best coffee tours big island

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

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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? 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.

The Ideal Big Island Itinerary

If you’re heading to the Big Island, let us help you plan your best vacation. Our done for you itineraries take you on the best excursions around the island on a planned our route, so you can make the most of your visit.

I wanted to let you know that we just returned from 17 days is Hawaii and your information was our go to.  We read your newsletters, watched your videos and ordered itineraries for the two  islands we spent the most time on.  This helped us plan our days and ensured we saw great sights we otherwise would never have known to stop.   We referred to the guides often so saving it in files on my phone was perfect.  You saved us tons of time energy and money while ensuring we had an awesome trip.  Worth every dime and minute we spent on your info. Tracy B.

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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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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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Kona Coffee Farm Tours and Tastings

Take at least one guided Kona coffee tour if you’re on the Big Island. The big Island is home to Kona coffee, the champagne of coffee. Considered the best in the world, see how coffee grows, where it’s picked, how it’s picked, and when it’s picked. Walk and talk with the actual farmers that make your coffee. Learn what makes Kona coffee so special.

Table of Contents

In this guide, we’ll discuss what makes Kona coffee unique, everything you need to know to take a tour, and what to expect. Let us know in the comments section if we need to include anything else.

Planning a last-second trip to go on a Kona coffee tour?

If you want to go on a Kona coffee tour last-second, consider booking your trip ASAP. Below are some recommendations of tours and lodging.

Best Kona coffee tours:

• Heavenly Hawaiian
• Greenwell Farms
• Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation

The best lodging near Kona coffee plantations:

• Ka’awa Loa Plantation : 82-5990 Napoopoo Rd, Captain Cook
• Gingerhill Farm Retreat : 81-6467 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealakekua
• Holualoa Inn : 76-5932 Mamalahoa Hwy, Holualoa

Kona coffee farm tour highlights:

• Cost: Range from free to $40
• Reservations: Book a few days ahead of time, as they do fill up
• Kid-friendly : All ages welcome
• Time: Allow 2 hours for a farm tour

Our family took a day to tour Greenwell farms and saw many others in Kona. Our guide, Dave, was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their coffee. Much of what we learned about Kona coffee we’ll share below.

The best coffee in the world

The Kona region in Hawaii is renowned for producing some of the world’s best coffee blends. Visiting the coffee farms in this region can be an exciting and educational experience for travelers. This guide provides comprehensive information on what you can expect when visiting the coffee farms in Kona, Hawaii.

The Kona belt

Kona coffee grows in an area 26 miles long by 3 miles wide. The elevation varies from 700 to 2,000 feet. This region is ideal for growing gourmet 100% Kona coffee.

Number of Kona coffee farms

There are approximately 650 farms on the Big Island that make coffee. Each farm is an average of 3 acres, although some are much bigger. Kona coffee represents 95% of the coffee grown on the island.

What’s the big deal with Kona coffee?

Volcanic soils as the key ingredient.

Volcanic soils are the key ingredient that makes Kona coffee so good. The coffee is grown on the slopes of Mauna Loa and Hualalai, two active volcanoes in Hawaii.

The volcanic soils provide a unique mineral composition that contributes to the distinct taste of the coffee. The porous soil structure enables the coffee to extract nutrients, resulting in a more flavorful coffee bean.

Unique mineral composition of volcanic soils

The volcanic soils of Hawaii have a unique blend of minerals, including iron, calcium, and magnesium. These minerals are essential nutrients for coffee plants in their growth stage.

Coffee plants need sufficient nutrients in the soil to produce high-quality coffee beans. The unique blend of minerals in volcanic soils sets Kona coffee apart from other coffee beans.

Ideal drainage conditions on volcanic slopes

Additionally, the volcanic slopes provide excellent drainage, which prevents the soil from becoming stagnant and helps to retain moisture.

Combining the mineral composition and ideal drainage conditions creates a perfect environment for the Kona coffee plant to thrive. The result is a coffee bean with exceptional flavor and aroma.

Weather conditions

The specific weather patterns in Hawaii also contribute to the exceptional quality of Kona coffee. The consistent rainfall, high altitude, and ample sunlight provide optimal growing conditions for coffee plants.

The unique properties of volcanic soils, coupled with the ideal weather conditions, result in a coffee bean unmatched in flavor and quality.

Sustainable growing practices of Kona coffee farmers

In addition to the unique flavor profile, Kona coffee is sustainably grown. The coffee farmers in Hawaii care greatly about growing, harvesting, and processing their coffee beans.

The coffee is handpicked and processed in small batches, ensuring consistent quality and no steps are skipped. This results in a coffee that is not only flavorful but also conscious of the environment and the local community.

Flavor profile of Kona coffee

Nutty character of kona coffee.

One of the distinct features of their coffee is its nutty character. The coffee has a rich, nutty, and slightly earthy aftertaste that lingers on the tongue. This nutty flavor is what sets Kona Coffee apart from other coffees.

The coffee has a smooth finish and feels like silk in the mouth. The texture is velvety, and the taste is delicate, making it a perfect drink for those who prefer milder coffee.

Fruity flavor profile of Kona coffee

Kona Coffee also has a fruity flavor profile. The coffee has a bright and citrusy acidity that lures the taste buds. This fruity taste is subtle and complements the nutty and chocolatey notes.

The combination of these flavors creates a balance that is unique to Kona coffee. The coffee is versatile and can be enjoyed with various food pairings, from pastries to savory dishes.

Notes of sugar, honey, and spices when brewed

When brewed, the coffee produces a tantalizing aroma that fills the air with notes of brown sugar, honey, and spices. The aroma is an indication of the coffee’s quality and freshness.

Kona coffee has a complex flavor profile that is versatile, rich, and satisfying. It is no wonder that it is called the champagne of coffee.

The History of Kona Coffee

Samuel reverend ruggles and the first coffee plantation.

The history of Kona coffee dates back to the 1800s when coffee plants were first brought to Hawaii. The first coffee plantation was established in Kona in 1828 by Samuel Reverend Ruggles, who obtained the plants from Brazil.

