A trip to the Aloha state is not complete without a few stops at some local cafes to enjoy the best coffee in Oahu where you can find unique flavors of coffee grown, brewed, and served in the region.
Hawaii is known for its Kona Coffee on the Big Island but I was headed to Oahu on my trip and wanted to make sure I experienced some of the best Oahu coffee shops.
From trendy cafes to mom-and-pop shops, here are some of my favorite spots to find the best coffee in Oahu.
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The Best Coffee in Oahu
1. Ars Cafe
Ars Café is a one-stop shop for art, gelato, and the very best locally roasted coffee from Oahu.
Whether it’s Kona or Maui roast you’re after, or something more exotic like Kenyan, Ethiopian, and Colombian blends, they guarantee that each cup of carefully curated java is crafted to perfection.
Their menu isn’t all that big, which if you struggle to make decisions like me, then this is great—and every single cup they make is sure to impress.
You can also explore the unique artwork in the backroom of the shop while sipping on a hot cup of coffee. It feels like a little art walk in Ars.
2. Honolulu Coffee
With freshly roasted beans from farm to cup since 1992, Honolulu Coffee is the go-to source for your coffee cravings in Oahu.
If you’re a true connoisseur of java, then you have to make your way to their Experience Center on Ala Moana Blvd.
With the café offering 9,000 square feet of seating and an up-close view of its roasting process, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better spot for sipping on your favorite Hawaiian Latte or indulging in their delicious breakfast menu.
From the light and mellow to the bold and flavorful, every cup of coffee is made with care. Each time I visit, I’m reminded why Honolulu Coffee has been one of my favorite spots for great coffee in Oahu.
3. Island Vintage Coffee
Island Vintage Coffee has spread its reach throughout Oahu, from the bustling Waikiki area to Kamehameha Highway.
It’s known as one of the ultimate places to find 100% pure Kona coffee beans!
Order the Kona Mocha if you’re feeling a bit adventurous when it comes to mixing your coffee with something extra. You could also sample their natural flavors such as Hawaiian honey and cinnamon latte.
They also have a small shop inside where you can buy coffee beans to take home with you. Just a heads up, they’re expensive, but they make my morning so dreamy.
4. Ali’i Coffee
Ali’i Coffee is one of the greatest gems in Oahu, and it’s conveniently located in downtown Honolulu. From its cozy interior to the perfect breakfast spot, this small cafe has all your needs covered!
Get ready to indulge in the decadent flavors of ‘the King’, an exquisite combination of creamy chocolate, coconut, almonds, and creamer.
Their Coff-tails series, think coffee-cocktails, offers a unique twist on traditional espresso-based drinks.
Make sure to pair your delicious beverage with a tasty breakfast sandwich for the perfect start to your day.
5. Kai Coffee
Awaken your morning with a pre-surf coffee or energize for an all-night exploration at Oahu’s finest cafe, Kai Coffee.
Located in one of the island’s most luxurious hotels, this bright and modern establishment has one of the earliest opening times on the entire island. Perfect for those early morning sunrise hikes!
Known for its luscious Macadamia milk lattes and edifying selection of coffee beans, the flavorful concoctions at Kai Coffee in Hawaii are worth every penny.
Though a bit more expensive than other cafes in town, these expertly brewed beans have to be tried at least once with their nutty flavor.
6. Arvo Cafe
Vibes on vibes at Arvo Cafe!
Arvo Cafe features neutral whites, wooden tones, and a variety of plants for the perfect chic aesthetic. The Insta stories will be poppin’.
From their matcha chia pudding to halloumi burger, you’ll find a plethora of flavors that are both nutritious and delicious.
With just espresso blends, cold brews, and vanilla lattes on the coffee menu, as well as oat, almond, and soy milk substitutes accompanied by house-made syrups, the drinks are simple but, man, are they good!
If you want something a little more special then try the lavender latte or charcoal latte.
7. Morning Glass Coffee
Honolulu is overflowing with local coffee shops, and Morning Glass Coffee stands out for its house-roasted beverages and simple menu.
This cozy cafe provides a classic sit-down experience in the tranquil neighborhood of Manoa Valley. It’s complete with an outdoor seating area right out front, perfect for enjoying a nice sunny morning!
