Puka Dog was well worth the wait in line! Once we got inside, it was clear they had an awesome system in place to keep the line moving quickly and efficiently. We really enjoyed our meal, and now I understand why water is such a hot commodity there! The different flavors of relishes are a total game changer and take the hot dog to another level. The spicy garlic lemon sauce was the perfect finishing touch and something I won't forget. I honestly think I'll be dreaming about this hot dog every time I have a regular one back home. A must-try when visiting Kauai! read more

Puka Dog - Puka dog Kauai mango relish (left) puka dog pineapple and coconut relish (right) - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

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Originally this was the only place on my food list for Kaua'i. I wasn't expecting to come visit this island already, so I definitely had to check it out when I had the chance. GETTING THERE If you're visiting Po'ipu beach, it's right off the strip along the water. It's a mostly straight forward drive from Lihu'e. It's about 30 min from LIH airport. PARKING Good luck...parking is absolutely atrocious when I went. There was many parking areas available, but they were all full. You'll spend about 10-15 min driving around just to find a spot because everyone is there for the beach. AMBIANCE Honestly, not much to say here. Its a small spot on the corner of a building. There's nice beach vibe decor inside with a drink bar on the side and some available merch for sale. There was no seating available. There were so many people that you hardly had any room to stand. SERVICE The wait time is crazy. So when I went, the wait time from the end of the line to the front door was about 30 min. Once I'm inside, the line to order was about an additional 15 min. Luckily the food took only about 5 min. So once you order, you're good! There were plenty if covered benches at the park across the street, so that's where I went to eat. FOOD There are many combinations you can have, but I trusted my gut and went with: polish sausage, habanero sauce, mango relish, and Lilikoi Hawaiian mustard. You can't really go wrong with the mango/habanero combo. They just pair so well together. Anyways, it was delicious! It was sweet, spicy, and savory. I thought the breading was going to be too much, but it really balanced out the flavors. I really enjoyed every bite. My friend got pretty much the same thing, but with the pineapple relish. It was also delicious and very similar to the mango. The pineapple was a hint sweeter and makes it a bit less savory imo. OVERALL I actually enjoyed it quite a bit. The line is very intimidating, but it moves at a pretty good pace. I would honestly come back if I'm ever in the area. Mainly because I'd like to try more combinations and it's a great snack to have that's not too far from the beach. I recommend checking it out if you're a first timer and exploring the area, but I wouldn't drive out of my way just to go there. read more

Puka Dog - Polish sausage w/habanero sauce, mango relish, and Lilikoi Hawaiian mustard - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

Puka Dog runs like a well oiled machine. There's a line but it moves steadily and inside they have an organized team in different stations cranking out different tasks. I sampled the coconut and papaya relish both were equally tasty but picked the coconut for its textured coconut meat. The Polish dog was extra juicy and the lilikoi mustard sealed the deal. The 1/2 sugar lemonade is freshly made and afterwards we got Koloa rum shots to jazz it up! Love that they're near the beach, makes for a tasty treat! read more

Puka Dog - Polish dog with their lilikoi mustard and coconut relish - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

While visiting Kauai my brother-in law suggested we go to Puka dog while we were out. Upon arrival the line was out the door. I'm a very traditional hot dog person so the thought of options like pineapple relish didn't sound appealing, but i decided to go for the full experience. I settled on the Polish sausage, with mild sauce, and pineapple relish and paired it with a fresh lemonade. My only regret is I didn't get a chance to go back before our vacation ended. The wait was worth it for sure. The pictures may not be flashy but the food was great. read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

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So worth the wait! The line moves pretty quickly and the staff is efficient in pumping out orders. I got the polish sausage with spicy jalapeño, lilikoi mustard, papaya relish, and mango relish. This was such a fun take on a hot dog and the sweet/savory flavors go together really well. One note is that the bread to hot dog ratio is large -- very bread heavy. read more

Instagram search led me here Puka Dog, few reels had this as the top 5 places on Kauai. I was curious to find out for myself what a Puka Dog is all about. hehe. Wonderful hubby added Puka Dog to our list of adventures and this was the last stop before we the drive back to our hotel in Lihue. Puka Dog has a shop shared with another business, walk to the back of store. Hmm what do I want in my Puka Dog, Puka means hole in local Hawaiian terms. Very creative idea of eating a hot dog. How do your order a Puka Dog? Pick your dog ( Polish or Veggie) Pick your sauce ( mild, Jalapeno, Hot Chili, Habanero, Pick your relish and mustard. I went with Polish, Jalapeno, and the traditional , they were busy so the wait for my Puka Dog was about 10 mins. Love the location as we walked over to the beach, took in the views, waited for Sea Turtles but no luck while enjoying our Puka Dog. & the verdict- the hubby said he would be happy with Costco's $1.50 hot dog or the classic one on Maui @ the mom and pop shop that we always make a stop for in on our way to Kula. I agreed with him. It was tasty, loved the soft bread bun and I can at least say that we got to try Puka Dogs on Kauai. Keep in mind These Puka Dogs are not cheap, they are now $13.50. & does not come with chips or drinks. read more

