When it comes to coffee in Maui, the island offers far more than just a caffeine boost - it's about experiencing the local flavors and culture. Here's a quick guide to Maui's top-rated coffee shops, known for their unique drinks, locally grown beans, and inviting atmospheres. Whether you're near the airport, heading to the beach, or exploring Maui's scenic spots, these coffee shops have something special to offer.
Key Highlights:
- Maui Coffee Roasters (Kahului): Known for its extensive menu and vibrant atmosphere. Try the nitro cold brew or Thai iced coffee.
- Momona Bakery (Kahului): Famous for Argentinian-style pastries and nitro lattes. Arrive early for the best selection.
- Wailuku Coffee Company (Wailuku): Offers unique drinks like the Coconut Buttered Coffee and supports local charities.
- Akamai Coffee Co. (Kihei & Wailea): Features 100% Maui-grown beans and crowd-favorite drinks like the Hawaiian Honeybee Latte.
- Paia Bay Coffee Bar (Paia): A tropical garden vibe with standout drinks like the Liquid Gold Latte.
- Island Vintage Coffee (Ka'anapali): Serves 100% Kona coffee and popular acai bowls, perfect for a beach day.
- The Coffee Store Napili (Napili): Beloved for its Coconut Mocha and house-roasted beans.
- Kraken Coffee Maui (Kihei): Offers creative drinks and coffee ice cubes for bold, chilled flavors.
- Sip Me (Makawao, Paia, Kahului): Known for its Rose Gold Latte and community-focused atmosphere.
- Bad Ass Coffee (Honokowai): A grab-and-go favorite with 100% Hawaiian-grown coffee and unique blends.
These shops aren't just about coffee - they're local hubs that showcase Maui's agricultural heritage, artistry, and aloha spirit. From quick drive-thrus to serene garden cafes, there's a spot for every coffee lover on the island.
Maui Coffee Shops Comparison: Locations, Ratings & Signature Drinks
1. Maui Coffee Roasters – Kahului
Location & Accessibility
Maui Coffee Roasters is conveniently situated at 444 Hana Hwy in Kahului, just a short drive from Kahului Airport and the cruise port. Visitors will appreciate the free dedicated parking and easy access, with designated spots located close to the entrance.
Menu Highlights
This café takes pride in roasting small-batch beans daily, offering an extensive menu with over 60 options. Coffee lovers can enjoy specialties like nitro cold brew, Thai iced coffee, iced honey latte, and the classic Ka'u drip coffee. For food, the menu includes tempting choices such as salmon on an everything bagel, a bacon and egg croissant, and housemade crab melts. Prices are reasonable, with breakfast items ranging from $1 to $10, lunch options between $10 and $20, and fruit smoothies priced at about $8. If you're visiting after 2:00 PM, check out their "Happy Cappy" hour, where cappuccinos are offered at just $2.50.
Atmosphere
The café's ambiance is lively and welcoming, with high ceilings, colorful decor, and surfboards hanging overhead. Local art adorns the walls, giving the space a unique charm. It's a popular spot for locals and remote workers alike, thanks to free WiFi and plenty of seating. During busy times, outdoor seating is a great option for a more relaxed experience.
Customer Ratings
Maui Coffee Roasters holds an impressive 4.5/5 rating on both Google and TripAdvisor. Customers rave about the friendly staff, high-quality local roasts, and the availability of alternative milk options like coconut and oat. Be aware that during peak hours, wait times can stretch up to 45 minutes. For a quicker visit, consider ordering simpler drinks or grab-and-go treats like their raspberry cream cheese muffins.
Next, dive into another must-visit coffee spot on Maui’s vibrant coffee scene.
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2. Momona Bakery and Coffee Shop – Kahului
Location & Accessibility
Momona Bakery sits at 7 E Kaahumanu Ave in Kahului, conveniently positioned just across from Whole Foods Market and within a five-minute stroll from the cruise port. Housed in a repurposed bank, the space retains its original vault, now transformed into a quirky seating area. While on-site parking is limited, free street parking is available nearby, making it easy to visit.
Menu Highlights
This bakery is known for its Argentinian-style medialunas, offered in both sweet and savory variations. Fillings range from lilikoi (passion fruit) and dulce de leche to custard, chocolate, and cheesecake. Favorites like stuffed croissants and cinnamon rolls often sell out by 9:00 AM, so early risers get the best picks. Each day, the bakery churns out up to 350 fresh pastries.
