If you’re planning a Hawaiian escape and want to start your mornings in culinary paradise, this list of the 18 Best Breakfast Places in Waikiki | 2025 is your ultimate guide. Whether you’re craving a traditional Hawaiian loco moco, fluffy banana macadamia nut pancakes, or a smoothie bowl bursting with tropical flavors, Waikiki offers the perfect spot for every kind of breakfast lover.
In this sun-kissed article on the 18 Best Breakfast Places in Waikiki | 2025, we’ve rounded up the top-rated, most loved, and locally adored breakfast joints across Waikiki. From cozy cafes and beachside eateries to upscale brunch spots, each of these places promises to kick off your day with delicious flavors, warm aloha spirit, and a cup of some of the freshest coffee on the island.
Heavenly Island Lifestyle – Organic Island Flavors.
Located in the heart of Waikiki, Heavenly Island Lifestyle is known for its locally sourced ingredients and organic breakfasts. Their menu celebrates Hawaii’s vibrant food culture with a health-conscious twist.
Must try:
- Organic acai bowl.
- Local eggs Benedict with kalua pork.
- Green smoothies and fresh-pressed juices.
It’s a cozy yet trendy place with a farm-to-table feel that never disappoints.
Hula Grill Waikiki – Oceanfront Island Breakfast.
Located above Duke’s Waikiki, the Hula Grill offers panoramic ocean views along with classic Hawaiian breakfast dishes. Enjoy your meal while watching surfers and early risers on Waikiki Beach.
Top picks:
- Lava Flow Pancakes with coconut syrup.
- Kiawe-smoked bacon and local eggs.
- Island-style French toast with pineapple.
This spot blends relaxed beach vibes with fine dining quality, making it perfect for romantic or scenic starts.
Goofy Café & Dine – Quirky Local Favorite.
Just a block from the Hilton, Goofy Café is a small, vibrant café with a strong local following. It’s a surf-inspired, eco-friendly joint serving hearty island breakfasts.
Fan favorites:
- Loco moco with brown rice and house gravy.
- Eggs over organic fried rice.
- Their legendary banana pancakes.
Get there early—this spot fills up fast due to its authentic food and reasonable prices.
Island Vintage Coffee – A Café with a View.
More than just a coffee shop, Island Vintage Coffee offers gourmet breakfast dishes and locally roasted beans with a Lanai seating area overlooking Kalakaua Avenue.
What to order:
- Signature acai bowls with granola.
- Avocado toast with island-grown ingredients.
- Kona coffee lattes with coconut milk.
A great pick for health-focused eaters and coffee lovers alike.
Café Kaila – Classic Brunch Done Right.
Located in the Market City Shopping Center just a short drive from Waikiki, Café Kaila is worth the detour. It has a reputation for serving up generous portions and homestyle favorites.
Must-haves:
- Stuffed Belgian waffles with fruit and cream.
- Portuguese sausage with eggs and toast.
- Classic omelets with your choice of fillings.
Expect a wait, but know that locals and tourists alike rave about this breakfast gem.
The Barefoot Beach Café – Oceanfront Hidden Gem.
Tucked away near Kapiolani Park, this casual, beachfront café offers relaxed outdoor seating with unbeatable Diamond Head views.
Top dishes:
- Sunrise breakfast burrito.
- Spam and eggs Hawaiian-style.
- Fresh papaya with lime and yogurt.
This is a laid-back, budget-friendly spot that captures the essence of island mornings.
Cream Pot – French-Japanese Fusion Delight.
Step into a romantic, vintage-style café tucked into the Waikiki Gateway Hotel. Cream Pot is perfect for those who love artistic plates and sweet creations.
Customer favorites:
- Soufflé pancakes with berries and cream.
- Crab Benedict with yuzu hollandaise.
- Crepes filled with custard and fresh fruit.
It’s one of the most Instagram-worthy breakfast spots in Waikiki.
Liliha Bakery – Local Institution with a Modern Vibe.
Now open at the Ala Moana Center, Liliha Bakery is famous for its local comfort food and signature butter rolls.
Order these:
- Breakfast combo plates with hamburger steak or Portuguese sausage.
- Poi pancakes with coconut syrup.
- Their famous cocoa puffs for dessert or takeaway.
It’s a blend of old-school diner charm and modern Hawaiian flavors.
Kaimana Beach Hotel – Hau Tree Restaurant.
Overlooking Kaimana Beach, this elegant spot offers a serene start to your day. Hau Tree is known for its beachside brunches with a la carte sophistication.
Try these dishes:
- Smoked salmon eggs Benedict.
- Taro pancakes with coconut drizzle.
- Island fruit platters with local honey.
If you want a classy yet relaxing morning, this is the place.
ARVO Café – Stylish Aussie Brunch Café.
