Skinny Mike's Ice Cream and Shave Ice
About
A Lihue Institution for Sweet Relief
When the humidity peaks in Lihue, locals know exactly where to head. Skinny Mike's Ice Cream and Shave Ice offers a no-frills, authentic approach to the island's favorite frozen treats. Forget the over-engineered dessert spots; this is a place built for residents who appreciate a massive mound of finely shaved ice doused in vibrant, neon-bright tropical syrups.
The Shave Ice Experience
The texture here is the hallmark of their success. The ice is shaved down to a snow-like consistency that melts instantly on the tongue, soaking up the house-made lilikoi and guava syrups rather than letting them pool at the bottom of the paper cone. If you want the full experience, go for the 'snow cap'—a generous drizzle of sweetened condensed milk that creates a creamy, rich contrast to the icy core. Watching the counter staff carefully pack the ice into the cone while managing the steady flow of customers is part of the local rhythm.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Finding a spot for your car can be a bit of a challenge during the busy mid-afternoon rush, so plan your stop accordingly if you're navigating the main roads of Lihue. The atmosphere is casual to the core; don't expect indoor climate control. Instead, grab your cup, find a nearby bench, and enjoy the cooling sensation while watching the island traffic drift by. It is the perfect reward after a long day of hiking or before hitting the beach. Bring cash just in case, and be prepared for the ice to melt faster than you can eat it—that’s just the nature of enjoying dessert in the tropical heat.
Amenities & Features
Location
3501 Rice St Suite 1006, Lihue, Hawaii, 96766-1765
More to Explore
Reviews
Showing 10 of 296 community reviewsSteven BakerGoogle Maps
Recently
Overall I paid 15 bucks for a mediocre shaved ice before I went to the airport, I wish I woulda spent the time to go down to Jojo's or a different place. Small little ice cream shop that offers shaved ice and other stuff. Ice cream looked really good, probably what you should get here. Shaved ice was meh, Whatever syrups they use for the shaved ice it tastes super artificial, like they dumped jolly-rancher koolaid on top of the ice. The scoop of ice cream you get at the bottom is fairly small compared to the huge scoop I would get at other places on Kauai, its cool you get to choose the base flavor at least. I feel like you could put a topping on for free rather than charging for it, it's condensed coconut milk.
Steve KerrGoogle Maps
Recently
Nice spot for shave ice, within walking distance of the cruise terminal. We shared a 3 flavor ice (lemon, orange, banana) with ice cream at the bottom. Nice outdoor, shaded eating area close by. However you may have to share a table with a local chicken or 2.
Bryan GGoogle Maps
Recently
Been here a couple times already on this trip. By far our most favorite shave ice place. The ice cream under the ice is amazing flavor. Banana split is to be shared for sure. Treat yourself to some Skinny Mike's.
Laurie HohiselGoogle Maps
Recently
Maybe we didn’t need lunch. My hubby and I shared a banana split. Jomon made us a master piece, it was so pretty and huge! We got toasted coconut (hot fudge topping) macadamia nut (caramel topping) banana (strawberry topping) bananas, whipping cream and cherries. Plenty for 2. This banana split was so good! I loved the toasted coconut ice cream, my husband loved the banana ice cream. It was a yummy splurge! The shaved ice looked good too! They were huge! Jomon was very busy on his own, so please be nice to him. He tried to make beautiful treats and was very efficient. Skinny Mike’s was clean too. Thank you Jomon, we appreciated your excellent service. You deserve a raise! :) The shaved ice wasn’t ours, I took a picture of someone’s shaved ice since it looked good. 😊
tristinGoogle Maps
Recently
The second I walk in here I’m greeted with the delicious smell of desserts. Almost like a cinnamon roll. The selection of shaved ice is immaculate. Shark bite is a must try. And the ice cream is amazing.
Lisa BilGoogle Maps
Recently
The shaved ice is really yummy best I’ve had. Their ice cream taste fresh and yummy. I got the birthday cake and coconut and it’s amazing. Recommend if you need a sweet treat
Emily BanuelosGoogle Maps
Recently
Great shaved ice and service! The blue razz and mango favorite were amazing but the lychee flavor tasted awful/artificial.
Amy ThurstonGoogle Maps
Recently
Customer service was top-notch: the worker behind the counter was working super hard to get people through quickly. Unfortunately, I felt like the ice cream portions were kind of small, and it was just OK. My daughter loved the hot fudge.
Peter YoungGoogle Maps
Recently
Skinny Mike’s is a must-visit! I had their shave ice with macadamia ice cream, and it was absolutely divine – the perfect balance of creamy and refreshing. The friendly staff added to the fun by challenging me to show my empty bowl before I left, and I happily rose to the occasion. Delicious treats and a great atmosphere make this place unforgettable!
Brandon KainGoogle Maps
Recently
The Gelato is so amazing. They give you 2 scoops of ice cream of your choice and I think a double espresso shot. The first and last thing I had on my Hawai’i trip.
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Common questions from diners about Skinny Mike's Ice Cream and Shave Ice in Lihue.
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