For those craving something savory, options include a breakfast sandwich with eggs, mozzarella, and bacon, as well as empanadas, avocado toast, and smoked salmon toast. Coffee lovers will appreciate choices like the nitro latte, matcha latte, and cappuccino. Most meals are reasonably priced between $10 and $20 per person, and arriving by 7:00 AM is the best way to snag their most sought-after items.
Atmosphere
With its bright, modern boho decor, Momona Bakery offers a welcoming space for remote work, casual meetups, or a quick morning bite. Complimentary Wi-Fi and laptop-friendly tables make it especially appealing for digital nomads and locals. On busy weekend mornings, wait times can stretch to around 20 minutes, partly due to the use of order notification buzzers.
The bakery's hours are Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Saturday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Sunday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Customer Ratings
Momona Bakery consistently receives high praise across various review platforms. Customers love the generous, shareable portions. It boasts a 4.6/5 rating on Google (579 reviews), a 4.9/5 on TripAdvisor (25 reviews), and a 4.8/5 on Restaurant Guru (868 reviews). Ready to explore more of Maui's coffee gems? Stay tuned for our next recommendation.
3. Wailuku Coffee Company – Wailuku
Location & Accessibility
Nestled on N. Market Street in the heart of historic Wailuku, Wailuku Coffee Company is just steps away from the Historic Iao Theater, making it a convenient stop for coffee lovers and hikers heading to nearby trails [6, 29]. There's also a second location on Maui's North Shore at 810 Kokomo Road. Both spots offer free WiFi and online ordering, so you can skip the line and grab your coffee hassle-free.
Menu Highlights
The café takes pride in roasting premium Maui beans sourced from the top 2% of global coffee production. Their drink menu is packed with standouts like the Thai Coffee, a cold brew infused with condensed milk, cardamom, and vanilla, and the Coconut Buttered Coffee, featuring drip coffee blended with grass-fed butter and coconut oil. For latte lovers, the Carmilla Latte (caramel and vanilla) and Maui Honey Bee Latte are must-tries [14, 28].
If you're hungry, breakfast options include the Lox Bagel topped with capers, onions, and cucumbers, and the open-faced Bacon, Tomato, Avo Bagel. Their banana bread is also a crowd favorite [27, 28]. For lunch, popular choices like the Chevre Wrap (turkey, goat cheese, and cranberry-mayo) and the Turkey Pesto Croissant are available. They also cater to dietary restrictions with gluten-free bread and vegan-friendly pastries. Prices are reasonable, with meals ranging from $8 to $12, and drinks priced between $3 and $8.
"There are several good coffee houses on the island, but the lattes at Wailuku Coffee are truly inspired. Nice folks working there, too." – TripAdvisor
Atmosphere
The café exudes a laidback, artistic vibe. The walls are adorned with paintings, photography, and sculptures by local Maui artists, giving the space a creative and welcoming feel. Outdoor seating along N. Market Street offers a perfect spot to soak in the charm of the historic town. Adding to the community feel, live entertainment - ranging from ukulele soloists to local bands - makes this café more than just a coffee shop. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Customer Ratings & Community Impact
Wailuku Coffee Company has earned a flawless 5/5 rating on TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google Reviews [27, 30]. It’s been recognized by Mahalo Maui with titles like "Best Cafe", "Best Barista", "Best Bagel", "Best Coffee", and more. Beyond its excellent coffee and food, the café gives back to the community by donating 15% of art sales to non-profit charities. Additionally, all proceeds from their "Golden Blend" support Maui-based causes.
4. Akamai Coffee Co. – Kihei and Wailea
Location & Accessibility
Akamai Coffee Co. serves South Maui with two convenient locations. The Kihei Plaza shop, at 1325 S Kihei Rd, opens bright and early at 6:00 AM and offers a drive-thru and online ordering, letting you grab your coffee in as little as 10 minutes. Over in Wailea, you’ll find their second location at 116 Wailea Ike Dr, perched on the second floor of the Wailea Village shops. This spot boasts stunning ocean views and is just a short stroll from many Wailea resorts. Hours vary slightly: the Kihei location operates Mon–Sat from 6:00 AM–6:00 PM and Sun from 6:00 AM–1:00 PM, while the Wailea shop serves coffee until 4:00 PM (kitchen closes at 2:00 PM) and is also open Sundays from 6:00 AM–1:00 PM.
