Honolulu has no shortage of ways to satisfy a sweet tooth, and this list ranks the best of them using real visitor ratings collected right here on NateEatsHawaii. With 69 qualifying dessert spots across the city, I pulled together the top names worth knowing — from neighborhood ice cream shops to beachside shave ice stands.
The list spans everything from Boba Bing in Ala Moana — home of the OnoWaffie and authentic Korean bingsu — to the beloved Banan locations serving up creative frozen treats in Kaimuki and Waikiki. One spot I personally recommend and have verified is Dave's Ice Cream at the Ilikai, known for imaginative flavors like kona coffee and lychee; you'll spot the NateEatsHawaii badge on that listing. Other spots on this list are ranked purely by their visitor ratings — well-regarded by the Honolulu dessert community but evaluated on reputation and reviews rather than my own visits.
Look for the NateEatsHawaii badge on listings Nate has personally been to and vetted. Whether you're chasing shave ice in Waikiki or gelato in Kapahulu, this ranked guide gives you a honest, ratings-driven starting point for dessert in Honolulu.
The ranking
Top pick1$Home of the OnoWaffie and authentic Korean bingsu. Waffles: $6 each, $20 for all 4. Bingsu: Strawberry, Mango, or Adzuki Bean ($11.95/$16.95) with Dave's Ice Cream. Open daily 11am–8pm (hours may vary). Inside Midtown Eats.
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Specialty shop serving imaginative ice cream & sherbet flavors like kona coffee & lychee.
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13Gelatissimo Waikiki brings dessert to Waikiki. Family-friendly casual dining.
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15Ice cream shop featuring flavors imported from Hawaii such as Kona coffee & macadamia nut.
16$Contemporary counter-serve stop for Taiwanese shaved ice in flavors such as papaya or matcha.
17$$Dessert hub crafting gelato in traditional Italian & Hawaiian flavors, plus paninis & waffles.
18Dessert hub crafting gelato in traditional Italian & Hawaiian flavors, plus paninis & waffles.
19Dessert hub crafting gelato in traditional Italian & Hawaiian flavors, plus paninis & waffles.
20Dessert hub crafting gelato in traditional Italian & Hawaiian flavors, plus paninis & waffles.
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22$$Cozy kiosk offering traditional shaved-ice desserts, frozen yogurt & build-your-own açaí bowls.
23$$Junbi Waikiki brings cafe to Waikiki at a mid-range price point. Casual and welcoming atmosphere.
24$$Tucked into Waikiki, Kith Treats Hawaii serves food store at mid-range prices. Look for takeout — known as a well-loved spot.
25Busy counter serve in Royal Hawaiian Center for soft-serve ice cream with toppings in a unique cone.
26Snug, unpretentious cafe with bright decor, offering innovative shaved ices & monthly specialties.
27$$Relaxed local chain serving coffee, homemade ice cream & baked goods featuring macadamia nuts.
28$Tucked into Waikiki, Magnolia Ice Cream & Treats serves food store at budget-friendly prices. Look for takeout — known as a solid pick.
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30$Rated 4⭐ (203 reviews)
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FAQ
Based on real visitor ratings on NateEatsHawaii, Boba Bing in Ala Moana currently tops the list, known for its OnoWaffie and authentic Korean bingsu. Rankings are updated as new visitor ratings come in.
Several highly rated spots on this list — including shave ice stands in Waikiki and neighborhood ice cream shops like Castaways in Moiliili and the Banan locations — are popular for offering satisfying, affordable treats without breaking the bank.
This Top list is ranked by real visitor ratings submitted on NateEatsHawaii, so the order can shift as more people rate their experiences. Check back regularly for the most current rankings across all 69 qualifying Honolulu dessert spots.
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