kona coffee tour in kona

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Visiting the big island.

Be sure to come up mauka (toward the mountain) to embark on a tour of Greenwell Farms and sample our award-winning 100% Kona Coffee. From coffee fields to coffee tastings, discover why Greenwell Farms was voted Hawaii's Best Farm Tour in 2021 & 2023 by Hawaii Magazine and has won the TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Award 2021-2023.

Greenwell Farms

81-6581 Mamalahoa Highway Kealakekua, Hawaii 96750

Free Guided Farm Tours

Inspired by the Napa Valley Wine Tour, we offer complimentary guided tours of our coffee farm and processing facilities daily from 9:00am-3:00pm. From seed to cup, guests are given an inside look at the history, farming and processing of coffee before sampling Greenwell Farms 100% Kona Coffee. Tours walk over unpaved, uneven terrain, with mild upslope and downslope. Unescorted viewing of the farm is prohibited. Tours last 45-60 minutes and coffee is available for sampling both before and after the tour. If your group is over 15 people, please contact us to arrange a Private Group Tour.

9:00am, 10:00am, 10:30am, 11:00am, 11:30am, 12:00pm, 12:30pm, 1:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:00pm No reservations are required for free tours. Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your desired tour time.

Meet Expert Farm Tour Guide

Our latest piece of equipment is called a laser optical sorter which uses laser technology to kick out the over-ripe or under-ripe cherries. Then, it will go through a soaking time and dry up on the decks. When this is done perfectly, it helps to assure that you get the best quality coffee that you can.

One of the really cool places on the farm is what we call old trees, or affectionately Grandmas trees. These 2 acres of coffee trees were planted between 1900 and 1903, that makes many of these trees, this year, a hundred and twenty years old.

My favorite spot on the farm is going to have to be right here down at the nursery. At any given moment we have twenty to forty thousand coffee plants getting their first roots, kind of their first steps.

A lot of people ask me, how do you make flavored coffee? It is done after roasting. We use a syrup to flavor the coffee. We mix it here and we put the ground or whole bean coffee here, turn it on, mix it up and then you have flavored coffee of your choice.

My favorite coffee here is the Private Reserve. It comes from a particular section of the farm where I am standing now. This coffee is perfectly balanced and softly flavorful. I love it!

One of my favorite places on the farm is where the coffee trees are, especially when they are in bloom. This is a coffee flower and its starts to grow early winter to spring. It has a very pleasant smell and this a time we call Kona snow.

One of my favorite places on the farm is the retail store. I get to welcome people from all over the world and share our amazing coffee with them and this beautiful background.

One of the most amazing things about the farm here is that we have fruit all year-round including oranges, papaya, apple banana, lychee and so many more things, including our favorite Kona Avocado trees.

Deluxe Tour and Tasting

If you are desirous of an intimate, exclusive farm experience, please consider our very popular Deluxe Tour & Tasting. This tour gives you a small group, seed-to-cup perspective into the world of 100% Kona Coffee with a dedicated guide. You will visit many places the free tour cannot go, including the cupping room (when available) the roasting room, the farm, wet mill, nursery and dry mill. The farm has multiple varieties of fruit trees, flowers and other commercially grown products that guests can experience on a seasonal basis. The farm tour is followed by a guided cupping experience (which is like a wine tasting for coffee) where guests are instructed on the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) protocols for evaluating coffee. This experience will forever change the way you think about coffee and is described by many as a highlight of their stay. The Deluxe Tour & Tasting is semi private and limited to 6 guests. This tour cannot accommodate children under 12. The farm tour takes approximately 1+ hour, cupping about 30 minutes. Please arrange at least 2 hours for your complete experience. The Deluxe Tour & Tasting is offered at 9:30AM and 1:30PM Monday through Friday. $39.95 per person plus tax. (minimum 2 people) These tours sell out quickly and advance reservations are required. Please email [email protected] to secure your reservation.

The Art of Coffee: Manual Brewing Class

What's the point of buying really amazing coffee and not having the skills to get the best flavors from it? Sign up for our Art of Coffee: Manual Brewing Class and our highly trained staff will guide you through a Pour Over, French Press, AeroPress and Moka pot. You will learn the detailed variables, weight ratios and water temperatures to get the best flavors from your coffee. We will explore recipe variations and how each of these methods changes the final cup profile. Now that you are on vacation, take a breath and learn how to make your coffee really, really well. This experience will live with you for the rest of your life! You will also receive a brew manual to take home and continue your coffee journey. This class is limited to 6 participants and cannot accommodate children under 12. The class takes approximately 1 hour, and we will cover four methods of manual brewing. The Art of Coffee: Manual Brewing Class is offered at 9:30AM and 1:30PM Tuesday through Saturday. $39.95 per person plus tax. (minimum 2 people) To book a class please mail: [email protected]

Private Group Tours

Although groups of up to 14 can join our regular free tour as they like, many large families and groups want that deeper more intimate experience. The Private Group Tour is the same extended tour of the farm as the Deluxe Tour without the guided cupping. Guests will however be able to sample many different types of coffee at our tasting station. This tour can accommodate up to 48 people. Children under 5 are not counted in the totals. Tour Drivers and Conductors are also not charged. The Private Group Tour is customizable to your group’s needs so please discuss scheduling and the needs of your specific group by email [email protected] Private Group Tour 1-10 Guests - $120 per group + tax 11-30 Guests - $11 per person + tax 31-48 Guest - $9 per person + tax

Greenwell Farms Commercial Tours Policy

Greenwell Farms, Inc Policy for Commercial Operator’s 

Greenwell Farms, Inc welcomes Commercial Tour Operator’s (PUC Compliant) on to the farm during working hours with the following stipulations:

a) Our free tours are not designed or intended for commercial operators.

If you would like to visit the farm, there are three options:

1)    You may guide your own group after a one-time brief orientation for each driver from our gift shop/tour manager. Please arrange this in advance and when you are not with a group of guests. (no-charge)

2)    You may visit the shop, sample coffee, use the facilities with no tour of the farm. (no-charge)

3)    You may pre-arrange a Private Group Tour for your group no later than 48 hours in advance, subject to availability and paid for on the day of the tour by Credit Card.

Private Group Tour Cost 1-10 Guests - $120 per group + tax 11-30 Guests - $11 per person + tax 31-48 Guest - $9 per person + tax

  b) Loading, unloading and parking needs to be orderly and considerate to the operation of the farm.

1)   Please do not pull over by the avocado trees to load/unload.

2)   Please do not stop in the middle of the road to load/unload.

3)   If you see a tour in progress, please do not pull up next to it.

4)   Please inform all guests/drivers that the paved road is a thoroughfare and must remain clear so that we may comply with fire/emergency access, delivery and farm vehicle flow, and for general safety of guests.

Please Park your vehicles in one of the designated spaces, and then guide your guests to the shop.

When you are ready to leave, please instruct your group to meet you back at the vehicle.

14 Passenger vans may use the parking stalls on the pavement in front of the gift shop, or either of the gravel parking areas. No restrictions.  Backing in is probably your best option but not required.

24 Passenger vans should park on the grass (completely off the road) by the orange trees, facing uphill so that guests are unloading/loading on the safe side of the bus.

Motor Coaches and any vehicle larger that 24 passengers must park at the top of the property on the mauka side of the white building and instruct guests to walk up and down the hill.  Large motor coaches are not allowed down the hill under any circumstance.

c) Instructions for Guests on your Tours are vital!

Greenwell Farms is a real working coffee farm, as such there are restrictions that we need to impose for safety and liability.

1)    Please inform all guests that walking around the actual farm (wet mill/trees/warehouse) is not allowed unless they are with their guide.

2)    The only place they can walk around is the grassy area by the gift shop with the orange trees.  As long as they are on the grass, they are good.

Please be clear about this as this is private property with residents and we have had people walk down to the owner’s house, by the housing units, and right into the mills.  

3)    Please inform all guests that this is a no-smoking property and know that chemicals, gas, and other flammables are regularly transported through the farm. Additionally, we are a farm stand/retail store and state law prohibit smoking at retail stores and recreational/cultural facilities.

d) Compliance

Any Greenwell Farms employee is authorized to ask for compliance with these and any other issue.

As a Commercial Operator, your only answer is “yes” and immediate compliance is required.  Violator’s will be asked not to return to the farm.

Greenwell Farms, Inc has grown significantly in recent years and managing the larger numbers of guests, maintaining the quality of the tour, and being vigilant about safety and protective of the actual workings of the farm are important as we move forward. 

 Your understanding of this is greatly appreciated. 

The Best Part of Greenwell Farms Tours?

The Retail Store! Before or after your tour, you can browse products from Greenwell Farms, including 100% Kona Coffee, souvenirs & gifts, specialty food & beverage, coffee accessories and fresh, seasonal produce from the farm. RETAIL HOURS: 8:30am-5:00pm daily COFFEE TASTING HOURS: 8:30am-3:30pm daily

What Our Guests Are Saying

This was by far our favorite coffee tour on the island. Matt was an incredibly knowledgeable and friendly tour guide around the field. It was also free which was really cool. We learned about the history of Greenwell, and coffee cultivation in general. We were able to taste test a number of delicious blends and took a bunch home. Highly recommend visiting this farm!

If you love coffee and want to learn what makes Kona Coffee special, then this is the place to come. This coffee farm began in 1850 and they provide a wonderful, informative tour. Tastings of their coffees are available. The kona coffee belt area is a unique mixture of ocean breezes and cool mountain mist that makes this coffee one of a kind. We have tasted many different Kona coffees and Greenwell’s is our favorite! Enjoy the tour of this outstanding coffee farm and don’t forget to pick up a bag or two for home!

We visited the farm earlier this week & the staff was very friendly. They greet everyone & make sure that you are aware of all of the coffee samples and when the next tour will start. I would definitely recommend visiting their farm. They were very pleasant & the coffee was good. You will learn a lot during the tour.

