Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice - Kihei
About
Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice is a must-visit treat destination that serves up authentic Hawaiian shave ice with naturally-flavored syrups and a homemade ice cream base. With its consistently high ratings and reputation as the island's best shave ice, this Kihei location offers families a genuine taste of Hawaii in a casual, kid-friendly setting that's perfect for cooling down after beach time or exploring Maui.
Highlights
- ✓Over 30 all-natural syrup flavors made in-house without artificial colors or flavors
- ✓Authentic Hawaiian-style ultra-fine shave ice texture that melts in your mouth
- ✓Option to add homemade ice cream base underneath for a creamy 'snow cap' on top
- ✓Colorful, fun presentation that kids love to photograph
- ✓Local favorite status - you're getting the real deal, not a tourist trap
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early (before 11am) or later in the afternoon to avoid the longest lunch-hour lines, which can stretch 20-30 minutes during peak season
- 2.Upgrade to the 'snow cap' (sweet cream topping) and add the ice cream base on the bottom - it's worth the extra cost and creates a delicious creamy finish
- 3.Let kids try unique local flavors like lilikoi (passion fruit), haupia (coconut cream), or guava instead of just standard fruity options
- 4.Bring cash if possible as it speeds up the line, though they do accept cards
- 5.Share a large size between younger kids - the portions are generous and prevent sugar overload and melted messes
Best Time to Visit
Visit mid-morning (10-11am) or mid-afternoon (2-3pm) on weekdays to avoid peak crowds. The hottest part of the day (noon-2pm) brings the longest waits, and weekends are consistently busier than weekdays year-round.
What to Know
Prices are reasonable for Maui (typically $5-8 per shave ice depending on size and add-ons). Parking is available in the small strip mall lot but can be tight during busy times. This is a walk-up counter with outdoor seating only, so dress for the weather.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours, though lines are longest during summer months (June-August) and holiday weeks. Winter is slightly less crowded but still busy. No seasonal menu changes - all flavors available daily.
Nearby Eats
Coconut's Fish Cafe (5-minute walk) offers excellent fish tacos and kid-friendly plates in a casual setting. For pizza lovers, Roasted Chiles (2 blocks away) serves creative pizzas and has a relaxed family atmosphere.
More Activities Near Maui
Hana Highway
The legendary Hana Highway is a thrilling full-day adventure that takes families along 64 miles of winding coastal road past jungle waterfalls, hidden swimming holes, and black sand beaches. Kids will be mesmerized by the 600+ curves, one-lane bridges, and countless stops for banana bread, fresh fruit stands, and incredible photo opportunities at panoramic ocean viewpoints.
Haleakalā National Park
Haleakalā National Park offers families an unforgettable adventure exploring one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes, with otherworldly crater landscapes that kids describe as 'visiting Mars.' From easy nature walks perfect for little legs to the awe-inspiring summit sunrise experience, this park provides unique opportunities for children to learn about Hawaiian culture, geology, and ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth.
Maui Pineapple Tour
This working pineapple plantation offers families an authentic taste of Hawaiian agriculture with guided tours that combine education and delicious sampling. Kids get hands-on learning about how pineapples grow, the chance to taste fresh-picked fruit straight from the field, and scenic views of Maui's upcountry that make for fantastic family photos.
Mākena State Park
Mākena State Park, often called 'Big Beach,' offers families over two-thirds of a mile of golden sand and calm, gentle waves perfect for little ones learning to splash and play. The wide-open beach gives kids plenty of room to build sandcastles, try bodyboarding, and explore tide pools, while parents can relax knowing the gradual slope into the water is ideal for young swimmers.