Punalu'u Bake Shop - Naalehu, Hawaii

Pebi

The southernmost bakery in Hawaii—and in the entire United States—specializes in malasadas, a type of doughnut originally from Portugal. There are many flavors to choose from, and it’s definitely worth trying the less popular ones. Many people go for the classic, but “taro” for example is surprisingly delicious and even better than the traditional option. Whether filled or plain, there’s something for everyone: those with a sweet tooth can go for a glazed one. The bakery also offers eclairs, puff pastries, coffee, souvenirs, and much more. On weekends, be prepared for potentially long lines at the registers.

Jerome C.

I recently popped into this bake shop for a quick coffee and breakfast sandwich and I was happy I did. The coffee was delicious and so was the sandwich. They had plenty of parking and awesome outdoor spaces to enjoy your meal at. The service was friendly. I’d recommend checking this place out if you’re in the area. 🤙

Greg

A good bakery at the southern-most town in the United States. Donuts and food were good. Ample parking and outdoor seating, which is helpful for such a popular location as there isn’t else much around this rural area.

S G.

We stopped here on the way back from the black sand beach. Cute little stop with great baking. There is a cooler of grab and go sandwiches and a great assortment of malasadas. The gift store has many cute items and treats for the road. Great stop if you are in the area.

Aaron B.

Punalu’u Bake Shop is an absolute must-visit when exploring the Big Island! As the southernmost bakery in the U.S., it offers a delightful mix of local flavors and charming hospitality. The sweet aroma of freshly baked goods greets you as soon as you walk in, making it nearly impossible to choose just one treat.

Their signature sweetbread is heavenly – soft, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweetness. I also tried their malasadas, which were perfectly light and filled with delicious tropical flavors like lilikoi and guava. Pairing them with a cup of locally brewed coffee made for the perfect mid-day snack.

The outdoor garden area is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy your treats, surrounded by lush tropical plants. It’s a peaceful oasis that adds to the overall experience. The staff were warm and welcoming, enhancing the bakery’s cozy, inviting vibe.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Punalu’u Bake Shop is definitely worth the stop. It’s a taste of Hawaii that you’ll remember long after you’ve left the island.

jared D.

I would highly recommend stopping at this place. Up until this point I thought malasadas were just mediocre sugar coated donuts. However, this place had so many flavors and such good bread. I would definitely recommend coming. The sandwiches were mediocre. Definitely come here for the suites there’s plenty of seating and beautiful scenery.

James N.

It was an awesome bakery. The bakery located the farthest south in the United States. It had a great atmosphere and even entertainment when we were there. We bought 6 malasadas and they were excellent and also reasonably priced. My favorite was the chocolate frosted with cream. We also bought a box of Macadamia nut shortbread cookies. They were delicious and almost melt in your mouth. We bought a mix to make sweetbread and will make that soon.
These bakery’s products are sold all over Hawai’i but if you can you should go to the actual bakery shop. 5 star for sure!!!

Akhila Y.

The southernmost Bake shop it’s definitely worth seeing and having a quick baked good.
Well maintained location with lots of baked goods, souvenirs and savory foods.
The guava malasadas are outstanding we tried many variations and had to get the shortbread cookies back home which is very good and affordable.