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• (808) 322-7720
• 78-1136 Bishop Rd, Holualoa, HI 96725
• Mon-Sat: 9 to 5pm

Kona Coffee Farm Tour

Join us on Kona’s #1 rated Kona Coffee Farm Tour here at the Heavenly Hawaiian Farm!

Experience Our

Our Guests get a charismatic education on the history of our kona coffee farm in the Kona Coffee growing region on Hawaii (commonly known as the Big Island). When paired with our expert Kona Coffee Guides, you’ll learn about the significance and rarity of 100% Kona Coffee, as well as an understanding of what it takes to get the Kona coffee from our farm to your cup. We are so excited to share our unique Kona Coffee Farm with you, so please consider joining us on this farm tour when you visit Hawaii. We also sell our 100% Kona Coffee at our online store and on-farm gift shop. Pre-booking is preferred for this tour.

What You'll Experience

• One hour walking tour covering from seed to cup of our coffee operation. • Unlimited samples of four of our best coffees. • Candy sample assortment. • A post tour sample from our Konalani Coffee Bar. • Enjoy a specialty coffee sample in the gift store.

Welcome to our Kona Coffee Farm tour, where we invite you to uncover the fascinating history and secrets of one of Hawaii’s most prized treasures – 100% Kona Coffee. Nestled in the picturesque Kona Coffee growing region on the Big Island, our farm is a testament to the legacy and passion behind every cup of this exceptional brew.

Your experience begins with a warm aloha and a charismatic education led by our expert Kona Coffee Guides including bottomless samples from four of our top rated coffees. Discover the rich heritage of Kona Coffee, from its humble beginnings in the volcanic soil to becoming a globally celebrated coffee variety. Hear captivating tales of the pioneers who introduced coffee to this fertile land and how their legacy continues to thrive today.

As you stroll through our verdant coffee groves, you’ll gain insight into the meticulous cultivation practices that make Kona Coffee so unique and rare. Learn about the special microclimate, elevation, and volcanic soil conditions that contribute to the unparalleled flavor profile of our beans.

Witness the labor of love that goes into each step of the coffee-making process, from hand-picking the ripest cherries to the delicate art of processing and roasting. Our Guides will demystify the complexities, so you’ll truly understand what it takes to transform these cherries into the exceptional Kona Coffee in your cup.

Beyond the educational experience, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Kona region. Capture stunning vistas of lush landscapes and distant ocean views as you cherish the soul-soothing ambiance of our coffee haven.

As the tour draws to a close, we invite you to visit our online store and on-farm gift shop, where you can take home a piece of Kona Coffee magic. Savor the memories of this immersive journey with each sip of our 100% Kona Coffee, crafted with love and expertise.

To ensure an intimate and personalized experience, we recommend pre-booking this tour. We eagerly await your arrival and the chance to share the enchanting world of Kona Coffee with you. Mahalo for considering this farm tour as a must-do during your time in Hawaii.

Kona Coffee Tour Reviews

All of reviews are left by wonderful guests that have visited our Kona Coffee Farm. As a small business, we rely on the reputation and good word that our customers share for us online. We hope that you read the reviews below as they will help you envision the wonderful coffee farm tour that you’ll experience when you visit us!

Experience Our Kona Coffee Farm Tour At Heavenly Hawaiian

Our Guests get a charismatic education on: the history of our farm in the Kona Coffee growing region, the significance and the rarity of 100% Kona Coffee, as well as an understanding of what it takes to get the coffee from farm to cup. Pre-booking is preferred for this tour.

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"COFFEE CREATED WITH LOVE, FOR LOVERS OF THE GREAT KONA COFFEE"

Try out our QR code feature to get a deeper look into the story of the coffee

that you’re drinking. By scanning the QR code on the back of every Hala Tree Coffee bag you’ll be

able to view the picking, processing and roasting details of the beans you receive.

If you can’t get enough of the coffee you’re drinking,you can easily follow the “Buy a refill”

link that will conveniently direct you to our website to order the same coffee again.

Know what’s in your cup and check out the QR code feature on your next bag of

Hala Tree 100% Kona coffee! 

Try out our QR code feature to get a deeper look into the story of the coffee that you’re drinking. By scanning the QR code on the back of every Hala Tree Coffee bag you’ll be able to view the picking, processing and roasting details of the beans you receive. If you can’t get enough of the coffee you’re drinking,you can easily follow the “Buy a refill” link that will conveniently direct you to our website to order the same coffee again. Know what’s in your cup and check out the QR code feature on your next bag of Hala Tree 100% Kona coffee!

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"Coffee Created With Love, For Lovers Of Great Kona Coffee"

Unlike most producers, we control and monitor every stage of what makes exceptional Organic coffee. Nothing is taken for granted. The beans are grown and nurtured in our fields, harvested by hand, then carefully processed and roasted to perfection on-site. We’re constantly innovating our processes to push ourselves, and the industry as a whole, to ever-higher levels of excellence.

Hala Tree Coffee has won awards from the Hawaii Coffee Association, the Kona Coffee Farmer’s Association, and the Kona Coffee Council.

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Our Top 5 Coffee Farms to Visit in Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi

• February 3, 2020

We’re proud of our coffee bean-growing heritage here in Hawaii, and the locals in Kailua-Kona all have their favorite go-to sports for their regular caffeine fix. For some, it’s the aroma or the smooth finish that makes the flavor unique. For others, it’s the region-specific location – a little like Champagne in France. Either way, there’s something extra special about drinking coffee on the very farm where the beans were grown, harvested, and roasted.   

If you’re looking for the best places to enjoy your Hawaiian caffeine buzz, here are our top 5 coffee farms to visit in Kailua-Kona.  

Mountain Thunder Coffee 

Sitting high above the competition in both altitude and quality, Mountain Thunder Coffee is our No. 1! This plantation sits a dizzying 3,200 feet or 975 meters above sea level in the moist, sub-tropical cloud forest of Hualalai – the ideal place to grow the perfect coffee bean. At the entrance you’ll be greeted by ducks, chickens, dogs, or maybe the resident cat if she isn’t napping… There’s a farm tour that covers it all, an incredible retail store, and even a donkey on site. They have also perfected teas as well if coffee isn’t your thing. This is an ideal stop for coffee-loving families to spend the morning and experience a place unlike any other.  

Bay View Farm Coffee 

Bay View Farm’s coffee beans are grown on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa, in the north and south Kona Districts of the Big Island. Here, the combination of sunny mornings, cloudy afternoons, and mineral rich volcanic soils produces one of the best coffees on the island. Bay View Farm also offers some of the finest views along the Kona coastline anywhere in the coffee-growing region.  

Kona Joe Coffee 

Here’s something new: trellis-grown coffee! The central-Californian farmers at Kona Joe Coffee may have figured out the perfect new way to grow and harvest the humble coffee bean. By exposing the cherries to more sunlight, they believe that the beans will be more flavorful – and result in a better coffee. It’s tough to argue with that; this coffee is so good! Located in South Kona, this is a great place to visit for one of Kailua-Kona’s finest brews.   

Hula Daddy 

Hula Daddy is simply one of the best coffee farms to visit along the coffee belt road in Holualoa, and many of the high-end hotels here recommend a visit. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by warm, knowledgeable, and friendly staff. The views and décor make a visit here special, and the coffee is superb.  

Greenwell Farms 

For its rich history, insightful tours, and impeccable service , Greenwell Farms is the gold standard in Hawaii . Greenwell is the most-trusted name in the Kailua-Kona coffee farm business, and everyone in the region knows them. Their farm tours are amazing as they explain the history of coffee, show you how the cherry grows, and take you through the roasting process. There are plenty of samples for you to try, and their service is second-to-none. Greenwell is our go-to coffee farm in South Kona.  

For more insights and advice on making the most of your time in Hawaii, the dedicated team at Kailani Tours is here to help. You can read about our services and contact us for more information.

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The Big Island’s weather can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful. We can’t guarantee sunshine and clear skies every day, but the dynamic weather is part of the island’s charm.

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For a small fee (15%), Trip Protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your tour at any time – for any reason – up to 1 hour prior to trip departure. You will be reimbursed for the FULL amount of each ticket, less the cost of trip protection and processing fees. 

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Please Note: Our tours operate rain or shine, though itineraries may be adjusted in response to severe weather conditions. Access to certain parts of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, including during events like active lava flows or eruptions, may be restricted or closed by park officials without notice. In such cases, Kailani Tours does not offer partial refunds for any part of the tour affected by these restrictions.

With our vast experience navigating these occasional closures, you can trust that we will make the absolute most of your day with us, no matter the conditions.

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TOUR OUR FARM

Experience 100% Kona coffee with a coffee farm tour or tasting.

From Seed To Cup: Tour An Authentic Working Kona Coffee Farm

Kona Coffee & Tea’s Authentic Working Farm Tour is dynamic and exciting. Expect to get your hands dirty. Ride the rough dirt trails, witness local wildlife, pick fresh, tropical fruit directly from the trees, and interact with our amazing crew as they go about their day, picking and preparing the best 100% Kona Coffee around. 

Our 2-hour , fully-immersive coffee-focused tour of the Kona Coffee & Tea’s family farm starts and ends at the Kona Coffee & Tea flagship café in the heart of Kailua Kona. We provide transportation taking you on a driving tour up the lush hills of Hualalai into the heart of the Kona Coffee Growing Region. No vehicle or driving needed. Arriving at our farm high in the hills above the pacific ocean, our expert guide will take you through our diverse crop of 100% Kona coffee, local tropical plants and trees, and educate you on the rich cultural history and traditions of Hawai’i.

You will learn the story of our 100% Kona coffee’s journey from seed to cup first hand in a most tangible way as we share our rich history of growing 100% Kona coffee. As one of the highest elevation coffee farms in the Hawaiian Islands, this tour is something you have to see to believe! A truly hands-on experience on an authentic, working 100% Kona Coffee farm. Book your Kona Coffee & Tea farm tour below.

