There's something special about waking up on the Big Island. Maybe it's the cool morning air rolling off Mauna Kea, the sound of waves along the Kona coastline, or just the positivity that you get from being lucky enough to wake up in Hawaiʻi. Whatever motivates you, starting your day with a hearty breakfast sets the tone for your day ahead. Fortunately, the Big Island is home to an incredible mix of yummy breakfast spots. From laid-back cafes with ocean views to local diners and farm-to-table kitchens, you're in for a treat!
Whether you're fueling up before a hike through Volcanoes National Park, grabbing a bite before snorkeling in Kona, or lingering over coffee in Hilo, we at Vacations Hawaiʻi Life have carefully curated a list of the best places for breakfast on the Big Island. Each one offers a taste of island life, and all are worth adding to your foodie itinerary. Enjoy!
The Coffee Shack – Hōnaunau-Nāpō'opo'o
Perched high above Kealakekua Bay, The Coffee Shack offers one of the most beautiful breakfast views on the island. Guests sip locally grown Kona coffee on a lanai that looks out over the ocean, often spotting spinner dolphins or even whales in the distance. It's no wonder this spot is frequently named and awarded as one of the best breakfast restaurants on the Big Island.
At the Coffee Shack, the menu offers a balance of sweet and savory items, including fresh papaya halves with lime and generous omelets. Hands down, their pies, baked fresh daily, are so legendary that you may find yourself ordering a slice for breakfast and another to take home for later. The relaxed, welcoming vibe makes The Coffee Shack a must-stop for visitors exploring South Kona.
Pele's Kitchen – Pāhoa
Tucked into the colorful town of Pāhoa, Pele's Kitchen captures the Big Island's bohemian spirit with a menu that's as vibey as its atmosphere. Known for its creative twists on classic breakfast dishes, this cafe specializes in fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offers vegan-friendly options that you wouldn't believe are actually vegan.
On multiple review sites, guests rave about the tropical fruit bowls, abundant in dragon fruit, lilikoi, and papaya, as well as hearty scrambles made with locally grown produce. If you're looking for a plant-based breakfast spot on the Big Island, Pele's Kitchen is one of the best. The eclectic interior and laid-back vibe make it a super fun stop before exploring nearby lava fields or the black sand beaches of Puna.
Journeys Cafe – Kona
If you're looking for a relaxed breakfast spot in Kona with neighborhood feels, Journeys Cafe is the place to be. This cozy cafe is renowned for its friendly service and simple yet satisfying menu, which keeps both locals and visitors coming back. It's a great stop if you're searching for Kona breakfast restaurants that aren't overrun with crowds but still deliver satiating meals.
The menu features hearty American-style breakfast classics like pancakes, eggs, and bacon, alongside lighter options such as avocado toast and fresh fruit plates. Coffee here is smooth and strong, sourced from nearby Kona farms. The casual atmosphere makes Journeys Cafe perfect for families and solo travelers. Conveniently located in the heart of Kona, it's an easy stop before a day of snorkeling at Kahalu'u Beach or shopping along Ali'i Drive.
Ken's House of Pancakes – Hilo
No list of the best breakfast spots on the Big Island would be complete without Ken's House of Pancakes. This Hilo institution has been serving hungry locals and eager visitors for decades. Its retro diner feel is as much a part of the experience as the food itself! Ken's is a solid choice whether you're craving breakfast after a sunrise hike or dinner after exploring the Hilo side.
The menu at Ken's is enormous, and the pancakes are certainly a bright shining star. All will certainly enjoy the fluffy stacks topped with everything from macadamia nuts to tropical fruit syrups. If you're extra hungry, try the Sumo-sized pancakes, which live up to their name. Ken's also serves a full range of local favorites like loco moco, Portuguese sausage, and fried rice plates. With friendly service and a lively atmosphere, this is one of the most iconic Hilo breakfast spots and a must-try for anyone exploring the east side of the island.
Hawaiian Style Cafe – Waimea
Up in Waimea's cool country, Hawaiian Style Cafe is a local favorite that lives up to its name. Portions here are famously generous, and the menu is packed with classic Hawaiʻi comfort food that makes this spot one of the best breakfast places on the Big Island. The atmosphere is no-frills and welcoming, with the kind of small-town charm that makes visitors feel like they're part of the community.
Here, locals swear by the loco moco, a hearty dish of rice, burger patty, eggs, and brown gravy. It's a must-try for anyone wanting an authentic local-style Hawaiʻi breakfast. Hawaiian Style Cafe is the kind of place where you come hungry and leave full, so you can be ready to explore Waimea's nearby farmers' markets or hiking trails.
