Oahu’s Sweet 16: From Waikiki to the North Shore, Don’t Miss These Hawaiian Treats 🍧🍦🍩
From warm malasadas at sunrise to shave ice at sunset, these sweet treats are part of what makes the island of Oahu so irresistible.
If there’s ever a time to give in to your sweet tooth, it’s when you’re on vacation in Hawaii. Between the warm sunshine, salt in your hair, and the island vibes, dessert just tastes better here.
From old-school malasadas to colorful shave ice piled high with tropical syrup, Oahu is packed with irresistible treats that deserve a spot on your must-try list.
These local favorites are the perfect reward after a beach day, road trip, or hike—and let’s be honest, you don’t need a reason to indulge in paradise.
From legendary bakeries to lesser-known local favorites, here are 15 of the best sweet treats on Oahu worth adding to your Oahu Bucket List:
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice. All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
1. Malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery
Opened in 1952, Leonard’s Bakery is a Honolulu institution that’s stood the test of time. The pink-and-white neon sign outside is practically a local landmark, and the line that wraps around the building most mornings says it all—these Portuguese donuts are that good.
There are a lot of delicious malasadas around the Hawaiian islands, but Leonard’s is the gold standard.
Read More: Why You Need Malasadas in Hawaii (& Where to Find Them)
Fluffy, golden, and rolled in sugar, Leonard’s malasadas are made to order and handed to you warm. Try the original sugar version or go for a filled one—lilikoi (passion fruit) and haupia (coconut) are local favorites.
It’s simple, old-fashioned comfort food that somehow feels like the essence of Hawaii in one bite.
If you can’t make it to the bakery, you can look for the red and white striped “Malasadamobiles” around Oahu. And while they’ll do in a pinch, it’s well worth the trip to the bakery.
Where to Find It: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 | (808) 737-5591 | Daily 5:30 a.m.–7 p.m. | leonardshawaii.com
2. Shave Ice at Matsumoto Shave Ice (North Shore)
Tucked in the heart of Haleiwa since the 1950s, Matsumoto Shave Ice is the stuff of North Shore legend. The family-run shop has been cooling off surfers, locals, and visitors for decades with its old-fashioned charm and retro surf vibes.
Forget crunchy snow cones—Hawaiian shave ice is all about that impossibly fine texture that melts instantly on your tongue. Matsumoto’s version comes drenched in house-made syrups, with tropical flavors like guava, mango, and pineapple.
Add mochi balls or a scoop of vanilla ice cream underneath for the ultimate upgrade.
Where to Find It: 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712 | (808) 637-4827 | Daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m. | matsumotoshaveice.com
3. Dole Whip at the Dole Plantation
No trip to Oahu is complete without a stop at the Dole Plantation. Yes, it’s a little touristy. But it’s a fun, family-friendly stop on the way to the North Shore.
Read More: 5 Pineapple-Perfect Things to Do at Oahu’s Dole Plantation
And you can’t visit without getting a cup (or cone) of their iconic pineapple Dole Whip. The plantation itself is a fun stop for families, with a garden maze, pineapple express train, and all things pineapple-themed.
The Dole Whip is a creamy, dairy-free frozen dessert that perfectly captures the flavor of Hawaii’s most famous fruit. Light, tangy, and refreshing, it’s the ultimate mid-day treat on a warm island afternoon.
And while you can get a Dole Whip at various places around Oahu, it just tastes creamier when you order it here. Get it swirled with vanilla or as a float in fresh pineapple juice.
Where to Find It: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786 | (808) 621-8408 | Daily 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. | doleplantation.com
4. Coco Puffs at Liliha Bakery
A local favorite since 1950, Liliha Bakery is one of those places where time seems to stand still. You’ll find old-school counter service, local families chatting over breakfast, and glass cases filled with irresistible pastries.
The star of the show? The Coco Puff—a chocolate cream puff filled with rich chantilly frosting and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze.
It’s sweet, decadent, and dangerously addictive. Locals buy them by the dozen for parties, and once you taste one, you’ll understand why.
The original bakery on Kuakini Street in Honolulu is a fun place to visit. But you’ll also find locations around greater Honolulu, including one conveniently located in Waikiki’s International Marketplace.
Where to Find It: Main bakery – 515 N Kuakini St, Honolulu, HI 96817 | (808) 531-1651 | Daily 6 a.m.–10 p.m. (Hours vary by location) | lilihabakery.com
5. Taro Donuts at Holey Grail
Born on Kauai in the town of Hanalei and now a hit on Oahu, Holey Grail Donuts takes the humble donut to new heights. Their shop in Waikiki has a chill surf-inspired vibe, and you’ll often see a line of locals waiting for these crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside creations.
Made from organic Hawaiian-grown taro and cooked in fera fruit oil, these donuts are next-level—especially with toppings like lilikoi glaze or chocolate-maple.
The menu changes weekly, but every flavor is made fresh to order. I have a terrible time deciding between flavors, so I always opt for the 4-pack “Tasting Box” sampler (it’s a good reason to order 4 when you only went in for one).
