Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
The Big Island of Hawaii, the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands, is a true tropical paradise. It’s a destination that offers a bit of everything—stunning golden beaches, lush rainforests, majestic waterfalls, and even snow-capped peaks on Mauna Kea. Of course, it’s also famous for its active volcanoes, which have shaped not only the island’s dramatic landscapes but also its culture and history. Yet, beyond the breathtaking natural wonders, the Big Island boasts a vibrant farm-to-table food scene that celebrates its rich agricultural heritage and abundance of fresh, local ingredients.
Among the island’s culinary highlights, smoothies have earned a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. With Hawaii's year-round sunshine and warm tropical climate, smoothies offer a refreshing, energizing way to cool down and savor the island’s unparalleled bounty of fresh fruits. From bananas and papayas to mangoes, guavas, and dragon fruit, the Big Island’s farms produce a kaleidoscope of flavors perfect for blending into vibrant, nutrient-packed drinks. Smoothies aren’t just beverages here—they’re an experience, a taste of the island’s essence in every sip.
Whether enjoying an artfully crafted smoothie bowl by the beach or sipping a tropical fruit blend after a hike through the island’s lava fields, these drinks are a delicious way to connect with the land and its produce. To help you make the most of this delightful tradition, we’ve curated a guide to the best smoothie spots on the Big Island. Each location offers unique flavors, creative presentations, and unforgettable experiences, giving you plenty of opportunities to indulge in Hawaii’s tropical treasures.
Basik Café – Kailua-Kona
Located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, Basik Café has become a beloved destination for smoothie enthusiasts and health-conscious visitors alike. Perched near the coastline, this quaint café offers refreshing smoothies and smoothie bowls and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the laid-back spirit of the Big Island. Known for its commitment to using organic and locally sourced ingredients, Basik Café delivers an authentic taste of Hawaii's rich agricultural bounty.
Their vibrant menu features various tropical flavors, with star ingredients like acai, guava, and papaya frequently appearing. One of their most popular menu items, the “Da Kine” bowl, combines creamy acai with crunchy granola, perfectly ripe banana slices, and a drizzle of golden honey. This bowl's harmony of textures and flavors makes it a crowd favorite, loved by locals and visitors alike.
Highlights:
- Offers stunning oceanfront views
- Uses organic and locally grown produce
- Menu caters to vegans and vegetarians
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What's Shakin' – Pepeekeo
Nestled along the breathtaking Hamakua Coast, What’s Shakin’ is more than just a smoothie shack—it’s a quintessential stop for anyone looking to savor the true flavors of the Big Island. With its charming, laid-back vibe and commitment to farm-to-table freshness, this local gem has earned a loyal following among visitors and residents alike. Perched amidst the lush, green landscapes that define this part of the island, What’s Shakin’ is a refreshing pit stop after exploring nearby attractions such as Akaka Falls or the scenic Onomea Bay.
The highlight of What’s Shakin’ is undoubtedly its smoothies, packed with tropical flavors and made from fruits harvested directly from their farm. Visitors frequently rave about their passionfruit and guava smoothies, two drinks that perfectly capture Hawaii's vibrant, tangy-sweet essence. The fruit, picked at peak ripeness, gives each smoothie a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. These drinks are a refreshing way to cool off in the tropical heat and a direct connection to the island’s agricultural roots.
While smoothies are the show’s star, the What’s Shakin’ menu offers more than just drinks. They also serve a selection of wraps, salads, and other light bites, many of which incorporate the same fresh ingredients grown on-site. This makes it an excellent lunch destination, especially for those who appreciate wholesome, nutrient-packed meals. The portions are generous, the flavors are vibrant, and the setting—surrounded by the lush beauty of the Hamakua Coast—adds to the experience.
Visitors often find themselves lingering here, enjoying the rustic ambiance, friendly service, and stunning coast views. Whether you’re looking for a quick smoothie fix or a full farm-fresh meal, What’s Shakin’ is a must-visit destination that lives up to its name by delivering an unforgettable taste of the Big Island.
Highlights:
- Located on a working farm
- Offers gluten-free options
- Combines breathtaking views with fresh food
Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack – Hilo
If you find yourself in the charming town of Hilo, stopping at Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack is an absolute must. This vibrant and whimsical café has earned a reputation for its delicious smoothies and playful and creative presentations that make every visit a delightful experience. Nestled in the heart of Hilo, this local gem combines tropical flavors with artistic flair, serving up smoothies that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful.
One of the standout features of Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack is their signature way of serving smoothies—poured into freshly hollowed-out pineapples. This unique touch enhances the tropical vibe and creates an Instagram-worthy presentation that captures the essence of Hawaii’s playful, carefree spirit. The colorful drinks, combined with the vibrant decor of the café, make it a favorite spot for snapping photos that you’ll treasure long after your visit.