Japanese immigrants and the growth of coffee production

However, in the 1880s and 1890s, coffee production took off with the help of Japanese immigrants who brought their farming skills and worked the land.

Kona coffee’s worldwide popularity

In the early days, coffee was grown on large plantations spanned hundreds of acres. The coffee beans were hand-picked, dried, and then roasted on-site. By the turn of the 20th century, Kona coffee had become a worldwide sensation, with shipments being exported to Europe and even earning top honors at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.

Challenges faced by Kona coffee in the early 1900s

Despite its popularity, Kona coffee faced some challenges in the early 1900s. In 1916, a fungus known as coffee rust devastated many of the coffee plants on the Big Island, causing farmers to switch to other crops.

Later, in the 1930s, coffee prices fell due to the Great Depression, and many farmers were forced to abandon their plantations.

Formation of the Kona Coffee Council

However, in the 1960s, a group of dedicated coffee farmers banded together to form the Kona Coffee Council to promote and preserve the unique flavor of their coffee.

Today, the Kona Coffee Council represents over 650 coffee farms in the region, and their coffee is still a favorite among coffee enthusiasts for its smooth, well-balanced flavor.

What to Expect on a Coffee Farm Tour

Information about the various stages of coffee production.

A Kona coffee farm tour is the perfect opportunity to learn about coffee-making, from planting the beans to brewing a delicious cup of coffee. During the tour, you can expect to see rows upon rows of coffee trees, learn about the different coffee varieties on the island, and pick up essential tips on roasting and brewing the perfect cup. 

You’ll gain a new appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into producing some of the world’s best coffee and leave with a newfound respect for the local farmers.

Tasting coffee blends and taking some home with you

Some tours may include a sample tasting of different coffee blends and roasts. If you are looking for a more in-depth experience, some farms offer private tours for groups that provide a more personalized and detailed look at the growing and harvesting process. However, these tours can be significantly more expensive.

Is a Kona coffee tour worth the cost?

While some may argue that the cost of a coffee tour is steep, the experience is truly one-of-a-kind. Plus, many are free, so if you don’t want to go to one that cost money, you don’t have to.

As you hike through the coffee tree rows and listen to the farmers talk about their craft, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Hawaii. Those that charge for the tour range from $15 to $40.

You’ll get to taste some of the freshest and most flavorful coffee in the world and have an opportunity to purchase some to take home as souvenirs. Additionally, by supporting local farmers, you’re contributing to the sustainability of the Kona coffee industry and helping to preserve an essential part of Hawaiian culture for future generations.

Get the most out of your coffee tour

To make the most of your Kona coffee farm tour experience, wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking around in the heat. Bring a camera to capture spectacular views of the farm and surrounding area. 

Be prepared to learn a lot, ask plenty of questions, and come hungry – many tours will offer coffee sample tastings and food, like chocolate-covered coffee beans, that make a great snack and souvenir. Lastly, don’t forget to thank your tour guide and show your appreciation for the local farmers and their hard work.

Climate in Kona

Kona is blessed with warm, sunny weather throughout the year, making it an ideal destination anytime for a coffee farm visit.

Coffee plants in full bloom during the winter months

The best time to see the coffee plants in full bloom is during winter, from December to February. During this time, you can witness the coffee plants covered in white, fragrant flowers that eventually turn into bright red coffee cherries.

Read more travel tips and guides:

• Go night swimming with manta rays
• Visit The Painted Church in south Kona
• Watch sea turtles on Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach)
• Go to the City of Refuge
• Snorkel and dive Two Step Beach (Hōnaunau Bay)
• Visit the best beaches on the Big Island
• Thurston Lava Tube travel guide
• Trek the Captain Cook Memorial trail
• Swim in a waterfall at Kulaniapia Falls

Getting to the Kona coffee farms

Kona is situated on the west coast of the Big Island, which has its own airport. You can catch a direct flight from Honolulu, L.A., or San Francisco. Once you arrive in Kona, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around and visit the different coffee farms. 

Best Kona coffee tours

Traveling to Hawaii’s Kona district is a must-do experience if you’re a coffee lover! There is no better way to learn about the state’s coffee culture and local workforce than visiting these Kona Coffee farms. Below are a list of the best coffee tours in Kona, Hawaii.

1. Buddha’s Cup

Buddha’s Cup is a beautiful family-run coffee farm in Kona. The farm is adorned with a colorful and peaceful atmosphere, creating a calm environment for anyone to enjoy and learn about coffee production in Hawaii. Their tour incorporates some education about meditation and showcases their unique methods for producing organic coffee.

Cost: Free coffee tour

Address: 78-1377 Bishop Rd, Holualoa

2. Heavenly Hawaiian

Heavenly Hawaiian , known for its robust Kona coffee, is run by a family passionate about producing coffee that tastes unlike any other. Their tour includes a walk through the plantation, picking out the best coffee cherries, and explaining the farm’s history and how their coffee beans make it from the field to your cup.

Address: 78-1136 Bishop Rd, Holualoa

3. Kona Coffee Living History Farm

This award-winning coffee farm is a living example of how this industry began over 100 years ago in Hawaii. It offers an amazing glimpse into the lives of Japanese immigrants who worked on these farms, planting and harvesting coffee. Kona Coffee Living History Farm features authentic tools, implements, and infrastructure that were once used to grow, process, and roast coffee.

Cost: $15-$20

Address: 82-6199 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Captain Cook

4. Kuaiwi Farm

Kuaiwi Farm is famous for its rich, organic, shade-grown coffee. The coffee trees are grown in the natural shade of old-growth forests, providing a tranquil ambient temperature that allows the coffee to mature slowly. The Kuaiwi Farm tour does not only focus on the coffee but also the surrounding area, including several waterfalls.

Cost: Free Kona coffee tour

Address: 870 Halewili Rd, Kalaheo

5. Greenwell Farms

The best coffee tour in Kona that we went on was Greenwell Farms. A family-run farm for over 150 years, Greenwell Farm is known for producing world-class coffee.

