Are you planning a Kauai vacation and want to know where to find the best coffee in Kauai? Keep scrolling to check out my list of the best Kauai coffee shops worth a stop!
This list of where to find the best coffee in Kauai Hawaii was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
I’ll be honest with you.
As someone who’s been visiting Kauai for over 30 years, coffee has become part of my morning ritual on the island.
There’s something about sipping an iced macadamia nut latte while watching the sunrise over the ocean that just feels right.
My mom lives on Kauai, so I’ve had plenty of time to work my way through the island’s coffee scene.
Some mornings I want something quick before hitting the beach. Other days I want to sit and savor a really good cup while the kids eat acai bowls.
I’ve learned where to go for each mood.
This isn’t an exhaustive list of every single coffee spot on the island.
Instead, I’m sharing the places I actually visit when I’m on Kauai, plus a few highly-rated spots that locals swear by.
Think of this as your friend’s guide to finding great coffee without wasting your precious vacation time on disappointing stops.
Quick note: Kauai’s small business scene changes. I’ve fact-checked everything for 2025-2026, but always call ahead or check social media to confirm hours, especially if you’re making a special trip.
My Top Coffee Picks on Kauai
Before I get into the full regional breakdown, here are my absolute must-visit coffee spots:
Java Kai (Kapaa) – My favorite overall. The tropical-inspired lattes are incredible, and they have substantial breakfast options that actually fill you up. I always check their daily specials first.
Little Fish Coffee (Poipu) – Perfect when I’m staying on the south shore. Get there right when they open at 7am to beat the line. The Pakala Bowl is worth waking up early for.
The Spot North Shore (Princeville) – When I stayed in Hanalei, I went here every single morning. The coffee is excellent and the breakfast bowls are generous.
Kauai Coffee Company (Kalaheo) – This is where I take first-time visitors. The plantation tour is fascinating, the free tastings are fun, and the coffee is grown right there on the estate. It feels like a real Kauai experience.
East Side Coffee Shops (Kapaa Area)
Java Kai
Locations: 4-1384 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa (also now in Old Koloa Town and Kilauea as Kai Bar)
Hours: Mon-Sat 6am-6pm, Sun 6am-5pm
This is my go-to spot every time I drive through Kapaa. I’ve been stopping here for years, and honestly, they just keep getting better.
What I love is that Java Kai roasts their own coffee (you can actually see the roaster) and bakes all their pastries in-house.
Everything feels fresh. The space has this cool local vibe with artwork covering the walls, and there’s plenty of seating both inside and on the patio.
Here’s what you need to know: check the daily specials board first. They always have something creative going on.
Their macadamia nut latte is a classic, but I’m always drawn to whatever tropical-sounding drink they’re featuring that day. The Maui Mocha (chocolate and coconut) is popular with locals.
For food, the breakfast menu is substantial. We’re not talking tiny continental breakfast here.
The Dilly Egg Sandwich and breakfast burritos are hearty enough to fuel you through a morning hike. The acai bowls are loaded with fresh fruit. And if you get there early, grab one of their fresh pastries before they sell out.
The line can look intimidating, especially on weekends, but it moves faster than you’d think. Or order online at OrderJavaKai.com and skip the wait entirely.
Pro tip: They now have pistachio milk as a non-dairy option, and it’s amazing in the macadamia nut latte.
Sunrise Coffee
Location: 3-3716 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue
Hours: Daily 7am-1pm
This little coffee truck near Lihue is perfect when you want something simple and good. I stop here when I’m heading out early for a beach day and just need fuel.
Their acai bowls are some of the best I’ve had on the island. They’re filling, healthy, and not overly sweet.
The macadamia vanilla latte pairs perfectly with them. In fall, try the pumpkin spice caramel mocha if they have it.
The seating is limited (just a few tables with umbrellas), but most people grab their order and head out. That’s kind of the point. Quick, quality, convenient.
Imua Coffee Roasters
Location: 440 Aleka Pl #7, Kapaa
Hours: Mon-Fri 6:30am-12:30pm, Sat-Sun 7am-11am
Website: www.imua.coffee
Here’s the thing about Imua: it’s completely plant-based. No dairy at all. So if you’re someone who’s particular about milk in your coffee, be prepared.
