When visiting Hawaii’s Big Island, you’ll quickly discover that some of the island’s most unforgettable flavors can be found not at restaurants, but roadside. Food trucks here are more than just convenient — they’re a gateway to authentic local culture, family-owned recipes, and unique Hawaiian flair. If you’re planning a family trip and looking for delicious meals that are convenient, affordable, and kid-friendly, here are some of the top local food trucks to try on the Big Island in 2024.
Gill’s Lanai (Captain Cook)
Nestled in the small town of Captain Cook, Gill’s Lanai offers fresh, made-from-scratch dishes that combine local ingredients with flavorful innovation. Their fish tacos, featuring line-caught ahi or ono, are a major highlight, and the tropical slaw is perfect on a warm island day. The menu even includes vegetarian options and keiki (kids’) plates, making it ideal for families.
Pizza Rovers (Waimea & Mobile Locations)
This mobile wood-fired pizza oven truck is a hit with both locals and visitors. Pizza Rovers uses locally sourced ingredients, and their thin, crispy crusts are always made to order. What makes them stand out is their rotating menu honoring Big Island farms, featuring fresh produce, hamakua mushrooms, and Big Island goat cheese. Follow their Instagram to locate their latest stop.
Killer Tacos (Kailua-Kona)
Located on Kuakini Highway, Killer Tacos is technically more of a walk-up taco stand but deserves a spot on this list for its fast service and reputation for kid-approved meals. With generous portions, reasonable prices, and flavorful proteins like kalua pork and grilled mahi-mahi, this is a great stop between beach trips.
Ai Pono Café Food Truck (Hilo)
Often parked near Liliʻuokalani Park in Hilo, Ai Pono is known for its hearty Hawaiian comfort food with a modern twist. You’ll find Loco Moco bowls, garlic furikake chicken, and tender teriyaki beef. Meals are served plate-style with rice and mac salad and are easily shareable for families. Their daily specials lean heavily on seasonal produce and freshly caught seafood.
Craving Thai (Kailua-Kona)
If you’re in the Kona area and craving something flavorful and a little spicy, Craving Thai delivers. With made-to-order curries, pad thai, and crispy spring rolls, it offers a multicultural delight using Hawaiian-grown herbs and vegetables. Families love the friendly service and light dishes that are still satisfying and comforting.
Shaka Tacoz (Captain Cook)
This colorful roadside taco truck not only wins for name recognition but also for unbeatable lookout views. Shaka Tacoz provides seating at the top of the hill with commanding views of Kealakekua Bay. Their menu features creative flavor combos like kalua pork with pineapple salsa or vegan jackfruit tacos that even the kids might love. Their ingredients are locally sourced, even extending into their house-made hot sauces.
Tips for Exploring Food Trucks in Hawaii with Kids
1. Timing is Everything
Most food trucks open between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. or for dinner around 5 p.m. Arriving early ensures you’ll get a full menu and potentially avoid long lines.
2. Bring Cash
While many trucks now accept cards, there are still a few that are cash-only due to limited mobile connectivity in rural areas. It’s always best to check ahead or carry some cash just in case.
3. Be Sun-Safe
Waiting outdoors at a food truck can be hot, especially for little ones. Apply reef-safe sunscreen like our Coco Botanicals mineral-based sunscreen before heading out — it’s gentle on your skin and safe for Hawaii’s delicate corals if you’re headed beachside afterward.
Why Food Trucks are Worth It
Food trucks on the Big Island aren’t just for novelty — they represent local entrepreneurship, cultural heritage, and culinary creativity at its finest. Many are family-run and have a deep commitment to the island, using practices that support local agriculture and sustainable fishing. In fact, a growing number of trucks use compostable containers and utensils, echoing the island’s commitment to protecting its natural beauty.
Whether you’re searching for a quick bite after snorkeling at Kahaluu Beach Park or looking to taste something unexpected during your Hilo adventure, the Big Island’s food trucks are a fulfilling (and delicious) part of any family vacation. Be sure to snap a photo of your plates — and the view — and come hungry!