Located in Kaka‘ako but often visited by Waikiki day-trippers, ARVO is a modern Australian-style café offering artisan coffee and creative breakfast plates.
Standouts include:
- Avocado toast with radish and edible flowers.
- Matcha chia pudding.
- Flat whites and lavender lattes.
It’s where design meets dining, perfect for urban foodies.
Eggs ‘n Things – A Waikiki Classic.
A staple since 1974, Eggs ‘n Things is known for large portions, affordable pricing, and classic breakfasts served with aloha.
Popular picks:
- Macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup.
- Omelets packed with meat and cheese.
- Steak and eggs island-style.
They’re open early morning through late night, perfect for early risers or post-surf refueling.
Basalt Restaurant – Upscale Modern Hawaiian Brunch.
Located at Duke’s Lane, Basalt serves upscale island cuisine with modern twists in a chic setting.
Menu favorites:
- Charcoal pancakes with whipped cream and berries.
- Kimchi fried rice with a poached egg.
- Miso avocado toast on sourdough.
Basalt combines inventive flavors with beautiful plating, making every breakfast feel special.
Kai Coffee Hawaii – Specialty Brews and Bites.
Steps from Waikiki Beach, Kai Coffee is a boutique café focused on sustainably grown beans and quick, tasty breakfasts.
Order ideas:
- Espresso flight featuring local blends.
- Toasted ham and cheese croissant.
- Energy bowls and bagels with lox.
Ideal for grabbing a quick but quality breakfast before a day of exploration.
Tucker & Bevvy – Healthy Beach Picnic Fare.
Located near Kapiolani Park, this Aussie-style café is known for fresh, light meals that are perfect for picnicking near the beach.
Try these:
- Breakfast wraps with spinach and feta.
- Granola and yogurt parfaits.
- Cold-pressed juices and smoothies.
It’s a top pick for health-conscious travelers who want nutritious morning fuel.
Bogart’s Café – North Shore Favorite in Town.
Originally from Haleiwa, this café’s new Waikiki location brings North Shore flavor to the city.
Best bites:
- Acai bowls loaded with fruit and granola.
- Breakfast bagels with smoked salmon.
- Fresh-made waffles with bananas and honey.
Great for a chill vibe and a surf-town feel, even in bustling Waikiki.
Kona Coffee Purveyors – Artisan Coffee Meets Gourmet Bakery.
Inside the International Market Place, this café partners with b. patisserie to serve world-class pastries and specialty coffee.
Morning musts:
- Kouign-amann, croissants, and matcha scones.
- Flat whites and single-origin pour-overs.
- Elegant matcha lattes and cappuccinos.
It’s heaven for coffee lovers and a perfect upscale breakfast stop.
Mahina & Sun’s – Retro Chic with Island Soul.
Located in the Surfjack Hotel, this breakfast spot blends retro Waikiki décor with chef-crafted dishes using local ingredients.
Recommended dishes:
- House-made granola with Greek yogurt.
- Ulu waffles (made from breadfruit) with honey butter.
- Eggplant hash with sunny-side eggs.
It’s a creative space with a cool ambiance that matches its flavorful menu.
Aloha Kitchen – Japanese-Style Pancake Heaven.
If you love soufflé pancakes, this is the place for you. Aloha Kitchen specializes in fluffy, thick pancakes with a Japanese twist.
Don’t miss:
- Tiramisu soufflé pancakes.
- Loco moco breakfast plates.
- Iced Hawaiian milk tea.
It’s a sweet and cozy end to this mouth-watering breakfast list.
Conclusion: Start Every Day with Aloha
Waikiki is not only a paradise for beach lovers but also a breakfast lover’s dream come true. With everything from local comfort food to stylish brunch cafes, the 18 Best Breakfast Places in Waikiki | 2025 offer something for every palate, budget, and lifestyle.
So whether you’re craving a coffee by the sea, a traditional loco moco, or a soufflé pancake stack, these spots ensure your morning in paradise starts with flavor, warmth, and aloha.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What time do most Waikiki breakfast spots open? Most breakfast cafes in Waikiki open between 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM.
2. Are reservations needed for breakfast in Waikiki? Only for upscale or popular brunch spots like Hula Grill or Basalt—otherwise, walk-ins are welcome.
3. Are vegan or gluten-free options available? Yes, many places like Heavenly, Tucker & Bevvy, and ARVO offer plant-based and gluten-free options.
4. What’s a must-try local breakfast dish in Hawaii? Definitely try a loco moco, poi pancakes, or Portuguese sausage with eggs and rice.
5. Can I get breakfast with an ocean view in Waikiki? Yes! Great ocean-view breakfast spots include Hula Grill, Barefoot Beach Café, and Kaimana Hotel’s Hau Tree.