Menu Highlights
Akamai takes pride in roasting 100% Maui-grown coffee on-site, including the award-winning Maui Mokka varietal, which was crowned "Best Coffee in the State of Hawaii" in 2014. Their menu features creative drinks like the "Hawaiian Honeybee" latte - a delightful mix of espresso, honey, coconut, and vanilla - and the "Road to Hana", another crowd favorite. For those who love cold brew, they’ve got a clever touch: coffee ice cubes that keep your drink chilled without watering it down. At the Wailea location, food offerings shine with standout dishes like the rich avocado toast served on sweet, dense bread and the fresh berries and cream waffle. Coffee beans are also available for purchase, ranging from $15 for the South Side Blend to $25 for the Tropical Island blend.
Atmosphere
Each location offers a distinct vibe. The Kihei shop blends an industrial-island aesthetic with warm lighting, lush greenery, and fun swinging chairs. Meanwhile, Wailea’s space is cozier, featuring an inviting outdoor patio with breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby golf course. Notably, Akamai has chosen not to provide Wi-Fi, encouraging customers to engage in conversation instead of screen time.
"Akamai is known for not having a Wi-Fi connection for its clients in order to inspire a more social and conversational atmosphere." – Evan Harlow, Real Estate Agent, Coldwell Banker
Customer Ratings & Recognition
Akamai Coffee Co. has built a stellar reputation, earning a 4.5/5 rating from HawaiianIslands.com and winning Maui Magazine's Aipono Award for "Best Coffee" three years running. In 2023, it also claimed the titles of "Best Coffee Shop" and "Best Coffee Roaster" in the MauiTime Best of Maui awards. Additionally, Eater.com listed it among the "Top 20 Essential Maui Restaurants." Guests frequently rave about the smooth, flavorful espresso and the warm, welcoming staff who embody the spirit of island hospitality. Stay tuned as we uncover more of Maui’s standout coffee spots!
5. Paia Bay Coffee Bar – Paia
Location & Accessibility
Nestled behind a row of shops at Paia's only stoplight, this coffee bar is easy to spot - just look for the large sea turtle mural in the alley between the bike shop and Rip Curl. You'll find it at 115 Hana Hwy, right at the intersection of Hana Highway and Baldwin Avenue. It's a convenient stop for anyone heading out on the Road to Hana, located just 15 minutes from Kahului Airport. Parking in downtown Paia is limited, so you might want to use the public lot a few blocks away or keep an eye out for street parking. The shop opens daily at 7:30 AM, with closing times varying from 1:00 PM on Mondays to 8:00 PM Tuesday through Saturday.
Menu Highlights
Their standout drink is the "Liquid Gold Latte", a unique blend of espresso, ginger, turmeric, cardamom, macadamia nut milk, CBD extract, MCT oil, and a touch of luxury with a 24k gold flake. Coffee lovers can also indulge in 100% Maui Mokka Peaberry or Oma Coffee, a Maui-grown roast typically reserved for upscale restaurants. Breakfast options include bacon brie croissants, vegan bagels with roasted red peppers, acai bowls, and avocado toast. As the day transitions into evening, the menu shifts to bar favorites like street tacos, pulled pork nachos, and a refreshing watermelon feta salad. The espresso martini is a crowd favorite for nighttime drinks. While most items are reasonably priced, specialty drinks like the lavender oat milk latte lean toward the higher end.
Atmosphere
"Entering into this open-air coffee bar feels like walking into a tropical jungle oasis." – The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team
The open-air courtyard is a tropical escape, featuring lush greenery, handcrafted wooden accents, and light fabrics that provide shade. The bohemian vibe makes it a magnet for surfers, yogis, and artists. During the day, it’s a great spot for people-watching, while evenings bring live music and weekly events like bingo on Tuesdays, trivia on Wednesdays, and karaoke on Thursdays. Although the space offers fast WiFi, the outdoor seating lacks power outlets, so it’s best to charge your devices beforehand.