That said, they’ve won Best Coffeehouse in Kapaa for 2023, 2024, and 2025, and there’s a reason.
They roast their own beans in small batches, and they know what they’re doing. The location right by the beach means you can grab your coffee and watch the sunrise.
I’m hit or miss with this spot personally, but I have friends who swear by it. If you’re dairy-free or vegan, this is your place.
The banana bread is excellent, and their nut milk options (almond, oat, macadamia) are really good quality.
Garden Island Coffee
Location: 4-1604 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
Hours: Daily 6am-12pm
Tiny coffee truck, big flavor. Located steps from Kapa’a Beach, this is perfect for a morning beach walk situation.
The cold brew selection is impressive (7 varieties!), and they offer non-dairy options including coconut, soy, macadamia, almond, and oat milk. No food besides small pastries, but the espresso drinks are solid.
Aloha Roastery
Location: 4-369 Kuhio Hwy #105, Kapaa
Hours: Daily 7am-2pm
This place nails the minimalist coffee shop vibe. The menu is straightforward: coffee (black or white), hot chocolate, tea, smoothies. That’s it.
Their croissants and scones are excellent with a cappuccino. They offer almond milk for dairy-free options. Everything can be served cold and decaffeinated.
The shop itself is beautiful—clean, simple, elegant. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone, and that’s refreshing.
South Shore Coffee Shops (Poipu/Koloa/Kalaheo Area)
Little Fish Coffee
Locations: 2294 Poipu Rd (Koloa/Poipu), also Hanapepe and Kokee
Hours: Daily 7am-1pm
Website: www.littlefishcoffee.com
Little Fish is my go-to when I stay in Poipu. But here’s the critical info: you need to get there RIGHT when they open at 7am, or order online ahead of time.
This place gets packed. Like 40-people-in-line packed. Because the coffee is that good and the acai bowls are incredible.
The turquoise deck is impossible to miss, and there’s something about sitting outside with a Pakala Bowl (acai with peanut butter, almonds, chocolate chips) that just feels perfect.
Their bagel sandwiches come with housemade schmears in creative flavors. The mac nut lattes are excellent.
Warning: the chickens are fearless. They will absolutely try to steal your food. The shop provides spray bottles to deter them, which tells you everything you need to know about the chicken situation.
If you’re hiking Waimea Canyon early, the Hanapepe location is convenient. The Kokee location at Kokee Lodge is newer and perfect for warming up with a hot latte after exploring the mountain trails.
My order: Mac nut latte and the Pakala Bowl
Kauai Coffee Company
Location: 870 Halewili Rd, Kalaheo
Hours: Daily 9am-5pm (till 5:30pm in summer)
Website: www.kauaicoffee.com
This is Hawaii’s largest coffee plantation. Over 3,000 acres of coffee trees, all grown and roasted right here on Kauai.
I bring first-time visitors here because it’s more than just a coffee shop. It’s an experience.
The self-guided walking tour is free and genuinely interesting. You walk through rows of coffee plants, read about the growing process, and watch a video about how they harvest and roast.
The tasting station lets you sample different roasts and blends. My personal favorites are the peaberry varieties and any of the Estate Reserve line. The cold brew is smooth and perfect for hot days.
The cafe has limited food (mostly cookies, scones, sometimes sandwiches), but come here for the coffee and the experience, not a full meal.
The gift shop is dangerous for your wallet. Beautiful coffee mugs, whole beans to bring home, macadamia nuts, and all sorts of Kauai souvenirs.
Free guided tours run at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm daily (no reservations needed). Worth doing if you want to learn more than the self-guided tour offers.
Kalaheo Cafe & Coffee Company
Location: 2-2560 Kaumualii Hwy, Kalaheo
Hours: Closed Mon-Tue. Wed-Sat 7am-2pm (breakfast/lunch) and 5pm-8pm (dinner). Sun 7am-2pm (breakfast all day)
Phone: (808) 332-5858
Website: www.kalaheo.com
I’ve been coming to Kalaheo Cafe for years. Since 1994, actually, when they first opened.
