Forget fancy restaurants; Hawaii’s real culinary treasures are rolling on four wheels. Food trucks are a vibrant and delicious part of the Hawaiian dining scene, offering everything from traditional plate lunches to gourmet fusion cuisine, often enjoyed with breathtaking ocean views. This guide dives deep into the best island hopper experiences, focusing on mobile eats and awesome views.
Oahu: A Food Truck Mecca
Oahu, the most populated island, boasts the largest concentration of food trucks. Let’s start in the North Shore, famous for its surf and seriously good eats. Head towards Kahuku, and you’ll find shrimp trucks galore. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is an institution. Don’t be intimidated by the graffiti-covered exterior; it’s part of the charm. Their Shrimp Scampi is a must-try. Be prepared for a garlicky, buttery explosion of flavor. Cost: around $15 – $20. Directions: It’s hard to miss, located on Kamehameha Highway in Kahuku. Recommendation: Order the Shrimp Scampi and grab extra napkins!
Another North Shore gem is Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp. While Giovanni’s might be the most famous, Fumi’s offers a wider variety of shrimp preparations, including spicy and lemon & butter options. Their garlic noodles are also a popular choice. The setting is a bit more relaxed with picnic tables overlooking a shrimp farm. Cost: similar to Giovanni’s, around $15 – $20. Directions: A short drive from Giovanni’s, also on Kamehameha Highway. Recommendation: Consider the mixed plate to sample different shrimp flavors.
Moving towards Honolulu, the food truck scene becomes incredibly diverse. In the Kaka’ako area, you’ll find a rotating cast of food trucks parked near the SALT at Our Kaka’ako complex. This is a great place to sample a variety of cuisines. Look out for local favorites like Poke bowls, Korean BBQ, and plate lunches. Cost varies depending on the truck, but expect to pay around $10 – $20 per person. Directions: SALT at Our Kaka’ako is located at 691 Auahi St, Honolulu, HI 96813. Recommendation: Check the SALT at Our Kaka’ako website or social media for a schedule of the food trucks that will be there during your visit.
For a truly local experience, venture out to Waipahu and check out the food trucks clustered around the Waipahu Shopping Plaza. Here, you’ll find authentic Hawaiian plate lunches, Filipino food, and other local favorites at extremely reasonable prices. This isn’t a tourist hotspot, so be prepared to immerse yourself in the local culture. Cost: Plate lunches can be found for under $10. Directions: Waipahu Shopping Plaza is located at 94-050 Farrington Hwy, Waipahu, HI 96797. Recommendation: Try the Kalua Pig plate lunch – it’s a Hawaiian staple.
One more spot: Check out the various food trucks near Ala Moana Beach Park. A great place to grab a bite after a relaxing day on the beach. Options range from shaved ice to more gourmet fare. The sunsets here are spectacular, making it a perfect spot for an evening picnic. Cost: Varies widely depending on the type of food. Directions: Food trucks are usually parked along Ala Moana Blvd near the park entrance. Recommendation: Grab some shaved ice and watch the sunset.
Maui: From Farm to Truck, with a View
Maui’s food truck scene is a bit more spread out than Oahu’s, but what it lacks in density, it makes up for in quality and stunning scenery. Many trucks emphasize locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the island’s agricultural bounty.
In West Maui, near Kaanapali, you’ll find food trucks offering panoramic ocean views. Check out the area around the Kaanapali Coffee Farms. Even if you don’t buy coffee, some food trucks frequenting the area are worth the detour for their views alone. Look for signs advertising local specialties. Cost: Expect to pay a bit more than on Oahu, around $15 – $25. Directions: Head towards Kaanapali Coffee Farms, and keep an eye out for food truck signage along the way. Recommendation: Combine your food truck visit with a coffee tasting.
Kihei is another hot spot for food trucks on Maui. Several clusters of trucks offer diverse options, from tacos to Thai food. The best part is that many are located near the beach, so you can enjoy your meal with your toes in the sand. Cost: Varies, but generally affordable, around $10 – $20. Directions: Check out the areas along South Kihei Road. Recommendation: Look for trucks offering fresh poke bowls – they’re a perfect beach snack.