Customer Ratings & Recognition
Paia Bay Coffee Bar scores highly across platforms, with a 4.4/5 on Wanderlog (based on 1,182 reviews), a 4.5/5 on Sirved (from 635 reviews), and a 4.5/5 from The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team. Visitors often rave about the stylish garden setting, the convenience of QR code ordering, and the quality of its specialty drinks. The coffee bar has also been recognized as a Platinum Ocean Friendly Restaurant for its eco-conscious practices.
Stay tuned as we dive into another must-visit coffee spot on Maui!
6. Island Vintage Coffee – Ka'anapali
Location & Accessibility
Nestled in Whalers Village at 2435 Kaanapali Parkway, Suite L5, Lahaina, HI, Island Vintage Coffee is just steps away from the stunning Ka'anapali Beach. This makes it an ideal spot to grab a bite or coffee before or after a beach day. Nearby dining includes popular spots like Leilani's on the Beach and Hula Grill Kaanapali. The café operates daily from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM, though the kitchen stops serving hot food at 2:00 PM. If you spend more than $20, you can get two hours of free parking validation at Whalers Village. Keep in mind that indoor seating is scarce, but there are outdoor tables right by the entrance for a more relaxed experience.
Menu Highlights
The menu here reflects the vibrant local flavors of Hawaii. Standouts include the Mauna Kea iced coffee, a decadent mix of gelato, caramel, and black Hawaiian sea salt, and the Island Latte, which blends coconut and macadamia notes for a smooth finish. For coffee purists, they serve 100% Kona coffee as drip, pour-over, or espresso. Their freshly made acai bowls are a hit, especially the Haupia Moana Bowl, topped with lilikoi and local honey. Breakfast options include the hearty Island Style Plate, featuring Portuguese sausage, local eggs, and seasoned rice, and the Mango and Peanut Butter Sandwich on cranberry walnut bread. Prices generally range from $7 to $20. During peak times, food is made fresh to order, so expect a wait of up to 20 minutes.
Atmosphere
Island Vintage Coffee isn't just about the coffee - it's about the experience.
Bright, clean, and modern, the café's ambiance complements Ka'anapali's upscale resort vibe. Mornings are lively, with lines forming as soon as they open at 6:30 AM. The outdoor seating area offers a chance to enjoy your coffee while soaking in the ocean breeze and views of the coastal walkway. For a quieter experience, drop by later in the day, though remember the kitchen closes at 2:00 PM.
Customer Ratings & Recognition
Island Vintage Coffee has earned a solid reputation, with a 4.5/5 rating from The HawaiianIslands.com and 4.4/5 on Google and Yelp, based on over 2,165 reviews. It was also ranked No. 10 on Yelp's all-time list of best coffee spots on Maui as of late 2022. Guests frequently rave about the freshness of the ingredients, the exceptional quality of the Kona coffee, and the "dreamy" acai bowls. However, some mention long wait times - up to 45 minutes during peak hours - and the limited indoor seating as potential downsides.
7. The Coffee Store Napili – Napili
Location & Accessibility
You’ll find The Coffee Store Napili in Napili Plaza at 5095 Napilihau Street, Lahaina, HI 96761. Nestled on Maui’s northwestern edge, it’s just a short drive from Napili Beach and Honokeana Bay. The café opens bright and early at 6:00 AM and closes at 1:00 PM on most days, with extended hours on Wednesdays (until 2:00 PM) and Fridays (until 5:00 PM). While indoor dining isn’t available, you can skip the morning rush by placing your order online through their website.
Menu Highlights
The Coffee Store Napili takes pride in its house-roasted beans, which form the foundation of their espresso drinks. Standout options include the Mainline Mocha, a rich blend of espresso, milk, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate syrup, and the ever-popular Coconut Mocha. They also serve 100% Maui-grown coffee and Kona blends, along with flavored beans like Hawaiian Hazelnut, Vanilla Mac Nut, and Hula Pie.
For food, the Turkey Pesto Sandwich is a must-try, layered with turkey, pesto mayo, provolone, tomato, lettuce, and avocado on sprouted grain bread. If you’re in the mood for something fruity, the Blue Crush Smoothie - a mix of apple juice, blueberries, strawberries, and bananas - is a refreshing choice. Most pastries are either freshly baked in-house or sourced from local bakeries, with menu items ranging between $5 and $12.