Their Kona coffee plantation tour provides a glimpse into the rich history of coffee in Hawaii while showing you the distinct methods they use to produce quality coffee. Checkout their gift ship after the tour to purchase coffee and Greenwell Farm merchandise. Greenwell Farms offers free coffee after your Kona coffee Hawaii tour.

Cost: Free tours available

Address: 81-6581 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealakekua

6. Hala Tree Coffee

This farm is well-known for its unique, handcrafted blends using a rare coffee varietal that grows on the slopes of Mauna Loa in Hawaii. Hala Tree Coffee farm tour is a fun and interactive way to look into their sustainable growing practices and learn about their unique irrigation and fertilization systems.

Address: 82-5966 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook

7. Hilo Coffee Mill (in Hilo)

Hilo Coffee Mill is a bit far from Kona, but the Kona coffee farm tour is worth the trip. The mill offers several coffee drinks while guests can tour their farm and processing facility, which contains various handcrafted artisanal foods.

Cost: $40 per person

Address: 17-995 Volcano Rd, Mountain View

8. Hog Heaven Coffee (on the Hamakua coast)

Hog Heaven Coffee is a relatively new farm that prides itself on growing organic coffee. The Kona coffee tour on Big Island covers everything from planting to roasting and how sustainability plays a significant role. Hog Heaven Coffee received first place in the cupping competition in 2022 and 2023 from the Hawaii Coffee Association.

Address: 75-5805 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona

9. Holualoa Kona Coffee Plantation

Holualoa plantation has produced 100 percent Kona coffee since 1850. Their coffee tour offers an insight into the history of coffee farming in Hawaii while showcasing their unique production methods. The coffee farm tour in Kona runs every hour with panoramic vistas in absolute Serenity.

Address: 77-6261 Mamalahoa Hwy, Holualoa

10. Hula Daddy

Hula Daddy offers personalized tours of their boutique Kona coffee farm. Their tour is intimate, with a chance to taste their award-winning coffee and learn about their unique production methods.

Cost: $35 per person

Address: 74-4944 Mamalahoa Hwy, Holualoa

11. Ka’u Coffee Mill (in Ka’u)

Ka’u Coffee Mill is located in the neighboring district of Kau, with farming ranging between 1200 to 2000 feet in elevation. Here, the coffee is processed using solar energy, which helps increase quality. Their tour is excellent, focusing primarily on processing techniques.

Address: 96-2694 Wood Valley Rd, Pahala

12. Kona Joe Coffee

Only 8 miles south of Kailua-Kona. Kona Joe Coffee has the world’s first trellised coffee plantation. Learn the harvesting and roasting process on their farm tour.

Kona Joe coffee tour cost: $30

Address: 79-7346 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealakekua

13. Mountain Thunder

A fun experience for coffee lovers, it offers a unique 3-hour tour through Mountain Thunder farm and roasting room. You’ll learn everything about the coffee-making process, from the coffee trees to the final product served on your table.

Address: 73-1942 Ha’o St, Kailua-Kona

14. Rooster Farms

Astonishing views and excellent coffee make Rooster Farms one of Kona’s top attractions. Their coffee processing is unique as they blend newer and traditional methods to extract the best flavor from their coffee beans. The tour covers the whole process, from planting the seeds to packaging the coffee for shipment.

Coffee tour Kona (Cost): Free

Address: 84-1245 Bruner Rd, Captain Cook

15. Sunshower Farms best coffee farm tour

Sunshower Farms is a family-owned and operated farm takes pride in providing its clients with unique coffee flavors. Their farm has a wide range of specialty coffees, such as peaberry or honey processed, emphasizing quality and taste. The tour shows how they use unique and numerous coffee cultivars to produce their coffee.

Cost: Free (often sell out of coffee and if they do their tours stop for the year)

Address: 76-1297 Waiono Ranch Rd, Holualoa

16. Ueshima Coffee (UCC)

One of Japan’s top coffee producers, Ueshima Coffee farm provides a fascinating look into making its famous coffee. The tour presents the sophisticated coffee-producing techniques that UCC uses, including drip irrigation and sun-drying of their coffee beans.

Address: 75-5568 Mamalahoa Hwy, Holualoa

17. Uluwehi Coffee Farm

Uluwehi Coffee Farm is a family-owned and operated farm committed to sustainable growing methods, producing some of the best coffee in Kona. Their tour lets visitors see how coffee is grown and processed while overlooking the beautiful Hawaiian landscape.

Cost: $20-$27

Address: 75-5410 Uluwehi Place, Holualoa

Kona coffee events

Cultural festival.

The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is the oldest in the world, having been held for over 50 years. The festival is a week-long celebration of coffee and its unique culture, attracting coffee lovers worldwide.

It highlights various events, such as coffee tastings, farm tours, live music, and a coffee art exhibit. The festival ends with a grand parade where coffee farmers march through the streets, showcasing their beautiful crops.

Ka’u Coffee Festival

The Ka’u Coffee Festival takes place every May and is an event that celebrates the distinctive coffee grown in the Ka’u district of Hawaii Island. 

This festival offers visitors a chance to take farm tours, participate in coffee tastings, and attend workshops that provide insight into the history and culture of Ka’u coffee. 

The festival also includes:

• A hula and music competition
• A Miss Ka’u Coffee Beauty Pageant
• A recipe contest where visitors can relish delicious coffee recipes

Holualoa Coffee & Art Stroll

The Holualoa Coffee & Art Stroll is an annual festival in November. It is a celebration of Hawaii’s arts, music, and coffee culture. During the event, clients can enjoy live music, art demonstrations, and coffee tastings in the charming town of Holualoa.

The festival is held in the historic village, home to many art galleries, coffee shops, and antique stores.

Kona Coffee and Tea Expo

The Kona Coffee and Tea Expo is an annual event in November, and it’s a must-visit for all coffee and tea lovers. This exciting event showcases tastings of various coffee and tea blends, workshops, and presentations by industry experts.