For a taste of Upcountry Maui, head towards Makawao. While not strictly food trucks, this charming town has several mobile food vendors offering snacks and light meals. It’s a great place to stop for a quick bite while exploring the area. Cost: Affordable. Directions: Makawao is located on the slopes of Haleakala, accessible via Highway 37. Recommendation: Try some local pastries from one of the bakeries – they are amazing.
Don’t overlook the famous “Road to Hana”. While the focus is on the scenic drive, keep an eye out for small food stands selling banana bread, smoothies, and other refreshments along the way. These aren’t exactly food trucks, but they offer a unique culinary experience, offering local flavors amidst the breathtaking scenery. Cost: affordable and worth the experience for the fresh local treats.
Kauai: The Garden Isle’s Culinary Delights on Wheels
Kauai, the “Garden Isle,” is known for its lush landscapes and laid-back vibe. Its food truck scene reflects this, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere.
Poipu is a popular tourist destination, and several food trucks cater to this crowd. Look for trucks offering gourmet burgers, fish tacos, and other crowd-pleasing dishes. Many are located near Poipu Beach Park, making it a perfect place for a picnic. Cost: Expect to pay tourist prices, around $15 – $25. Directions: Check the areas around Poipu Beach Park. Recommendation: Grab some fish tacos and enjoy them on the beach.
For a more local experience, head towards Kapa’a. Several food trucks offer plate lunches, Korean BBQ, and other local favorites. The prices are more reasonable than in Poipu. Cost: Very affordable, around $10 – $15. Directions: Check the areas along Kuhio Highway in Kapa’a. Recommendation: Try the Korean BBQ plate lunch – it’s a local favorite.
Hanalei, on the North Shore, has a more limited food truck scene, but the options are excellent. Look for trucks offering fresh seafood and healthy wraps. After a devastating flood a few years ago, the rebuilt area is now home to some great food trucks. The views of Hanalei Bay are stunning. Cost: Expect to pay a bit more, around $15 – $25. Directions: After crossing the one lane bridge into Hanalei, look for food truck options near the beach park area. Recommendation: Get the fresh catch of the day.
A hidden gem on Kauai is the food trucks near Waimea Canyon. After a long day of hiking and exploring, these trucks offer a welcome respite. Expect to find hearty meals and refreshing drinks. The views of the canyon are spectacular. Cost: Affordable. Directions: Look for the few trucks offering meals near the marked lookout points. Recommendation: Take advantage of the stunning backdrop when enjoying your meal.
Big Island: Volcanic Flavors and Mobile Feasts
The Big Island, also known as Hawaii Island, is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands. Its food truck scene reflects this, with a wide range of cuisines and settings.
Kona, on the west side of the Big Island, has a thriving food truck scene. Look for trucks offering everything from Hawaiian plate lunches to international cuisine. Many are located near the Kailua-Kona waterfront, offering stunning ocean views. Cost: Varies depending on the type of food. Directions: Check the areas along Ali’i Drive in Kailua-Kona. Recommendation: Try the local coffee paired with a pastry from a food truck
Hilo, on the east side of the Big Island, has a more local flavor. Look for food trucks offering authentic Hawaiian food and other local specialties. The prices are generally more reasonable than in Kona. Cost: Affordable. Directions: Check the areas around the Hilo Farmers Market. Recommendation: Grab a plate lunch and some manapua – a steamed bun filled with pork.
Volcano Village, near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, has a few food trucks offering hearty meals and refreshments. This is a great place to stop for a bite after a long day of hiking and exploring the park. The atmosphere is unique. Directions: Located near the entrance to Volcanoes National Park on the main road. Recommendation: Take a warm jacket or sweater—the higher altitude can often get chilly.
One unique aspect of the Big Island’s food truck scene is the prevalence of mobile coffee vendors. Look for trucks offering Kona coffee and other local brews. This is a great way to start your day or enjoy a midday pick-me-up. Cost: Affordable. Recommendation: Sample different types of Kona coffee – it’s a local specialty.
