The History of Gecko Girlz Shave Ice & Ice Cream: A Hawaiian Treat Tradition
When visitors travel to Hawaii, few things capture the essence of island life like enjoying a refreshing shave ice or creamy ice cream under the warm tropical sun. Among the top things to do in Hawaii, one name has risen above the rest: Gecko Girlz Shave Ice & Ice Cream. With popular locations in Kona and Waikoloa, Gecko Girlz has become a must-visit destination for families, foodies, and anyone looking to savor an authentic Hawaiian treat. But the story of Gecko Girlz is more than just a sweet stop—it’s a journey rooted in tradition, family, and a love for Hawaii.
Humble Beginnings on the Big Island
The Gecko Girlz story began in 1997 under the name Big Island Sweet Treats, a small family-run venture dedicated to sharing delicious desserts with the local community. What started as a humble operation quickly grew into something much bigger. Over time, the business evolved, taking on the new identity of Gecko Girlz Shave Ice & Ice Cream—a brand that not only embraced the joy of Hawaiian shave ice but also reflected a deeper commitment to sustainability, community, and family values .
A Family-Run Legacy
At the heart of Gecko Girlz is family. A local family, along with their children, turned the shop into a true family operation. More than a business, it became a teaching opportunity—instilling values of hard work, hospitality, and creativity in the next generation. Customers aren’t just greeted by staff; they’re welcomed like ohana. This warm, family-centered atmosphere is one reason why Gecko Girlz is recognized as one of the top dessert shops in Hawaii and a must-do in Kona and Waikoloa.
What Makes Gecko Girlz Unique
Shave ice is a Hawaiian tradition, but Gecko Girlz takes it to the next level. Every treat is made with locally sourced, island-grown ingredients that are hand-selected for freshness and flavor . The menu features a rainbow of flavors—lilikoi, coconut, mango, guava, and more—that capture the spirit of Hawaii in every bite. Unlike snow cones or other icy desserts, Hawaiian shave ice is finely shaved, creating a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with creamy gourmet ice cream.
Gecko Girlz also sets itself apart by using eco-friendly practices. From compostable cups and utensils to supporting local farmers, the company’s commitment to sustainability ensures that every shave ice and ice cream not only delights customers but also protects Hawaii’s fragile ecosystem .
Growing Beyond Kona
The first shop in Kona quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Situated along the sunny Kona coast, it’s the perfect stop after a day of snorkeling, beach hopping, or exploring Ali‘i Drive. Families can cool off with massive shave ice creations or try unique combinations like the Lava Flow or POG (passionfruit, orange, guava).
As the popularity grew, Gecko Girlz expanded to Waikoloa near the world-famous A-Bay Beach, making it a hotspot for visitors staying in the resort area. This location became known as the go-to place for families exploring the Big Island, often mentioned in travel blogs and reviews as one of the top things to do in Waikoloa.
The brand’s reach didn’t stop there—opening in Waikiki brought Gecko Girlz to Oahu, introducing the authentic flavors of Big Island shave ice and ice cream to Hawaii’s most iconic tourist destination.
Recognized as One of the Top Things to Do in Hawaii
Gecko Girlz isn’t just a dessert shop—it’s part of the Hawaiian experience. Featured on travel websites, recommended by bloggers, and praised by families, it has earned recognition as one of the top things to do in Hawaii. Visitors rave about the friendly staff, the massive portion sizes (perfect for sharing), and the unbeatable flavors that make every visit memorable. Whether you’re grabbing shave ice after a long day of exploring or treating yourself to ice cream while watching the sunset, Gecko Girlz has become a highlight of Hawaiian vacations.
More Than Dessert—A Piece of Hawaiian Culture
Part of Gecko Girlz’s success comes from embracing Hawaiian culture. Shave ice has roots in plantation history, brought over by Japanese immigrants who shaved ice blocks and flavored them with syrups. Over the decades, it evolved into the Hawaiian classic we know today. Gecko Girlz honors that tradition by blending old-school authenticity with modern flavors and eco-conscious values.
By teaching their children and involving them in the day-to-day operations, our family ensures that the business remains grounded in community and culture. Guests not only enjoy a sweet treat—they become part of a story that stretches across generations.
Why Families Love Gecko Girlz
Travelers with kids often look for activities that are fun, affordable, and memorable. Gecko Girlz checks all three boxes. Families love creating their own shave ice masterpieces, choosing from dozens of syrups and toppings, and adding a scoop of creamy ice cream underneath. It’s an interactive, shareable experience that leaves everyone smiling.
With shops in Kona, Waikoloa, and Waikiki, Gecko Girlz makes it easy for families to enjoy shave ice no matter where they’re vacationing in Hawaii. Many guests return trip after trip, making it a tradition to stop at Gecko Girlz during every visit to the islands.
The Future of Gecko Girlz
After more than 25 years in business , Gecko Girlz continues to grow, adapt, and bring joy to visitors from around the world. From new flavor creations to community involvement, the brand remains committed to its mission: providing authentic Hawaiian shave ice and ice cream while preserving the natural beauty of Hawaii.
Looking ahead, our ohana plans to keep Gecko Girlz thriving as a family business, ensuring that the next generation continues to share the aloha spirit—one shave ice at a time.
Final Thoughts
The history of Gecko Girlz Shave Ice & Ice Cream is more than just a timeline—it’s a celebration of Hawaiian culture, family values, and delicious desserts. From its beginnings as Big Island Sweet Treats in 1997 to becoming a must-do in Kona, Waikoloa, and Waikiki, Gecko Girlz has earned its reputation as one of the top things to do in Hawaii.
So the next time you’re visiting the islands, make sure to stop by Gecko Girlz. Whether you’re craving refreshing shave ice, rich ice cream, or simply a taste of aloha, this family-run shop has a sweet story—and an even sweeter menu—waiting for you.