Good Morning, Kihei
There’s something about mornings in Kihei. The sun rises gently over Haleakalā, the breeze is salty-sweet, and your flip-flops are already sandy from an early beach stroll. On my last trip to Maui, I made it a mission to try as many breakfast spots in Kihei as I could and I found some seriously tasty gems.
Whether you’re fueling up before a snorkeling tour or easing into the day with banana pancakes and ocean views, these breakfast spots have something for everyone. From classic diners to health-forward cafes, here are my favorite breakfast places in Kihei that I’d go back to in a heartbeat.
My Favourite Breakfast Spots in Kihei
1. Kihei Caffe
This was my very first breakfast stop in Kihei and it ended up being one of my favorites. The moment I walked up, I could smell cinnamon and coffee in the air, and the line outside was already building (a good sign!). I ordered their famous banana-macadamia nut pancakes, and wow they were huge, fluffy, and packed with flavor. I paired them with a hot cup of Kona coffee and grabbed a seat on their outdoor patio overlooking Kalama Village.
The vibe here is friendly and fast-paced, with a mix of locals, surfers, and travelers grabbing hearty breakfasts before heading to the beach. It’s a no-frills spot with big portions and local-style plates like loco moco and pork fried rice. Just remember it’s cash only, so come prepared. Also, try to arrive early (before 8 AM) to avoid the morning rush.
Perfect for: Big appetites, early risers, classic Hawaiian breakfasts
Location: Kalama Village, near South Kihei Road
Try: Loco moco, pork fried rice, cinnamon rolls, banana mac nut pancakes
Pro Tip: Bring cash and grab a shaded patio seat for the best people-watching
2. Nalu’s South Shore Grill
Nalu’s has this breezy, open-air vibe that immediately puts you in vacation mode. It’s one of those places where you can take your time whether you’re coming from an early surf session or just rolling out of bed for a late brunch. The Kalua pork eggs benedict I had was honestly unforgettable rich, smoky, and layered with creamy hollandaise over fluffy cornbread.
What I love about Nalu’s is that it’s more than just a place to eat it feels like a local hangout. They have live music some mornings, colorful murals, and a tropical, casual vibe that makes you want to linger. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and they offer plenty of options for both indulgent and healthy breakfasts.
Perfect for: Brunch dates, island vibes, music lovers
Vibe: Relaxed, colorful, tropical
Try: Kalua pork benedict, banana bread French toast, avocado toast
Live Music: Often during weekends or brunch hours check their schedule!
3. Akamai Coffee Co.
Akamai Coffee quickly became my go-to coffee fix in Kihei. The café is small but stylish, with a minimalist beachy aesthetic and friendly baristas who know their beans. They roast their own coffee locally and offer specialty drinks that go beyond your usual espresso menu. I tried their lavender latte and was surprised by how smooth and balanced it tasted not too floral, just right.
It’s a great stop if you want to grab something quick before hitting the beach. Their breakfast sandwiches, buttery croissants, and pastries are perfect for on-the-go mornings. There are a few tables outside, but most people swing by in beachwear for takeaway. Bonus: it’s right across from Kamaole Beach Park, so you can sip your coffee while watching the waves roll in.
Perfect for: Coffee lovers, takeout breakfasts, beach mornings
Try: Lavender latte, cold brew, breakfast sandwich, banana muffin
Location: Across from Kamaole Beach Park, South Kihei Road
Pro Tip: Pick up your order and walk across the street for a sunrise beach picnic
4. Kihei Caffe Lahaina (Second Location)
I was pleasantly surprised to find that Kihei Caffe had opened a second location in Lahaina, making it more accessible for anyone staying on West Maui. The vibe is nearly identical to the original bright, casual, bustling and the food is just as satisfying. It’s perfect if you’re planning to drive up to Kā‘anapali or explore Lahaina town for the day.
I ordered the Portuguese sausage with eggs and a side of fried rice, and it was just as comforting and flavorful as I remembered. This location tends to have slightly shorter lines than the original in Kihei, making it a great alternative if you’re staying on that side of the island or looking to avoid the morning rush.
Perfect for: West Maui travelers, shorter wait times, hearty breakfasts
Try: Portuguese sausage & eggs, loco moco, pancakes
Bonus: Easy stop before a day trip to Kā‘anapali or Napili
Insider Tip: Menu is the same as Kihei great for repeat visits if you loved the first one!