Atmosphere
Freshly brewed coffee, delicious snacks, and many other wonders await your visit at The Coffee Store in Napili. - The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team
This charming café is a hub of activity, especially during the morning rush. Skilled baristas whip up drinks quickly, often adding fun latte art like cats or flowers to your cup. Without indoor seating, many customers grab their orders and head to nearby Napili Bay for a picturesque breakfast by the ocean. The shop is beloved by locals and repeat visitors alike, thanks to its warm, aloha-infused service and its role as a gathering spot that reflects the close-knit spirit of West Maui.
Customer Ratings & Recognition
The Coffee Store Napili boasts a stellar 4.5/5 rating from the HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team and an equally impressive 4.5/5 rating from 237 customer reviews. Visitors frequently commend the high-quality coffee, efficient service even during busy hours, and the rotating selection of fresh pastries. However, some note the limited hours and lack of seating as minor drawbacks. For those wanting a piece of Napili to take home, the café sells coffee beans (available whole or custom ground) and dishwasher-safe stickers as keepsakes.
8. Kraken Coffee Maui – Kihei
Location & Accessibility
Kraken Coffee has two convenient spots in Kihei. The main location is at 1 Piikea Avenue in the Kihei Food Truck Park, while the second is at Kihei Marketplace near the Azeka Shopping Center. Both are open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering a quick and efficient drive-thru service. The Piikea Avenue site stands out with on-site parking, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and a pet-friendly atmosphere. It’s also right next to South Maui Gardens, which hosts a Thursday morning farmers market and houses the Blue Door Bread Company. This lively setting perfectly captures Maui's relaxed and easygoing vibe.
Menu Highlights
One of Kraken Coffee’s most talked-about features is their coffee ice cubes - cold brew frozen into cubes that keep your iced drinks bold and flavorful, even in Maui’s warm weather. Their coffee is roasted locally on Maui, supporting the island’s growers. The menu includes Hawaiian-inspired creations like the MochaWao (a white chocolate macadamia nut mocha) and the Haleakalatte (a caramel latte with a rich twist). Iced coffee lovers should try the Surfs Up cold brew, which combines coconut and macadamia nut flavors with a sweet foam topping, or the Maui Mango Mocha, a tropical spin on a dark chocolate mocha.
If you're in the mood for something beyond coffee, options like the Lava Flow smoothie (pineapple, coconut, and strawberry swirl) or the POG shave ice (pineapple, guava, and orange) are worth a try. For a quick bite, they offer bagel sandwiches, breakfast croissants, and stuffed pretzels.
Atmosphere
"If you want to get ready for all your Maui adventures, all it takes is a trip on over to Kraken Coffee." - The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team
Kraken Coffee’s setup exudes a fun, food truck-style energy with a laid-back, beachy feel. While outdoor seating is available, it’s somewhat limited due to its proximity to the parking area. Many customers grab their drinks to enjoy at nearby Kihei beaches. The staff is known for their warm aloha spirit, staying calm and friendly even during the busy morning rush - ideal for anyone looking for a quick caffeine fix before starting their day.
Customer Ratings & Recognition
Kraken Coffee has built a strong reputation, earning a flawless 5.0/5 rating from The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team and receiving 399 Yelp reviews filled with glowing feedback. Yelp user Gabby A. raved, "Best iced coffee in Maui... And they put cold brew ice cubes!" Regular visitors can also take advantage of their loyalty card, which rewards a free drink after 10 purchases. Plus, branded merchandise is available for fans looking to take a little piece of Kraken Coffee home with them.
9. Sip Me – Makawao, Paia, Kahului
Location & Accessibility
Sip Me has made its mark on Maui with three locations, each offering its own charm and convenience. The flagship location, Vida by Sip Me Maui, is at 3671 Baldwin Ave, Unit H-101 in Makawao, welcoming visitors daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Over in Kahului, you’ll find a drive-through spot at 7 E. Kaahumanu Ave, open Monday through Saturday from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and on Sundays from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. If you’re in Paia, head to the Sea La Vie boutique at 106 Hana Hwy, where Sip Me operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.