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Authentic Kona Coffee, Right at Your Fingertips

Ready to experience the best Hawaii has to offer? Check out our curated selection of world-famous Kona coffee tours and start exploring the Big Island today.

Hawaii’s World-Famous Kona Coffee

A brief history.

Hawaii is best known for its tropical beaches, picturesque sunsets, and spectacular views, but coffee lovers know the Aloha state for another reason – Kona coffee.

Coffee was first introduced to Hawaii in the early 19th century and has gone on to form an important part of the state’s culture and economy. Throughout most of Hawaii, coffee is grown on large plantations. In the North and South Kona Districts of the Big Island, things are done a little differently.

Thanks to the morning sunshine, frequent rainfall, and volcanic soil of the Hualalai and Mauna Loa mountains, 19th-century farmers were able to harvest Kona, a unique style of coffee to match the unique climate. The Kona District was quickly recognized as an official coffee-producing terroir – only coffee from this specific region is considered authentic Kona. As a result, Kona is one of the rarest types of coffee in the world.

At Big Island Coffee Tours, we provide access to a curated selection of some of the best Kona coffee tours available.

Get to Know the Kona Coffee Belt

Located 500- 3200 feet above sea level, the Kona Coffee Belt is a world-renowned coffee terroir extending from Hualalai Mountain to the Mauna Loa volcano. This geographically blessed region gets an average of 60 inches of rainfall per year, with sunny mornings, mild temperatures, and natural wind protection, creating the perfect environment for coffee cultivation. The best part? With only around 800 Kona-producing farms to speak of, you can taste the exclusive quality in every cup. Book a tour today to experience the magic first hand.

Planning a trip to the Big Island? Here are the best times to book a Kona tour.

Most Kona Coffee tours operate year-round, and thanks to Hawaii’s climate, there’s never a bad time to visit. With that said, the most popular times to tour a Kona farm are during the blossoming in February/March and the first harvest in August.

In February / March, Kona plants bloom, creating beautiful white flowers. From a distance, the fields appear covered in snow.

In April, a green berry begins to grow and in August, the first crop of bright red berries is ready to be harvested. This process continues until January.

Tour premium Big Island Kona farms today

The Napa Valley has wine. Belgium has chocolate. Italy has pizza. Here on the Big Island, our finest export is Kona Coffee. At Big Island Coffee Tours, our mission is to share this with the world.

Our team of local coffee experts curate and list the best Kona Coffee tours available, making it easy for tourists and Hawaiians alike to have an unforgettable Kona experience. From ATV rides through an award-winning organic Kona farm to a laid-back Kona tasting on the lanai, the perfect tour for you and your family is only a few clicks away.

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Monday through Friday open 10am-4pm (Last tour is 3pm) I 78-1377 Bishop Rd, Holualoa, Hawaii 96725

Tour Buddha's Cup's kona coffee farm in Hawaii.

Enjoy our freshly roasted café du jour. We will also be offering a refreshing sample of our estate grown Mamaki Tea with lemongrass. Feel free to explore our forest gardens with your fare or take in the magnificent ocean views from Buddha’s Point at nearly half a mile high.

Deluxe Tasting

For the true coffee enthusiasts, we are pleased to present the Coffee Flight. Much like a wine tasting with the vintner or sommelier, our knowledgeable baristas will guide you through a carefully curated gastric tour of our award-winning specialty coffees. This experience will include a taste from all five of our farms. Each course will be served with an assortment of delectable farm to table pairings. These tastings allow customers to experience coffee in a new, likely deeper, way, providing them a better understanding of the drink and forging allegiances to high-quality cups of coffee in the process.

*Tea Tasting available upon request

Express Tour

Feeling adventurous? Our fast pace, off road educational thrill ride is the choice for you. This 30 minute tour will explore our four unique Kona Farms in one of our Polaris ATV. We will take you from the serene ancient Ohia forests of Buddha’s Cup to the cacao cove of Kona Gold, the way off roading should be…all while teaching you about coffee of course.

*Upgrade option for Deluxe Tasting at an additional $20 per person

Deluxe Tour

Are you a coffee connoisseur? Would you like to be? This 60 minute leisure tour is packed with information to demystify your daily drink. We will teach you the science behind the flavors and show you the process of how an earthy red berry becomes the world-wide phenomenon that inspired a whole culture. Our deluxe tour is mostly aboard our Polaris ATV, but be prepared to get some steps in.

VIP Owner Guided Tour

90-120 minutes.

We invite you to embark on an adventure with the very people that made this farm what it is today. This is a biodynamic farming experience at its best! Spend an hour or more with Manny and Ohana talking story, picking fruit, playing with the animals and learning all the ins and outs of farm life in paradise. This tour is mostly aboard our Polaris ATV’s, but be ready for anything…and I do mean anything! In addition, tour includes Blu Gro, wet/dry mill, and or roasting experience depending on the seasonal process and weather.

• *Kids 7-12 are half price; 6 and under are free
• *Deluxe and VIP tours have limited availability and may require advance reservations.

Payment Policy

A credit card is needed to confirm reservations and there is no penalty to change or cancel reservations up to 24 hours prior to your arrival.

Any cancellations made within 24 hours of a scheduled reservation will be subject to the full fee.

Hear from our guests

"kona is covered in coffee farms but buddha’s cup really stands out.".

My boyfriend and I are avid coffee drinkers so touring a coffee farm was a must. We were already in love after the drive up which takes you through some parts of the farm. We were immediately offered coffee when we walked in and then browsed the store while we waited on the pourover to be ready. This coffee is seriously the best. By far the smoothest coffee I have ever drank. After indulging, we began the tour of the farm on the 4x4. Our tour guide was super friendly and very informative. We stopped along the way to pick fruit (tangerines, starfruit, avocados, and more) and to see how the beans were dried before roasting. The farm is truly beautiful; I could have stayed there all day. If you are coffee lovers like us, Buddha’s Cup should be your first choice of farms to tour. They made us feel right at home. Be sure to take a few bags home with you!

"Beautiful experience all around at this coffee farm."

Not only was the coffee outstanding, the hosts were extremely gracious and the farm animals were extremely friendly and adorable. We had a wealth of an experience. Highly recommend a visit here and don’t forget to say hi to the furry friends!

"THE BEST coffee farm tour of your life."

If you’re looking for a fun experience with detailed coffee tasting, this is it. You get to taste a cup of each of their coffees, along with homemade treats. Afterwards, you can hop on an ATV tour across the property with a member of their awesome staff. We picked and ate lots of different fruits, saw a chameleon in the wild, and zoomed across some muddy terrain. We went to a couple different coffee farms in Kona and this was by far our favorite.

Attention customers with food allergies. Please be aware that our food may contain or come into contact with common allergens, such as dairy, eggs, wheat, soybeans, tree nuts, peanuts, or wheat.

See above payment policy for more details.

Please wear comfortable clothing and covered shoes as this is an outdoor activity on a farm.

All our tours are weather dependent.

Tours: driving guided tour on our 80 acre coffee farm which include other activity like fruit picking

Tastings: taste coffees or teas and other made in Hawaii products

Absolutely, call 808-322-6712 or email [email protected]

Buddha’s Sanctuary

Farm tours, coffee & tea tastings, 78-1377 bishop rd, holualoa, hawaii 96725, monday through friday open 10am-4pm (last tour is 3pm), *limited seating parties of 8 or more please call for special arrangements..

October 1 - 18th

Due to remodeling limited availability for tours walk-ins unavailable.

Call 808-322-6712 for availability for limited driving tours and tastings during this time period

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Farm tour – taking a kona coffee farm tour.

Love coffee? Take a Kona coffee farm tour!

No visit to the big island would be complete without a kona coffee farm tour.

Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii usually means sun, surf and volcanoes — but for coffee lovers, their stay wouldn’t be complete without a Kona coffee farm tour. Drinking pure Kona coffee is an amazing experience. Drinking it while visiting Kona is even more so. Visiting a coffee farm in Kona, while drinking pure Kona coffee is a rare treat that every fan of the bean should consider.

Visiting during harvest season – August to January

If you’re interested in making the pilgrimage to Kona, visiting during coffee season is key. Make arrangements to visit between August and January, when the farmers go through the trees to pick the red cherry coffee beans.

These red cherries coffee beans are taken to a pulp mill, where the bean is separated from the cherry. The beans are dried on drying racks, or “hoshidanas,” under the tropical Hawaiian sun. As they are drying they are raked so the beans evenly dry. Then, the dried beans are taken to a roasting facility where they’re prepared for sale.

Visiting during the winter

But if you can’t make it for the harvest, there’s lots of things to do. During the winter, watch the farmers prune the top third of their coffee trees. Pruning manages the branches that will produce the coffee beans. In the spring, watch the coffee trees bloom. The white petals of the coffee flowers are what the locals call, “Kona snow.”

A farm’s tree nursery is busy year-’round. Watch as trees grown from seeds are grafted onto disease- and pest-resistant roots. These new coffee trees are planted in new fields or replace older trees.

Taking an actual Kona coffee farm tour will give you a new insight and appreciation into your coffee. With your first hand knowledge of what went into it, each cup will be that much more enjoyable.

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VIP Private Kona Coffee Farm Tour Experience

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We offer private, small group tours with advance reservations based on availability. Prior to booking, please contact us via email with your requested dates and number in your party. Until we respond with a confirmation, no payment is due. 

Go behind-the-scenes of a working Kona coffee farm where you'll:

• Take a private, personalized walking tour of the farm with owners Steve & Joanie Wynn
• Learn the secrets of growing Kona coffee from the pros
• Enjoy FREE coffee tastings & a complementary coffee sample to take home
• Sample homemade banana bread and dark chocolate made with Kona cacao from the farm
• Sip delicious Kona coffee on the lanai overlooking the Pacific Ocean
• Visit our gift shop for Kona coffee, chocolate, gifts & souvenir
• Enjoy complementary cappuccino/espresso 
• Meet Tickle the farm dog

We look forward to providing you with an "up close and personal" farm tour, delicious Kona coffee tastings and an enriching experience that will give you a greater appreciation of this unique, Hawaiian specialty coffee.

