About This Spot

Stepping into First Wave Coffee in Kahului feels like greeting an old friend—with the gentle hum of morning conversations blending effortlessly with the aroma of freshly ground coffee beans. This spot moves at a comfortable pace, where the steady flow of locals and visitors alike forms a patient line well before opening, eager for a cup that brings a meaningful pause to their day. The rhythm here is unhurried, warm, and rooted in connection.

The atmosphere strikes a rare balance between lively and intimate. The welcoming smiles and easy chats behind the counter show a genuine care that extends beyond the drinks themselves. It’s the kind of place where your name might soon be remembered, and your favorite order anticipated—small details that quietly make mornings feel familiar, even when you’re far from home.

At First Wave, each sip tells a little story. From perfectly steamed cortados to vibrant matcha drinks that have become local favorites, the menu weaves a comforting bridge between classic coffee culture and island-inspired creativity. Whether you choose a rich cold brew to wake you up or a flaky, buttery croissant to make your moment linger, the offerings invite a mindful slowing down, a chance to savor both flavors and fleeting human moments.

More than just a coffee shop, First Wave is a small ʻohana—a family—that welcomes early risers and those on the go, right down to those catching a flight with a quick pick-me-up in hand. It’s a reminder that the best experiences are often found in simple rituals, shared smiles, and the quiet warmth of a good cup, made just for you.

What’s Available Here

  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconDelivery
  • IconGreat coffee
  • IconGreat tea selection
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconCoffee
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconDessert
  • IconTable service
  • IconWi-Fi
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconTrendy
  • IconTourists
  • IconUniversity students
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconParking

Location & Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday 07:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Wednesday 07:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Thursday Closed
Friday 07:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Saturday 07:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Sunday Closed

Guest Reviews

Levi Myers 02 Jan 2026

Was able to visit First Wave twice during our Maui trip. Was based off a recommendation from a Maui resident we had a conversation with. Completely exceeded expectations. The matcha is phenomenal. The experience was great, with the staff expressing much thanks and appreciation (mostly for patience - line formed 15 minutes before they opened!). A warm and welcoming experience both times. Probably won’t be back to Maui in a while, but knowing phenomenal Matcha is here creates an incentive to plan our return trip!

Jessica Schubring 22 Dec 2025

A must stop if you are in Kahului! They have the best lattes and matcha drinks on the island, but even better is their service. The guys clearly love what they are doing and are so friendly, chatting with and thanking all the customers waiting in line. Don't miss this opportunity for some great coffee. A hui hou from your Detroit friends!

jen m 03 Dec 2025

We've been wanting to stop by here foreverrrrrrr because we've only heard good things about this place but it is always so crowded! But today we finally had a chance to stop and smell the roses (or matcha if you will!!) and got a coffee and some delicious matcha drinks to start off my husbands birthday weekend. I knew it was gonna be a good place (since there is always always a line) but the service here is seriously on another level. Beyond EXCELLENT. You will not find kinder or sweeter baristas/matcha-istas than the 2 young men running this truck. And the drinks.....SOOOO good. I am a strawberry matcha lover so I had to get that and it did not disappoint. We also tried the lilikoi matcha and the upcountry (lavender and honey) latte and those were also delicious!! They also sell banana bread and chocolate chip banana bread which is also so yummy and a great compliment to whatever drink you choose to get. Cannot recommend this place enough!!!! And even if it's crowded, it is 1000000000% worth the wait. I know I'll be stopping by again regardless of the crowd of other first wave lovers! And here's a little Pro tip: if your husband wants you to go to Lowe's with him, just go because you can get a super delicious drink from first wave as your reward (wink wink). Definitely stop here and support our locals!!!!

Anela-Lani Kahanaoi-Nichols 23 Nov 2025

Best coffee truck run by sweetest ‘ohana. If I’m ever going to town I make sure to stop by when they’re open before running errands and each time the coffee hits!! My personal favorite is the Golden Hour. Thank you First Wave!

Blu Seville 28 Oct 2025

Wonderful place to come get your AM cup of joe or matcha. One the way to the airport? Great place to stop by, come early though cause there is usually a line to buy a cup of pick me up. Owners are very friendly and welcoming. If you are local and become a regular, they'll learn your name greet you with your favorite order by memory. Can't recommend this place more. If you come here you won't regret it. Oh, & tell 'em Blu sent you...

Payton Goryl 26 Oct 2025

I never do reviews but guys! If you want the best matcha you have tasted in your life please please please go to the First Wave Coffee! SO GOOD! The workers were so nice too, such a vibe! I will be going back tomorrow!!!! Btw I got the strawberry vanilla matcha

Alice Wong 04 Oct 2025

First timer here and hands down our fav coffee shop in Maui! Owners are super nice and friendly. Got to try their seasonal pumpkin cinnamon roll and matcha lilikoi today. My heart is happy!

Andrew Pagan 27 Sep 2025

First off, I got to say, you can tell when someone loves doing what they do, and the two brothers definitely do. Serving with a smile and having a little chit chat with others. Acknowledging people are waiting and thanking them for doing so. It's simple, but so important (as least to me). Hands down, best coffee on the island thus far. I don't like sweetened drinks, and am more of a "purist" (espresso and milk only). Saying that, their Lilikoi Matcha drink was also really good and I'd get it again. I should've went for the 8 oz cap, but accidentally ordered the 12oz. The milk texture is good, and the shot was pulled evenly. They use a Decent espresso mahcine. First time seeing it used in the "states", and first time was in Osaka, Japan. Pumpkin cinnamon roll. Just get it. Fire. Will be back!

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