Parking can be tricky at the Makawao location, but there’s a workaround. Park on Nakui Street and take a short stroll across Baldwin Avenue. Plus, this gives you a chance to explore nearby glassblowing studios and art galleries.
Menu Highlights
Sip Me’s menu is a treat for coffee lovers and beyond. They source organic beans from Maui Oma, featuring blends like the rich Mokka and smooth Blonde Pueo. Signature drinks include the Rose Gold Latte, Lavender Latte, and the Maca Mocha - perfect for those looking for a healthier twist.
For non-coffee drinkers, options like the Mint Hot Cacao - a raw, vegan, and organic delight - or the Apple Ginseng Oolong tea stand out. On the food side, they offer gluten-free pastries from a certified organic bakery and a hearty quiche to keep you fueled. Want something lighter? The Glam Smoothie, a zesty mix of strawberry, orange, and ginger, is a refreshing pick-me-up.
Atmosphere
"Sip Me is a cozy cafe nestled on the northwest end of Makawao. This coffee shop is the realization of a childhood dream by owner Laura Wentworth..." - The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team
The Makawao location is brimming with character, featuring rustic decor inspired by Frida Kahlo. There’s plenty of seating indoors, plus a spacious outdoor patio that’s a favorite among remote workers. A thoughtful "Pay it Forward" board allows patrons to prepay for drinks or treats for others, fostering a sense of community. You’ll also find a wooden board showcasing flyers for local events and activities, adding to the welcoming, family-friendly vibe.
Customer Ratings & Recognition
Sip Me has earned a solid 4/5 rating from The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team. Customers frequently highlight the warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and high-quality offerings. With its moderate pricing, it’s an inviting spot for both occasional visits and regular coffee runs.
10. Bad Ass Coffee – Honokowai
Location & Accessibility
Bad Ass Coffee is nestled at 3636 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Suite 1, Lahaina, right across from Honokowai Beach Park. It welcomes early risers, opening its doors at 6:00 AM and closing at 1:00 PM daily. For those within the 96761 ZIP code, the shop offers free delivery on coffee beans and merchandise (prepared drinks excluded) for orders placed by 4:00 PM.
If you’re planning to visit, keep in mind that parking can be a bit tricky during peak hours at the nearby Farmer’s Market. The shop mainly caters to grab-and-go customers, especially beachgoers. While there are no restrooms on-site, public facilities are conveniently located at Honokowai Beach Park. This spot is perfectly situated to fuel your day with some of Maui’s finest coffee offerings.
Menu Highlights
Bad Ass Coffee takes pride in serving 100% Hawaiian-grown coffee, showcasing a selection that celebrates the islands. With over 27 single-origin brews sourced from regions like Maui, Kona, Kauai, and Ka'u, coffee enthusiasts are spoiled for choice.
Some standout drinks include the Carmel Kreme de Kona, a rich mix of Kona coffee with caramel, white chocolate, and dark chocolate, and the Menehune Mocha, featuring a decadent blend of dark chocolate and raspberry. Fan favorites like The Nutty Irishman, with its bold hazelnut flavors, and the Oodalolly, offering hints of dark chocolate, praline, and honey, round out the menu. Beyond hot coffee, they also serve espresso, cold brew, chai, teas, frozen beverages, and smoothies. For those seeking dairy-free options, plant-based alternatives are readily available.
Atmosphere
"For coffee lovers, stepping into one of Bad Ass' locations is like a kid stepping into a candy store." - Hawaii Coffee
The shop’s vibe is lively and inviting, with displays of bagged coffee, branded merchandise, and Hawaii-inspired goods lining the space. Despite its popularity among locals and tourists alike, the layout is designed primarily for takeaway. The name "Bad Ass" is a nod to the donkeys - nicknamed "the bad-ass ones" - that historically carried heavy loads of coffee beans down Kona’s steep volcanic slopes.
Customer Ratings & Recognition
Bad Ass Coffee has earned an impressive 4.5/5 rating from The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team. Customers rave about the smoothness of the espresso and the exceptional quality of the 100% Kona coffee blends. However, if you’re visiting during the morning rush, be prepared to wait in line - it’s worth it.