Visitors can enjoy delicious food offered by vendors and live music and witness a coffee and tea brewing competition.

Kona coffee lodging recommendations

Coffee farms bed and breakfasts.

If you’re searching for an affordable and cozy lodging option, consider staying at one of the many bed and breakfasts in the Kona coffee farms. These bed and breakfasts offer a beautiful and traditional Hawaiian-style experience, and you can wake up to the smell of freshly made coffee every morning. 

Local farmers typically manage these bed and breakfasts, and their hospitality and knowledge of the area will make your stay truly unique. Some recommended B&Bs in the area include Holualoa Inn, The Mango Sunset Bed and Breakfast Inn, and Kimi’s Ohana.

Vacation Rentals

Renting a house or apartment on a coffee farm can be a great option if you’re traveling with a group or family. Not only will you have plenty of space, but you can also save money by cooking your meals. 

Many vacation rentals come with fully-equipped kitchens and all the modern amenities you need. Some recommended vacation rentals include the Kona Coffeehouse, the Kona View Estates, and the Holualoa Kona Coffees’ plantation house.

Luxury Resorts

Luxury accommodations are available on coffee farms if you want to spend more. Some resorts offer five-star service, as well as spas and golf courses.

The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a luxurious option with breathtaking ocean views, top-notch dining, and stunning beaches. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is also an excellent choice for luxurious lodgings.

Have a cup of Kona coffee

Kona is renowned for producing some of the finest coffee in the world. To truly immerse yourself in the rich coffee culture of Hawaii, visiting the coffee farms and plantations in the region is a must-do experience. 

During your visit, you can learn about the history of the coffee and indulge in a coffee-tasting experience. A visit to Kona’s farms is an experience you will want to experience. 

Kona coffee FAQ

• Which coffee roast is best? Light roasts are usually recommended for drip coffee, while dark roasts are best for espresso drinks.
• What are coffee cherries? Coffee cherry or berry is the fruit of the coffee. It’s a small, round stone fruit.

Visiting Kona coffee farms

If you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a unique and immersive travel experience, then visiting Kona coffee farms should be on your travel itinerary. You’ll learn about the history, get hands-on experience, taste some of the world’s best coffee, support local farmers, and enjoy amazing scenery.

It’s an experience you won’t forget, and you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the coffee you drink and the hard work that goes into producing it. So take a trip to Kona and immerse yourself in the world of coffee.

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Best Kona Coffee Farms: Tours & Cafes on the Big Island HI

Wondering where you can find the best Kona coffee farms when visiting the Big Island?

After living on the Big Island for a year I became a coffee snob and I never wasted an opportunity to try local Kona coffee.

The Big Island has over 900 Kona coffee farms, which might seem a bit overwhelming. However, not all of them give tours and tastings, so I’ve narrowed down the best I think you should visit.

Alternatively, if you just need a quick coffee to-go without a farm tour, take advantage of ordering Kona coffee at the local cafes I’ve listed.

Here are my top places to visit for the best Kona coffee farms and cafes next time you travel to the Big Island. 

➡️ Looking to create a coffee themed itinerary ? Check out this post on where to sleep near Kona coffee !

Best Kona Coffee Farms & Cafes in Kona

Mountain thunder coffee plantation.

Tour Fee? No Address: 73-1942 Ha’o St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 Hours: 7 days a week 9am-4pm

I took advantage of visiting Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation after hiking the Makuala O’oma Trail down the road.

This coffee plantation is tucked away in a cloud forest on the slopes of Hualalai Mountain.

There is no parking lot, so I had to park my car on the street shoulder.

Walking up to the cute gift shop, I was welcomed by a table with self-serve free samples of their Kona coffee.

While sipping their warm brew, I was able to browse the shelves of products and souvenirs inside, away from the drizzly rain.

I also wandered to sit outside under the cabana and watched an informative video about the coffee process and their property.

I didn’t have to wait long for the next free, 15-minute guided tour as they run every half hour .

A guide showed us samples of coffee beans through their various stages and guided us through their dry mill warehouse where a portion of the coffee bean magic happens.

I didn’t do it, but for $10/family group, you can take a 20-min stroll through their private garden , exploring the cloud forest ecosystem. With the provided guidebook you’ll be able to spot native Hawaiian plants, learn about Hawaiian culture and the history of Thunder Mountain.

You’ll pass an unexplored lava tube, perhaps see some wildlife, and end at an observation deck perfect for picnicking, overlooking the Kona coffee plantation and the Pacific Ocean down below.

Kona Mountain Coffee

Address: 73-4038 Hulikoa Dr #5, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm; Sat-Sun closed

My favorite stop for coffee within Kona city limits is at Kona Mountain Coffee . It’s super convenient while heading north to Waikoloa or as the last (or first) stop for coffee from the airport.

Their basic menu keeps the stress of choosing a drink to a minimum. I always just get a simple iced latte – my favorite. I like the smoothness of the Kona Mountain’s coffee, as it’s a little less fruity than some.

If you’re feeling peckish, Dirty Apron provides their baked goods for an on-the-go snack.

There is no indoor seating but there are outdoor patio tables and chairs to sit and enjoy your drink. I’ve even seen herds of wild goats passing by the parking lot.

Kona Mountain Coffee is a family owned business selling estate, private reserve, peaberry, and flavored coffee beans. You can peek into the kitchen windows and watch as they roast small batches of their beans.

They also have an extensive gift shop with various Hawaiian-made treats and souvenirs. 

Kona Coffee and Tea Co.

Address: 74-5588 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 Hours: 7 days a week 6am-6pm

Another good place to find some Kona coffee to-go in town is at Kona Coffee and Tea Co. next to KTA Superstore. This family-owned, farm-to-cup cafe grows, mills, roasts, and brews their coffee all within a 10-mile radius. 

With a modern, chic white and black interior with wooden accents, this is one of the few coffee shops that has the indoor seating for remote working on your laptop or meeting up with a friend. 