How it works :

Please contact us prior to booking to arrange a date & time for your visit. ([email protected]) Most tours happen between 10am and 1pm due to afternoon rains. Tour time averages 2 hours but can be adjusted to fit your availability.

Once you have arranged your tour date and time, you will be asked to make payment online based on the number in your party (minimum 2 people). Once payment is received, you'll get a confirmation with directions to the farm and a participant agreement to sign. 

More tour information:

This is a walking tour that takes you out into the coffee orchards.  Ground is uneven in some places, so we recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes. There are stairs up to the coffee processing area and drying deck. If you're comfortable with a moderately easy hike with a slight uphill grade, you'll be fine for this tour. 

Long pants and sun protection is recommended. Weather is always a wildcard on the farm, so it's also good to have a rain jacket on hand, just in case.

If you prefer to stay inside, you can relax in the farmhouse or on the lanai with a nice cup of Kona coffee while your group walks the farm. (Kids 16 and under are free with a paying adult.)

PLEASE REVIEW AND SIGN OUR PARTICIPANT AGREEMENT/WAIVER

Incentive Trips: 

We host custom, private group experiences for travel agents and incentive tour operators.  In addition to the tour, we can provide a catered lunch and swag/gift bags for participants. Please contact us to discuss your details.

Roasted to Perfection

We micro-batch roast on-site and ship our whole bean coffee farm-direct for supreme freshness.

Customer Reviews

Joanie and Steve were so nice. We learned so much about their experiences, and Kona coffee. Very informative and easy to follow. Coffee sampling was great and the chocolate tasting was even better. Highly recommend!!!

Thanks, Tom! We loved meeting you all. I hope the rest of your stay on the island was wonderful. Your orders will be on their way and meet you at home:)

My wife and I lined up the tour knowing that we enjoy coffee and wanted to learn more. The tour of the farm, the process, and the story of how Steve and Joanie came to the farm was more than we had hoped for.

Thanks, Jason. We're so pleased that you enjoyed the tour. Thank you for your kind words.

Steve and Joanie were great hosts. The tour was fun and very informative -from how they decided to start their business through all the steps in growing and harvesting up to the delicious samples - and the coffee was the best I've had! Loved the sampling of the various coffees and chocolate at the end. Make sure to have Tickles join you on your tour for added enjoyment So glad we went!

Awesome! So glad you enjoyed visiting our farm.

An amazing way to experience how Kona coffee is made - from bean to brew! Steve and Joanie were perfect hosts, sharing the opportunity to learn about their property, how they maintain it, and how they run their company. Inspiring and entertaining, especially with some homemade banana bread. My friends and family loved the coffee and chocolate that I brought back, too!

Thanks so much, Cullen. We were delighted to meet you and are so happy to know that you enjoyed the tour. Mahalo for your kind words.

The tour of Kona Earth Coffee Farm was one of the highlights of our family vacation to the Big Island. The hospitality, education and delicious coffee was unparalleled! We can’t wait to go back and visit.

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Don’t Miss the 7 Best Coffee Tours on the Big Island

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

Looking for a more caffeinated taste of the Big Island? We waded through its more than 630 coffee farms to bring you the seven best tours the Big Island has to offer. This world-renowned coffee can be an elusive find outside of the island chain, so be sure to follow your coffee bean bliss to one (or more!) of the plantation destinations below.

Not a coffee connoisseur? No problem. These farm tours offer plenty of aloha for coffee aficionados, coffee-prohibited kiddos, and everyone in between!

Map of the Best Big Island Coffee Farm Tours

Hala Tree Coffee

This farm offers free one-hour tours of its coffee tree plantation (certified USDA organic!) and surrounding acreage on the sunny hills of Kona.

Hala Tree Coffee takes care to tailor its tours to the day’s conditions, ensuring the most memorable, comfortable, and informational experience possible. Depending on the season you may see coffee blooms or coffee cherries (green, red, or both!). The sights only improve during the tour’s conclusion: a tasting under a pergola with stunning ocean views. Be sure to take-in your scenic surroundings with Hala Tree Coffee’s award-winning coffees and teas during this delightful stop in Kona Coffee Country.

Fast Facts:

• Tour price: Free
• Tour hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm (last tour starts at 3pm)
• Reservation required? Yes
• Book online

If you’re heading to the Big Island, check out our full Big Island Guide . What to do, where to stay, where to eat…we have you covered.

In addition to a punny name, Kona Joe’s serves up one mean cup of coffee. This plantation’s namesake is also a partial owner of a Californian winery, and it definitely shows!

Each of the plantation’s coffee trees are trained to grow along the wires of an intricate trellis system, creating the rows and rows of this coffee bean “vineyard.” But Joe’s wine-making influence does not stop there. Rather than observation alone, he utilizes state-of-the-art technology to monitor the coffee cherries pH level, sugar concentration, and titratable acid content. By these metrics, the plantation’s scientific team determines the optimal maturity for the bean and the perfect time for its harvest.

This plantation offers something for everyone with a large breadth of tour options from a free self-guided tour to the interactive “Ultimate Tour.” Plan a visit to see if you can taste the difference in this cup of Joe!

Fast facts:  Self-guided Tour: Free, offered daily, on demand, between 8am to 3pm Standard Guided Tour: $20, offered daily at 9am, 11am and 1pm No reservation required

Sunshower Farms

A venture a little further off the beaten path (and a little farther up the mountain) will be well-rewarded with this Sunshower Farms spectacular views and intimate setting. The tour’s length is a bit longer (1.5 to 2 hrs) and its content more technical, so the kids will most likely prefer to stay beachside for this excursion. However, if you are looking for an informational experience that leans far more towards the ‘intimate’ than the ‘touristy’, this family-owned farm is for you.

Each tour begins with a short walk through the orchard (and an introduction to its resident sheep), and concludes with a “coffee cupping experience,” hosted by Kate, Sunshower Farms owner and coffee roaster. The strict brewing protocols required for a “cupping” to enhance the coffee’s taste and aroma set it apart from a standard tasting, and will make you feel like a certified Q grader (professional coffee taster)!

Fast facts: Tour price: $30 How to book: Book directly through their website .

Coffee tasting is kid-friendly, but if you’re looking for more things to do with kids, check out 12 epic things to do in Kona with kids .

Monarch Coffee

When Monarch Coffee calls themselves an ‘Ohana’ (family) operation, they mean it. This multi-generational family of coffee growers began on a modest two-acre plot on Maui before growing into their Kona property, tucked into the hills above Holualoa. 

Monarch imported the seeds of their “Gesha” (not “Geisha!”) coffee trees themselves in 2010, and boy are we thankful they did. Though only on their fourth Gesha harvest, their coffee has already won Grand Champion First Place at the State of Hawaii Cupping Competition, among several other accolades.

If you and your keiki (kids) find yourselves at the farm on a Wednesday at 2pm, The Keiki Farm Walk is a must. During a short walk through the farm, your keiki can learn about a happy, healthy ecosystem and the important role of pollinators before tasting fresh fruit, and participating in a craft project. Whether it’s an egg crate caterpillar or planted milkweed, each project certainly makes for a unique souvenir to take home!

• Walking Estate Tour: $25; 10am to 3pm every hour, Tuesday-Thursday; 1 hour long; 17 and under are free
• Estate Tasting Tour: $75; 10am and 12pm; 2 hours long (limit 4 guests, 18 years or older)
• Keiki Farm Walk: $10; Weds at 2pm; 45 minutes
• For reservations, book here

Coffee tasting is amazing, but don’t miss our 21 best things to do and see on the Big Island .

Kona Coffee Living History Farm

The Kona Coffee Living History Farm certainly lives up to its name. On this family-friendly farm, early Kona coffee history springs to life with costumed interpreters, a preserved 1920’s farmhouse, and demonstrations of traditional agricultural crafts, activities, and more!

The farm, homesteaded by the Uchida family in the early 20th century, recreates the daily domestic life of the Japanese-immigrant family. Upon entering the original farmhouse (and removing your shoes) you may find a homemaker starting a fire on a traditional open-hearth stove, or making musubi for the farmer’s lunch. Outside, visitors can learn to farm coffee just as the Uchida family did. From picking the fruit, processing in the kuriba (mill), and drying on the hoshidana (drying platform), guests learn the techniques and stories of Kona’s earliest coffee pioneers from the farm’s living history interpreters.

Afterwards, you can explore the gardens, visit the chickens, and meet Shizu and Charlie Boy, the farm’s resident donkeys and verified ‘Kona Nightingales.’ And if you find yourself missing Shizu and Charlie Boy after your visit, you can tune into the Kona Historical Society’s “Story Time” here to see a member of the society’s team read stories to the beloved Kona Nightingales!

Fast facts:

• $20 per Adult, $15 if Hawaii Resident
• $10 per Student (ages 7 to 17), $5 if Hawaii Resident
• Entry is free for children under 7

Please note: the farm is closed in June for a local youth summer camp

All proceeds go directly to the Society’s educational programs and preservation projects.

Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation

If a standard tour and tasting is not your cup of Kona tea, a family trip up the (volcanic) mountainside to Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation is in order.

Mountain Thunder stands apart from the standard plantation tour, and not just because of the elevation. Located in a Cloud Forest (the only one in the US!), with Lava Tubes to boot, it is easy to forget that they are also the closest coffee farm to the Waikoloa resort area. You can even make a day out of it by visiting the neighboring Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary!

The standard walking tour is free, if only 20 minutes. However, they are offered every half hour from 9:30am until 3:30pm, everyday, and groups under 10 do not need a reservation. Additionally, the walking tours are wheelchair friendly and available rain or shine.

