Feb 1st 2024
What is Shave Ice? Or Shaved Ice?
Shave ice, also known as Hawaiian shave ice, is a dessert made by shaving a block of ice and adding flavored syrup. In Hawai‘i we call it “ice shave.” Unlike snow cones made with crushed ice, shave ice absorbs the syrup completely, offering a smoother texture. This treat originated from Japan’s kakigōri, sharing similar preparation methods.
Shave Ice History in Maui and Hawaii
In Hawaiian Pidgin, the Japanese dessert kakigōri became known as shave ice. Japanese immigrants first sold shave ice to plantation workers in the early 1900s, and by the 1950s, it was a staple in Japanese-owned grocery stores. The popularity of shave ice grew alongside the importance of ice in Hawaiian trade and history. Ice was a status symbol and provided comfort to settlers, playing a crucial role in the U.S. colonization of Hawaii. On Oahu, spots like Aoki’s and Matsumoto’s are legendary. Now, shave ice is a must-have when visiting Hawaii.
If you’re heading to beautiful Maui, home of Tobi’s Poke and Shave Ice, check out these favorite shave ice spots. Both locals and visitors enjoy this refreshing treat every day. No matter your age, shave ice is a local delicacy in Hawaii. Enjoy!
Top Ten Shave Ice on the island of Maui
1. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
Since 2008, Ululani’s has been a Maui favorite. Named after its owner who grew up on Oahu, Ululani’s now has locations in Kihei, Kahului, and Maui Lani, plus branches on the Big Island, Oahu, Texas, and California!
2. Surfing Monkey Hawaiian Shave Ice
Surfing Monkey offers delicious shave ice with two South Maui locations. Visit them at Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea or on South Kihei Road. Their syrups are made with real sugar cane – no fake stuff here.
3. Tobi’s Shave Ice
We are located in Paia Town, Tobi’s serves Maui’s favorite shave ice! It’s a one-stop-shop for shave ice, local food, fresh ahi poke, banana bread, and souvenirs.
4. Rustbuckets Maui
At mile marker 8 on the Road to Hana, Rustbuckets offers more than shave ice. Enjoy delicious banana bread, cold brew coconut coffee, and BBQ grinds.
5. Gus’ Hawaiian Shave Ice
Typically in Kihei, Gus’ can be found all over Maui. They also offer catering and party services. Follow them on social media to find their daily location.
6. Peace Love Shave Ice
A popular spot in South Kihei, Peace Love Shave Ice offers fantastic shave ice, coffee drinks, snacks, and refreshing ice drinks like the Maui-Rita or Frozen Hot Chocolate.
7. Beach Street Maui
Located at Rainbow Mall in Kihei, Beach Street Maui offers shave ice, coffee drinks, and healthy foods. The service is always friendly, and they use locally grown, organic ingredients whenever possible.
8. The Shave Ice Spot in Ka’anapali
Tucked in a roadside strip mall in Ka’anapali, this spot is great for shave ice lovers and ocean activity enthusiasts. Rent or purchase snorkeling gear and more while enjoying a tasty treat.
9. Bling Bing Maui
In Kihei, Bling Bing offers a unique twist on traditional Hawaiian shave ice with Chinese shave ice, or bàobīng.
10. Da Kine Hawaiian Shave Ice
Next to the ABC Store across from Kamaole Beach 1 in Kihei, Da Kine is a family-run spot. Their shave ice is flavorful and melts in your mouth, not in your bowl!
Do you have a favorite Maui Shave Ice spot? Let us know in the comments!
Enjoy your shave ice adventure on Maui!
Tobis Poke and Shave Ice
Maui Poke and Shave Ice