Serving 100% Kona coffee from their farm, they will make up your cup any way you are looking for. Their unique menu item is the Kona Bullet , a hot drip coffee blended with grass fed butter and coconut oil, which was surprisingly not bad, and it kept me from having the caffeine shakes!

For a hot day consider their cold brew on tap (my go-to) or an Espresso Shake , vanilla ice cream blended with two shots of espresso. 

Have you been to a coffee shop with Happy Hour ? Well, Kona Coffee and Tea Co. offers one everyday from 3-6pm with 15% off in-store orders.

As per the name, they also serve teas, specializing in the Hawaiian mamaki mint . For fermented tea-lovers they have Big Island Booch kombucha on tap.

If you’re hungry, they offer a limited breakfast menu of bagels, half papaya, and acai (if their machine isn’t broken)

Best Kona Coffee Farms & Cafes in Holualoa

Heavenly hawaiian kona coffee farm.

Tour Fee? Yes Address: 78-1136 Bishop Rd, Holualoa, HI 96725 Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun closed

My favorite coffee farm tour that I’ve done on the island was at Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm .

I lucked out when I visited as they had walk-up availability, but I wouldn’t risk it and would suggest purchasing tickets ahead of time .

I was greeted by Umi the cat before self-serve sampling their different roasts by the pool, overlooking the coffee farm below and the Kona coast in the distance.

Their coffee has unique flavors not really found at other farms. The Fire Roast has an actual smokey flavor to the coffee as it’s roasted in a peanut roaster from 1947. Or the Kona Sweet , where the bean is dried in the fruit giving it a fermented hint.

After drinking all the coffee samples, it was time for the tour to start. We were given candy covered macadamia nuts and coffee bean samples, before being led on an hour long guided tour around the property. 

They took us past Geisha coffee trees that grow some of the world’s most expensive coffee at $308/lb. We then strolled down the road next to the main coffee orchard before ending at the hoshidana , drying platform. 

Their small gift shop for has their items for sale and if you ask, you can try a tea sample made from their coffee skins.

Other extra curricular activities include:

• Paint and Sip class – painting on their covered porch while sipping a brew
• Paniolo Roasting class – roast your own beans and bring home a one-of-a-kind bag of beans with you
• Brew Your Best Cup workshop -learn how to make that perfect cup of coffee yourself.

If you are interested in coffee farm work, Heavenly Hawaiian offers room and board for volunteer work. Ask them for more info.

Heavenly Hawaiian hands down is my favorite coffee farm tour experience on the Big Island , so if you do just one I highly suggest this one.  

>> Book Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm Tour Here! <<

Tour Fee? No Address: 75-5568 Mamalahoa Hwy, Holualoa, HI 96725 Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm; Sat-Sun closed

UCC (Ueshima Coffee Company) is one of Japan’s largest coffee companies that was founded in 1933. Their Kona coffee estate was established in 1989 on 40-acres of land.

The farm sits alone about 1.5-miles out of Holualoa town with an expansive view overlooking Kona and the Pacific Ocean. 

Have a seat at the outdoor bar to strike up a conversation with the barista and sample their coffee.

After sampling, select what you want from their simple menu; order the popular affogato (Kona coffee ice cream with a shot of Kona espresso served in a chilled cappuccino cup).

Employees speak both English and Japanese and offer tours in both languages as well.

Take a free 15-30min tour offered almost every hour. 

Or, pay to take the Roastmaster Tour where you can roast ½ pound of your own one-of-kind private reserve and even create a label with your face on it!

Their seasonal Coffee Picking Tour is kinda’ve a scam in my opinion, as they make you pay to pick coffee cherries for them during harvest season. You’ll spend an hour learning about processing coffee and getting out into the field picking coffee off the trees. But at least you get a 4oz bag to bring home.

Holuakoa Coffee Shack

Address: 76-5900 Mamalahoa Hwy, Holualoa, HI 96725 Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-3pm; Sat 7am-3pm; Sun 7am-2pm 

I stopped into Holuakoa Coffee Shack for a cup of Kona coffee while I wandered the street (not streets) of Holualoa . 

Friendly staff helped me decide how to take my coffee (I chose cold brew). They serve Uncle Kimo’s Kona coffee , an estate coffee grown in Holualoa, and have housemade syrups for extra flavor: coconut, lavender, sugarcane, or vanilla.

They also makes their own baked goods , minus the tantalizing donuts. I haven’t had any of it, but they told me that their banana bread is a big hit.

If you need a more substantial meal they also make breakfast and lunch dishes from scratch. 

I like their rugged, open-air dining room with a bar overlooking the street for people watching.

Best Kona Coffee Farms & Cafes in Captain Cook

Tour Fee? No and Yes Address: 79-7346 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealakekua, HI 96750 Hours: 7 days a week 8am-3pm

As defined by their highway flag, I can concur that Kona Joe is an Instagrammable spot for Kona coffee in Captain Cook .

Take the long driveway down to a gravel parking lot and walk into a well manicured coffee complex: gift shop to the right and coffee cafe and tours to the left with a beautiful green lawn overlooking the vista view of the Kona coast in between. 

Kona Joe has their own patented process of growing coffee trees on trellises like grape vines . It takes years of meticulous pruning and training of the branches to acquire the desired growing pattern. By growing the branches on trellises and wires the branches and coffee cherries are exposed to the sun more uniformly and cause a more even ripening and the dissolved sugars in the fruit are enhanced.

Another unique process Kona Joe uses is not picking the coffee by sight by looking for a ripe red cherry to pluck. Instead they have their own scientific team to test the fruit for pH levels, sugar concentration, and titratable acids. Only when the numbers read the proper balance of acid and dissolved sugars indicating their optimum maturity do they approve coffee harvesting to begin. 

You can take a free self-guided Kona coffee tour around the property, peaking into the warehouse with the machines and reading placards along the way.

Or, if you are looking for a more in-depth tour you can pay for a guided tour with a coffee-filled souvenir cup included .

They also offer coffee roasting experiences where you can roast your own beans to take home as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Their gift shop feels big but it’s mostly just products spread out to accommodate enough room for tour groups.

