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Gluten-Free in Hawaii

So you’re planning a Hawaii vacation and wondering if it’s difficult to eat gluten-free in Hawaii. Today, we’ll discuss all things gluten-free Hawaii, from the best gluten-free restaurants in Hawaii to whether or not it’s difficult to find gluten-free food in Hawaii.

Before we get started, let me introduce myself. My name is Amy, and I’m a travel agent specializing in honeymoons and Hawaii vacations. More importantly to the topic at hand, I have Celiac disease. So I am strictly gluten-free! I’ve also helped many clients with Celiac or gluten intolerance, along with other dietary restrictions. Contact me today for help with your Hawaii vacation – gluten-free or not!

If you don’t have a rental car yet, I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental. Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island all require a rental car. While Oahu has good public transportation, I recommend a car both for getting around and for the best access to gluten-free restaurants and grocery stores. 

Is Hawaii Gluten-Free Friendly?

Hawaii is generally very accommodating when it comes to gluten-free dining. Many traditional Hawaiian and local dishes are naturally gluten-free or can be easily modified. Rice is a staple, making it even easier to naturally eat gluten-free.

Restaurants across the islands are accustomed to dietary requests. While it’s always important to mention gluten-free needs clearly, servers and chefs are typically knowledgeable and proactive about substitutions and preparation.

Cross-contamination awareness is also fairly common, particularly at higher-end restaurants and resort properties, making Hawaii a comfortable destination even for those with Celiac disease (like me)!

Next, I’ll share some of my favorite gluten-free restaurants in Hawaii on the four major islands.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Maui

Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands for gluten-free dining. The combination of luxury resorts, farm-to-table restaurants, and health-conscious cafes means gluten-free menus are common.

Gluten-free–friendly restaurants in Maui:

• Mama’s Fish House
  Known for fresh seafood and attentive service. Gluten-free needs are handled carefully, making this a strong choice for a special meal. This is one of the reservations you need to make before going to Hawaii.

• Miss Arepa
  This cute and casual restaurant in Kaanapali is 100% gluten-free! If you like Arepas, you’ll love it. They have dairy-free options too. 

• Ka’ana Kitchen at the Andaz
  While most buffets are never safe, you’ll find many naturally gluten-free options here. There’s also a dedicated gluten-free area with a gluten-free toaster. The Chefs are very knowledgeable and will help with fresh items if you are worried about cross-contamination. Don’t miss the Mochi waffles! This is also one of the best places to stay in Maui.

100% gluten-free breakfast at the Andaz Maui! Eggs, chicken sausages, fruit, and mochi waffles.

Almost all (if not all) of the higher-end resorts are very accommodating in their restaurants. 

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Oahu

Oahu has the most diverse dining scene in Hawaii, making it an excellent island for gluten-free travelers. Restaurants in Honolulu and Waikiki are extremely familiar with gluten-free requests due to the high volume of visitors.

Recommended gluten-free–friendly restaurants in Oahu:

• Arancino at The Kahala
  A standout for gluten-free Italian dishes, including pasta options, with staff well-trained in dietary accommodations.

• Heavenly Island Lifestyle
  Offers a clearly labeled menu with gluten-free breakfast and lunch options, perfect for a relaxed Waikiki meal.

• Paia Fish Market Waikiki
  A casual, reliable spot for grilled fish plates that are naturally gluten-free and easy to customize.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Kauai

Kauai’s dining scene is smaller, but gluten-free eating is still very manageable. Many restaurants focus on simple preparation and fresh ingredients, which naturally works well for gluten-free travelers.

Gluten-free–friendly restaurants in Kauai:

• Tiki Taco
  100% gluten-free, this restaurant is a Mexican-Hawaiian fusion and has the most delicious and inexpensive tacos!

• Keoki’s Paradise
  A popular Poipu spot where gluten-free needs are taken seriously, especially at dinner.

• Kauai Juice Co.
  Great for juice, smoothies, bowls, and light gluten-free meals, especially for breakfast or lunch.

I also highly recommend all the restaurants at the Grand Hyatt Kauai, my favorite Kauai resort. 

Gluten-Free Restaurants on the Big Island

The Big Island offers a wide range of dining options, spread across Kona, Hilo, and resort areas. While distances are larger, gluten-free dining is still easy to manage.

Gluten-free–friendly restaurants on the Big Island:

• Merriman’s Big Island
  A farm-to-table favorite with excellent gluten-free awareness and fresh, locally sourced dishes.

• Huggo’s on the Rocks
  Oceanfront dining with a menu that works well for gluten-free travelers, especially seafood dishes.

• Lava Lava Beach Club
  How many places can you dine with your feet in the sand? A favorite of mine with fantastic gluten-free options. There is also a Lava Lava Beach Club in Kauai.

The resorts in the Waikoloa/Kohala Coast area all have wonderful restaurants with gluten-free options. Some of my favorites are at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. 

Grocery Stores & Snacks for Gluten-Free Travel

These four Hawaiian islands have grocery stores that carry gluten-free products, including bread, snacks, and pantry staples. Foodland and Safeway are two of the main grocery stores. You’ll also find Whole Foods on most islands, where it’s very easy to find gluten-free staples. 

Having access to a car makes grocery stops easier. You truly need a car on any island other than Oahu, so make sure to get one from Discount Hawaii Rental Cars!

Gluten-Free Travel in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the easiest destinations for gluten-free travel. If you want to work with a travel agent who really knows what it’s like to eat gluten-free, I’d love to help you plan a Hawaii vacation or honeymoon! You can contact me to learn more.

Dreaming of traveling, but not ready just yet? Sign up for my newsletter! You will receive a weekly email with travel tips, Hawaii news, and more. If you love these posts and want to support my blog but aren’t prepared to travel yet, you can buy me a coffee to show your support. I ❤️ coffee!

More Hawaii Travel Tips:

• 15 things you’ll forget to pack for Hawaii
• Snow in Hawaii – yes, it exists!
• 50 things to do in Maui
• 7 day Kauai Itinerary

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