7 Best Coffee Shops in Honolulu: Cozy Vibes, and Post-Hike Fuel!

Last Updated on October 17, 2025 by Aram Vardanyan

As someone who is always seeking out the best local spots and staying heavily caffeinated, I can confidently tell you that you can find some of the best coffee shops in Honolulu, Hawaii. 

If you’re planning your dream Honolulu itinerary, these spots are essential additions.

In fact, Hawai‘i is a coffee pioneer; it’s the only U.S. state that grows coffee on a commercial scale.

In this article, we’re diving into Hawaii’s coffee scene. Honolulu boasts some of the best coffee shops on the island, and I’ll show you where to go.

I’ll also share tips on finding the most delicious catering in Honolulu, including amazing açaí bowls and pastries.

Best Coffee Shops in Honolulu: Top-Rated Brews & Hawaiian Drinks

You can grab a plain black coffee anywhere, but when you visit coffee shops in Honolulu, you absolutely must dive into the uniquely tropical and delicious beverages they offer!

Coffee Prices in Honolulu

• Standard Latte: $5.50 – $7.50
• Drip Coffee: $3.50 – $5.00
• 100% Kona Pour Over: $6.50 – $12.00+
• Açaí Bowl: $10.00 – $14.00
• Pastries: $4.00 – $6.00
• Avg. Coffee + Pastry: $9.50 – $13.50
• Bag of 100% Kona (7-12oz): $30.00 – $60.00+

If you love walking and discovering new places, these coffee shops are perfectly positioned to jumpstart your day. I’ll also include their addresses so you can find them fast.

1. Island Vintage Coffee

Island Vintage Coffee is an iconic Waikiki staple with multiple locations in Honolulu, including a favorite at the Royal Hawaiian Center that features beautiful views and a second-floor patio.

This cafe is overwhelmingly popular because the coffee and popular açaí bowls are truly excellent. For coffee lovers, their macadamia nut cappuccino or latte is a must-try.

Another hugely popular menu item is the Hawaiian Honey Latte, which is a cult-favorite for those who like sweetness in their coffee.

If you’re looking for an iced beverage, their Mauna Kea Iced Coffee includes iced Kona coffee, black lava sea salt, and a scoop of coconut, vanilla, or macadamia gelato. The vintage Kona mocha is also recommended as a must-have.

-PRO TIP: Island Vintage Coffee is one of the few places in Waikiki open before 7 AM, which is why it’s “always overflowing with jet-lagged tourists”.

Address: 1450 Ala Moana Blvd #1128, Honolulu

2. Kona Coffee Purveyors

Located inside the International Marketplace in Waikiki, Kona Coffee Purveyors offers a chic experience with an ultra-modern check-out system.

This is one of the best places in Waikiki to get fresh, local Kona coffee. They also showcase beautiful latte art for those who appreciate a graphic, foamy design on their drink.

While you are there, you should be sure to pair your coffee with one of their amazing baked goods, specifically the black sesame Kouign-amann from b. patisserie, which is described as a rare, crunchy, and buttery French pastry.

-PRO TIP: To avoid a huge line at Kona Coffee Purveyors, aim to go very early or closer to closing.

Address: Kuhio Mall Entrance, 2330 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu

3. Kai Coffee Hawaii

With several locations right in the heart of Waikiki, Kai Coffee Hawaii is ideal for a quick, high-quality experience.

They serve excellent Kona and Maui coffee alongside typical options such as lattes, cappuccinos, cold brew, and flat whites.

However, you must try their signature, super pleasant, not-too-sweet “Kai Latte,” which is a macadamia nut latte made with two shots of espresso.

This is considered a quintessential Honolulu treat you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. They also offer a turmeric latte and even sell bottles of their mac nut syrup, so you can make your own at home.

Address: 2424 Kalākaua Ave #129, Honolulu

4. Local Joe

If you’re looking for a serious coffee fix and creative flair, Local Joe is a standout. Not only is the coffee amazing, including the macadamia nut flavor, but their latte art is truly next level.

They serve a variety of Hawaiian beans, including Kona, Hamakua, Kauai, and house-blended coffee, as well as a suite of organic lattes. Recommended signature drinks include the Royal Hawaiian Mocha or the popular Thai Tea Latte.

So turnover is pretty quick, though parking can be a bit tricky due to construction.

-GOOD TO KNOW: This shop is primarily frequented by locals. If you’re driving to Local Joe, parking can be tricky due to construction, but they offer a handy parking map.