Besides finding their estate trellis grown coffee for sale, they also sell Kona coffee picked from neighboring farms but roasted by Kona Joe. 

⚠️ Be Aware! They do sell a blended Kona coffee (Kona coffee beans mixed with international coffee beans), so if you are looking for 100% Kona coffee just double check the bag.

After shopping and exploring the grounds, I enjoyed sipping on an iced coffee from the cafe and sitting on the large covered lanai at the bar overlooking the property of trellis coffee trees all the way out to the Pacific Ocean. 

Greenwell Farms 

Tour Fee? No Address: 81-6581 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealakekua, HI 96750 Hours: 7 days a week 8:30am-5pm

I was pleasantly surprised with the ever popular Greenwell Farms , a down-to-earth coffee farm experience that was established in 1850 and is still run by the Greenwell family today. 

When we arrived, we signed up at the computer kiosk for the next available free guided tour, which runs about every 30 minutes.

As we waited for our tour to begin, we hung out in the open air gift shop pavilion and sampled from the long row of free, self-serve coffee samples including flavors like macadamia nut and chocolate .

💁‍♀️ Tab’s Trip Tip: you can come and just sample the coffee without taking a tour if you want. 

The guide took us on a 45-60 minute tour among the coffee trees, coffee processing machines and buildings, down through their garden growing peppercorns, bananas and other fruits while giving us some coffee history.

It wasn’t raining on our tour, but it it was, they do provide umbrellas.

Sacred Grounds Coffee Farm

Address: 82 Anoi Pl, Captain Cook, HI 96704 Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-5:30pm; Sun closed

If you aren’t looking for it, you might miss Sacred Grounds Coffee Farm . But that adds to the specialness of this Kona coffee oasis and is my personal favorite stop for the best Kona coffee .

Pull into the driveway is tight and there are only a few parking spaces in the tiny lot. But that’s okay, because there will usually not be any other cars there.

Upon entering the lodge-like building there are two things that strike me:

• Shelves filled with beautiful hand-thrown pottery
• The back door porch that leads to a panoramic view of Kealakekua Bay . 

Bill, the owner and potter, will take your order from his very basic coffee menu – no flavored syrups and powders found here or necessary. His coffee is the smoothest, richest Kona coffee on the island that can easily stand on its own. 

Everytime I sit on the porch, I feel any and all stress just melt away as I sip my coffee and take in the view with the coffee orchard and fruit trees below, a church steeple poking up down the hill, and the turquoise bay glowing in the distance.

And the best part? I usually have the view to myself without any crowds .

If this is your first time visiting his farm, Bill will likely invite you to wander among his fruit trees and coffee trees and let you pick some to take with you.

Kaya’s Kawanui

Address: 79-7300 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Kealakekua, HI 96750 Hours: Mon-Fri 5:30am-5:30pm; Sat-Sun 6am-6pm

Kaya’s Kawanui is a cute cafe hidden away in plain sight as a nondescript Old West-type building sitting alone in a gravel parking lot on the edge of Hwy 11.

Kaya’s is an organic bakery and cafe serving Kona Rainforest’s organic Kona coffee and mostly vegan and gluten-free foods. 

Order your coffee black for the purest form or spice it up by trying their Lavender Cardamon Mocha . 

The display case houses organic, vegan treats that will tempt even the non-vegans, like me. Their dragonfruit cashew cheesecake with an almond crust…to die for ! 

They also serve rotating kombucha flavors from Hawaii’s first state-certified kombucha brewery, Hawaii Kombucha , which you can order on tap or have them fill up a whole growler.

Along the walls are shelves selling Hawaii-made artisan goods like handmade soaps, art, jewelry, and various other knick-knacks. 

Coffee Shack

Address: 83-5799 Mamalahoa Hwy Box 510, Captain Cook, HI 96704 Hours: Thurs-Tues 7am-3:30pm: Wed closed

One of the most popular stops for coffee and breakfast in Captain Cook is at the Coffee Shack . Parking is always full so you will likely have to find street parking, and waiting for a table is inevitable. 

What makes this such a hot spot? They have one of the best views on the island overlooking Kealakekua Bay . The ocean seems to go on for eons. A lot of visitors make this their breakfast stop on their way to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

They serve coffee from their 1.25-acres of 85 year old coffee trees.

If you don’t want to wait for a table, get your coffee to-go and sit on the rock wall for your view or get back on the road. 

Best Kona Coffee Cafe North of Kona

Waimea coffee company.

Address: 65-1279 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743 Hours: 7 days a week 6:30pm-5:30pm

In Waimea town make a caffeine stop at Waimea Coffee Company within the red and white Parker Square complex. Serving 100% Kona coffee, order your cup how you like it with helpful diagram signs, solo or doppio (single or double shots). 

Order a light meal from their menu. They have bagels, sandwiches, soups, wraps, and salads (even a breakfast salad!).

I was able to find a space to sit in their limited indoor seating with cozy, wooden interior that made it a comfortable place to relax on a log seat while it was wet and cool outside.

If you can’t find indoor seating, there are also covered outdoor patio tables. There was live music playing on the porch when I was there.

They have a second location in Hawi at the Kohala Coffee Mill .

Address: 55-3412 Akoni Pule Hwy, Hawi, HI 96719 Hours: 7 days a week 7am-4pm

Serving the same menu items, the biggest difference between the two locations is the view and ice cream.

Hawi offers good people watching from the sidewalk tables while I enjoyed my lunch and drink.

Also, here they serve up Tropical Dreams ice cream , Big Island-made 18% butterfat ice cream! Yum!

Where to Buy Kona Coffee?

Kona coffee can be found all over the Big Island , as well as neighboring islands. Any gift shop or heck, even any grocery store will carry some brand of Kona coffee. Just again, beware of Kona blends if you are looking for 100% Kona coffee.

Of course you can buy it when you visit the plethora of Kona coffee farms. Most farms give you samples of the coffee before you buy, a huge bonus compared to randomly buying a bag that looks pretty off the grocery shelf.