For an additional $10 per family, you can explore Mountain Thunder’s Nature Trail with the  Self-Guided Lava Tube & Nature Walk. The fee includes a guidebook that highlights points of interest along the trail along with stories of Hawaiian culture, history, and geology. The hike takes around 20 minutes, but you are welcome to stay as long as you like if you are hoping to catch a peek at some local wildlife indigenous to this unique ecosystem. Chameleons, butterflies, and cockatoos are the most likely sightings. However, the endangered Hawaiian Hawk is also about, so keep a sharp eye.

If you are looking for a lengthier tour with a bit more umph , a 1.5 hr ATV tour is available for up to five people at a rate of $125.

Remember to pack your lunch for this outing, there are no snacks or lunches for sale. Picnic space can be found in the gift shop area or down the Nature Trail at the observation deck, though it is limited.

• Pack a lunch! No food or snacks are available.
• Walking Tour (20 min, free; no reservations required)
• Self-Guided Lava Tube & Nature Walk (20 min, $10 per family; no reservations required)
• ATV Tour (1.5 hrs, up to 5 people, $125; reservations recommended)
• Roast Master Experience (2 hrs, up to 6 people, $325; reservations required)
• Visit Mountain Thunder’s website to learn more or book a reservation.

Heavenly Hawaiian Farms

Though Heavenly Hawaiian Farms coffee and snacks are delicious enough to border on the ethereal, the true standout is the exceptionally knowledgeable and welcoming tour guides who make every visitor feel like Ohana. And if you are also looking for a pool, tables with an incredible view, homemade honey, and a farm side coffee bar, they have that too…

The Konalani Coffee Bar offers pour overs, cold brew, Italian sodas(!), and of course, 100% Kona Coffee. Heavenly Hawaiian beans can lean to the more expensive side of Kona coffee, but the farm’s flexible hours (the one-hour coffee tour is available Monday through Saturday from 9:15am to 4pm), incredible tour guides, and delicious offerings make it a fantastic stop on your trip through Kona country.

If you are looking to curate a milestone ( eh hem … proposal) or don’t mind breaking the bank on a memorable morning (pricing starts at $750), Heavenly Hawaii recently teamed up with Malama Luxury Picnics to create a ‘Luxury Coffee Picnic.’ Each customized picnic includes a luxury set up, charcuterie breakfast, Heavenly Hawaiian cold and fresh brewed coffee, take home gifts, and more.

• Paniolo Roasting (45 minutes, Ages 13+, $40)
• Coffee Tour (1 hr, All ages, $12)
• Paint & Sip (1.5 hr, Ages 10+, $70)
• Brew Your Best Cup Workshop (1.5 hrs, Ages 13+, $55)

All available times and dates for your tour can be found on Heavenly Hawaiian’s website under ‘Farm Tours.’

Interested in other farm tours? We have you covered with the best Big Island Farm Tours you won’t want to miss. The first one on the list was surprisingly my favorite.

Other Big Island coffee questions?

Why not just say kona coffee.

Kona is just one of the Big Island’s four coffee regions (Kona, Hamakua, Puna, Ka’u). Each boasts a unique microclimate with its own specific conditions for the cultivation of the Big Island’s many distinct varieties of coffee bean.

What makes Hawaii coffee tastings so special?

Hawaii is one of two US states that grow coffee , and many other international growing locations only produce for export. This makes Hawaii one of the only places in the world where you can experience your coffee from cultivation to cup, all in one idyllic setting.

What is ‘Kona Snow?’

As you may have guessed, it is not snow, snow. During the months of February and March, small white flowers bloom on the coffee trees, in preparation for the creation of their coffee cherries. These small blossoms blanket the Kona hillsides with a fragrant and beautiful “snow.”

What is a ‘Cloud Forest?’

A cloud forest is a rare ecosystem unique to montane (mountain) rainforests of high elevation. A cloud forest receives its water not only from rainfall, but from a heavy condensation, or “mist” that can be so thick you feel like you are in a cloud, literally. The tropical cloud forest in Kona Country is the only one located within the United States, so be sure to see it for yourself if you have the opportunity!

Why are there so many sheep?

Seeing more than your fair share of sheep on your coffee excursion? Sheep love to eat the weeds found on plantations, but not the coffee plant, making them a staple of Big Island Coffee farms.

Why do they call donkeys “Kona Nightingales?”

The Kona nightingale is a particularly vocal breed of donkey found in the Kailua-Kona region of the Big Island. Originally brought to the area to work the land, they quickly became beloved pets. However, families could often only afford one donkey. When the family would retire for the evening, the singular donkey would grow lonely and begin to bray (a distinctive loud cry). The sound would carry to other donkeys on neighboring farms, who would answer in turn. Through this night time “singing” the donkeys earned the nickname “Kona nightingale,” after the nocturnal songbird.

When is the Kona coffee season?

The Kona coffee tours run year-round. Harvest generally takes place from August to December. This is when you can see the pulper (the machine that extracts the coffee bean from the pulp) in action. Kona snow is another memorable season, particularly visually, which takes place during the months of February and March.

Too excited (or caffeinated) to sleep? Make it a night to remember by snorkeling alongside Manta Rays. We have a full guide about snorkeling with Manta Rays that covers everything you need to know.

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I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Known for coffee: How to immerse yourself in coffee country on the Big Island

Jun 6, 2024 • 5 min read

Kona coffee has a distinct flavor thanks to the high-elevation volcanic soil on the Big Island © KarenMassier / Getty Images

This article was a dapted for digital from Hawai'i, The Big Island, due to publish in August 2024. Written by Ashley Harrell, Jade Bremner and Megan Minor Murray.

With its strong, smooth flavor, Kona coffee is some of the world’s best. A trip to the Big Island is therefore incomplete without sampling its premier product (don’t mess with the blends, though – the 100% pure Kona coffee is where it’s at). Exploring a coffee farm or two is also a great way to learn about the island’s agricultural heritage and history. Just be sure to make reservations for tours and other activities – you won’t want to have braved these steep, narrow roads for nothing.

Exploring Hawaiʻi coffee country

Up in the hills surrounding Hōlualoa, you’ll find some of the Big Island’s most enchanting environs : this is where high elevation, frequent cloud coverage and fertile volcanic soil come together to produce some of the island’s best coffee beans. Kona coffee has had gourmet cachet for decades, and today many coffee farms have opened roadside visitor centers and gift shops where they give free samples and tours. The best time to visit is during the harvest season, running from August through February, when "Kona snow" (white blossoms) and "cherries" (mature berry fruit) cluster on the coffee trees.

Best coffee experiences on the Big Island

Kona coffee living history farm.

Many coffee farm tours are 15-minute affairs, but the Kona Coffee Living History Farm , run by the Kona Historical Society (an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute), goes deeper. More than just an exploration of how coffee is grown and harvested, this self-guided experience on a 5.5-acre working coffee farm includes encounters with costumed interpreters who demonstrate traditional crafts, agricultural practices and the everyday activities of rural Japanese immigrants to South Kona. Several of the docents grew up on area coffee farms, so they speak from experience about the orchards, processing mill, drying roofs and main house. It’s $20 per person, with no reservations required. It’s open between 10am and 2pm Tuesday and Friday and located 10 miles south of Hōlualoa in Captain Cook.

Hōlualoa Kona Coffee Company

For those who would like to support one of the island’s eco-friendliest producers, there’s Hōlualoa Kona Coffee Company . The company’s small, organic-certified Kona Leʻa Plantation is less than 2 miles south of Hōlualoa. No pesticides or herbicides are used, and as you drive up, watch out for the free-ranging geese who do double duty as lawnmowers and fertilizer. A visit here is a peek into rustic, jungle-grown sustainability: you’ll be surrounded by composted coffee-cherry skins, mulched green waste and sacks of organic fertilizer. Tours are free and take place 8am to 3pm, Monday through Thursday.

Greenwell Farms

Another popular tour is that of Greenwell Farms , a 150-acre family farm established in 1850 and run by fourth-generation Greenwells. One of Kona’s oldest and best-known coffee plantations, it roasts coffee cherries from more than 200 local growers. On the free guided tour, you’ll learn how coffee goes from seed to cup; samples are on offer before and after. Tours run for around an hour and are available from 9am to 3pm daily. For a more in-depth experience, the deluxe tour and tasting visits the cupping room, roasting room, farm, wet mill, nursery and dry mill. It happens at 9:30am and 1:30pm on weekdays and costs $40 per person.

Hula Daddy Kona Coffee

If you’d like a side of jaw-dropping ocean views with your award-winning coffee, we suggest Hula Daddy Kona Coffee , less than 5 miles north of Hōlualoa. Its epicurean tasting room and eco-conscious, 33-acre farm is also a great place to learn about cupping and the unusual coffee-production techniques used to create the signature Kona Oli and Kona Sweet beans. The $35 tours take place at 10:15am and noon on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Reserve in advance.

The 26-acre farm of UCC Hawaii  is as extension of one of the largest coffee companies in all of Japan. The ocean-view farm is divine, and you can tour it for free between 9am and 4:30pm daily, but there’s also a harvest tour (available seasonally; $30 per person) and a roastmaster tour ($50 per person), during which visitors roast a half-pound of their own Kona coffee. 

Where to stay with a coffee twist

The eclectic A Beautiful Edge of the World B&B is a home hidden away in a quiet, tropical neighborhood. The retired professor/writer/pilot/coffee farmer who runs the place is a wealth of information, and his wife cooks up fabulous breakfasts. Budget-friendly rooms are comfy, with private lanais overlooking the ocean. Meantime, Belle Vue Kona is a favorite with travelers and boasts very helpful owners. It’s a pricier spot, but it's located on a 5-acre coffee plantation. The rooms with covered lanai have sweeping ocean views. At the Aloha Guest House , you’ll swoon at the heady ocean views from the shared lanai, living and dining area and two guest bedrooms on this 5-acre farm. The meticulous hosts are serious about their from-scratch breakfasts, sourced from their own fruit trees and estate-grown coffee. 

