Ask any regular Maui visitor about their favorite breakfast spot and you’ll get passionate recommendations, usually with all the reasons why their choice is no ka oi (the best). We’ve sifted through countless visitor reviews and local insights to bring you the most consistently praised breakfast destinations across the island.
From oceanfront pancakes to upcountry comfort food, here are the breakfast spots that keep people coming back trip after trip.
The Gazebo
Notable for: Macadamia nut pancakes with “the fluff”, massive fried rice plates, oceanfront setting above Napili Bay
The Gazebo sits right above Napili Bay, offering what many call the best oceanfront breakfast view on Maui. Their macadamia nut pancakes come with something locals call “the fluff” — a magic ingredient that keeps people lining up before opening.
What people say: Universally described as iconic and “best breakfast in Hawaii”. Expect a long line, but many say it’s worth it; others prefer ordering to-go and eating on the beach. The view is the main event, you get to overlook the ocean and enjoy Maui.
Vibe: Classic Maui tourist-favorite with killer ocean views.
Location: Napili
Address: 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Lahaina, HI 96761
Website: thegazeborestaurant.udupi-cafe.com
Kihei Caffe
Notable for: Loco moco with fried rice, banana-mac nut French toast, big portions, fast service
If there’s one breakfast spot that visitors enjoy “multiple times each trip,” it’s Kihei Caffe. The loco moco with fried rice and banana-mac nut French toast are standouts, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
What people say: Lines move quickly thanks to counter-ordering system. Some locals say it’s overhyped or pricey, but overall remains one of the most consistently recommended spots.
Vibe: Busy, casual, no-frills breakfast done very well.
Location: Kihei
Address: 1945 S Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
Website: kiheicaffe.com
Nalu’s South Shore Grill
Notable for: Flavorful pancakes, solid all-around breakfast plates, reasonable prices
Nalu’s doesn’t have the ocean views of The Gazebo or the lines of Kihei Caffe, but it might have the most flavorful food of the bunch. The pancakes are exceptional, and their breakfast plates consistently deliver without breaking the bank.
What people say: Frequently described as “always good,” “delicious,” and “more flavorful than Kihei Caffe.” Considered one of the most dependable, moderately priced breakfast spots.
Vibe: Casual, friendly, reliable, with great food and no pretense.
Location: Kihei
Address: 1280 S Kihei Road, Suite 132, Kihei, HI 96753 (Azeka Shopping Center)
Website: naluskihei.com
Plantation House
Notable for: Ocean and golf course views, excellent pancakes and upscale fare
When you want to celebrate something special, like an engagement, anniversary, or just making it to Maui — Plantation House delivers. The views sweep across the golf course to the ocean beyond, and the pancakes and upscale fare match the scenery.
What people say: Repeatedly praised as the best sit-down breakfast with a view on the west side, perfect for celebrating. A go-to recommendation for a nicer breakfast after a special moment (like a proposal).
Vibe: Refined, scenic, romantic.
Location: Kapalua
Address: 2000 Plantation Club Drive, Lahaina, HI 96761
Website: theplantationhouse.com
Sea House Restaurant
Notable for: Beachfront patio, eggs Benedict, local-style plates
The beachfront patio at Sea House offers what many call the most memorable breakfast view on Maui. The eggs Benedict and local-style plates are solid, though here’s the thing about this spot: it’s really all about the setting.
What people say: Loved for its scenery: “memorable views,” “gorgeous location,” which is nearly universally praised.
Vibe: Quintessential Maui beachside breakfast.
Location: Napili
Address: 5900 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Lahaina, HI 96761 (Napili Kai Beach Resort)
Website: napilikai.com/dining/sea-house-restaurant
Kula Bistro
Notable for: Generous portions, upcountry fresh ingredients
After watching the sunrise from Haleakalā, Kula Bistro hits differently. The generous portions and fresh upcountry ingredients make the drive worthwhile, and the laid-back vibe feels authentically local.
What people say: Upcountry favorite with consistently great food. Considered worth the drive, especially post-Haleakalā sunrise.
Vibe: Comfort food, local-approved, laid-back.
Location: Kula (Upcountry)
Address: 4566 Lower Kula Road, Kula, HI 96790
Website: kulabistro.com
Cinnamon Roll Place
Notable for: Giant cinnamon rolls, breakfast sandwiches (“Hot Head”), strong coffee
If you’re an early riser, the Cinnamon Roll Place rewards you with giant cinnamon rolls, breakfast sandwiches (the “Hot Head” is a local favorite), and strong coffee. It’s the kind of old-school Maui bakery that’s been doing its thing for years.
What people say: Described as “awesome,” “bomb,” and worth the early trip. Great for grabbing food and eating at the beach across the street.
Vibe: Old-school Maui bakery with quick bites.
Location: Kihei
Address: 2463 S Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
Website: cinnamonrollplacemaui.com
Island Fresh Cafe
Notable for: Banana bread French toast, relaxed garden cafe environment
Tucked into a garden setting in Paia, Island Fresh Cafe feels like a hidden gem even though it’s been there for years. The banana bread French toast is a standout, and the relaxed environment makes it easy to linger over coffee.
What people say: Called “wonderful,” “super underrated,” and “one of my favorite hidden gems.” Frequently recommended for those wanting a quieter, more local-feeling breakfast.
Vibe: Chill, charming, slightly hidden.
Location: Paia
Address: 381 Baldwin Avenue, Paia, HI 96779
Website: islandfreshmaui.com
South Maui Gardens: The Blue Door / Sweet Hula
Notable for: Acai bowls, fresh pastries, garden oasis environment
This peaceful garden oasis in Kihei offers a tropical escape with acai bowls from Sweet Hula (repeatedly called “the best acai bowls”), fresh pastries from The Blue Door, and strong coffee all around.
What people say: A favorite for a relaxed, tropical setting with strong coffee and healthy options. Sweet Hula is repeatedly noted for “the best acai bowls.”
Vibe: Peaceful, lush, modern-tropical.
Location: Kihei
Address: 35 Auhana Road, Kihei, HI 96753
Website: southmauigardens.com
Sugar Beach Bake Shop
Notable for: Fresh pastries, malasadas, scones, and other baked goods; great coffee and grab-and-go breakfast options; perfect to take to the beach across the street
This small bakery across from Sugar Beach does one thing exceptionally well: fresh pastries, malasadas, scones, and excellent coffee. It’s not fancy, but everything that comes out of their kitchen is delicious.
What people say: Recommended repeatedly as a must-visit bakery near Kihei/Wailea. “Small place but everything they have is delicious, no joke.” Often paired with suggestions like: coffee and pastry here, then go eat it on the beach while watching the waves.
Vibe: Small, local-feeling bakery that quick, cozy, and not fancy. Ideal for a simple, excellent breakfast or pre-snorkel stop rather than a long, sit-down affair.
Location: North Kihei
Address: 61 S Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
Website: sugarbeachbakeshop.com
Need a hand with your next Maui vacation? Please contact the Sunny Maui Vacations team at info@sunnymauivacations.com or call 808-240-1311, ext. 21. We’ll find you the best vacation rental condo or rental home in South Maui and help you with any and all recommendations and activities across Maui.