Their menu celebrates Hawaii’s rich fruit diversity, with each smoothie offering unique flavors. The "Hawaiian Rainbow" smoothie is among the favorites, a stunning creation that layers the bright and refreshing flavors of mango, passionfruit, and dragon fruit. The drink is topped with edible flowers, adding a touch of natural beauty that elevates it from a simple refreshment to a work of art. Each sip captures the tangy, sweet, and slightly tropical tartness of the island’s freshest produce, delivering a taste experience that’s second to none.
Beyond smoothies, Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack embodies the warm and welcoming aloha spirit, making it a joy to visit. The staff are friendly and attentive, eager to share recommendations or chat about the best spots to explore in Hilo. The café’s colorful atmosphere, lively decor and fun tropical theme, ensures every guest leaves with a smile.
Whether you’re stopping in for a mid-morning treat or wrapping up a day of exploring Hilo’s scenic beauty, Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack offers a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the flavors, sights, and joy of Hawaii. It’s not just a smoothie; it’s a moment—a little taste of paradise served in a pineapple.
Highlights:
- Known for creative presentations
- Offers dairy-free and plant-based options
- Perfect for Instagram-worthy photos
Kalapana Smoothies – Kalapana
For an adventure that takes you off the well-trodden tourist paths, go to Kalapana Smoothies, a hidden place near the Big Island’s famous lava fields. This charming and unassuming smoothie spot offers more than just delicious drinks—it provides a unique opportunity to connect with Hawaii's raw beauty and diverse ecosystems. Located near the dramatic remnants of past volcanic eruptions, Kalapana Smoothies is the perfect stop to refresh and recharge after exploring the island’s awe-inspiring natural wonders.
What sets Kalapana Smoothies apart is their deep commitment to showcasing Hawaii’s incredible biodiversity. Their smoothies feature a wide range of foraged or locally sourced wild fruits, giving visitors a taste of the island’s untouched natural bounty. Standout flavors like guava, passionfruit, and even rarer tropical ingredients offer a flavor profile distinct from what you’ll find at other smoothie stops. Each sip delivers a freshness and a reminder of Hawaii’s unique environment, where lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and ocean breezes come together to nurture an astonishing variety of plants and fruits.
The ambiance at Kalapana Smoothies is as memorable as the flavors. The location, surrounded by the rugged and otherworldly lava fields, contrasts the vibrant, fruity drinks served here. It’s a place where you can truly feel the power of Hawaii’s natural forces—the volcanic rock beneath your feet, the tropical breeze on your face, and the vibrant flavors of the island in your cup. The casual, laid-back atmosphere invites you to linger, soak in the scenery, and reflect on the island’s dynamic beauty.
For visitors seeking a deeper connection to Hawaii’s culture and environment, Kalapana Smoothies offers an authentic and enriching experience. Whether you’re just passing through after a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or making a day trip to explore the area, this spot is well worth the detour. It’s more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a celebration of Hawaii’s wild and untamed spirit, captured in every cup. From their unique, locally sourced ingredients to the breathtaking setting, Kalapana Smoothies offers a unique taste of the Big Island that you won’t soon forget.
Highlights:
- Offers unique, wild fruit flavors
- Family-run and highly welcoming
Conclusion: Savor the Island’s Flavors
The Big Island of Hawaii is a feast for the eyes with its breathtaking landscapes and a haven for your taste buds, offering some of the freshest and most flavorful smoothies you’ll ever experience. From vibrant, farm-fresh guava to indulgently creamy acai bowls topped with tropical delights, each smoothie spot on the island tells a unique story of Hawaii’s rich agricultural heritage and commitment to quality.
As you journey across the island, you’ll discover an array of smoothie destinations that cater to every mood and moment. Whether you’re strolling through the bustling streets of Hilo, soaking in the laid-back charm of the Kona coast, or venturing off the beaten path to the rugged beauty of the Hamakua Coast or lava fields, you’ll find a smoothie perfectly crafted to refresh and rejuvenate. These locations offer more than just a drink—they connect to the island’s lush farmlands and tropical flavors, making every sip a celebration of the Big Island’s abundance.
The smoothie spots highlighted in this guide are a way to hydrate and indulge and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s culture. Each visit is a sensory experience, from the vibrant colors of the fresh fruit to the distinct aromas of tropical ingredients. Whether enjoying a smoothie served in a freshly hollowed-out pineapple at a beachside café or savoring a farm-to-table creation in the cool shade of a rainforest, these moments will stay with you long after your trip ends.
