Roaster
Serves Kona

Kai Coffee Hawaii

A high-energy Waikiki staple known for its rich espresso and the signature Kai Latte with macadamia nut syrup—perfect for a pre-beach pick-me-up or a morning walk.

2490 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Kai Coffee Hawaii
Honolulu, Hawai'i
At the counter
Open now
6:00 AM  9:00 PM
To take home
Beans for sale
Character
Worth the line
The verdict/Worth the line·Bustling·Locals + tourists

A high-energy Waikiki staple known for its rich espresso and the signature Kai Latte with macadamia nut syrup—perfect for a pre-beach pick-me-up or a morning walk. The quality is consistently high, even for the 'coffee snobs,' and the beach-side stand is a great hack for shorter lines. If you're looking for a quiet, slow-paced sanctuary to hide from the crowds, or a place with a huge seating area to work for hours, this isn't it.

— KopeMaps, field notes
Best for
01Insta moment

Mention of 'beautiful' drinks, açaí bowls, and 'watching the waves on Waikiki' from the patio.

02Post-surf

Beach-side stand and location 'next 2 the fountan fall' make it a perfect beach-walk stop.

03Specialty coffee

Praised by 'coffee snobs' and flight crew for 'pour over single origin coffees' and 'best espresso' in Waikiki.

04Quick grab

The beach-side stand is specifically highlighted as a 'great hack for shorter lines' for a fast pick-me-up.

Field notes
Which one is this?

the high-energy Waikiki staple — pick this over the chill Kalama Valley spot or the walk-up window on Kapahulu

Where it isbeach-side stand for shorter lines
What's uniquesignature Kai Latte with macadamia nut syrup
When to goearly morning to beat the crowds
Receipt — the facts
12oz bean equivalent$21.95
verified April 2026
SizeSmall
limited and snug seating
WaitLong line
SettingInside a resort
Outdoor seatingYes
Kid-friendlyYes
The other Kai Coffee Hawaiis

Not every branch is the same. Pick the one that fits the day.

The story

Kai Coffee Hawaii® is a locally-owned and operated Family Business. Our Goal is to source, roast, and provide the finest coffee available for you! The metrics that help us get there are a combination of rich volcanic soil, a warm climate year round and abundant rainfall that adds up to an ideal environment. Hawaii is the only location in the United States where coffee grows. From there the coffee beans are hand picked, processed and artisan roasted for you, our Ohana–family–to enjoy. At Kai Coffee Hawaii®, our daily mission is to ensure that each customer gets a fantastic product in a timely and friendly manner. We believe in serving more than just coffee. We serve Aloha In Every Cup®. Discover the warmth of our Ohana and the unique Hawaiiana ambiance we've crafted, just for you.

Photos
Practical
Hours
  • Monday: 6:00 AM  9:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 6:00 AM  9:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 6:00 AM  9:00 PM
  • Thursday: 6:00 AM  9:00 PM
  • Friday: 6:00 AM  9:00 PM
  • Saturday: 6:00 AM  9:00 PM
  • Sunday: 6:00 AM  9:00 PM
Amenities
Outdoor seating
Address
2490 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Verified by KopeMaps 12 days ago (May 29, 2026)Spot an error?

Outbound booking, shop, and website links may be measured with referral parameters. Paid or sponsored placements do not determine KopeMaps rankings.

Common questions

Visiting Kai Coffee Hawaii

What are the hours at Kai Coffee Hawaii's Waikiki location?

Kai Coffee Hawaii on Kalākaua Ave is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, making it one of the later-closing coffee spots in the area.

What coffee origins does Kai Coffee Hawaii serve?

Kai Coffee Hawaii specializes in 100% Hawaiian-grown coffee, including celebrated Kona and Ka'u varieties. Beans are hand-picked, artisan-roasted in small batches, and never taken past a medium roast level to preserve island flavors.

What is the signature drink at Kai Coffee Hawaii?

The Kai Latte, made with house macadamia nut syrup, is their signature drink and a consistent fan favorite. They also offer a 12-hour cold brew and a range of pour-over and espresso options.

Is there outdoor seating at the Waikiki location?

Yes, the location has outdoor seating. Some Kai Coffee locations also offer ocean views, contributing to a beachside ambiance.

Can I buy whole beans at Kai Coffee Hawaii and ship them to the mainland?

Yes, Kai Coffee Hawaii sells whole bean coffee — a 12 oz bag is $21.95 — and ships directly to the mainland through their website at kaicoffeehawaii.com.

Is Kai Coffee Hawaii a good spot to work from a laptop?

The Waikiki location tends to run high-energy and is better suited to a quick coffee stop than a long work session. If you need a quiet, relaxed workspace, it may not be the right fit.

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