Address: 110 Marin St, Honolulu

5. Morning Glass Coffee + Cafe

Morning Glass Coffee offers a great mix of cozy atmosphere and creative beverages. They feature Kona and Ka’u specialty brews.

If you are an adventurous coffee lover, you should be sure to try the “Sucker Punch,” which is two shots of espresso mixed with cold-pressed lemonade.

The barista explains that the bitterness of the coffee actually complements the tang of the lemonade, making it surprisingly good.

They also serve traditional drinks, with their flat white being noted as excellent, and they are located in the direction of the Manoa Falls Trail, making it a perfect post-hike destination.

Address: 2955 E Manoa Rd, Honolulu

6. Ali’i Coffee Co.

Tucked away on a graffiti-covered street near Chinatown, Ali’i Coffee Co. is a tiny but hip craft coffee shop that sells excellent coffee and inventive coffee drinks.

They serve rich Kona coffee. For a visually unique and delicious experience, you should try their bright purple taro ube latte.

The banana milk float is also highly recommended; it’s made from cold brew, macadamia nut milk, and pureed banana foam. This is a friendly local spot known for its hip, unpretentious atmosphere.

Address: 35 S Beretania St., Honolulu

7. Ars Cafe

Ars Cafe is one of the most charming coffee shops in Honolulu. Located in the Diamond Head neighborhood, it is considered the perfect post-hike stop after conquering Diamond Head.

Outside of serving delicious coffee, they offer a unique combination of offerings: they serve up homemade gelato and double as a unique art gallery.

They also offer cold brew and provide tasty sandwiches, toasts, and breakfast options to pair with your coffee.

Address: 3116 Monsarrat Ave, Honolulu

The Ultimate Coffee Companion: Best Food Pairings

Finding the best coffee shop in Honolulu often means finding the best breakfast, too!

Honolulu Acai Bowl Kings

You simply have to go hungry when visiting certain spots.

• Island Vintage Coffee is a staple and serves some of the best acai bowls on Oʻahu alongside their coffee.
• Pai Cafe’s açaí bowl has a loyal fanbase—it’s fresh, colorful, and big enough to keep you fueled!
• Honolulu Coffee offers a Hawaiian açaí bowl as a hefty breakfast treat.
• Cafe Villamor also has excellent açaí bowls.

Pastries and Unique Savory Dishes

• Kona Coffee Purveyors has some of the best pastries I’ve ever tried. Their black sesame Kouign-amann from b. Patisserie is worth seeking out!
• For a fun, savory meal, Morning Glass Coffee + Cafe offers delicious breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and mac n’ cheese pancakes (a real thing!)!
• Arvo specializes in Australian-inspired light bites like avocado toast and smoked salmon toast.
• Don’t forget The Halekulani Bakery for amazing baked goods like the pineapple banana bread or the excellent “brownie bread” (a dark chocolate loaf that looks like pumpernickel)!

Aesthetic and Community Focused Spots

These coffee shops in Honolulu offer so much more than just a morning cup; they are cultural stops and community hubs.

• Arvo is a highly Instagrammable spot, celebrated for its adorably designed outdoor seating, complete with a fun disco ball.
• Local Joe was a personal favorite, standing out for its excellent coffee and next-level latte art, even offering “Aloha” written in your foam!
• Ars Cafe charmingly combines a coffee shop with a unique art gallery.
• Tucked inside The Laylow hotel, Hideout Coffee provides a cozy nook with a great terrace view.
• Out on the North Shore, Surfers Coffee in Wahiawa is a cool non-profit owned by Surfing The Nations, prioritizing community. Lastly,
• Mirage Art & Coffee serves as a lively community hub, hosting creative events like paint parties and open mics.

Conclusion: Taking the Island Spirit Home

There is no shortage of amazing coffee shops in Honolulu to explore! Make sure you grab a little piece of paradise to take home with you!

• Island Vintage Coffee is a fantastic spot to buy high-quality local foodie souvenirs. Inventory includes chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, local salt, local chocolate, local all-natural skincare brands, and, of course, their local coffee. The vintage Kona mocha is also a must-have.
• Kai Coffee Hawaii even sells bottles of their mac nut syrup so you can keep making those quintessential macadamia nut lattes at home!
• Kona Mountain Coffee offers samples and gift-grade chocolate-covered nuts.
• Lion Coffee packages their beans for purchase so you can taste Honolulu home.

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