Punalu’u Bake Shop: Visit the Southernmost Bakery in the US
A Bakery Just North of the Equator and Just a Short Drive from Volcano
When we think of the United States on a map, we don’t usually associate it with being near the equator. However, some 2,400 miles away from the California coastline in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a much-beloved bakery just north of the equator on the Big Island. Punalu’u Bake Shop, famous for its Hawaiian sweetbreads, is actually the southernmost bakery in the United States!
At just 19 degrees latitude, the bakery is near the southern tip of the Big Island. It shares its name with Punalu’u Beach, one of several spectacular black sand beaches within a short drive away from Volcano Village Lodge. As you enjoy the lovely drive from Volcano to the bakery, which is only 40 miles south, pull off Highway 11 at Ninola Loop Road, and the rare black sands are just a mile away. After spending some time on the black sands, make your way to the bakery for an afternoon treat that the whole family will savor.
Sweetbreads Famous the World Over
Lauded by none other than Hawaii Magazine, Punalu’u Bake Shop attracts over 200,000 visitors every year and is the most-visited bakery in the state of Hawaii. In addition to traditional Hawaiian rolls, which are toothsome and baked to perfection, their bakery crew specializes in unique sweetbreads made with local, fresh guava and taro. Another favorite on their menu is malasadas, otherwise known as Portuguese donuts. The sweetbread dough is lightly fried and then dusted with sugar, making for a delectable snack. They also offer a full food menu to enjoy along with the sweeter items, and you can eat while basking in the 4 acres of lush gardens on their property.
Enjoy the Flavors of Punalu’u During Your Stay and Bring Them Home With You
After enjoying your meal and having the best sweetbreads of your life, make sure to tour their production shop, where you’ll see the bread-making magic in action. You can also purchase fresh loaves, locally-roasted Ka’u coffee, and baking mixes, all of which are great souvenirs to bring home for your friends and family stateside.
After getting back to Volcano, you’ll no doubt be craving more of the world-famous Punalu’u sweetbreads during your stay. And you’re in luck because you can order Hawaiian Banana Bread and Macadamia Nut French Toast at Volcano Village Lodge and Volcano Village Estates, both of which use the Punalu’u bakery’s dough.
Plan your stay today, and the sweet flavors of Punalu’u Bake Shop will delight your taste buds!
