Nicoco Hawaiian Gelato
About
Island-Style Frozen Treats in the Heart of Pahoa
Stepping into Nicoco Hawaiian Gelato offers a refreshing escape from the humid Puna climate. This small-batch creamery focuses on elevating dairy-free desserts by leaning heavily into local ingredients harvested right here on the Big Island. Instead of traditional cow's milk, you’ll find the base is almost entirely coconut-milk-based, creating a velvety texture that manages to feel indulgent without the heavy aftermath of standard cream.
The Flavors of Puna
The menu rotates based on what is available at the local farmers' markets. You might catch a scoop of dark chocolate spiced with local chili, or a bright, floral infusion of hibiscus and lilikoi. Because everything is handmade in small batches, the flavors carry a raw, authentic intensity that you rarely find in mass-produced sorbets. The aroma inside the shop is subtle—mostly the scent of toasted coconut and sweet vanilla rather than an overpowering artificial perfume.
What to Expect During Your Visit
The space is unpretentious, designed for a quick stop after trekking through nearby lava fields or browsing the Pahoa Village shops. Be prepared for a modest seating area; it is a cozy spot, which means it can get a bit crowded during the afternoon rush when everyone is seeking a reprieve from the heat. The staff is deeply knowledgeable about the sourcing of their ingredients, often happy to explain how the macadamia nuts or tropical fruits were processed. If you appreciate slow-food ethics and want to support small-scale local agriculture while grabbing a cold treat, this is a mandatory stop on your route through the Puna district.
Amenities & Features
Location
15-2929 Pahoa Village Rd, Pahoa, Hawaii, 96778
More to Explore
Reviews
Showing 10 of 17 community reviewsAnnie YangGoogle Maps
Recently
One of the best vegan ice cream shops anywhere! The island-inspired flavors were speechless. Mac nut was my favorite. Also Lilikoi lilac and rose petal pistachio were as good as they sound. The freshly-made gluten-free cone was the chief’s kiss. If you're lucky like me, you will get to meet the adorable snowy pup Nico! The staff were lovely, and the shop decor adorable. All around great vibes
Food PixyGoogle Maps
Recently
Best ice cream/gelato on the island! If you visit Hilo, this stop is a must! The staff went above and beyond to accommodate our son's dietary needs, and even added some treats to his gelato. For people who loves spicy food, I highly suggest to try black scorpion; it can pair very well with rose pistachio gelato- this combo is my favorite, but there are so many unique flavors to choose from. I don't think I've tried anything close to that even in Italy! Next time I'm on a Big Island, this will be on my bucket list! Thanks for such a wonderful and unique treat!
Lauren CraigGoogle Maps
Recently
Delicious vegan gelato!!! Cone is hand-rolled & made fresh, so amazing! Flavors are unique & tasty, I loved the cardamom rose! Definitely will be coming back.
Cristian YounanGoogle Maps
Recently
So damn good. I don't usually go for anything Vegan. My partner brought me here and didn't tell me. I was shocked. It's some of the best Gelato I've ever had. Incredible flavors, super creamy. I would never in a million years thought this was a vegan product. 10/10
Kirikou PrinceGoogle Maps
Recently
Wow they have some of the most amazing flavors. All are super creative local and delicious. They switch up there flavors which gives you a chance to try them all out. You really would not believe that their ice cream is vegan as it almost tastes like it’s dairyed down counterpart lol. Just a lot lighter. Super friendly people and love the old school stand up order from window vibe. Gives you that ice-cream dinner nostalgia. Below is my super melted cinnamon apple pie in a cup. Sorry for the horrible pic I’ll do some redos in the future lol but it was heavenly! Little buttery chunks of apple and everything!
Christine PietonGoogle Maps
Recently
My husband and I were blown away at how amazing this coconut based (vegan) gelato was!! I enjoyed a double scoop of creamy coconut + bourbon chocolate, while he had espresso chip + wildberry lavendar. We both highly recommend making a stop here for a tasty treat. You won’t regret it!!
LGoogle Maps
Recently
So, if you are heading to so the scenic view, please please please stop at this place!!! Forget the shaved ice!! This vegan ice cream gem will blow your mind! Amazing flavours out of this world and amazing staff!! Pro: ice cream server is amazing! Nice vegan ice cream flavours Beautiful colourful decor Make vegan waffle cones too!! Also they have WHITE CHOCOLATE (cacao butter with coconut milk!!) miammmmm Con: not a full store and more like a stand.
Rosalyn GohGoogle Maps
Recently
Great coconut based gelato place with unique flavors in Pahoa. They also have a shop in Hilo and quite a few of the vege places on the Big Island carry their gelato. Friendly owner :D I appreciate they're all organic and offer GF because GF and vegan hardly ever happens for me.
Nick TubbsGoogle Maps
Recently
This is killer coconut ice cream. Sells out every Wednesday at the farmers market and rightfully so! You must stop by and try it, it's going to be the best ice cream you have on the big island! They also make their own waffle cones.
Dennis NardiGoogle Maps
Recently
We tried some of their gelato at Uncle Robert's Farmer's Market, and couldn't get enough. We went to their normal location in Pahoa and they had a larger selection of flavors. The owners were very friendly, and their products were great.
Comments & Reviews
Please sign in to write a review.
No reviews yet. Be the first to write a review!
Frequently Asked Questions about Nicoco Hawaiian Gelato
Common questions from diners about Nicoco Hawaiian Gelato in Pahoa.
Nearby Restaurants
Tin Shack Bakery
American • Cafe • Breakfast restaurants • Malasadas & Local Bakeries • Bakeries • Sandwich shops • Vegan restaurants • Noodle shops • Vegan options • Gluten free options
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (15-2714 Pahoa Village Rd)
Chicken restaurants • Sandwich shops • Drive-through restaurants • Noodle shops