A bit of culture while traveling through coffee country

At a bend in the road where Hwy 11 and Hwy 180 intersect, little Honalo is your first sign that more than miles separate you from the touristy Kona coast. The strong presence of Japanese culture within the coffee belt is palpable in the form of temples and restaurants. The first building you see when entering from the north is the Buddhist Daifukuji Soto Mission . Slip off your shoes and admire the two ornate, lovingly tended altars. Everyone is welcome to join Zen meditation sessions, tai chi lessons and taiko (Japanese drum) practices; check for details. And for a window into local life, grab a table at Teshima’s Restaurant, a wonderful, family-run place that’s been dishing up Japanese comfort food since the 1950s.  

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Best Kona Coffee Farms To Visit on the Big Island

Are you planning a trip to the big island and want to go on a kona coffee tour keep scrolling to find out the best kona coffee farms worth visiting., this list of the best kona coffee farms worth visiting was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Do you want to visit Kona coffee farms on your trip to Hawaii?

The Big Island is famous for growing Kona coffee beans. And one of the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii is tour a coffee farm!

I’ve pulled a list of the best Kona coffee farms to visit during your trip to Hawaii, as well as the best Kona coffee tours. If you’re looking to do Hawaii coffee tours, Kona is the place to go!

There’s nothing quite like drinking a cup while watching beautiful views from an amazing farm. And tasting some fresh Hawaiian-grown beans at one of the local roasters is a treat.

It’s truly a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world! Visiting Kona coffee farms is something that will make your vacation even more special when you get back home with memories from Hawaii.

In this post I’ll share all about how these delicious beans are grown, harvested, roasted, and brewed right here in Hawaii.

So, scroll down now and check out my full list of Kona coffee farm tours below. I promise it’ll be worth it! 🙂

Don’t have time to read many Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting the Big Island.

Popular Big Island Tours/Activities

• Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour (you can ONLY do this on the Big Island)
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour (this is the BEST way to see lava if you aren’t renting a car)
• Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour (this is a cool adventure for teens and adults)
• Swim with Dolphins (this is a unique experience for kids of all ages and adults)
• Kona ATV Tour (we love this one because they also do cultural activities)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Big Island Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Waikoloa Village (this is a mega resort where you can swim with dolphins or just enjoy their massive pool area)
• Courtyard by Marriott’s King Kamehameha Beach Hotel (this is a moderately-priced Kona hotel right on a little lagoon)
• Fairmont Orchid (this is a swanky resort with an awesome pool area and beach)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

A Brief Kona Coffee History

Coffee was once a rare commodity in Hawaii. But that all changed when Reverend Samuel Ruggles brought coffee trees to Hawaii in the late 1820s.

He originally planted them in Oahu’s Manoa Valley. Then he took seedlings from these early plantations over to Kona. It turns out that the Kona coffee plants thrived best under volcanic soil conditions.

The full story of Kona coffee is a long story that I can’t tell here. It’s worth reading into. But long story short, it took decades for Kona coffee to gain worldwide attention. Finally, at the 1873 World’s Fair in Vienna, it got that attention.

Now, Kona coffee has been growing and thriving on the Big Island for nearly 200 years!

A Few Kona Coffee Facts

The coffee beans must be grown in kona on the big island of hawaii.

Kona coffee is the product of a specific micro-climate in Hawaii.

In the Kona region, mornings are usually sunny and cloudless, while afternoons are rain y . When it’s not raining, there’s a thick fog till well after nightfall.

The area also experiences light winds you won’t find elsewhere on the island. All of this make the perfect and unique conditions that produce Kona coffee.

It Grows in Volcanic Soil

Kona coffee is world-renowned for its unique flavor. A major reason for that flavor is the island’s volcanic soil. The Big Island of Hawaii is the youngest of the islands and has an especially high volcanic soil content because of this.

Volcanic soil is enriched with minerals from ash deposits over time. This makes a huge impact, not only on taste, but also quality!

It’s Actually from Brazil!

Kona coffee is a well-known crop in Hawaii, but it’s not actually from there! Reverend Samuel Ruggles brought cuttings it from Brazil to the island in 1828!

Where are the Coffee Plantations on the Big Island?

Kona coffee is a rare and cherished commodity. To produce the award-winning beans, you need a specific environment.

The high elevation and constant cloud coverage from Hualalai Volcano in the upland slopes of North Kona result in ideal environment for harvesting Kona coffee!

You can find hundreds of small farms throughout the area but most of them don’t offer tours to the public. For tours, your best bet is farms in the greater North and South Kona areas.

I suggest looking in Kau and Puna. And you can even find some cool coffee plantations in Hilo.

And if you’re visiting the Big Island in November, check out the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival! It’s held in the Historic Kailua Village in Kailua-Kona.

What’s So Special About the Kona Coffee Plant?

True Kona coffee is highly prized throughout the world for its full-bodied flavor and pleasing aroma. And this is a direct result of the grading process.

Kona Coffee Grading System

First, workers handpick the Kona coffee berries. Then, they are pulped, dried, and hulled.

Next, the coffee beans are graded before they’re processed. The coffee mill machinery sorts the coffee beans into different grades based on size and shape.

The creme de la creme is the peaberry . These unique beans are formed when one side of the coffee flower merges with the other resulting in a single bean inside the coffee cherry. This gives it a super concentrated flavor. However, this only happens in 5%-10% of all Kona coffee.

The other (more common) grades of Kona coffee include extra fancy , fancy , No.1 , and prime .

Roasting Process

Kona Coffee is handcrafted and sun-dried, then custom roasted depending on desired results and differences in moisture. A good processor can make all the difference for an excellent cup!

The art of roasting coffee beans is considered to be a science by many in the trade. Dark roasts are typically called French, Italian, or Espresso. The medium roasts could be Full-City or Vienna.

Is It Genuine Kona Coffee?

You’ll definitely want to check the label to see if it says 100% pure Kona Coffee .

Otherwise, it might say Kona Blend. This means it only contains the minimum 10% Kona beans legally required to be considered “Kona Coffee.”

Usually, that means producers mixed Kona beans with other blends. These other coffee bends might be from Central America, Brazil, Africa, or Indonesia.

But if you’re on the Big Island and visiting a Kona coffee farm, you should have no problem finding and tasting 100% pure Kona coffee!

Which Kona Coffee Farms Should You Visit?

There are a lot of options for Kona coffee farms on the Big Island. Here are some of my family’s favorites.

Greenwell Farms

81-6581 Mamalahoa Highway Kealakekua, Hawaii 96750

Want to know what goes into making your favorite cup o’ joe? Come experience the deliciousness of Greenwell Farms ‘ 100% Kona Coffee firsthand with their free 45-minute guided tour.

Get an inside look at how they harvest and process these high-quality beans. Then you’ll get a tour of the farm.

Go off on some dirt paths that might be difficult for those not used to. But the adventure will surely make you feel like a veteran explorer!

The best part about this Greenwell Coffee tour is that there are no reservations required. The complimentary tours start every hour on the hour from 9 AM to 3 PM. Just arrive 10 minutes early.

Read below to find out a few Greenwell Farms coffee tours that also make other cool stops.

Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm

78-1136 Bishop Rd Holualoa, HI 96725

There are actually 3 different Heavenly Hawaiian coffee farm tours. You can read a full review of the Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm tour . Or you can purchase tickets HERE .

The first one is a 1-hour tour where families can learn all about how to grow, maintain, and roast Kona coffee beans. This is just $8/person.

There’s also the Paniolo Roasting tour , which is 45 minutes long. It’s quite a bit pricier but kids under 13 are free. On this tour, you’ll learn about Hawaiian cowboys (called paniolos) as well as the history of Kona coffee and the traditional way to roast it.

Finally, they have a Brew Your Best Cup tour , which is 60-90 minutes long and is the most expensive for people ages 13 and older. This tour is all about learning how to brew the ultimate cup of coffee.

74-4944 Mamalahoa Hwy Holualoa, HI 96725

You can experience a private Hula Daddy coffee tour. Learn all about how Kona coffee is grown, processed, and roasted. Plus, you can talk to the owners, the roasters, and even tour the orchard.

Something cool about Hula Daddy is that they are an eco-friendly Kona coffee plantation. They’ve reduced their carbon footprint by planting 17,000 new trees. And they make their own compost from green waste they get from local restaurants.

The Hula Daddy Kona coffee tours last for 60 minutes and cost $30/person.

79-7346 Mamalohoa Highway , Kealakekua, HI 96750

Visit another fun Kona coffee plantation called Kona Joe . You can choose from several different Kona Joe coffee tours.

They have a free self-guided tour that includes a 5-minute video. They also have their Standard Guided Tour that has quite a few perks. You’ll get a cup of coffee, the video, a guided tour of their entire farm, tastings of both chocolate and coffee, plus a free coffee gift.

If that’s not enough, they also have their Coffee Roasting Experience where you can roast 10 ounces of Kona Coffee yourself! Create your own custom roast while learning tips for how to come up with the perfect blend.

They even offer a Combined Tour where you can do their Standard Guided Tour plus the Coffee Roasting Experience. This is the most popular tour and you’ll save $15/person.

And coffee fanatics will want to check out their Ultimate Tour , which lasts 2 hours and you’ll get to roast 5 pounds of 100% Kona Coffee. Wow!

But, the most unique Kona coffee tour has to be their Coffee Picking Experience . It only happens during the harvest season that runs from August 1-November 30.

You’ll get all the gear you need to go into the farm and become a coffee picker for as long as you like. You can’t do this anywhere else in the US!

Keep scrolling to see how you can tour Kona Joe on a circle island tour.

Mountain Thunder

73-1942 Ha’o Street Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Mountain Thunder is a Kona coffee farm that’s in a really cool location. It’s located on the slope of Hualalai volcano, more than 3,000 feet above sea level. And it’s right next to a cloud forest!

You can take a free Mountain Thunder coffee tour of their mill. Here, you’ll learn exactly how they grow, process, and roast their Kona coffee beans.

