The Best Banana Bread in Hawaii? I found it on Oahu...
If you’ve spent any time exploring the islands of Hawaiʻi, you already know: banana bread is a big deal here. Banana bread is woven into the local food culture like spam musubi or shave ice.
Made with apple bananas, which are smaller and more flavorful than the typical bananas you’ll find on the mainland. Combine that with island-grown ingredients and you’ve got a dessert (or let’s be honest, a full-on meal) that hits different in Hawaiʻi.
I’ve tried a lot of banana breads around Oʻahu. Most of them are really good. But one spot completely stole the show:
Makua Banana Bread
Located in Haleiwa, hidden next to Banzai Bowls and Volcom, Makua Banana Bread is so far the best banana bread I have had in Hawaiʻi. Period. The lady who works here (I forgot her name) is the nicest local ever.
It is more expensive than you would think... but there’s a reason it’s $10 per loaf ...and people gladly pay it. If you decide to leave a review, show her and she will give you a free loaf of bread. (basically... 1 loaf for $5.)
Why It’s Worth It
What sets Makua Banana Bread apart? A few things:
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Freshness – These loaves are baked daily and served warm, sometimes still steaming if you’re lucky. (You might say, "Doesn't everyone who sells banana bread cook it fresh?")
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Ingredients – They use fresh, local bananas (no artificial flavoring), and the difference is immediate. ("doesn't everyone use fresh bananas?")
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Texture – It’s the perfect combo of fluffy and moist, with a slightly crispy outer edge if you catch it fresh out of the oven. (usually they are...)
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Options – They offer three killer flavors:
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Original: Classic and rich, a perfect balance of banana and sweet.
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Chocolate Chip: My favorite.
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Mochi: A chewy twist that gives it a unique, addictive texture. I have yet to try because they are always sold out... (very popular)
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Pro Tips:
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Get there early ... They often sell out, especially on weekends.
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Warm it up later if you take it home ... 10 seconds in the microwave and it tastes like it just came out of the oven.
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Pair it with a north shore beach day at my favorite spots... Waimea, Sunset, or Pipeline (I go here often after surfing.)
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a banana bread lover or just hungry after a long beach day, Makua Banana Bread is one of those spots that turns a quick snack into a core memory. You’ll dream about it on the flight home.
I’ve been on a quest to find the best banana bread across the islands... and this one is officially top of the list.
Side Quest Rating: 9/10
Location: Haleiwa, Hawaii
Price: $10 per loaf
Must-Try: Mochi banana bread