5. Hawaiian Moons Natural Foods
Hawaiian Moons is technically a natural grocery store, but tucked inside is a cozy little café that serves some of the best healthy breakfast options in Kihei. After a sunrise at Haleakalā, I came here craving something fresh and light and the tofu scramble with turmeric and veggies totally hit the spot.
They have a great selection of smoothies, acai bowls, and gluten-free items, all made with organic ingredients. I also grabbed a few snacks from the grocery side to take on the road for the day. The staff is kind, the setting is chill, and there are plenty of outdoor tables to enjoy your meal in the morning sun.
Perfect for: Vegetarians, vegans, clean-eating travelers
Try: Tofu scramble, green smoothies, acai bowl, vegan burrito
Vibe: Earthy, calm, laid-back health café
Bonus: You can pick up snacks or beach essentials from the store afterward
6. Maui Bread Company
The smell of warm, freshly baked bread hits you before you even open the door and that’s how I knew I was in the right place. Maui Bread Company is a hidden gem if you’re looking for something quick, sweet, and satisfying to take to the beach or on the road. The display case is packed with local favorites like ube rolls, coconut Danish, and taro sweet bread, and everything I tried tasted like it had just come out of the oven.
What makes this spot stand out is the variety of flavors and how soft their pastries are. I picked up a guava sweet bread and a cinnamon bun before my morning walk along Kamaole Beach, and they were the perfect easy breakfast. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options, so there’s something for everyone.
Perfect for: Pastry lovers, grab-and-go mornings, sweet tooths
Try: Ube bread, guava roll, banana bread, coconut Danish
Tip: Buy extra to take back to your hotel you’ll want more later!
7. Coconut’s Fish Cafe (for Brunch-Style Lunch)
Technically not a breakfast spot, but Coconut’s opens around 10:30 AM and if you’re the kind of traveler who likes to sleep in (no judgment here!), this might be your first meal of the day. I went here on a late morning after sleeping in post-beach day, and their famous grilled fish tacos absolutely hit the spot.
The fish is fresh, flaky, and perfectly seasoned, and the toppings (including mango salsa and cabbage) are colorful and crunchy. Everything is made to order, and even though it’s casual, the food has a gourmet feel. I sat at a surfboard-shaped table, sipping iced tea and planning out my afternoon in Lahaina.
Perfect for: Late risers, fish taco fans, casual brunch
Try: Grilled mahi tacos, coconut shrimp, seafood chowder
Bonus: Great post-snorkeling stop if you’re heading south toward Makena or Big Beach
8. Wow Wow Lemonade
If you love smoothie bowls, you need to make a stop at Wow Wow Lemonade. This place is as cheerful as its name bright walls, tropical colors, and the freshest ingredients packed into each jar or bowl. I came here after a morning paddleboarding session and ordered the dragonfruit smoothie bowl with coconut, strawberries, and local honey drizzled on top. It was light, refreshing, and exactly what I needed.
They’re also known for their housemade lemonades, which come in mason jars and flavors like strawberry-pineapple or lavender blackberry. Everything here is made with aloha and Instagram-worthy presentation. There’s limited seating outside, but the food travels well if you want to take it to a nearby beach.
Perfect for: Light, colorful breakfasts; health-conscious travelers
Try: Dragonfruit or acai bowl, strawberry pineapple lemonade
Instagram Tip: Snap a photo in front of their mural wall trust me, it’s iconic
Bonus: You can keep the mason jar as a cute Maui souvenir
Zee Tip
Many breakfast spots in Kihei open early and close by mid-afternoon. If you’re planning a full day of exploring, it’s smart to eat before 10 AM especially on weekends when places fill up fast.
Planning Your Morning in Kihei?
Pair your breakfast outing with:
- A stroll at Kamaole Beach Park
- Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park (leave early!)
- Exploring the shops at Kihei Kalama Village
And don’t forget to check out my guide on Things to Do in Kihei and Best Beaches in Kihei for more ideas.
Kihei’s breakfast scene is as sunny and satisfying as its beaches. From flaky pastries to local-style platters, there’s a spot here for every kind of morning. I found myself rotating between these places depending on my mood and I’d happily eat through them all again.