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I came here 5 minutes after it opened. A few people in front of me so i didn't have to wait at all! The hot dog was a good mix of spicy (garlic sauce), sweet (the relish you pick), and salty(with their house mustard ). The flavor of your hotdog will change depending on your combo of sauces, obviously. I think its definitely worth it to go once, since its such an iconic place, but i wouldn't go again if i had to stand in line. read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

Come early, leave full After many friends recommended Puka dogs, we couldn't wait to come here! We arrived around 1 to get in line, and waited about 45 minutes. Luckily the line was shaded so it wasn't terrible. We finally got our turn to go inside and wait in line. The ambiance was super welcoming and relaxing. When we got to the front of the line, we ordered 3 hot dogs to share between the 2 of us (definitely could have just had 2) and each got a lemonade. The lemonade was tasty and refreshing and the Puka dogs were AMAZING. We got the mild, spicy and lava spice level sauces. Honestly the lava spice wasn't super spicy, the server described it as hot Cheetos. The different relish's were amazing. I loved the coconut and pineapple best. If I lived here I'd be in trouble because I'd come back many times! read more

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This place was recommended as a "must try" when visiting Kauai by several people. Upon arrival, it seems that certainly is the case, because the line stretched around the building! The restaurant is small, but very busy and they've got their quick service down to a science. The puka dogs were absolutely amazing, and came with a variety of choices. You get to start with a polish sausage or veggie dog, followed by your preferred spicy sauce, choice of fruit relish, and whether or not you want to add their Hawaiian mustard, which is absolutely delicious! The dogs are pretty good size and extremely filling. While the 45 minute wait wasn't exactly ideal, I'm super glad we gave this place a try! read more

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The wait here can be 45+ mins around 1pm (waiting outside in the heat) so I recommend visiting before 12pm. The spice level is lower than expected for most. The lilikoi mustard and mango relish combo is delicious. The lemonade is refreshing - 1/2 sugar tasted good. There is no seating onsite, but you can enjoy your dog on one of the shaded picnic tables across the road at the beach. read more

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Puka Dog is a delicious treat after a long day at the beach! I ordered a polish dog with spicy garlic sauce and pineapple relish- very heavenly and worth the wait! You get free lemonade when you buy a shirt ( can't help it). You come up and order then you pick it up at the front. No seating inside but across the road is Poipu beach which has plenty to enjoy your dog and drink. It brings a nice end to your day on the South side of the island. read more

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What a fun experience! The line was long, but with a buddy, it goes by fast. There's a separate line for the shaved ice, so don't stand in the wrong line! While standing in line, I could see how much effort and care goes into the products. The buns are lightly toasted, but if something isn't satisfactory, it isn't served. (I'm assuming burned or a torn bun that won't properly hold the sausage?) The sausage itself didn't feel very special. It was overshadowed by the lilikoi mustard and the mango relish I chose. I do wish I went with the classic yellow mustard... I was convinced to get a different mustard by the cashier because they said it would be like eating a mango with yellow mustard. Honestly, with everything being so sweet, I think it would have had the perfect flavor to cut through the sweetness. Shoulda gone with my gut. Also, the spiciness levels feel negligible because the sweetness and creaminess of the garlic sauce overpower any spice that could have existed--at least for the second-level spice sauce. If you wear your Puka Dog shirt, you get a free lemonade (for life)! Cute concept! I would have gotten merch if there were more designs and colors, but they only had black and white. Last thing: while standing in line, you can see the workers making the lemonade from scratch! They even shake it up in a cocktail mixer type container and squeeze every lemon for each made-to-order lemonade! Fun to watch! read more

Puka Dog - Puka dog with lilikoi mustard and mango relish - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

