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The Best Places to Get Malasadas on Oahu: A Sweet Guide to Hawaii’s Favorite Treat
If you’re visiting Oahu, trying a malasada is an absolute must. These Portuguese-inspired, deep-fried doughnuts—crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside—are a local favorite. While traditional malasadas are rolled in sugar, you can also find modern variations stuffed with delicious fillings like haupia (coconut), lilikoi (passion fruit), and custard.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, here’s your guide to the best places to get malasadas on Oahu.
Leonard's Bakery (The Iconic Original)
Location: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI
Website
If you ask any local where to get the best malasadas in Oahu, Leonard’s Bakery will likely be the first name you hear. Established in 1952, Leonard’s is legendary for its freshly fried malasadas, served hot and dusted with sugar, cinnamon, or li hing mui (a tangy, salty plum powder). Their filled malasadas, including haupia, chocolate, and custard, are equally famous.
What to try: A classic sugar-coated malasada and a custard-filled one.
Pro Tip: The lines can get long, especially in the mornings. Go early or visit their Malasadamobiles (food trucks) around the island for a quicker fix.
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Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery (Best Alternative to Leonard’s)
Location: 3632 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI
Website
Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery is a Kaimuki gem known for its "naked" malasadas, meaning no fillings—just pure, golden perfection. They pride themselves on using quality ingredients with no preservatives.
What to try: Their signature naked malasada dusted with cinnamon sugar, paired with house-made ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Pro Tip: This spot is smaller and more low-key than Leonard’s, making it a great choice if you want to skip the long wait.
Kamehameha Bakery (Best Poi Malasadas)
Location: 1284 Kalani St, Honolulu, HI
Website
If you want to try a unique twist on the traditional malasada, Kamehameha Bakery is the place to go. They are famous for their poi malasadas, which have a striking purple hue thanks to the taro root used in the dough. These malasadas are slightly denser than the traditional ones but packed with flavor.
What to try: Poi malasadas and their delicious butter rolls.
Pro Tip: They open super early, so this is the perfect spot if you're an early riser (or craving a midnight snack).
Waiāhole Poi Factory (A Hidden Gem for Local-Style Malasadas)
Location: 48-140 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI
Website
Waiāhole Poi Factory is best known for its Hawaiian food, but its fresh, made-to-order malasadas (called "Sweet Lady of Waiāhole") are a hidden gem. These come served warm with a generous scoop of haupia ice cream.
What to try: Malasadas with haupia ice cream for the ultimate Hawaiian dessert experience.
Pro Tip: Since this is a full Hawaiian food restaurant, come hungry and try their laulau or kalua pig plate before dessert.
Liliha Bakery (For a Local Bakery Experience)
Locations: Multiple locations in Honolulu, including Nimitz Hwy, Ala Moana, and Waikiki
Website
Liliha Bakery is an old-school Hawaiian bakery known for its butter rolls and famous coco puffs, but they also serve up tasty malasadas. Their version is slightly smaller and denser than Leonard’s but just as flavorful.
What to try: Classic malasadas and their famous coco puffs.
Pro Tip: If you're visiting their Nimitz location, grab breakfast there—their loco moco is one of the best on the island.
Paalaa Kai Bakery (Best North Shore Malasadas)
Location: 66-1425 Kaukonahua Rd, Waialua, HI
Website
If you're exploring Oahu’s North Shore, stop by Paalaa Kai Bakery for some of the best malasadas outside of Honolulu. This family-run bakery is famous for its Snow Puffies—flaky pastries filled with custard and topped with powdered sugar—but their malasadas are also top-notch.
What to try: A malasada and a Snow Puffy for the best of both worlds.
Pro Tip: It's a great stop before heading to Haleiwa for a beach day.
If you're looking for the most famous malasada, go to Leonard's Bakery.
If you want a less touristy option, try Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery.
For the best poi malasadas, Kamehameha Bakery is your go-to.
If you’re on the North Shore, visit Paalaa Kai Bakery.
For a Hawaiian plate lunch & malasadas, head to Waiāhole Poi Factory.
No matter where you go, malasadas are a must-try treat when visiting Oahu. So grab one (or a dozen), enjoy the sweet, fluffy goodness, and savor the taste of Hawaii!