Pine Tree Cafe – Kailua-Kona
For travelers on the go, Pine Tree Cafe in Kailua-Kona is an easy stop that doesn't skimp on flavor. Located near the airport, it's a perfect first or last meal on the island. The vibe is casual and unpretentious, featuring counter service and a menu that focuses solely on hearty and affordable meals.
Breakfast here includes everything from spam musubi and fried rice plates to omelets and pancakes. It's the kind of spot where you can grab a quick bite before heading out on a morning snorkel tour or stock up on comfort food before a long flight. While it may not have ocean views or a fancy interior, Pine Tree Cafe serves up satisfying, local-style dishes that celebrate the flavors of Hawaiʻi.
Vibe Cafe – Hilo
If you're searching for a fresh, modern take on breakfast in Hilo, Vibe Cafe is the place to be. This plant-based cafe has built a loyal following with its creative vegan menu, which appeals to both dedicated vegans and those curious about lighter, healthier eating on the Big Island.
Guests love the smoothie bowls topped with tropical fruit, granola, and coconut, as well as savory options like tofu scrambles and veggie-packed wraps. The cafe also serves excellent locally sourced coffee and teas, making it easy to linger over breakfast while planning your day. If you're looking for a vegan breakfast spot in Hilo that doesn't compromise on flavor or presentation, Vibe Cafe delivers in every way. It's a perfect starting point before exploring Hilo's farmers' markets, waterfalls, or botanical gardens.
Paul's Place – Hilo
Paul's Place is a tiny restaurant in downtown Hilo with a big reputation. Just ask the New York Times what they think is best to do in Hilo. With just a few tables, it feels intimate and personal, and almost like eating in a friend's kitchen. The charm of Paul's Place lies in its combo of excellent service, creative dishes, and a genuine local vibe that makes it one of the most memorable Hilo breakfast spots. Here, aloha is served on every plate.
At Paul's, the menu is carefully curated, featuring standout dishes such as Belgian waffles topped with tropical fruit, smoked salmon bagels, and egg scrambles made with fresh, local ingredients. Due to limited seating, we recommend arriving early or be prepared to wait. Believe us when we tell you that it's worth it. Visitors often remark on the warm hospitality as much as the food itself, making Paul's Place a great repeat spot for breakfast in Hilo.
Arise Bakery & Cafe – Kona
Arise Bakery & Cafe has quickly become one of Kona's most talked-about breakfast spots, thanks to its focus on artisanal breads and pastries made fresh each morning. The space is bright and inviting, making it a comfortable stop for anyone who loves the smell of fresh-baked goods with their morning coffee. For visitors searching for Kona breakfast restaurants that feel both modern and rooted in local flavors, Arise is a homerun.
Popular menu items include warm, buttery croissants, sourdough loaves, and breakfast sandwiches layered with eggs, cheese, and island-style touches. Many guests grab a pastry and latte to-go before heading out on an adventure, while others settle in to enjoy avocado toast or quiche without a rush. With its creative menu and community-focused vibe, Arise Bakery & Cafe captures the balance of craft and comfort that defines Kona's growing foodie scene.
Caffe Florian – Kealakekua
Tucked away in the quiet town of Kealakekua, Caffe Florian is a true hidden gem on the Big Island's breakfast circuit. This cafe blends Italian inspiration with island ingredients, offering a menu that feels both unique and familiar. The atmosphere is warm and intimate, making it a perfect stop for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to enjoy a slower morning away from Kona's busier crowds.
Caffe Florian's espresso drinks are a major highlight, paired beautifully with breakfast plates like eggs Florentine, frittatas, and freshly baked pastries. Guests also rave about the friendly service and attention to detail, which elevate the experience beyond your typical breakfast stop.
If you're exploring South Kona or heading toward Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, this cafe is a perfect choice for a relaxed, island-inspired Italian way to start your day.
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From cafes with ocean views in Kona to cozy diners in Hilo, the Big Island's breakfast scene is as diverse and adventurous as the island itself!
Whether you're craving massive pancakes at Ken's House of Pancakes, a vegan smoothie bowl at Vibe Cafe, or a quiet morning pastry at Caffe Florian, there's no shortage of places to start your day off right. Each spot on this list highlights a different flavor of island life- laid-back, welcoming, and infused with aloha.
If you're planning your next trip, Hawaiʻi Life can help you find the perfect Big Island vacation rental close to the best breakfast restaurants and island attractions. From oceanfront condos to family-friendly homes, our rentals let you wake up to paradise every day. Explore our Big Island listings and start planning mornings filled with good food, great views, and unforgettable memories.