If you're looking to try Hawaiian style hot dogs, Puka Dog is the place to be! Puka Dog offers unique tropical relish flavors, garlic lemon secret sauce, and tasty lilikoi Hawaiian mustard that pair well with their hot dogs. I tried their polish sausage mild spice with mango relish and my husband got polish sausage mild spice with banana relish. Both hot dogs were flavorful and good. The sauces were nicely sweet, but not overpowering and their secret sauce has a hint of garlic. The bread was soft and nicely toasted which gave it a bit of a crisp texture which I enjoyed. Overall, the fruity sauces paired well with their polish sausage and was a great meal. I also tried their fresh squeezed lemonade half sweet and it was refreshingly delicious. There's no seating, but you have the whole beach outside to find a place to grub. I wouldn't mind coming here again--but do go early to avoid the crowds as it does get packed and busy! read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

I get why this is a staple here. Very good. The sauce paired much more nicely than I thought it would. Sausage is high quality. Wait time is a little crazy and seems like it should move faster. Get there early! Customer service was great and they had wonderful suggestions. I got the coconut and chili. It could be a bit spicer but overall great. read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

We braved the line and after 30 mins we finally had our Puka Dogs! Definitely, Definitely worth it! They're not your cheap, run of the mill hot dogs you'd expect at a beach. Every part of the process, from the worth it wait in line, to placing your order, to moving off to the side to watch it being made is part of a grand story that ends with that first bite. The employees are super friendly and willing to help you make up your mind. It has the look and feel of an indoor street vendor with a beach front ambiance. I definitely recommend the fresh lemonade. I got half the sugar and it was plenty sweet. Lots of seating across the street in the picnic pavilions. Most everyone sitting there was eat a Puka Dog. read more

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Puka Dog is one of those "only in Hawaii" experiences that you simply have to try! Yes, it's more expensive than a regular hot dog (around $12), but this is so much more than just grabbing lunch--it's part of the Kauai experience. The concept is unique and fun. Instead of a traditional bun, the bread is toasted from the inside, creating a warm pocket that is filled with your choice of tropical fruit relish, Hawaiian-style mustard, and sauces before the sausage is inserted. We chose the Polish sausage, and it was delicious--juicy, flavorful, and paired perfectly with the sweet and savory toppings. They also make an excellent fresh lemonade, which was the perfect complement on a warm Kauai morning. Inside, you'll also find coffee, banana bread, and a selection of other drinks and snacks. We arrived around 10:30 a.m., and the line was very manageable. I'm sure it gets much longer around lunchtime, but the staff has the process down to a science. Everything moves quickly, and it's obvious they're very efficient. Is it a gourmet meal? No. Is it a fun, uniquely Kauai experience that's worth trying at least once? Absolutely! If you're visiting Poʻipū Beach, don't miss Puka Dog. It's a fun local tradition, the food is tasty, the service is fast, and it's one of those places you'll remember long after your vacation is over. Highly recommended! read more

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Puka dog is so yummy! My friends and I stopped for a puka dog before heading to the beach, and the line wrapped around the storefront to outside the store. We ended up waiting for about 30-40 minutes to get to order. If you didn't know, puka dog buns have a big puka (hole) in the bun where the hot dog goes in! I got my puka dog with a spicy polish dog and mango relish. The mango relish was so good! The spicy was not really spicy. The menu said it was jalapeño sauce and was a 1/10 spice level, and it was right. It didn't seem spicy at all to me. If you like spicy, I'd get a spicier option like hot or lava sauce. While it was very yummy, it was a bit pricy at $12.50 per dog. read more

You've probably seen this place on the Food Network... and ever since then, been wanting to come. Oh that's me! The first time I came to this place the line wrapped around the building at 12pm. So my first bit of advice is to avoid peak hours. Second, there are 2 lines essentially. Left side is shaved ice and alcohol, right side is Puka Dogs and Lemonade. Shop is small, and the reason its line stretches outside, and that people have to wait outside while the line inside dissipates. They currently have a deal, where you buy a Puka Dog, a Lemonade, and a shirt... and if you wear the shirt anytime you come in, you get a free lemonade with your hotdog! Killer Deal! The Mango Habanero relish was good... hardly hot... but probably too much if you can't take any heat. The Lilikoi mustard is a must. We will always be back when we're on the southside of the island visiting Poipu! read more

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Overhyped, overpriced, and lowkey not worth the wait in line. Heard soo much about this place that I had to check it out. But for $13 it wasnt worth the price. I will give it credit for the bread that had some char on the inside which added to the flavor of the polish dog, but the polish dog itself seemed to be equivalent to Costco's polish dog. The sauces I will say were unique and tasted pretty good but I it needed more. The sauce was only at the bottom and at the very top. It left the middle hot dog and bun with much to be desired. I personally wouldnt come back, but it was worth it to experience and taste it once. Oh and the lemonade was solid with 50% sugar. It was a nice refresher after going hiking. read more

