There's no better way to start your day in paradise than with a delicious breakfast, and Kauaʻi is home to some of the most incredible morning dining experiences in all of Hawaiʻi.
The Garden Isle has it all if you're craving a classic Hawaiian-style breakfast, freshly brewed local coffee, or a brunch with breathtaking ocean views. From charming cafés to beachfront eateries, our 2025 guide to where to eat breakfast in Kauaʻi highlights the best breakfast restaurants, must-visit cafés, and top brunch spots that will fuel your island adventures. Whether you're searching for the best pancakes and waffles in Kauaʻi or simply a relaxed morning at one of the best local coffee shops, we've rounded up the perfect places for every traveler.
If you're planning a vacation to Kauaʻi and staying in a Hawaiʻi Life vacation rental, this guide will help you find the best breakfast spots on the island. Start your day with a delicious meal before exploring Kauaʻi's stunning beaches, waterfalls, trails, and more!
Kountry Kitchen in Kapaʻa: A Kauaʻi Breakfast Institution
A true Kauaʻi institution since 1975, Kountry Kitchen in Kapaʻa is a must-visit for anyone craving a hearty, island-style breakfast. This beloved local spot is known for serving healthy portions—meaning you'll leave satisfied, if not with a take-home box. Here, they proudly use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible to support the community and ensure fresh, flavorful dishes.
Given its popularity, visitors should put their names on the waitlist ahead of time, which can be done via Yelp. They offer advance reservations through their website for larger groups (six or more). If you're a fan of bottomless mimosas, Kountry Kitchen is BYOB, so bring your own bubbly and enjoy brunch at your own pace!
Three standout menu items include the Macadamia Nut Pancakes, a local favorite topped with coconut syrup; the Hawaiian Sweet Bread French Toast, thick and fluffy with a tropical twist; and the Kalua Pork Eggs Benedict, which blends smoky, tender pork with creamy hollandaise. They also serve classic local plates like the Steak Loco, a hearty dish with rice, a hamburger steak, a fried egg, and rich brown gravy. Kountry Kitchen is the place to be for a classic and satisfying Kauaʻi breakfast!
For more information, please visit https://www.kountrystylekitchen.com
Kalaheo Café: A Must-Visit in Upcountry Kauaʻi
Nestled in Upcountry Kauaʻi, surrounded by 4,000 acres of coffee farms, Kalaheo Café & Coffee Company has been a favorite breakfast spot since 1994. While they're best known for their delicious morning meals, they also serve lunch and dinner and even have a shop where guests can take home some of their famous coffee blends. You can order online for easy pickup if you're short on time.
A visit to Kalaheo Café isn't complete without trying their Peaberry Dark Roast Coffee or the Hawaiian Blend Espresso, both locally sourced and roasted to perfection. Pair your coffee with one of their standout dishes, like the Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, the Eggs Benedicts, or the popular Kauaʻi Granola with Fresh Fruit and Yogurt. The Upcountry Omelet, packed with fresh vegetables and cheese, or the Breakfast Burrito, filled with eggs, chorizo, and salsa, are excellent choices for a heartier option.
The café's ambiance is casual and inviting, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating where you can enjoy the cool Upcountry breeze. Whether you're stopping in for a morning pick-me-up or a leisurely meal, Kalaheo Café delivers an authentic taste of Kauaʻi with fresh, locally inspired flavors.
For more information, please visit https://kalaheo.com
Saenz Ohana Breakfast – Princeville's Hidden Gem
Saenz Ohana Breakfast in Princeville is a must-visit for a local-style Kauaʻi's North Shore breakfast. Open Monday through Friday until noon (and closed on weekends), this family-run spot is known for serving some of the best breakfast burritos on the island alongside other delicious morning staples.
The heart of Saenz Ohana Breakfast is Chef Saenz, a passionate chef with a background in fine dining who has turned his attention to crafting high-quality, flavorful breakfast dishes. His love for food and family shines through every plate, making this a special place to start your day.
While everything on the menu is worth trying, a few standout dishes include the Lilikoi French Toast, made with thick-cut Hawaiian sweet bread and drizzled with tangy lilikoi (passionfruit) syrup, the Corned Beef Hash & Eggs, packed with house-made hash and perfectly cooked eggs. Of course, you must also try their legendary Breakfast Burritos stuffed with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or veggies, wrapped in a warm tortilla.
With a laid-back atmosphere, fresh island flavors, and a chef-driven menu, Saenz Ohana Breakfast is a North Shore gem that's well worth the visit. Remember to visit on a weekday morning!