Most coffee farms will also sell their coffee online. If you are on the mainland craving some Kona coffee it can easily be shipped to your door without having to fly halfway across the Pacific to do your caffeine shopping.

Kona Coffee FAQs

Where is kona coffee grown.

Kona coffee is grown in the Kona Coffee Belt , a stretch of land on the mountain slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa . It is only a mere 30 miles long and about 2 miles wide, stretching about as north as the Kona International Airport down to the border of the Ka’u district near Ocean View.

Similar to champagne in France, if coffee isn’t grown within the Kona Coffee Belt then it is NOT Kona coffee.

Why is Kona Coffee so Special?

For the size of reputation Kona coffee has, it only makes up 1% of the world’s coffee supply . 

The first reason why Kona coffee is special is that it needs specific conditions to optimally grow and the Kona Coffee Belt offers the best of all conditions:

• Temperate weather with consistent temperatures around 70-80°F that don’t go below 55°F
• Sun but not too much sun; shade or cloud cover in the afternoons to lessen the exposure
• Rain, lots of rain
• High elevations affect taste and Kona coffee is grown at about 3,000ft giving it a mild flavor
• Good soil drainage, the porous lava soil is not only good drainage but high in nutrients

Secondly, Kona coffee must be handpicked due to the steep slopes they are grown on, rather than picked by machine. Not only are they handpicked but they are selectively picked. This means only the ripe coffee cherries are picked, leaving the unripe cherries on the branches to finish ripening. 

“ I think the Kona coffee has a richer flavor than any other, be it grown where it may and call it by what name you please. ” Mark Twain when he visited the Big Island in 1866

How Much is Kona Coffee?

Kona coffee is some of the most expensive coffee in the world . For any of the good stuff, you’re looking at about $45+/lb for 100% Kona coffee. 

Due to the meticulous procedure in handpicking the coffee, then processing it, not to mention the high demand for this Hawaiian coffee, the high price tag is really not surprising.

What is Kona Blend Coffee?

BE AWARE ! Oftentimes you will see coffee labeled as a Kona Blend. These packages are legally allowed to only contain 10% Kona coffee beans , the rest could be from anywhere else in the world. 

I see this as a deceptive way of marketing; using the Kona name but selling a cheaper product to unsuspecting customers.

If you are informed ahead of time and buy, that’s totally cool. But if you are desiring a 100% Kona cup of coffee, stay away from blends. Only buy ones labeled 100% Kona.

To get even more technical, when you buy a bag marked Estate Kona coffee you are getting coffee beans grown exclusively on the company’s own property. A lot of larger coffee farms will buy Kona coffee from other smaller farms, usually ones who have only 5 acres and don’t sell it themselves.

When are Kona Coffee Farm’s Harvest Season?

Kona coffee cherries are ready for picking between August and January . But the cherries don’t ripen all at once and have to be picked in “waves”. A single branch will have a rainbowed color of ripe levels from green to black. 

For the best of the best only the red-orange/red cherries are handpicked, leaving behind the green/yellow cherries until they are fully ripened a couple weeks later. If not picked in time the cherry turns black as it begins to mold.

This means that a single coffee tree will be harvested multiple times during harvest season. 

During the harvesting season, Kona coffee farmers are always looking for pickers. If you are interested in making an extra buck call around and see who’s hiring!

Learn about the Big Island’s other coffee: Ka’u Coffee

History of Kona Coffee Farms

For the history buffs, here’s a quick run down on the history of coffee on the Big Island. Kona coffee has a 200 year old on-again/off-again story. 

1820s – Brazilian coffee was introduced to Oahu and planted. 1828 – Coffee from Oahu was planted in the Hilo area; Reverend Samuel Ruggles planted a Hilo seedling in Kona; sugar plantation owners switched to coffee 1850s – coffee crops were destroyed due to weather and pests; ladybugs introduced to help with pest control; Henry Nicholas Greenwell planted coffee in the Kona area 1892 – Hermann Wideman introduced a Guatemalan coffee bean to the Big Island, what is known today as Kona Typica 1899 – the world coffee market crash causes coffee prices to plunge due to oversupply; coffee plantations switch back to sugar.  1917-18 – WWI brings a demand for domestic coffee and a Brazilian frost destroys its coffee causing a worldwide shortage. 1929 – coffee prices plummet due to Great Depression 1940s – during WWII coffee demand rose and Hawaiian coffee production picked back up. 1960s – tourism to the Big Island grew and Kona coffee sales rose 1970s – saturated coffee market brings low prices and high costs plus a labor shortage 1980s – coffee prices rise again and Kona coffee gains a reputation as specialty coffee 1991 – Statute HRS 486-120.6 law allows for a Kona blend that may contain only 10% Kona coffee but must be labeled as such(remember that Kona blend rant?) 1990s – Michael Norton misleads consumers by selling cheap Central American coffee as 100% Kona coffee, thus causing the government to require a certification from the State of Hawaii Department of Agriculture to legitimize the coffee beans.

You Might Also Like These Other Farms on the Big Island: • Lavaloha Chocolate Farm • Kona Sea Salt Farm • Vanilla Farm

Epilogue: Best Kona Coffee On the Big Island

You might have typed “Kona coffee farm tour near me” and found too many farms to count.

Finding the best coffee farm on the Big Island can be a difficult venture, especially because there are so many and everyone has their own coffee palette. 

These Kona coffee farms and cafes encompass what I believe to have good quality, ambience, and an almost guaranteed positive experience. 

🌺 Big Island Travel Planning Guide 🌺

🚨  Should I buy Hawaii travel insurance?

YES  — I recommend Travel Insurance Master because you can compare multiple options with one click. With plans starting at $5/day per person, why not give yourself piece of mind? Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!

 🚗 Is it safe to rent a car on the Big Island?

YES — It’s totally safe to drive on the Big Island. And unless you plan to chill by the resort pool the entire time, renting a car is pretty much a necessity on the Big Island! Jeep rentals are popular . I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental , as they have some of the best prices around.