This is more than a coffee shop. It’s a full restaurant with an excellent breakfast menu, good lunch options, and they even serve dinner Wednesday through Saturday.
The breakfast is what they’re famous for. Upcountry Breakfast, Bagel Benny, loco moco, french toast. Everything is generous portions made with local ingredients when possible. The cilantro garlic french fries are addictive.
Coffee-wise, they roast Kauai estate-grown beans. You can buy bags to take home from their online store.
This place gets busy on weekends, so be prepared for a wait. But it’s worth it. The outdoor patio is pleasant, and the whole vibe is casual neighborhood spot.
Note: They’re closed Monday and Tuesday, so plan accordingly.
Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
Location: 5521 Koloa Rd, Koloa
Hours: Daily 6:30am-2pm
Dark Horse originated in San Francisco and brought their expertise to Kauai. Coffee connoisseurs love this place.
The baristas really know their stuff. You can order your coffee exactly how you want it, and they’ll make it properly. The espressos are consistently excellent. The foam cold brew is perfect on hot days.
Pastries are fresh but limited. This is coffee-focused, and they do it well.
Lines can get long (it’s popular for good reason), but worth the wait if you care about quality coffee.
Little Blue Bird (Blue Bird Kauai)
Location: Near Kalaheo
Hours: Varies
Local favorite known for their lychee latte and unique flavor combinations. The shop has a great coffee and merchandise selection.
Anuenue Cafe
Location: 2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr, Koloa (in the mall)
Hours: Daily 7am-2pm
If Dark Horse Coffee has too long of a line, Anuenue is just 7 minutes away.
The food menu is extensive: french toast, frittatas, fried rice, sandwiches. Loco moco and fried rice are standouts. Everything comes in generous portions.
Coffee choices are limited but all sourced from Kauai. The Pakala blend is smooth, and the cold brew is solid.
Seating is tricky since it’s in a mall. You might snag a picnic table outside if you’re lucky, especially if you come early.
Eden Coffee
Location: 3477 Weliweli Rd, Koloa (near Walta Reservoir)
Hours: Daily 6:30am-1pm
Unassuming coffee truck along a sleepy road. Small menu focused on coffee: lattes, mochas, both hot and cold.
Occasionally they have muffins or scones. A few tables with parasols, but most people get coffee to-go and continue exploring.
Kind Koffee Company
Location: 3540 Koloa Rd, Kalaheo (Warehouse 3540)
Hours: Daily 7am-3pm
The lava flow latte and lavender matcha are unique and worth trying. They offer almond, macadamia, coconut, soy, and oat milk options.
The warehouse location means plenty of seating even though it’s a small coffee truck. Perfect stop after the Tree Tunnel.
North Shore Coffee Shops (Princeville/Hanalei Area)
The Spot North Shore
Location: Princeville Shopping Center, 5-4280 Kuhio Hwy Suite C-103, Princeville
Hours: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat 7:30am-1:30pm (closed Wednesday)
Phone: (808) 320-7605
Website: www.thespotkauai.com
When I stayed up in Hanalei, I came to The Spot every single morning. I’m not exaggerating. Every. Single. Morning.
The acai bowls are fantastic. The Wake’n’Bacon Bowl (scrambled eggs, potatoes, bacon, cheddar, chipotle creme) became my regular order. The coffee is locally roasted and the Kauai Thai cold brew is worth trying.
They now make house-made donuts too, which sell out early.
Fair warning: there’s ALWAYS a line. People start lining up 10-15 minutes before opening. It’s popular for a reason, and everyone on the north shore knows it.
The line moves reasonably fast, but if you’re in a hurry, this might not be your spot.
Covered outdoor seating with plenty of tables. Great vegan options if that’s your thing.
My order: Whatever breakfast bowl looks good that day, plus Thai latte
Wishing Well Coffee & Tea
Location: 5-5080 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei
Hours: Daily 6:30am-6pm
Website: www.wishingwellshaveice.com
Here’s what makes Wishing Well special: every drink comes in a mason jar that you get to keep. In this economy, that’s basically unheard of.