For more information, please visit https://www.saenzohanabreakfast.com
Passion Bakery Café – Kapaʻa's Go-To for Fresh Baked Goods & Breakfast
For those craving freshly baked pastries and an all-day breakfast, Passion Bakery Café in Kapaʻa is a must-visit. Known for their "Marvelous Malasadas," these warm, fluffy, sugar-dusted Portuguese donuts are a local favorite. Whether stopping in for a quick bite or placing an online order via their website, this cozy café is perfect for satisfying your morning cravings.
Beyond their famous malasadas, Passion Bakery Café is loved for its artisan bread, including its delicious sourdough bread and the uniquely tropical Hawaiʻi-style guava bread. We suggest you order in advance if you're hoping to grab a loaf of pineapple or guava bread.
Their breakfast sandwiches are another highlight, packed with fresh ingredients and served on their house-made bread. Pair one with a smoothie made from island fruits for a refreshing and satisfying start to your day. If you're in Kapa'a, this bakery café is a must-try!
For more information, please visit https://www.passionbakeries.com
Duke's Kauaʻi in Lihue: Cool Sunday Brunch Spot
Duke's Kauaʻi in Lihue is a must-visit for breakfast lovers, offering a fantastic Sunday Brunch Buffet with live music in a stunning oceanfront setting. Located at the Kaua'i Marriott Resort, this beloved spot is named after Duke Kahanamoku, the legendary Hawaiian surfer, Olympic swimmer, and ambassador of aloha. His legacy of hospitality and love for the ocean is reflected in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant.
Part of the TS Restaurants group, Duke's has several locations across Hawaiʻi, including Waikiki, Maui, and La Jolla. However, the Kauaʻi location stands out with its breathtaking views of Kalapaki Beach and relaxed island vibe. Their Sunday Brunch Buffet is a highlight, featuring an indulgent spread of Hawaiian-inspired dishes and traditional breakfast favorites.
Three must-try brunch items at Duke's Kauaʻi include the Macadamia Nut Pancakes, topped with coconut syrup for the perfect sweet and nutty combination; the Prime Rib Carving Station, offering tender, juicy slices of perfectly roasted beef; and the Fresh Poke, showcasing local ahi tuna with island flavors. So ono!
Whether savoring the brunch buffet, enjoying live music, or simply taking in the views, Duke's Kauaʻi is a top choice for a delicious and memorable breakfast experience in Lihue.
For more information, please visit https://www.dukeskauai.com
Ilima Terrace at Grand Hyatt – A Scenic Breakfast Experience in Koloa
For a relaxing and scenic breakfast in Poipu, Ilima Terrace at the Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi Resort & Spa offers a beautiful open-air dining experience with gorgeous ocean and garden views. The outdoor seating area overlooks the resort's lush landscaping and koi-filled lagoons, creating a tranquil setting perfect for starting your day in paradise.
The breakfast menu at Ilima Terrace features a mix of classic morning favorites alongside local Hawaiian flavors. One must-try item is their house-made banana bread, served warm with double cream butter and a delicate sprinkle of Hawaiian sea salt, making it the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Other highlights include the Salmon Bagel, topped with capers and cream cheese, the hearty Steak and Eggs, and the indulgent Chicken and Waffles, which combine crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles and maple syrup.
For those with a bigger appetite, Ilima Terrace also offers a breakfast buffet featuring a wide selection of island-inspired dishes, fresh tropical fruits, pastries, and made-to-order omelets.
Whether enjoying a leisurely à la carte meal or loading up at the buffet, Ilima Terrace provides an unforgettable luxury breakfast experience with breathtaking views of Poipu's coastline.
For more information, please visit https://www.hyatt.com/grand-hyatt/en-US/kauai-grand-hyatt-kauai-resort-and-spa/dining
Collab Café – A Taste of Aloha in Kapaʻa
As a true community-driven café, Collab Café in Kapaʻa is a unique collaboration between three local businesses: Outpost Coffee, Hola Aloha Bakeshop, and Rainbow Road Ice Cream. Coming together as an ohana, they created a welcoming space where delicious food, energizing coffee, and island hospitality blend seamlessly. Walking into Collab Café truly feels like the epitome of aloha. Everyone is warm, friendly, and inviting.
