The most populated island in Hawaii has so many ice cream shops that delight locals and visitors alike. There’s the sand, sea, and surf and on any hot day, there’s also the best ice cream in Oahu to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Whether you’re looking for some soft serve, shaved ice, delicious gelato, traditional vanilla ice cream, or to mix up different flavors, hop into any of these best places in Oahu.
Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha
Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha is a popular shaved ice and dessert shop located in Aina Haina. It was founded by Clayton “Uncle Clay” Chang in 2008 with the mission of spreading aloha (love, kindness, and positivity) through delicious treats and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s known for its high-quality shaved ice, made with natural syrups and topped with fresh fruit and other toppings. In addition to shaved ice, the shop also offers other desserts such as ice cream, mochi, and cookies.
- Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha, 820 W Hind Dr #116, Honolulu, HI 96821
Il Gelato Hawaii
For some natural and locally-made authentic Italian gelato, look no further than Il Gelato. Their award-winning artisan gelato is made fresh daily with the finest ingredients grown locally or sourced from Italy or worldwide. From classic flavors to Hawaiian specialties, there are also seasonal choices; all made to have you longing for more. You’ll be spoilt for choice here; That’s not all; they also have several vegan, dairy-free options.
- Il Gelato, multiple locations
Dave’s Ice Cream
When Dave Leong opened the first Dave’s Ice Cream in 1982, he was one of only three vendors licensed to make ice cream on the island of Oahu. Several formulas and taste tests later, Dave’s is now a franchise and an innovator of ice cream. With an impressive variety of over 50 flavors, 40 available across all locations, they have some award-winning ice cream you mustn’t miss. Some popular ice cream flavors include Poha Berry, Banana Mochi Berry, Kahlua Fudge, Azuki Beans, Kona Coffee, Green Tea, Blue Cotton Candy and Rainbow Sherbet (a delicious trio of guava, passion fruit, and pineapple).
- Dave’s Ice Cream, multiple locations
Samurai
When you can’t decide between ice cream and shaved ice, try the Hawaiian Frost from Samurai instead. This one-of-a-kind frozen dessert is a refreshing creamy cross between ice cream and Hawaiian shave ice. Light ice cream mixed with syrup takes its inspiration from Maui-style sherbet. Choose from flavors like Yuzu, Island Coffee, Lychee, Mango, Orange, Banana, Honeydew Melon, Blue Vanilla, and more.
- Samurai Inc, 738 Umi St, Honolulu, HI 96819
Wing Ice Cream Parlor
Why settle for a regular ice cream cone when you can dig into icy treats at the Wing Ice Cream Parlor! Chinatown’s ice cream parlor in downtown Honolulu is bound to be on your list of favorite spots in Hawaii for classic and unique flavors made from fresh, local ingredients. They also serve great shaved ice. You’ll find Tea & Cookies (Earl Grey with lemon cookies) and Turtle Dog (Peanut butter with chocolate, pecans, and caramel) delightful among the many fun flavors. Besides their delicious creamy ice cream, they also offer dairy-free ice cream options (made using coconut milk) and sorbets.
- Wing Ice Cream, 1145 Maunakea St, N Pauahi St #4, Honolulu, HI 96817
Lappert’s Hawaii
This relaxed local chain in Waikiki’s Hilton Hawaiian Village serves coffee, baked goods, and super-premium ice cream. Starting with just two flavors – Vanilla and Macadamia Nut, Lappert’s ice cream has come a long way over the years, perfecting over 125 flavors. They use fresh ingredients and churn their ice cream in small batches daily, so you don’t have to eat a day’s-old ice cream. A favorite flavor here is Heavenly Hana (dark chocolate ice cream with a marshmallow swirl). Kona Lava Java, Kauai Pie, White Chocolate Macadamia Nut, Green Tea, Banana Fudge, and Coconut Pineapple will have you drooling too.
- Lappert’s Hawaii, 2005, Kaila Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Magnolia Ice Cream
Magnolia Ice Cream offers a taste of the Philippines in the heart of Oahu. Known for its bold flavors like ube (purple yam), macapuno (coconut), and mango, this spot delivers a tropical twist on classic ice cream. With multiple locations, it’s a convenient stop for anyone craving creamy desserts inspired by Filipino culture.
- Magnolia Ice Cream (Multiple Locations)
Angel’s Ice Cream
Located in Laie, Angel’s Ice Cream is a hidden gem offering generous scoops of handmade ice cream. Their variety of flavors ranges from classic vanilla to innovative creations like lychee and haupia (coconut pudding). This family-owned spot is known for its warm aloha spirit and delicious treats.
- Angel’s Ice Cream, 55-510 Kamehameha Hwy #2, Laie, HI 96762
The Cheesecake Factory
While famous for its decadent cheesecakes, The Cheesecake Factory’s ice cream selection is not to be overlooked. Located in the heart of Waikiki, this bustling eatery serves indulgent sundaes and ice cream-based desserts that are perfect for cooling down after a day on the beach.
- The Cheesecake Factory, 2301 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
Waiola Shave Ice
Waiola Shave Ice may specialize in finely shaved ice, but it’s their ice cream base that takes the experience to the next level. Tucked under their vibrant rainbow of syrups lies a scoop of creamy vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
- Waiola Shave Ice, 2135 Waiola St, Honolulu, HI 96826
Monsarrat Shave Ice
Nestled near Diamond Head, Monsarrat Shave Ice combines tropical flavors with artisanal craftsmanship. Their signature shave ice comes with a hidden scoop of gourmet ice cream, blending perfectly with fruit syrups like guava and pineapple. It’s the perfect stop after a morning hike.
- Monsarrat Shave Ice, 3046 Monsarrat Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
Tropical Dreams Ice Cream
True to its name, Tropical Dreams Ice Cream is a dream come true for ice cream aficionados. With ultra-premium flavors like Big Island coffee, coconut macadamia nut, and lilikoi cheesecake, their rich and creamy creations are worth seeking out across the island.
- Tropical Dreams Ice Cream, multiple locations
Whether you’re exploring Honolulu or venturing to quieter corners of Oahu, these ice cream and shave ice spots promise a memorable and delicious experience. Indulge in the flavors of the islands and let your taste buds discover their own slice of paradise.
Traveling Elsewhere? Here Are Some Great Ice Cream Shops You Can Try!