Quick Comparison Table
Here’s a handy table summarizing ten Maui coffee shops, highlighting their standout drinks, ratings, locations, and price ranges. Use this as a quick reference before diving into the details.
| Coffee Shop | Featured Drink | Rating | Location | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maui Coffee Roasters | Sledge Hammer / Honey Latte | 4.5/5 | Kahului | $ |
| Momona Bakery and Coffee Shop | Vanilla Latte / Iced Caramel Latte | N/A | Kahului | $ |
| Wailuku Coffee Company | Maui Honey Bee Latte | 4.6/5 | Wailuku | $ |
| Akamai Coffee Co. | Mac Nut Latte / Toasted Coconut Latte | N/A | Kihei & Wailea | $ |
| Paia Bay Coffee Bar | Royal Rose (with gold flakes) | 4.4/5 | Paia | $ |
| Island Vintage Coffee | Mauna Kea Iced Coffee | N/A | Ka'anapali | $-$ |
| The Coffee Store Napili | Coconut Mocha | N/A | Napili | $ |
| Kraken Coffee Maui | Kihei Kicker / Dirty Kraken Chai | N/A | Kihei | $ |
| Sip Me | Rose Gold Latte / Lavender Latte | 4.4/5 | Makawao, Paia, Kahului | $ |
| Bad Ass Coffee | Menehune Mocha / Iced Aloha Latte | 4.3/5 | Honokowai | $ |
Among these, Wailuku Coffee Company boasts the highest rating at 4.6/5, based on 157 reviews, while Maui Coffee Roasters follows closely with a 4.5/5 rating from over 900 reviews. If you're looking for budget-friendly options, Bad Ass Coffee, Maui Coffee Roasters, Paia Bay Coffee Bar, and Kraken Coffee Maui deliver quality Hawaiian-grown coffee at reasonable prices.
For those prioritizing locally sourced beans, Akamai Coffee Co. uses 100% Maui-grown beans, while Bad Ass Coffee features selections from Maui, Kauai, and Kona. Additionally, Kraken Coffee Maui stands out for its creative touch - using coffee ice cubes to ensure their cold brews stay bold and flavorful.
Conclusion
Maui's coffee scene has something for everyone, whether you're grabbing a quick cup near the airport or seeking out a cozy, scenic spot in the upcountry. From Kahului to Napili, Paia to Kihei, each area offers its own vibe - bohemian garden cafes, modern roasters, and everything in between.
These coffee shops aren't just about the drinks - they're gathering places that bring people together. Many double as showcases for local art and live music, embodying the spirit of aloha. It's this blend of community and creativity that makes Maui's coffee spots so special.
Every visit feels like an adventure. Picture yourself sipping a latte after a trip to Wailuku, fueling up for a Haleakalā hike, or treating yourself to the Royal Rose in Paia, complete with rose syrup and gold flakes. Local flavors like lavender, coconut, honey, and even coffee ice cubes add a fun twist to every cup, making each sip a little piece of Maui.
To make the most of your coffee tour, plan ahead. Stop by Maui Coffee Roasters for a quick pick-me-up near the airport, swing through Paia Bay Coffee Bar before heading to the Road to Hana, or enjoy a signature drink by the water at Island Vintage Coffee. With some spots opening as early as 6:00 AM, you can start your day island-style before the crowds roll in.
Exploring Maui's coffee shops is more than just about caffeine. It's a chance to connect with the island's rich agricultural heritage, support local businesses, and soak in the stunning landscapes that make every cup distinctly Maui.
FAQs
Which Maui coffee shops are closest to the airport?
If you're looking for a quick caffeine fix near Kahului Airport, you’re in luck. Two great options are Maui Coffee Roasters and Akamai Coffee Co., both just a short drive from the airport. These spots are perfect for grabbing a quality cup of coffee before or after your flight.
Which spots are best for remote work and Wi-Fi?
If you're looking for reliable Wi-Fi and a cozy spot to get some work done on Maui, check out Maui Coffee Roasters in Kahului or Wailuku Coffee Company in Wailuku. Both places offer a strong internet connection and a welcoming vibe, making them ideal for remote work sessions.
Which shops serve 100% Maui-grown coffee?
Mauigrown Coffee Co specializes in offering 100% Maui-grown coffee, sourced directly from the renowned Ka’anapali Coffee Estate. While their physical shop is temporarily closed, you can still enjoy their premium beans by placing orders online.