Their weekend brunch menu is a must-try, featuring standout dishes like the Taro & Sweet Potato Hash, a locally inspired, nutrient-packed dish, and the Breakfast Sandwich with Lychee Wood Smoked Bacon, a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors. Pair your meal with one of their expertly crafted coffee drinks from Outpost Coffee, made with locally roasted beans for a bold, smooth taste.
With its relaxed island vibe, incredible flavors, and commitment to local ingredients, Collab Café is a must-visit breakfast spot in Kapaʻa.
For more information, please visit https://www.collabcafekauai.com
Anuenue Café – A Local Gem in Poipu
Located in the Poipu Shopping Village, Anuenue Café is a charming, locally-owned breakfast spot offering a taste of Kauaʻi. The name Anuenue means rainbow in ancient Hawaiian, and this husband-and-wife-run café beautifully reflects the island's vibrant flavors in every dish.
Dedicated to locally sourced ingredients, Anuenue Café features products from Kauaʻi Roastery Coffee, Anahola Granola, Makaweli Meat Company Beef, Lawai Valley Mushrooms, and Kauaʻi Shrimp, ensuring freshness and quality in every bite.
Popular menu items include the Kanaka Omelet, filled with juicy Makaweli beef, onions, mushrooms, and cheddar cheese, and the Local Boy Fried Rice, a hearty mix of rice, eggs, Portuguese sausage, and fresh island flavors. For something sweet, their Hawaiian-style French Toast topped with Anahola Granola is a must-try.
Set in a quaint shopping village alongside boutiques and other local restaurants, Anuenue Café is the perfect stop for a delicious breakfast before exploring Poipu. Get there early—it's a local favorite for a reason!
For more information, please visit https://poipushoppingvillage.com/anuenue-cafe/
Daddy O's – Local-Style Breakfast in Lihue
If you're looking for a big, satisfying breakfast with authentic local flavors, Daddy O's in Lihue is the place to go. Known for its island-inspired comfort food, this spot serves up fresh, flavorful dishes made with local ingredients.
One of their must-try specialties is the Broasted Chicken & Eggs Plate. It's a unique take on crispy, juicy chicken that's "broasted" (pressure-fried) rather than roasted, making it extra flavorful. Another standout dish is the Stuffed Shrimp Benedict, featuring
perfectly poached eggs, shrimp, and rich hollandaise sauce over a toasted English muffin. If you want something sweet, go for the French Toast Plate, which is made with two thick slices of Punaluu sweet bread. It's delicious!
With its generous portions and a menu packed with local-style favorites, Daddy O's is a must-visit breakfast stop in Lihue.
For more information, please visit https://www.daddyoslihue.com
Lava Lava Beach Club – A Fun, Beachfront Breakfast in Kapaʻa
For a laid-back, toes-in-the-sand breakfast experience, Lava Lava Beach Club in Kapaʻa is a must-visit. Located at the Kauaʻi Shores Hotel, this vibrant beachfront restaurant serves breakfast daily from 7-11am, followed by lunch, happy hour, and dinner. With a first-come, first-served policy, guests can enjoy the wait by strolling along the beach or playing lawn games while soaking in the stunning ocean views.
Lava Lava Beach Club caters to everyone, offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options alongside their classic island-inspired dishes. Popular breakfast choices include the FBI Omelet, packed with fresh ingredients, and the Avocado Breakfast Sandwich, a perfect blend of creamy avocado and hearty breakfast flavors. The Wailua Bay Benedict is another favorite, featuring local ingredients and a rich hollandaise sauce. Al & Don's Original Pancakes, a beloved classic since 1955, is a no-brainer for those with a sweet tooth.
With delicious food, beachfront vibes, and a relaxed island atmosphere, Lava Lava Beach Club is, hands down, a great way to start your day in Kapaʻa.
For more information, please visit https://lavalavabeachclub.com/kauai/
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No trip to Kauaʻi is complete without indulging in the island's incredible breakfast scene. Whether savoring a Hawaiian-style breakfast with fresh tropical fruit, enjoying oceanfront views with a hot cup of local coffee, or discovering a hidden gem for the best pancakes and waffles on Kauaʻi, there's something for every palate.
As you plan your Kauaʻi getaway, book one of our Hawaiʻi Life vacation rentals, where comfort meets island-style living. With our insider knowledge, we help you experience the best of Kauaʻi, from where to eat breakfast to must-visit attractions. Let your mornings be as unforgettable as your adventures—start each day with a delicious breakfast at one of Kauaʻi's top brunch spots and make the most of your time in paradise.
Contact Vacations Hawaiʻi Life to learn more about our incredible accommodations on Kauaʻi.