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My sister in law shared she saw a video on tic tok about this spot after we did a tour at the Kauai botanical garden. So we went. I got the hot dog with their lilikoi sauce. This place was off the chain. I really liked it. They also had fresher squeezed lemonade and chips. I'd say this is a must go in you're in Kauai. The service was quick and the place was clean and cool while we waiting in line in doors. If you go doing lunch time be prepared to wait in line outside. But the line does go by quick. There is a shaved ice line next to the hot dog line so be sure to get in the right line. read more

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Absolutely worth the wait in the long line. I had puka dog on my radar long before we visited Kauai because I had heard about them and was intrigued by the lilikoi mustard. We finally made it to the garden isle and made our way there for lunch on our last day. We were a group of 5 and all ordered different variations of dogs and of course we got the delicious lemonade. All 5 of us felt that the best dog was a polish sausage with spicy garlic sauce, pineapple relish, and lilikoi mustard. The flavors all complimented each other well and the pineapple relish cooled down the heat from the spicy garlic sauce. All the dogs we ordered were good but this combo stood out the most. I would highly recommend a trip (or 2) to Puka dog when on Kaua'i . read more

There was a line that went around the building BUT it moves fast because they have an efficient system that works. One person places the order, another person squeezes all the lemonade, one cooks the hot dogs, and one adds the sauces into the bun, then the polish or veggie dog. So from placing your order to actually getting your food was less than 3 minutes. They also had step by step instructions on what to order, which was helpful since It was my first Hawaiian Hot dog; which was actually a Polish. I chose the MILD garlic lemon secret sauce and the Mango Relish with Lilikoi Hawaiian Mustard. It was really darn good. The fact that it was vertical (or at least thats how I ate it) meant most of the tasty sauces were near the bottom. Regardless, I enjoyed the flavors. Thanks, Puka dog for allowing me to try something old as something new! read more

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I don't even like hot dogs like that but the sauces on this were great. Long line out the door so expect to wait 30-45 minutes. There isn't seating available inside, but you can enjoy it on the beach. read more

Puka Dog - Puka dog with chili pepper sauce and mango relish - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

Line moved fast! Friendly service. Polish dog with banana relish was my favorite. The jalepeno wasn't that spicy so if you want some kick order up... read more

Puka Dog - Outside - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

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Puka Dog was such a fun and delicious experience -- and I was SOOOOOOO HAPPY that they offer a veggie dog option! I ordered the veggie dog with the lava habanero garlic lemon secret sauce, Kauai special mango relish, and lilikoi Hawaiian mustard, and it was AMAZING -- the perfect balance of spicy, salty, and sweet. My husband got the veggie dog with the mild garlic lemon secret sauce, pineapple relish, and lilikoi Hawaiian mustard, and his was just as good. Both combinations were super flavorful and unique! We also got their freshly squeezed lemonade, which was so refreshing and paired perfectly with the meal. The staff were kind, friendly, and very attentive, and you can tell they have a really efficient system to keep things moving. Even if the line looks long, don't be intimidated -- it goes by quickly! Just a heads up: if you're ordering a veggie dog, make sure to let them know early since it takes a little extra time to cook. Overall, such a unique and tasty spot with great service -- definitely a must-try if you're in Kauai! read more

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This is more like a 3.5, but imma bump it to a 4 just cuz of all the aloha we received from the workers. Is it overhyped? Yeah (but read below) But was it still good? Yeah As always, context is crucial here family. Understand this is one of the only quick food options next to the most popular beach on the island. Like yeah there's most likely gunna be a line regardless of hype. I still think the food itself was solid. Now would I drive 30+min just for the food itself? Naw prob not hahaha. But shooot I appreciate that it's an option to have after riding waves or going beach. I chose their polish dog w hot chili pepper sauce, mango relish, and they Hawaiian mustard. There's a nice crunchy texture with eat bite. The spice level was noticeable but not overpowering. It was a nice blend of flava. If this was a $5-10 hot dog I think there'd be less controversy w regards to hype but oh well. Go chance em! read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

Great name. It's a polish sausage. Had to try while in Kaui. I prefer a Costco hotdog.

