Top Shave Ice Spots on Big Island

Scandinavian Shave Ice – Kailua-Kona

Location: 75-5699 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI

A longtime favorite in Kona, Scandinavian Shave Ice (or “Scandi’s” as the locals call it) has been serving up refreshing shave ice for over 30 years. Their portions are generous, and you can choose from an extensive menu of flavors, including island-inspired options like lilikoi (passion fruit), guava, and coconut. They also offer a variety of add-ons like ice cream and snowcap (sweetened condensed milk) for an extra indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Huge portions

✔ Dozens of flavors

✔ Conveniently located in downtown Kona

Original Big Island Shave Ice Co. – Waikoloa

Location: Food Truck – 68-1330 Mauna Lani Dr, Waikoloa Village, HI

This family-run food truck, parked near the Mauna Lani resort, is one of the highest-rated shave ice spots on the island. They use all-natural syrups made from fresh local fruits—no artificial flavors or colors here! Some must-try flavors include lilikoi, lychee, and mango.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ 100% natural syrups

✔ Local fruit flavors

✔ Food truck vibes with aloha spirit

Wilson’s By the Bay – Hilo

Location: 141 Mamo St, Hilo, HI 96720

If you find yourself in Hilo, stop by Wilson’s By the Bay, a quaint little shop serving old-school shave ice with a friendly, local touch. It’s a no-frills spot, but the shave ice is perfectly soft and flavorful. Popular choices include li hing mui (salty dried plum), pineapple, and blue vanilla.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Classic, no-frills shave ice

✔ Located near Hilo Bayfront for a scenic treat

✔ Affordable prices

Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice – Waimea

Location: 61-3665 Akoni Pule Hwy, Waimea, HI 96743I

This charming spot in Waimea offers a farm-to-cup experience, using real fruit purées and house-made syrups. The texture of their shave ice is unbelievably soft, and their toppings—like mochi, li hing powder, and macadamia nut ice cream—elevate the experience.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Fresh, local ingredients

✔ Unique toppings and flavors

✔ Great stop on your way to Pololū Valley

Kula Shave Ice – Hilo

Location: 57 Mamo St, Hilo, HI 96720

Kula Shave Ice is another standout in Hilo, offering organic, homemade syrups made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their acai bowl-inspired shave ice is a must-try, featuring real fruit and honey drizzles. They also serve coffee, making it a great place to grab both a sweet treat and a caffeine boost.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Organic and natural ingredients

✔ Unique flavors and combinations

✔ Cozy, welcoming atmosphere

Gecko Girlz Shave Ice – Kona

Location: Coconut Grove Marketplace, 75-5809, Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Gecko Girlz Shave Ice is a hidden gem offering delicious, naturally flavored shave ice for those exploring the farmer's markets. They’re known for their fresh fruit toppings and all-natural syrups. Their dragon fruit and coconut combo is a fan favorite!

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Available at local farmers markets

✔ Fresh fruit toppings

✔ Unique flavors

Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice – Kona

Location: 75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

While Ululani’s is a well-known chain from Maui, their Kona location is a must-visit. They take pride in their ultra-fine shave ice and house-made syrups using pure cane sugar and real fruit juices. Their coconut, pineapple, and passion orange guava flavors will transport your taste buds to paradise.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Consistently high-quality shave ice

✔ Wide variety of flavors

✔ Great location in Kona

No trip to the Big Island is complete without indulging in at least one (or a few) delicious shave ice treats. Whether you prefer traditional flavors, natural syrups, or over-the-top toppings, there’s a perfect spot for you on the island.