They also have a cool Nature Trail Walk where you can explore their coffee plantation. You’ll see native plants, hang out on their observation deck, and even check out a lava tube. This is just $10/family.

And they usually have 4X4 Plantation Tours and an awesome RoastMaster Experience , but they are on hiatus right now.

Keep scrolling to see how you can do a Mountain Thunder coffee plantation tour along with checking out a cloud forest!

Royal Kona Coffee Center

83-5427 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704

You can visit the Royal Kona Coffee Center in Captain Cook. They have a processing plant where you can see how they separate the bean from the pulp and how they dry the coffee beans.

You’ll even see how they grade their coffee beans. Then, watch how they pack it up to be sent to their roasting facility in Honolulu.

During the Royal Kona coffee tour, there’s usually an opportunity to walk through a real lava tube and see some carved tiki statues. However, this is currently closed due to COVID-19.

Best Kona Coffee Tours Worth Booking

Greenwell farms coffee tour & hawaii volcanoes national park small group tour.

This is an unforgettable tour where you travel from Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You’ll stop at Punaluu Beach Park, where there’s a black sand beach before heading to the farm.

At Greenwell Farms you’ll tour the farm, taste freshly brewed Kona coffee, and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Finally, you’ll venture into a lava tube that was formed by volcanic activity. Plus, they give you iPads to use for even more information during the entire tour! Check the latest rates and availability .

Kona Soap, Coffee, and Chocolate Tour

This is one of the most comprehensive tours on the Big Island. Learn all about coffee and chocolate production, from when it blooms all its way through roasting. You’ll even get a chance to do a Kona coffee tasting and enjoy some delicious treats!

On the last leg of the tour, you’ll take an interesting walkthrough a botanical garden used for making soap. a product without any fragrance so no worries there 😉 Check the latest rates and availability .

Kona Joe Coffee Tour & Circle Island Tour

Spend the day exploring all that Big Island has in store for you, from waterfalls and beaches to tropical valleys. You’ll also get an exclusive look at Kona Joe’s coffee farm where they mix Award-winning locally grown beans into delicious cups of joe!

You’ll also keep an eye out for Hawaiian green sea turtles at the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. This tour also includes lunch and several photo stops. Check the latest rates and availability .

Greenwell Farms, Kealakekua Bay, Kaloko-Honokohau Park, and Bee Farm Tour

Take your Big Island vacation to the next level. Book a guided tour with an expert in local history and culture!

Take this informative tour through some sacred sites (like Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park ). You’ll see petroglyphs that date back thousands of years. And look for green sea turtles nests along this shoreline!

Finally, you’ll get to sample fresh Kona coffee at Greenwell Farms and taste local honey from Big Island Bees . Check the latest rates and availability .

Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, Coffee Farm Tour & Brewery Experience

Kona is a hidden treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural experiences, like a hidden cloud forest in the mountains!

You’ll head to Mountain Thunder Coffee Farm where they grow beans that go into making some of the world’s most delicious coffees. Then, eat lunch there and try Ola Brew Company’s amazing Hawaiian beer.

Afterwards, check out the Kona Cloud Forest. It’s a nature sanctuary filled with native species of plants, Hawaiian flowers, and tropical birds. Check the latest rates and availability .

Kona Coffee Farms FAQs

There are more than 600 coffee farms Within the 20-miles of each other up and down the roads along the Hualalai and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Some of these are really small and others are larger and offer tours to the public.

As the name implies, Kona coffee is a specific type of coffee plant grown in the Kona area of the Big Island of Hawaii. These Hawaiian coffee beans are unique because they grow in volcanic terrain. The coffee beans take on a flavor from the soil that’s hard to find anywhere else.

Yes, but they mainly sell Kona blends. A blend is made up of beans other parts of the world, so it’s not 100% Kona. If you’re going to be on the Big Island anyway, you might as well support a local farm and get the real deal!

Kona Coffee Tours and Tastings Wrap Up

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about the best Kona coffee farms on the Big Island of Hawaii. Now you know a lot about Kona coffee plantation tours at different price points.

It’s an amazing experience to taste this exquisite coffee in Hawaii on a Kona coffee farm tour. Plus you can meet real Kona coffee farmers.

I hope you found this post about the best coffee tours Kona has helpful and that I’ve given you some new information to share with your friends or family members who are planning a trip to Hawaii!

Looking for more things to do on the Big Island ? Check out this cultural ATV tour , visit the Painted Church , best Kona coffee cafes , take a Big Island Bees tour , explore a macadamia nut factory , or attend a Big Island luau .

• 100% Kona Coffee
• Blended Coffee
• Facility Tour and Learn to Roast
• Facility Tour Only
• Ultimate Tour
• Coffee Club
• Coffee Gift Boxes
• Signature Clothing
• Mugs and Accessories
• Hawaiian Art
• Hawaiian Spices

The Kona Joe Coffee Facility Tour

BECOME THE COFFEE EXPERT! 

  Where Kona coffee originated

  Why Kona coffee is special

  How Kona coffee is cultivated, harvested, and processed

  Why Kona Joe Trellised coffee  - grown like wine grapes – is      exceptionally delicious

 The sights, sounds and beautiful coffee aromas will stay with   you forever

ALSO INCLUDES

 Cup of Kona Joe Coffee

Sample Bag of Kona Joe Coffee

ALLOW 35 MINUTES

 Children 12 and under are free with paid adult

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13 Things To Do In Kailua-Kona: Complete Guide To This Scenic Big Island Town

N estled on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kailua-Kona is a tropical paradise. Located in the sunny Kona District, Kailua-Kona has warm temperatures year-round, making it a popular summer destination spot for tourists and nature lovers alike.

Known for its pristine sandy beaches, the area is teeming with fun water activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to parasailing and ocean tours.

For first-timers, the Big Island is undoubtedly one of the best Hawaiian islands to visit . The largest island in the U.S., it spans more than 4,000 square miles. This means that for those looking for extra adventure, there is also a plethora of attractions in the surrounding areas, from hiking through historical parks to exploring Hawaii’s active volcanoes.

UPDATE: 2023/07/25 07:21 EST BY BARRY JUMA

More Things To Do In Kailua-Kona

From spending time at the beach to hiking up one of the island's many mountains, the excitement in Kailua-Kona is virtually endless. This update offers even more things to do in this thrilling destination, most of which involve spending time in nature, which is known to be stunning in Hawaii.

Top Things To Do

From its fine dining options to its luxurious resorts, Kailua-Kona is a wonderful coastal getaway with many island comforts to be enjoyed.

Tour Kona Coffee Living History Farm

Home to hundreds of coffee farms—thanks to the region’s rich volcanic soil and ample cloud coverage—Kona is teeming with interesting coffee tours. Located in the heart of coffee country, Kailua-Kona is a java lover’s dream.

Located about 20 minutes south of Kailua-Kona, tourists can learn all about the history of the area’s world-renowned coffee with a trip to Kona Coffee Living History Farm . The 5.5-acre farm features a historic 1920s farmhouse, which visitors can navigate with a self-guided tour.

• Address: 82-6199 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Captain Cook, HI 96704
• Hours: Open Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 am to 2 pm
• Cost: $20 for adults; $10 for children (ages 7-17)

Final admission to the plantation is 1:15 pm.

Take A Stroll Down Ali'i Drive

Kailua-Kona’s main street, Ali'i Drive, spans from Kailua Pier to Kuamo'o Battlefield, a historic Hawaiian burial site, along the coastal shores.

For a relaxing outing, stroll the coastline, visiting the many shops, restaurants, and historical sites that the area has to offer. Stop by Coconut Grove Marketplace, or shop at the retailers in Kona Square.

• Address: Ali‘i Dr, Hawaii 96740

Explore Hulihe‘e Palace

Located on Ali’i Drive, this historic museum was once the summer vacation home for Hawaiian royalty. Established in 1903 , the estate was built out of lava rock and features six large rooms, two beachfront lanais, and sprawling greens.

Explore the artifacts of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapi‘olani, including native quilts and beautiful wood furniture.

• Address: 75-5718 Ali'i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Hours: Docent-guided tour general admission $22 for adults, $16 for seniors, $14 for children (5-12), and $3 for children under 4 and under; self-guided tour general admission $16 for adults, $10 for seniors, $10 for children (5-12), and $1 children 4 and under
• Cost: Open from Wednesdays to Fridays by reservation only and Saturdays from 10 am to 3:30 pm

Self-guided tours are available on Saturdays.

Go Sunbathing On Kailua Beach

Hawaii has some of the most beautiful beaches to visit , and Kailua-Kona is no exception. From swimming and boogie boarding to surfing and snorkeling, Kailua Beach offers visitors a variety of opportunities to explore its shimmery, crystal-clear waters.

• Address: 755560 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Hours: Open daily from 7 am to 9 pm

Hit The Waves At Kahalu'u Bay

Looking for the best place to catch waves on the Kona coast? Head to Kahalu'u Bay, which is perfect for novice and expert surfers alike.

Beginner surfers can pop into Kahulu’u Surf and Sea—which is located directly across the street from the bay—for surfing lessons. In addition to boards, the surf shop offers snorkeling and kayaking rentals.

• Address: 78-6685 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 (surf shop)
• Hours: Open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm
• Cost: Check the website for complete gear rental pricing .

Go Parasailing For A Bird’s-Eye View Of The Big Island

The U.S. has some of the best parasailing destination spots . And UFO Parasail Kailua Kona is the perfect option for those looking to revel in Hawaii’s beauty from high above.

Get breathtaking views of Hawaii from 1,200 feet above the ground with an exhilarating dip in the ocean at the end of the flight.

• Address: Located in the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, 75-5660 Palani Rd #111, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Hours: Flights available daily from 8 am to 5:30 pm
• Cost: $136 per person

The company checks in all parasailing guests at the blue umbrella on Kailua-Kona Pier, which is located next to the hotel. Get discounted parking validation at a rate of $2 for 3 hours from UFO to park in the hotel’s self-parking section. Children under the age of five are not permitted and participants must be 160 pounds to fly alone.

