In 1951, Mamoru Matsumoto opened a humble grocery store in the heart of Haleiwa, a small, historic town on Oahu’s North Shore. What began as a modest neighborhood shop soon evolved into something much more iconic.
As the warm Hawaiian sun beat down and the surf culture of the North Shore began to flourish, the Matsumoto family introduced a cool new offering: shave ice. It wasn’t long before word spread, and visitors from all over the world began to make the pilgrimage to Haleiwa for a taste of this refreshing treat.
Today, Matsumoto Shave Ice is a beloved institution. The shop remains a fixture of the community and a highlight for anyone traveling to Oahu. From classic rainbow flavors to tropical blends like lilikoi and guava, the colorful cones are as photogenic as they are delicious.
Standing in line at Matsumoto’s—often stretching out the door and around the corner—has become a rite of passage. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, no trip to the island feels complete without stopping by for a cone of icy sweetness.
Pro tip: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sweet azuki beans to the bottom of your shave ice for an extra layer of local flavor!