Essential Tips for Island Hopping Food Truck Adventures
Planning your food truck adventures across the Hawaiian islands requires some strategic thinking. The number one tip? Check the social media pages for the food trucks you want to visit and see if they are open. Food truck operating hours can be inconsistent, depending on the time of year or day. Many trucks post their schedules on Instagram or Facebook.
Don’t rely solely on one review site. While Yelp and TripAdvisor can provide useful information, they don’t always have the most up-to-date information on food truck locations and hours. Local blogs and social media groups are often more accurate.
Be aware that cash is often king. While more food trucks are accepting credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. Especially if you are venturing outside of the main tourist areas.
When venturing out, don’t forget to consider parking. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season or at popular locations. Be prepared to walk a bit and to be patient. Check parking availability ahead of time using google maps as sometimes, it can be seen.
Embrace the local lingo. Familiarize yourself with some basic Hawaiian phrases, such as “mahalo” (thank you) and “ono” (delicious). It will enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. Check Duolingo for a crash course.
Most importantly, be adventurous! Don’t be afraid to try new things and step outside of your comfort zone. Ask locals for recommendations and be open to exploring different cuisines. Food trucks are a great way to experience the diverse flavors of Hawaii.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Food Truck
When choosing food trucks, a very important component that everyone considers is the menu. Look over the menus. Does the food truck offer a variety of items that appeal to your palate and catering to your needs?
The cleanliness of the food truck and the food is a make it or break it factor. Does the exterior look clean and well-maintained? Are the staff wearing clean uniforms and gloves? These are important indicators of hygiene and food safety.
The reputation is also another very important factor to consider and should be looked into. What are other people saying about the food truck? Look for reviews on Yelp, Google, and other websites to get an idea of the quality of the food and service.
How long has the food truck been in business? While new food trucks can be great, those that have been around for a while are more likely to be reliable and have a proven track record.
If you have dietary restrictions, this is also another important component! Does the food truck offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other options to accommodate your needs?
Don’t Miss These Hawaiian Food Truck Staples
Looking for recommendations on things to try? You definitely can’t leave these islands without trying some staple treats! Here are the most amazing staples found everywhere in Hawaiian food trucks!
The must try first is some Hawaiian Plate Lunch. This usually consists of two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a choice of meat, such as kalua pig, teriyaki beef, or chicken katsu. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for fueling up after a day of exploring.
Definitely don’t forget Poke Bowls! Poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, typically tuna, that has been marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. Poke bowls are a popular way to enjoy this dish, served over rice with various toppings such as avocado, seaweed, and green onions.
Lastly, you can’t leave without Shave Ice. Shave ice is a Hawaiian dessert made with finely shaved ice and flavored syrups. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. Add condensed milk or azuki beans
FAQ Section
Are food trucks in Hawaii expensive?
It depends on the island and the type of food. Oahu generally has the most affordable options, while Maui and Kauai can be a bit pricier, especially in tourist areas. Expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $25 per person, depending on your choices.
What’s the best way to find food trucks near me?
Google Maps is a great starting point. Search for “food trucks” + the name of the area you’re in. Also, check social media (Instagram, Facebook) and local blogs for up-to-date information and schedules.
Do food trucks in Hawaii accept credit cards?
Many do, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially if you’re venturing outside of tourist areas.
Are there food trucks open late at night?
Some food trucks, particularly in Honolulu and Waikiki, stay open late. However, most food trucks close by early evening.
Is it safe to eat at food trucks in Hawaii?
Yes, for the most part. Look for food trucks that appear clean and well-maintained. Check online reviews to get an idea of their reputation. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to ask the staff about their food safety practices.
References
Hawaii Tourism Authority.
Yelp.
TripAdvisor.
Various Food Truck Social Media Pages.
Ready to embark on your own Hawaiian food truck adventure? Ditch the restaurant reservations and embrace the casual, delicious, and scenic world of mobile eats. Start planning your island hopping culinary journey today. Your taste buds will thank you!