Where to Find It: 1001 Queen St, #101, Honolulu, HI 96814 | (808) 482-0311 | Daily 7 a.m.–7 p.m. (9pm on weekends) | holeygraildonuts.com
6. Hula Pie at Duke’s Waikiki
Right on the sand in Waikiki, Duke’s is as classic as it gets. Named for legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku, this oceanfront spot is famous for its live music, breezy lanai, and perfect sunset views. It also makes my list of favorite dinner spots on Oahu.
Read More: From Casual Date Nights to Special Occasions, Here Are My 10 Favorite Restaurants on Oahu
But whether you’re here for lunch, dinner, or just drinks, dessert is non-negotiable.
Their signature Hula Pie is a local legend—an ice cream pie stacked high with macadamia nut ice cream, chocolate cookie crust, hot fudge, whipped cream, and chopped mac nuts.
It’s big enough to share, but you won’t want to. One forkful and you’ll see why Hula Pie has become Hawaii’s most famous dessert.
Where to Find It: 2335 Kalākaua Ave Ste 116, Honolulu, HI 96815 | (808) 922-2268 | Daily 7 a.m.–12 a.m. | dukeswaikiki.com
7. Shave Ice at Lahaina Shave Ice
With two locations in Waikiki, the newest Lahaina Shave Ice is conveniently located right next to one of my favorite spots for cheap eats in Waikiki, Steak Shack.
The bright colors, friendly staff, and tropical flavors make Lahaina Shave Ice a popular spot for a cool treat after a day at the beach.
The shave ice here is silky soft, topped with fresh fruit, mochi, and house-made syrups made from real juice instead of artificial flavoring.
Try the “Lahaina Rainbow” or the “Seas the Day” combos—or create your own with island flavors like pineapple, guava, and lilikoi.
Where to Find It: 247 Beach Walk, Ste 100, Honolulu, HI 96815 | (808) 772-7012 | Daily 10 a.m.–8 p.m. | lahainashaveice.com
8. Haupia Cream Pie at Ted’s Bakery (North Shore)
Just steps from Sunset Beach, Ted’s Bakery is a true North Shore icon. Known for its hearty plate lunches and classic island-style pies, this family-run bakery has been a local staple since the 1980s.
Most visitors come for the beaches, but the North Shore’s food scene is just as legendary. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the real North Shore treat is waiting in Ted’s dessert case.
Read More: 15 Can’t-Miss Stops on a Day Trip to Oahu’s Iconic North Shore
The Haupia Cream Pie layers chocolate custard, coconut pudding, and whipped cream inside a flaky crust. It’s creamy, rich, and perfectly tropical.
One slice and you’ll understand why this humble bakery has a cult following among both locals and surfers.
Where to Find It: 59-024 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712 | (808) 638-8207 | Daily 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m. | tedsbakery.com
9. Ice Cream at Lappert’s Hawaii
Since 1983, Lappert’s Hawaii has been churning out some of the island’s best small-batch ice cream. The Waikiki shop located inside the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort has a retro vibe with tropical murals, and the sweet smell of waffle cones hits you before you even walk in.
Lappert’s ice cream flavors capture Hawaii’s essence—think Kauai Pie (coffee ice cream with mac nuts, coconut, and fudge) or Kona Coffee and Cream. My favorite is the Nene Tracks!
Ice cream at Lappert’s is ultra-creamy and rich, made daily with fresh local ingredients. You’ll find Lappert’s across the islands, but a cone in Waikiki before the Friday night fireworks is a must for your Hawaii Bucket List.
Where to Find It: 2005 Kālia Road, Honolulu, HI 96815 | (808) 943-0256 | Daily 6 a.m.–10 p.m. | lappertshawaii.com
10. Pink Palace Pancakes at Surf Lanai (Royal Hawaiian)
Tucked inside the iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel, the Surf Lanai is pure old Waikiki charm. The tropical outdoor terrace, ocean views, and calm morning breeze make it one of the most relaxing breakfast spots on the island.
Their famous Pink Palace Pancakes are a nod to the hotel’s nickname.
Fluffy and lightly sweet, they’re made with pink guava, topped with tropical fruit, and served with coconut syrup. It’s breakfast, but it tastes like dessert—and there’s no better excuse to indulge on vacation.
Where to Find It: 2259 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | (808) 931-8640 | Daily 6:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m. | surflanaiwaikiki.com
11. Cake Bombs at Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery
In the Kaimuki neighborhood, Pipeline Bakeshop is a small but mighty bakery with a cult following. The space smells like butter and sugar the moment you walk in, and locals stop by early to grab coffee, malasadas, and their signature dessert—Cake Bombs.
These bite-sized treats are like donut holes with a twist—dense, moist, and packed with flavor. They come in fun rotating varieties like lemon, red velvet, and chocolate blackout.
They’re small enough to justify trying more than one, and you’ll probably wish you’d bought a dozen for the road.