Wishing Well started as a shave ice truck (they’ve been doing shave ice since 1983) and expanded into coffee and healthy food. Their coffee is roasted locally by Outpost Coffee.
The Good Times Bowl (acai with haupia – whipped coconut cream – on top) is huge and refreshing. The Daize Latte with macadamia milk is excellent.
There’s a big covered patio with tons of seating. The whole vibe is relaxed North Shore Kauai.
Bonus: The jars become souvenirs, or bring them back for $1 off your next order.
Outpost Coffee Kauai
Location: Inside Hanalei Market
Hours: Daily 7am-5pm, plus breakfast burritos Fri-Sat mornings
Hidden in the back of Hanalei Market, Outpost is for coffee purists.
They roast their own beans (this is actually who roasts for Wishing Well), and the baristas are skilled. If you like your coffee simple and done right—black coffee, cortados, plain lattes—this is your place.
The Hamakua Mac Nut latte is popular for those who want something slightly sweet. Nitro cold brew is excellent.
Small rotating selection of vegan and organic pastries. Friday and Saturday they do breakfast burritos which are worth trying.
Hanalei Bread Company
Location: Hanalei town
Hours: Daily 7am-5pm
Local favorite since 1991. Known for freshly baked breads, pastries, and excellent coffee.
The outdoor patio is perfect for relaxing with a coffee and pastry while soaking in the North Shore vibe.
The Haven
Location: Wainiha (west of Hanalei)
Hours: Varies
Small cafe serving locally roasted coffee, acai bowls, and smoothies. Popular with locals in the Hanalei Bay area.
West Side Coffee Shops (Waimea/Hanapepe Area)
Brew Braddahs
Location: 9400 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea
Hours: Daily 6am-2pm
Website: www.brewbraddahs.com
Brew Braddahs has become one of the top-rated coffee spots on the west side.
Their ube latte gets rave reviews. Strawberry lemonade is popular too. They serve bagels, croissants, and breakfast items.
Service is quick and friendly. This is a solid stop if you’re heading to Waimea Canyon early.
Small Town Coffee Co
Location: 4-1543 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
Hours: Daily 7am-2pm
Organic and fair-trade coffee served from a red bus. Bagels and muffins are best-sellers.
Cappuccino and lattes can be made with soy, almond, oat, coconut, or macadamia milk. You can add unique flavors: peppermint, chai, lavender, or rose.
Covered seating with umbrellas for shade.
Rainbeau Jo’s
Location: 4379 Rice St, Lihue
Hours: Daily 6am-1pm
This enthusiastic coffee truck has an Instagram-worthy setup with a covered warehouse for seating.
The menu is colorful (literally). “Granitas” are coffee blended with ice cream—5 varieties to choose from.
Schmear on bagels comes in 6 options. While waiting, you can spin the hula hoop they have outside.
Fun, quirky, good coffee.
Trilogy Coffee & Tea Bar
Location: 4270 Kilauea Rd J, Kilauea
Hours: Varies
100% vegan menu including pastries. Coffee and superfood blends.
Backyard seating with sun umbrellas. Oat, soy, and macadamia milk options.
Chocolate mousse cake, avocado toast, and Trilogy Chai are popular orders.
Coffee Shops I Haven’t Personally Tried (But Locals Recommend)
I want to be transparent: I haven’t been to every coffee shop on Kauai. Here are a few that locals and visitors consistently recommend that I haven’t personally visited yet:
Holey Grail Donuts (Hanalei/Kapaa) – House-made donuts and coffee. I love their donuts but haven’t tried their coffee. Lines form early. Multiple locations now.
Collab Cafe (Kapaa) – Combines coffee with artistic expression. Local artists showcase work while you enjoy espresso drinks.
Nanea Coffee (locations vary) – Mobile coffee with excellent reviews.
Pilina Coffee – Showing up on “best coffee” lists for 2025.
Kauai Roastery (West side) – Artisan small-batch roaster with specialty Hawaiian and global coffees.
Java Hut (multiple mentions in recent reviews) – Local favorite.
Quick Kauai Coffee FAQs
Where can I find the best coffee in Kapaa?
Java Kai is my top pick. The tropical lattes are excellent, and the breakfast menu is substantial. Check their daily specials—they’re always doing something creative.