Customers are welcomed by the aromas of freshly roasted coffee, and with that comes their delectable menu options.
Their lattes never fail to deliver a smooth pour and frothy top; however, if you’re feeling adventurous try out their signature brown sugar, cinnamon, and clove flavor!
Of course, for more classic tastes there is also a regular latte with oat milk topped off with Manoa honey. So simple, and so sweet!
8. Kona Coffee Purveyors
Kona Coffee Purveyors is a true testament to their motto of “of the land, for the people”, as they believe in serving only the best coffee available on Oahu. Located on Kalakaua Avenue, this is one of the most popular places for travelers.
If you’re looking for an intense and unique taste, then you must try their signature Kona brew. From refreshing espresso tonics to classic cold brews, there’s something delicious waiting behind every corner at this popular spot.
The long lines here may be intimidating but trust me when I say that each sip is totally worth it!
Don’t forget to grab a sweet treat as well, the coconut brioche, butter cakes, madeleines, and other soft bites are melt-in-your-mouth good.
9. Local Joe
Discover a cozy corner of Honolulu and experience the 20+ years of coffee roasting expertise at Local Joe.
Enjoy outdoor seating, or relax indoors in a comfortable atmosphere and bask in the exceptional service provided by both owner and staff.
With a delightful selection of coffee drinks, from Marc’s Malabar Mocha with its decadent chocolate flavor to the nitro cold brew topped with Tahitian vanilla gelato—yum! And whimsical latte art that puts an added smile on your face, this place is just pure happiness in a mug.
You can also treat yourself to a delicious Turkey Bacon Breakfast Burrito or a Very French Breakfast Croissant. It’s the perfect accompaniment for your coffee of the day.
10. Brew + Foam Coffee House
Interestingly enough, their original coffee shop is located in a tattoo parlor, it’s a little bit out of the way but they also have a location on the North Shore that really brings the local vibes to it.
One glimpse at Brew + Foam’s menu is all it takes to understand that these coffee pros mean business.
Every espresso blend and syrup, along with every milk alternative, are listed in bold lettering for an easy overview of the expansive drink options available.
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, try one of their creamy concoctions—the generous serving size means your straw will barely contain them!
Plus, they have a selection of food from cakes, yogurt bowls, and waffles if you need something tasty on the side.
11. The Halekulani Bakery
Step into The Halekulani Bakery and you’ll be dazzled by the selection of freshly-baked pastries, artisan bread, and delicious coffee.
Located inside Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani in Honolulu this cafe is a luxurious spot to splurge on a little something extra.
Treat yourself to an amazing, locally sourced breakfast paired with a delicious cup of coffee. The perfect way to start your day.
You can’t go wrong when selecting one of their signature croissants and treats like Brownie Bread or Cinnamon Buns.
12. Green World Coffee Farm
If you’re looking for a unique Hawaiian coffee experience, head to Green World Coffee Farm in Wahiawa.
It’s the only coffee farm of its kind on the island, and it offers visitors a chance to learn about the full process of coffee production—from planting seedlings to cup tasting!
Surrounded by breathtaking views, this place is the perfect destination for a fun day trip.
Experience the exquisite flavors of their house blend at the espresso bar. If it’s a hot summer day, opt for their icy coffee and feel refreshed.
Additionally, find solace in the stunning garden located behind the cafe. It’s perfect for enjoying the fresh Hawaiian air.
13. Island Brew Coffee House
When you’re at Ala Moana Center, don’t miss out on this special all-day Hawaiian coffee shop!
Though it’s not the oldest cafe in town, its unique flavored lattes have made quite the name for themselves on the island.
Partnering with Rusty’s Hawaii, the shop offers exclusive roasts such as Ka’u, Kona, and Maui Mokka Peaberry. They also have two delicious favorites, the vanilla latte, and the macadamia nut latte and they are both made to perfection.
Whether you’re gathering for a casual brunch or lunch with friends, Island Brew offers all-day options like flatbreads, acai bowls, and delectable pastries, making it the perfect spot to socialize.
Make sure to save this list of the best coffee in Oahu so you can try them out during your next trip!
Heading to Hawaii? Check out my other Oahu content:
14 Epic Hikes to Waterfalls in Oahu
Snorkeling Oahu: 13 Otherworldy Spots
FAQs
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