Where to Find It: 3632 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 | (808) 734-2129 | Wed–Thu 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Fri–Sun 9 a.m.–7 p.m.| pipelinebakeshop.com
12. Soufflé Pancakes at Aloha Kitchen
Aloha Kitchen is a friendly neighborhood spot that has long been one of my top recommendations for breakfast in Waikiki.
Read More: 7 Best Breakfast Spots in Waikiki (according to a local!)
And while their omelets and Benedicts are some of the best on Oahu, Aloha Kitchen is best known for its impossibly fluffy soufflé pancakes that are almost too pretty to eat.
The airy, light texture comes from whipped egg whites that make the pancakes rise sky-high, giving them a jiggly, cloud-like bounce.
They come stacked high and topped with fruit, whipped cream, ice cream, or macadamia nut sauce. The strawberry version is a fan favorite, but honestly, any flavor will do. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself taking a dozen photos before the first bite.
Where to Find It: 432 Ena Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815 | (808) 943-6105 | Daily (except Mondays) 7:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
13. Ice Cream at Please Come Again (Kailua)
In laid-back Kailua Town, Please Come Again is as quirky as it sounds—a retro ice cream and dessert bar with pink neon lights, vintage vibes, and an ever-changing lineup of creative ice cream flavors.
The handmade ice creams range from tropical standouts like Mango Sticky Rice and Lilikoi Honey Everything Bagel to decadent twists like Manoa Mac Nut and Ube Crush. My favorites are the Shiso Mint Chip and Miso Salted Caramel.
The presentation is fun and Insta-worthy, but the flavor combinations are seriously good. It’s the perfect post-beach stop after a day at Kailua or Lanikai Beach.
Where to Find It: 322 Kuulei Road, Kailua, HI 96734 | Daily 1 p.m.–8 p.m. (9 p.m. on weekends) | pleasecomeagainhawaii.com
14. Banana Bread at Makua Banana Bread (North Shore)
If you’re driving the North Shore, keep your eyes peeled for the roadside stand selling Makua Banana Bread. It’s small, easy to miss, and exactly the kind of local secret that makes Hawaii special.
Baked fresh in small batches, each loaf is super moist with just the right balance of sweetness. I don’t want to oversell it, but it’s quite possibly the best banana bread I’ve ever had in my life. Every time we go up to the North Shore, we grab a loaf or two.
Choose from original banana, chocolate chip, or mochi versions, all wrapped and ready to go. It’s the ideal beach snack or take-home souvenir (if it lasts that long).
Bonus: If you can’t make it to the North Shore, they’ll ship it to you!
Where to Find It: 62-620 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712 | (808) 798-0008 | Daily 8 a.m.–6 p.m. | makuabananabread.com
15. Malasadas at Agnes’ Portuguese Bake Shop (Kailua)
While Leonard’s gets all the fame, Agnes’ Portuguese Bake Shop in Kailua is a beloved local alternative that’s been around for decades.
After nearly 50 years in business, the brick-and-mortar location for this popular Kailua bakery sadly closed in 2018. Thankfully, in 2020, local resident Ryan Katsuno revived the bakery’s malasada tradition by purchasing the rights and recipes and re-inventing it in food truck form.
He stayed true to the original recipe and cooking technique, so the Agnes malasadas are chewy, crispy, and thicker than most baked around the islands. This version is likely the closest you’ll get to an original Portuguese malasada.
You can taste the difference in the handmade dough, and this truck is a true neighborhood gem that’s worth the drive from Waikiki.
Where to Find It: 46 Hoolai St, Kailua, HI 96734 | (808) 262-5367 | Tue–Sun 6 a.m.–2 p.m. | Facebook: Agnes Bake Shop
16. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
No list of sweet treats in Hawaii would be complete without a mention of Ululani’s.
A Maui original, Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice now has four locations around Oahu, including a shiny new one in Waikiki. The latest Waikiki location brings all the same delicious flavors and “alohatude” that made them famous across the islands (and on the mainland!).
From pure cane sugar syrups to finely shaved, snow-like ice that melts on your tongue, each serving is made to order and layered with flavors that actually taste like real fruit.
Top it with a scoop of Maui-made Roselani ice cream and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk (locals call it a “snow cap”) for the ultimate island treat.
Where to Find It: 349 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | (808) 683-6229 | Daily 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. | ululanishawaiianshaveice.com
So Treat Yourself When You Visit Paradise!
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from living in Hawaii, it’s that calories don’t count when you’re on island time. From warm malasadas at sunrise to shave ice at sunset, these sweet treats are part of what makes Oahu so irresistible.
Whether you’re staying in Waikiki or road-tripping to the North Shore, make room in your itinerary—and your stomach—for a few of these local favorites.
After all, you’re in Hawaii. That alone is reason enough to indulge. So add these sweet treats to your Oahu Bucket List!
Read More: The Ultimate Oahu Bucket List: 50 Fun Things to See, Do & Eat🍍🌺🏖️