Go Snorkeling In Kealakekua Bay To See The Manta Rays

Some of the world’s most serene destinations are by the sea . For those looking to explore Kona’s deep blue waters, make a pit stop at Kona Snorkel Tours.

The tour agency offers charters to Kealakekua Bay, located about 30 minutes south of Kailua-Kona. Explore Kona’s alluring reefs and get the opportunity to spot an array of sea creatures, from manta rays to tropical fish.

• Address: 74-5596 Pawai Place #3e, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 (boat departs from Honokohau Harbor, Hawaii 74-429 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua Kona, HI 96740)
• Cost: Prices range from $95 to $1,400. Check the website for snorkeling tour options .

Hike Through Kaloko Honokōhau National Historical Park

Located about five miles south of Kona International Airport, this national historic park is brimming with wildlife, including sea turtles and birds, fishponds, and magnificent coastal views.

The 1,160-acre park is rich with historical and cultural significance , housing more than 200 archeological sites, such as ancient homes, shrines, and petroglyphs, or rock carvings.

• Address: Kaloka Honokōhau National Historical Park, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Hours: The visitor center is open daily from 8:30 am to 4 pm

Explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Featuring the summits of two of the most active volcanoes in the world—KÄ«lauea and Mauna Loa—this national park is certainly a go-to for thrill seekers and action junkies alike.

Although the park is about 95 miles away from Kailua-Kona, it's definitely a must-see adventure for anyone visiting the Big Island. It features over 123,000 acres of wilderness , offering a number of hiking opportunities, and remarkable crater views.

Pop into the Volcano Art Center, located next to the Kilauea Visitors Center, to learn about the art of Hawaii's Natives.

• Address: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Cost: $30 per vehicle; $15 per pedestrian

Check the website for the latest updates on the park's volcano activities .

Enjoy A Day At Kahalu'u Beach Park

Nestled on the outskirts of Kailua-Kona, Kahalu'u Beach Park is a haven for snorkelers and beach lovers. The park is celebrated for its calm waters teeming with vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.

Visitors are often treated to sights of colorful fish, green sea turtles, and stunning coral reefs. The park also offers amenities like picnic tables and restrooms for a comfortable day out.

• Address : 78-6710 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96739, United States
• Hours : 6 am - 11 pm (daily)

Take A Guided Tour To Mauna Kea Summit

The Mauna Kea Summit, an astronomical paradise, offers a unique opportunity to gaze upon the stars from one of the highest points in Hawaii.

The summit is home to numerous observatories from around the world, owing to its clear skies and high altitude. There are several tour companies that offer guided tours to the summit, with stargazing included in the cost as well as meals.

• Address : Guidimea, HI 96743, United States
• Tour Duration : From 7.5 hours
• Cost : From $260 for ages 13+
• Top-Rated Tour: Sunset and Stargazing Experience

Explore Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park , known as the City of Refuge, transports visitors back to ancient Hawaii. The park features a sacred sanctuary, where lawbreakers sought refuge to avoid punishment.

Today, the park offers self-guided tours through its ancient temples, royal fishponds, and carved wooden images.

• Address : Highway 160, Honaunau, HI 96726, United States
• Hours : 8:15 am - sunset (daily)
• Cost : $20 per vehicle; $15 per motorcycle; $10 per individual on foot or bicycle

Tour Kona Brewing Company

Kona Brewing Company is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. The brewery, known for its craft beers inspired by the island's natural ingredients, offers guided tours.

These tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, from grain to glass. After the tour, visitors can sample some of their popular brews in the outdoor beer garden.

• Address : 74-5612 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
• Hours : 10 am - 9 pm (daily)
• Cost : From $25 for a guided tour (includes beer samples)

Best Time To Go

Kona is warm and partly cloudy with moderate precipitation year-round, making it the perfect vacation spot any time of year.

Keep in mind that as people from colder states flock to Hawaii to get away from the snow, peak season on the island typically occurs from December to early spring, so these will generally be the busiest and most crowded times to visit.

Best Ways To Get Around

This seaside escape is very pedestrian-friendly, featuring a plethora of shops, restaurants, accommodations, museums, parks, and other activities in the downtown area. The Kona Trolley also offers tourists a speedy mode of transportation for getting around Kona.

However, those wanting to venture out into the Big Island to explore attractions like Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on their own time should opt to get a rental car.

The Hawaii Island Bus Service does provide public transportation around the island, including to Volcanoes National Park.

Where To Eat In Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona offers vacationers endless choices for every meal.

Island Lava Java

• Address: Located in the Coconut Grove Marketplace at 75-5801 Ali‘i Dr. Building 1, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Cuisine : Breakfast staples, including waffles, scrambles, and platters (vegan options are available)

808 Grindz Cafe

• Address: Located in the Kopiko Plaza at 75-5660 Kopiko St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Cuisine : Local cuisine (vegetarian options are available)

Kona Brewing Company Pub & Brewery

• Address: 74-5612 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Cuisine : Microbrewery serving sandwiches, pizzas, and salads

Journey Cafe Big Island

• Address: 75-5729 Ali‘i Dr C-106, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Cuisine : Farm-to-table, plant-based offerings
• Address: 75-5828 Kahakai Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Cuisine : Fine dining restaurant serving seafood, steaks, and pasta

Foster's Kitchen

• Address: 75-5805 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Cuisine : Fresh seafood and other local fare

Gertrude's Jazz Bar

• Address: 75-5699 Ali'i Drive, 75-5699 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Cuisine : Classic cocktails, tropical drinks, wine, and beer

Huggo's On the Rocks

• Address: 75-5824 Kahakai Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Cuisine : Outdoor lounge serving wine and cocktails

Related: 13 US States With The Most Hidden Travel Gems

Where To Stay In Kailua-Kona

Accommodations are abundant in Kailua-Kona but book early for the best odds at securing the perfect spot.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Kona Bali Kai

• Address: 76-6246 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Amenities : Mountain view, hot tub, terrace/patio, outdoor dining area, outdoor pool, and kitchen

Aeolian Ranch

• Address: 73-4620 Old Government Mauka Rd, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96740
• Amenities : Free parking

Mid-Tier Hotels

Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa

• Address: 78-128 Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96740
• Amenities : Snorkeling, water slide, fitness center, bar/lounge, indoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, tennis

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

• Address: 75-5660 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96740
• Amenities : Snorkeling, beachfront, fitness center, bar/lounge, outdoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service

High-End Hotels

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

• Address: 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96743
• Amenities : Private beach, snorkeling, infinity pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, water sports facilities, outdoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

• Address: 72-100 Ka'Upulehu Drive, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96740
• Amenities : Water sports facilities, beachfront, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, snorkeling, outdoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, bicycle rental

Related: 10 Reasons Oahu Should Be Your Next Hawaiian Destination

Tips To Know When Visiting

Similar to international travels, tourists arriving on the Big Island must go through customs to ensure they aren't importing anything illegal—this includes animals like dogs and even certain foods.

• Check the website for more information on Hawaii's travel regulations for visitors coming from the mainland.

In terms of weather, depending on what part of the island a tourist is visiting, rainfall is possible throughout the year, so pack accordingly.

Related: Hana Highway's Scenic Stops: Discovering 10 Hidden Gems Of The Maui Coast

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Kailua-Kona

Start the day off with a tasty breakfast at a popular local café. Head to Coconut Grove Marketplace to dive into a delicious, morning meal at Island Lava Java. Then head to Hulihe‘e Palace, less than half a block away, to explore the historic grounds.

Next stop: head south to Captain Cook for a self-guided tour through Kona Coffee Living History Farm.

Grab some lunch in the area—nearby options include Black Rock Pizza and Shaka Tacoz. Take a short hike through Captain Cook Monument Trail, a 3.6-mile walk to the Captain Cook Monument. ( Captain Cook was a British navigator who discovered the Hawaiian Islands in 1778.)

Related: From Beach To Bay: Discover The 10 Most Beautiful Ocean Getaways In The U.S.

Afterward, head up the coast for a trip out into the water. Visitors can choose from a number of water activities, from snorkeling and parasailing to surfing and scuba diving. Finish the day with dinner on the waterfront at Huggo's fine dining restaurant and then enjoy an evening walk along the Pacific.

Q: Is Kailua-Kona worth visiting?

Located on the Big Island, one of the best Hawaiian islands to visit , Kailua-Kona is definitely worth seeing. The tropical escape has stunning coastal views and offers visitors a plethora of opportunities to enjoy the waters, from snorkeling to parasailing.

Q: What is the difference between Kailua-Kona and Kona?

Kailua-Kona, one of the U.S.'s most beautiful ocean getaways , is an unincorporated resort community located in the Kona district.

Q: What is Kailua-Kona known for?

Hawaii has some of the most beautiful beaches to visit , and Kailua-Kona is no exception. The area is known for its pristine beaches, charming shops, and coastal views.

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Dukes Restaurant to open in late 2025 in Kona. - Island of Hawaii Forum

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Dukes Restaurant to open in late 2025 in Kona.

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Dukes is to be at the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa.

This will be their 9th restaurant in the state of Hawaii.

TS started in Lahaina in 1977, with Kimos restaurant (lost in the August 2023 fire) and have been great community supporters, awarded scholarships and been great employers for decades. Kimo;s is where the Hula Pie was invented.

TS restaurants have opened locations and California "in places they like to live".

Practice aloha

the Getaways

3 replies to this topic

That's in Keauhou. The hotel is in a somewhat isolated ( for walking) but spectacular location but always has been underwhelming despite changes in ownership and renovations. They just did some more, hopefully effective. Dukes is probably a good match for their market and will likely draw people from North of there.

A Dukes in Waikoloa or Mauna Lani would have been a bigger draw plus it attracts a higher-end crowd.

You are right there is a dining vacuum down in Keauhou and the price points match. It's not much of a drive from town and there is parking.

No higher end place except Huggos has managed to survive in Kailua-Kona since the early 2010s.

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