serve treat that’s become a Hawaiian icon.
You can enjoy it on its own, swirled with vanilla, or even as a float with pineapple juice. It’s a refreshing break after exploring the plantation and learning about Hawaii’s rich pineapple history.
Must-Try: The classic Dole Whip, either solo or as a float—perfect for a hot day!
Butterfly Ice Cream
This small, locally-owned shop in Waikiki is a hidden gem.
Butterfly Ice Cream offers small-batch, handcrafted ice cream in Oahu with unique flavors that highlight local ingredients.
We love the creamy Li Hing Mango and refreshing Pineapple Sorbet! The shop is also cozy and the staff super friendly!
Local Favorite: The Li Hing Mango ice cream is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy.
Tropical Tribe
Tropical Tribe in Waikiki is famous for its acai bowls, but in my opinion, their acai soft serve steals the show.
This refreshing, dairy-free treat is perfect for a hot day in the sun. You can customize it with a variety of toppings like fresh fruit, granola, and honey. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream but just as satisfying.
Must-Try: The Acai soft serve with banana, granola, and a drizzle of honey.
Banan
If you’re looking for a healthier, dairy-free ice cream option, Banan is the spot.
They specialize in soft serve made entirely from local bananas, blended with other fruits to create creamy, delicious flavors. You can have your soft serve in a cup, cone, or even a pineapple yacht, topped with fresh fruit, granola, and drizzles of honey or peanut butter.
Must-Try: The Pineapple Yacht with banana soft serve, topped with fresh berries and honey.
Waiola Shave Ice
Another iconic spot for shave ice, Waiola Shave Ice has been a local favorite since the 1940s. What sets Waiola apart is their super fine ice, which melts in your mouth like snow.
They offer a wide variety of flavors, and just like Island Vintage, you can add a scoop of ice cream at the bottom. It’s a classic Hawaiian treat that’s been perfected over decades.
Pro Tip: Go for the Azuki Bean shave ice with vanilla ice cream—an unbeatable combo.
Matsumoto Shave Ice
Matsumoto Shave Ice in Haleiwa is legendary, and for good reason. They’ve been serving up shave ice since 1951, and their loyal following keeps growing.
While it’s known for its colorful, syrup-drenched shave ice, the addition of a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the bottom takes it to the next level.
Diamond Head Market & Grill
Diamond Head Market & Grill is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, known for its delicious baked goods and casual eats. But their hidden gem is the Blueberry Cream Cheese Scone Ice Cream Sandwich.
It’s exactly what it sounds like—a scoop of ice cream sandwiched between two of their famous blueberry cream cheese scones.
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Are there any other ice cream shops in Oahu I need to include in this guide? Feel free to leave a comment below!
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