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The best shave ice in Oahu

If you’re planning an Oahu vacation (or Waikiki vacation) and looking for the best shave ice on Oahu, I’ve got you covered! Today, we’ll explore some of the best places to get shave ice in Oahu. 

Do you need a car in Oahu?

Short answer: no, but yes. On Oahu, renting a car is optional, but I highly recommend it. Public transportation is excellent in Oahu, but you’ll want to venture beyond Waikiki and Honolulu, at least for part of the trip. You’ll find the best prices anywhere at Discount Hawaii Car Rental. 

If you want to find the best shave ice in Oahu, you’ll need a car because most of these places are outside of Waikiki, where most people stay. 

Best places to get shave ice in Oahu

Here are the best places to get shave ice in Oahu, which are listed in no particular order.

Matsumoto’s

Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa is famous for being the best shave ice on Oahu. Established in 1951 by the Matsumoto family, this iconic spot is a must-do for anyone visiting the North Shore. Try to get there early; the lines are long!

Matsumoto’s offers a wide range of toppings, such as azuki beans, mochi, and condensed milk, and your shave ice is fully customizable. Matsumoto’s Shave Ice remains a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the beautiful town of Haleiwa.

Looking for more things to do on the North Shore of Oahu? Check out 25 things to do in Haleiwa.

Location: 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Waiola Shave Ice

Waiola Shave Ice has been serving shave ice and other tasty treats since the 1940s! The store name holds special significance, with “Wai” meaning water and “Ola” meaning life, translating to “The water of life” in Hawaiian. 

Now serving two locations, Waiola Shave Ice is easily one of the best places to get shave ice in Oahu. 

Locations: 2135 Waiola Street, Honolulu, HI, 96826 and 3113 Mokihana Street, Honolulu, HI, 96826

Shimazu Shave Ice

Shimazu Store offers classic shave ice as well as fancy and elaborate flavors. Famous for large portions, Shimazu Shace Ice is located in Honolulu, near Ala Wai Golf Course. 

Location: 3111 Castle St, Honolulu, HI 96815

Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha

Uncle Clay’s has only been open since 2011 but quickly became one of the most popular places to get shave ice on Oahu. It all began when a little boy named Clayton wanted to own a shop someday. That little boy became Uncle Clay, and you have to go read the story for yourself!

HOPA (House of Pure Aloha) is located in Honolulu, so it’s very close if you’re staying in Waikiki!

Location: 820 W. HIND DRIVE #116, HONOLULU, HI 96821

Island Vintage Shave Ice

The Island Vintage line is long, but the wait is worth it! If you’re staying in Waikiki, this is a great spot to grab some shave ice! This shave ice shop features hand-made mochi and fresh fruit.

Location: Royal Hawaiian Center: 2301 Kalakaua Avenue #C214, Honolulu

More things to do in oahu

Here are even more of the best things to do in Oahu:

• The North Shore Beaches of Oahu
• What is the best luau in Oahu in 2024?
• The best Sunrise Hikes Oahu
• The 17 best waterfalls in Oahu
• 10 best things to do in Waikiki
• The best restaurants in Waikiki

The best shave ice in Oahu

If you’re working on your Oahu vacation and feeling stressed, reach out! I am a Hawaii Travel Agent, and that is what I do. I am selective about how many clients I work with, so reach out as soon as possible for the best availability. You can contact me to learn more.

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Note: Some images used are property of Island Vintage Shave Ice, Matsomotos Shave Ice, and Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha.