Maui Gelato and Waffles
Counter-service dessert shop in Kīhei known for artisanal gelato, Belgian-style waffles, and other sweet treats. It’s a convenient South Maui stop near the beach for dessert or a casual breakfast bite.
- Counter service
- Beach-adjacent location in South Maui
- Made-to-order waffles
- Gelato and ice cream
Maui Gelato and Waffles is a focused dessert stop in Kīhei that does exactly what its name promises: gelato, Belgian-style waffles, shave ice, and a few coffee-friendly sweet treats, all in a counter-service format that works well for South Maui beach days. Its appeal comes from a simple formula done with enough care to make it a worthwhile stop rather than just a convenient one, especially if a trip calls for an after-swim treat or a casual breakfast bite near Charlie Young Beach and Kamaole Beach Park I.
What it does best
The strongest draws are the made-to-order waffles and the island-leaning gelato flavors. Pineapple and Island Roots stand out among the gelato options, while waffles such as Banana Nutella and Peanut Butter Banana give the menu a more substantial dessert edge. That combination makes the shop versatile: it can be a quick scoop stop, or it can feel like a fuller sweet meal if a traveler wants something warmer and more filling.
The menu also includes shave ice and ice cream, which broadens the appeal for families and groups with mixed cravings. Price-wise, this sits in casual dessert-shop territory rather than a splurge category.
The experience and feel
This is not a formal sit-down restaurant. The setup is built for easy ordering, quick turnover, and walk-in convenience, with a beach-adjacent location that makes it especially practical in South Maui. The overall mood is relaxed and tourist-friendly, with enough neighborhood character to feel rooted in Kīhei rather than generic. The business appears to be locally established, and the personality comes through more in the dessert lineup than in any elaborate backstory.
The best use case is simple: stop in after the beach, grab something cold and sweet, or turn it into an easy morning waffle outing without planning a full meal around it.
Tradeoffs and who it suits
The main tradeoff is patience. Waffles are made to order, so a short wait is part of the deal. That is usually a fair exchange for freshness, but it is not ideal for travelers in a rush. The menu is also narrow by design. This is a dessert specialist, not a destination for savory meals or a long linger over dinner.
It is a strong fit for families, beachgoers, and anyone who wants a casual sweet stop in South Maui. Travelers looking for a full café breakfast, a polished dining room, or a broader lunch menu should probably look elsewhere. If gluten-free matters medically, it is wise to ask directly about preparation and cross-contact before ordering.
