Kava Kafe

Inside Kava Kafe

Kava Kafe in Hawi offers more than just a typical café experience—it’s a laid-back spot where local culture and community meet the unique flavors of kava and island treats. Tucked along Akoni Pule Highway, this place fits naturally into the small-town rhythm of Hawi, where people slow down and savor good company after a day spent exploring spots like Pololu Valley or the nearby black sand beach.

Visitors tend to come here for a relaxed hangout rather than a quick coffee grab. The vibe feels casual and open, with friendly staff who are more than willing to explain kava—the locally loved, earthy drink that defines the spot. It’s a place where the atmosphere encourages lingering, whether you’re trying fresh kava, enjoying a shave ice made with real fruit flavors, or grabbing a coffee next door.

Besides the drinks, there’s a social element here that stands out. Several nights a week, especially Fridays, transform Kava Kafe into a modest community hub with live music and open mic events, attracting a crowd looking for a mix of local talent and good conversation. There’s even foosball for a bit of laid-back, playful competition.

If you’re passing through Hawi in the afternoon after beach time or a hike, Kava Kafe offers a cool, easygoing spot to recharge. The shaved ice alone feels like a refreshingly wholesome treat, a contrast to the usual brightly colored versions elsewhere. The place draws locals and travelers alike—anyone curious about kava culture or craving a mellow retreat from the Hawaiian heat will find something to appreciate here.

In short, Kava Kafe suits those who aren’t in a rush, who appreciate authentic local flavors and a community-driven atmosphere. It’s less about fancy presentation and more about real connections, good drinks, and the slow pace of life on Hawaii Island’s north shore.

Highlights & Local Essentials

What they serve

Coffee

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

What Locals & Travelers Say

31 Reviews

K Gamerk

07 Jan 2026

Great experience and great ice cream! Hawi is a beautiful small town where people live with Aloha. The ice cream makes for a great afternoon snack after a day on the black sand beach of Pololu valley just up the road! We ate here last year and had the same great experience!

Ryan Kilbane

31 Dec 2025

Awesome little local place, the open mic night is fantastic! The employees are super friendly and happy to explain anything you have questions about.

Dean Liberman

29 Dec 2025

It's a Kava bar. The quality of the product itself is quite good, but Kava also comes with a open minded(and open mouthed!) culture. Your experience may vary, but I've greatly enjoyed my experiences there.

Lauri Mase

11 Dec 2025

GO HERE FOR SHAVE ICE. We were searching for some in the area and were told to go to Anuenue so we were headed that way, but stopped for coffee at the place next door. My husband happened to see this place and we were stoked. It’s the most flavorful shave ice I’ve ever had. And they use real fruit to flavor the ice. It’s not bright and toxic colors... it actually feels like a healthy refreshing treat. We of course got the ice cream at the bottom and t was just perfection. We even tried the other company later and even my 2 and 4 year old agreed that the first one we had was way better. So kuddos. Kava kafe—people searching google maps for shave ice will not find you. You should fix that. Because you guys deserve to have lines out the door for it.

Emanuel Schachinger

26 Nov 2025

Great place to chill out, drink some fresh kava, and play foosball! Lots of events with life music and good on Friday nights!

Lucas Boyd

17 Nov 2025

I experienced my first cup of awa there on Valentine's Day! Great atmosphere if you want to experience real people and local conversation! We will return very soon!

Campbell Cross

19 Oct 2025

The kava resulted in the desired mild euphoria, and passing numbness. Super bland tasting but that was expected. I think $5 is reasonable for a huge coconut full of kava. They also have chocolates and ice cream that I didn't try. Cash only! Theres an ATM in the Coffee store next door tho.

George Will

15 Oct 2025

Bought some coffee flavored fudge. OMG!!! Brought some home to Minnesota. I would cut a super thin slice and let it melt on my tongue to make it last. If I ever make it back it's a for sure stop!

Inside Kava Kafe

Highlights & Local Essentials

Local Moments in Photos

Find It on the Map

What Locals & Travelers Say

31 Reviews

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