This past winter break, I was excited to leave the bitter cold of Chicago and visit the gorgeous island of Maui. I had the chance to experience the beauty and culture of Hawaii and also taste some local Maui delicacies. Every morning of my trip, I had a spectacular breakfast to start my day.

1. Gazebo

Sarah Arora

On my first day on the island, I was in the mile-long line to eat at Gazebo, one of the best breakfast places in Kapalua. This outdoor restaurant has a breathtaking ocean view.

syrup, banana, cream, pancake
Sarah Arora

As if a picturesque view wasn't enough, Gazebo's menu items are irresistible. The two most popular items include the fried rice plate and the white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes, which were essentially chocolate macadamia nut Insomnia cookies in pancake form topped with tons of whipped cream. 

2. Honolua Store

There are many grocery stores on the island, and many of them have built-in cafes. These cafes have anything from omelets to fried chicken to Dole Whip

rice, strawberry
Sarah Arora

There was a Honolua store just a few minutes walk from the resort, and it was my go-to spot for scones, cold-brew coffee, and açaí bowls. The açaí bowls had a sorbet base topped with granola and the freshest fruit grown on the island. 

3. Slappy Cakes

Slappy Cakes is a popular breakfast place with DIY pancakes. You can order your batter, add-ins, and toppings and make your breakfast on the griddle conveniently placed on your table.

syrup, cream, banana
Sarah Arora

If you're in a rush to get to your next adventure, ordering off the menu is just as awesome. I ordered the Hawaiian pancakes and they had all the Maui classics: pineapple, coconut syrup, and macadamia nuts. 

4. Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm

sea beet, vegetable, orache, amaranth, herb, pasture, grass
Sarah Arora

The Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm is home to 45 different varieties of lavender. When I visited the farm, the lavender was not quite in full bloom yet. However, the general store still had a few lavender-infused goodies to enjoy.

bread, cheese
Sarah Arora

At the general store, there was lavender tea, coffee, and scones. It was is definitely a limited menu, but the scones were perfectly buttery with a hint of lavender flavor. 

5. Vanta Coffee Hub

After waking up early to watch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, I needed a satisfying breakfast. I consulted Yelp and saw that this small local cafe had five stars.

pancake, bacon, egg, maple syrup, cheese, toast, syrup, french toast
Sarah Arora

Turns out, Vanta has quick service, the friendliest staff, and food that tastes like home. I ordered the french toast, and it was perfectly fluffy and flavorful. 

Maui was the perfect place to get away. It's laid-back, warm, and tropical. All of the breakfast delicacies they have to offer definitely scream "aloha."