What should I order at coffee shops in Hawaii?
Try Kona coffee (grown on the Big Island) or Kauai-grown coffee in any style. Add macadamia nut or coconut syrup for that island flavor. Honestly though, I usually ask what their daily special is and go with that.
Where’s the best breakfast on Kauai?
For a full breakfast beyond coffee, Kalaheo Cafe has an excellent menu. The Spot North Shore and Java Kai also serve hearty breakfast options that will actually fill you up.
Should I do the Kauai Coffee farm tour?
Yes, especially if it’s your first time on Kauai. The self-guided tour is free, fascinating, and the tastings are fun. It’s a real Kauai experience, not just a coffee stop.
Coffee Tips for Visiting Kauai
Get there early: Popular spots (Little Fish, The Spot, Java Kai) get lines. Arriving right when they open or ordering online ahead saves time.
Try local flavors: Macadamia nut, coconut, and tropical fruit syrups are everywhere. They’re not just tourist gimmicks—they’re actually good.
Bring reusable cups: Many places offer discounts for bringing your own cup. Plus, less waste.
Check hours carefully: Many coffee shops close early (1pm-2pm). Don’t plan on afternoon coffee runs.
Order online when possible: Java Kai, Little Fish, and others let you order ahead. Saves you standing in line.
Don’t skip the acai bowls: If a coffee shop serves acai bowls, try one. The fresh tropical fruit makes them taste completely different than mainland versions.
Ask locals: Coffee shop staff know the island. Ask them about beaches, hikes, or where they eat. They’ll often give you better recommendations than guidebooks.
Planning Your Kauai Coffee Crawl
If you’re bouncing between different parts of Kauai during your trip, here’s a simple plan:
Staying in Poipu/South Shore: Little Fish Coffee for breakfast (get there at 7am!), visit Kauai Coffee plantation mid-morning, Kalaheo Cafe for a big breakfast or lunch another day.
Staying in Kapaa/East Side: Java Kai for daily coffee and breakfast, Sunrise Coffee for quick beach-day fuel, Imua if you’re dairy-free.
Staying in Princeville/North Shore: The Spot for breakfast (expect lines), Wishing Well for coffee and acai bowls (keep the jar!), Outpost for serious coffee.
Road tripping around the island: Hit Java Kai in Kapaa, stop at Kauai Coffee plantation, grab something at Brew Braddahs if you’re heading to Waimea Canyon.
Final Thoughts
Kauai’s coffee scene is better than most people expect. Yes, you’ll find your standard Starbucks locations, but you’d be missing out.
The independent coffee shops use locally-roasted beans (often roasted right on-site), source fresh island ingredients, and genuinely care about what they’re serving. You can taste the difference.
My advice? Pick 2-3 coffee shops near where you’re staying and make them your regulars for the trip.
Let the baristas get to know you. Ask questions. You’ll get better recommendations and a more authentic Kauai experience than coffee-hopping every day.
And seriously, always ask about the daily specials. That’s where the magic is.
Need help planning your Kauai trip beyond coffee? I’ve put together complete guides covering everything from where to stay to the best beaches for families:
- Kauai Travel Guide for Families – My comprehensive guide covering 7-day itineraries, kid-friendly activities, and insider tips
- Free 7-Day Email Course: How to Plan a Trip to Kauai – Daily emails walking you through planning step-by-step
- Free 5-Day Email Course: How to Save Money in Hawaii – Budget strategies that actually work
Feeling overwhelmed with planning? I also offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations where I help families create custom itineraries based on your specific needs, interests, and budget.
As a professional tourist who’s been to Kauai over 40 times, I can save you hours of research and help you avoid common mistakes.
Listen to the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast for more Kauai tips, island-hopping advice, and interviews with locals about hidden gems and seasonal considerations: Hawaii Travel Made Easy Podcast
More Kauai guides:
- Best Kauai Food Trucks
- Top Kauai Breakfast Spots
- Where to Eat on Kauai with Kids
- Best Kauai Beaches
- Best Kauai Souvenirs
Enjoy your Kauai coffee adventures!