I remember eating a puka dog 10+ years ago as a kid at their previous location and not to be dramatic but it changed my life. The tropical relish and mustard combination is something you can't find anywhere else. I was so excited to come here again at their new location, but it wasn't quite the same. I waited 1.5 hours in line in the hot sun. I wish they had an option to order ahead because that was not a pleasant experience. The hot dog was still good, don't get me wrong, but I'm just not sure if it's worth that wait. The lemonade is fresh squeezed and the buns are fresh and toasted. There is no seating inside, which is fine because you can eat your food on the beach. read more

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Wow! So good. One of my favorite bites on Kauai. Such interesting combination and flavors, delicious lemonade and helpful staff. Worth the wait read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

It's good!!! But not wait 40 minutes in line good. The flavors are great though. I got the spicy habanero with lilikoi mustard and mango relish and that combo was really good. The polish dog is super meaty and the bread is really soft. At the end of the hotdog though it's a lot of bread and all the sauce kinda piles up definitely a preference ordeal. The lemonade was good super fresh as they make it right in front of you The line is long because it's good, but honestly if I saw it wrapped around the corner again I wouldn't wait. It's just not that worth it to me. Super sweet staff though and they are very efficient for how many customers they have! read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

Not overrated, correctly hyped. Waited 20 min on a Sunday anfternoon. Super interesting concept for hot dog. Sauce is spread throughout the hot dog, super easy and clean to eat too. Pineapple relish is SO good here. Hot garlic lemon secret sauce is ALSO really good. Mango relish was really refreshing, a little too sweet. Spicy jalapeño lemon secret sauce was solid, but could be a little spicier. You HAVE to get the Lilikoi Hawaiian mustard too read more

Puka Dog - Pineapple relish - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

I've been to Puka Dog now a total of three times. The first time was a few years ago and it was delicious this time I went twice during my trip with my daughter and the first time we went earlier in the day and the wait time was maybe 30 minutes or so, which was expected. The food was delicious. We got our Pookie dogs and our lemonades and our chips and everything was great. Service was great quick In-N-Out and then we went a second time a couple days later later in the afternoon and it just wasn't as great. The bread was more stale like it had been sitting in the warmer too long, so it was kind of crunchy on the inside and the sauces were kind of distributed oddly and all at the bottom. When I come back? Yes but I think I know to come earlier in the day the service is great as always. read more

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Puka Dog has been our families Kauai tradition for approx 15 years. Every summer we go from the airport to Puka Dog. At the end of the summer, we leave Princeville, go to Puka and then the airport. It's a must! Lilikoi mustard and pineapple relish is my fav. The hula dog in Waikiki also has a choice of Taro bread and flavored lemonades (lilikoi, pineapple, mango, etc.) But after you enjoy your Puka Dog, go back in and get your shave ice. Then wait till approx 7-7:30pm and walk across the street and watch the honus swim up (but don't touch, harass or get in their way.) read more

Parking: parking lots located around building Service: take out Ambiance: local, sharing a space with another shop Food: would def as a great snack or lunch to take across to the beach. Ordering is super simple with signs around with their options. Super customizable read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

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Flavors were great. Bread didn't taste like sweet rolls and was a bit dry. Also pretty pricey for a hot dog. Would 100% buy the mango relish and lava garlic sauce to take home. read more

This place typically has a long line stretching outside of the building and there's a reason why. The hotdog from Puka Dog are fabulous. tried a coconut hotdog and a mango hot dog both were great. The line moves pretty quickly ! Fun place to check out ! read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

Vacations are for getting outside the norm, trying something new, and being adventurous even with our food. Puka Dog fits the bill. While I consider myself a connoisseur of fine dogs (I'd prefer one over a steak), the rest of my party does not. However, there were no complaints and everyone was satisfied with their choices, Even the most unadventurous eaters added a little mango or pineapple relish and enjoyed it. Will I dream of Puka Dogs when I return to the mainland? Probably not. But am I glad tried it. Yes! Tip: Don't angst about which relish to choose. My server said they all ate designed to work together so just pick the fruit you enjoy most. read more

Puka Dog - Puka dog with original sauce, mango relish and Hawaiian mustard. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

Must stop when visiting the Sea Turtles & Monk Seals at Poipu Beach. If you've got a big appetite, get 2! I really enjoyed mine while watching the turtles. Maui Onion chips never fail either! The line is worth the wait...moves quickly! read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

Fun dog place on Poipu beach! Ordered and loved polish sausage with jalapeño sauce and mango relish. Of course had the fresh squeezed (1/2 sugar) lemonade. Entered at about 1130a on a Sunday and had dog in 8 minutes. When I walked out line had grown to probably 30 minutes. Only mention this because some previous reviews had long waits. It's as good as it gets for a "dog" shop! Mahalo! read more

Puka Dog - Grill and bun toaster - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii

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We loved stopping by and trying the famous puka dog! We came at 130pm and left due to the crazy line around the building. We came back at 3 pm and walked right up! Plenty of parking and don't forget to check out the nearby beach! read more

Puka Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Koloa, Hawaii