📞  Will my phone work on the Big Island?

PROBABLY  — Most, if not all, cell providers work on the Big Island. However, be prepared for some dead spots in the more remote parts of the island. For example, I always lose service driving through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

🛏️  What’s the best way to book my Big Island accommodations?

For Big Island hotels,  Booking.com is amazing because you can often reserve your room with no money down. If you are looking for an Airbnb condo with a kitchen and more space, don’t forget to check VRBO  for potentially better prices and options.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Big Island flights?

I recommend looking at Skyscanner for finding cheap flights. Pro Tip : check if flying into Hilo is cheaper than flying into Kona.

🛂  Do I need a passport to visit Hawaii?

NO  — If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport as Hawaii is part of the United States . If you are from out of the country, the same passport and visa requirements are the same as entering anywhere in the United States from your country.

🧳 What should I pack to the Big Island?

Pack for tropical weather but also prepare for colder than expected nights and early mornings, so a light sweatshirt is recommended. Check out this list of 5 Things Not to Forget to Pack .

Aloha! I'm Tabitha, an ex-travel agent turned travel blogger. I've lived from fire (Big Island Hawaii) to ice (Alaska) to the lukewarm (Washington State). I've traveled Europe, Scotland and England being my favorite, Costa Rica, Cancun, Canada, various US states, and more. No matter if it's a staycation or international vacation, every trip I take there are things to explore and discover! I'm here to take what I learn and help others think outside the box when composing their own travel itineraries.

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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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Buddha’s Cup

With an award-winning roster of organic Kona coffee and tea, it would be easy for this five-plantation farm to coast by on the quality of their products. Instead, they’ve gone above and beyond to provide an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience.

Tour this lush, gorgeous estate on an ATV and you’ll come face to face with more than just coffee – the Buddha’s Cup property is also home to a wide variety of farm animals and fruit trees. Book your family-friendly, COVID-safe tour today!

GreenWell Farms

GreenWell Farms provides free, escorted tours of their organic coffee fields and state-of-the-art processing facility every half hour from 9:00 am-3:00 pm every day. Planning a visit? Guests are encouraged to arrive 10-15 minutes before their desired start time.

Hala Tree Coffee organizes free hour-long tours of their beautiful organic coffee and tea farm overlooking Kona’s picturesque south coast. Tours are available Monday through Friday and include a sample tasting. Advanced booking is recommended.

Heavenly Hawaiian

The Heavenly Hawaiian coffee farm provides tours from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Saturday. These “Farm to Cup” tours provide an in-depth look at the coffee farm and culminate in a fresh coffee tasting on the authentic Hawaiian lanai.

Holualoa Kona Coffee Company

Located off the Mamalahoa Hwy in Holualoa, The Holualoa Kona Coffee Company provides visitors with access to self-guided, COVID-safe tours of their beautiful, certified-organic Kona Le’a plantation from 8 am to 3 pm, Monday to Friday.

Hula Daddy Kona Coffee provides tours of their coffee orchard and roasting room from Monday to Friday between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. Tours are available in Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin, but advanced notice is required.

Kona Coffee & Tea Company

Located on the slopes of Hualalai, the Kona Coffee & Tea Company converted an old 20-acre cattle farm into a single estate sustainable Kona coffee plantation that has since grown to 200 acres. Reserve your tour of this family-owned farm today.

Mountain Thunder Kona Coffee

In addition to multiple free first-come-first-serve tasting sessions and tours of their mill, Mountain Thunder offers guided nature walks through their property, as well as private vehicle tours and a VIP 2-hour Roast Master experience.

Rooster Farms

Rooster Farms has been certified organic for 30+ years, making them the oldest certified organic coffee farm in the Kona District. 45 minute – 1.5-hour free tours of the grounds are available but they must be reserved in advance

Ueshima Coffee (UCC Hawaii)

From their gorgeous estate just north of Holualoa Village, Ueshima Coffee offers access to Kona coffee tours by reservation only. Tours include a visit to their full coffee shop, where they make delicious RTD (ready to drink) beverages.

Other Kona Coffee Farms

Bay view farms, bong brothers coffee co., cedar house coffee farm, kona lisa coffee, dragon’s lair estate, hilo coffee mill, island moon coffee company, island sun coffee, ka hua o`kona estate coffee, koa organic coffee plantation, kona blue sky coffee estate, kona coffee living history farm, kona joe coffee, kona kulana farms, kona pacific farmers cooperative, kona star farms, kuaiwi farm, long ears coffee co, mahina mele farm, old hawaiian coffee, pele plantations, mamalahoa hwy, rancho aloha, sugai kona coffee, sunshower coffee farm.

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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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Why Coffee Is So Popular In Hawaii: Kona Coffee

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A Guide to the Best Coffee Farms and Tours on the Big Island of Hawaii

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The Big Island of Hawaii is not only known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, but it’s also a coffee lover’s paradise. The island boasts some of the most exceptional coffee in the world, thanks to its unique microclimates, fertile volcanic soil, and skilled coffee growers. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, visiting the Big Island is a must, as it provides the perfect opportunity to explore coffee farms and learn about the art of coffee cultivation and production. With the 52nd annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival starting today, 11/03/23, we decided to dedicate this blog to Kona Coffee and take you on a journey through the best coffee farms and tours on the Big Island of Hawaii.

The Kona Coffee Belt

Before we delve into specific coffee farms and tours, it’s important to understand the significance of the Kona Coffee Belt. Kona coffee is renowned for its exquisite flavor and is a source of pride for Hawaiians. The Kona Coffee Belt, located on the west side of the Big Island, offers the ideal conditions for growing coffee beans, including rich volcanic soil, moderate rainfall, and a consistent climate with sunny mornings and rainy afternoons. This unique microclimate contributes to the distinct flavor profile of Kona coffee.

Greenwell Farms

Greenwell Farms, located in the heart of Kona, is one of the oldest and most respected coffee farms on the island. Established in 1850, Greenwell Farms has been perfecting the art of coffee cultivation for generations. They offer a variety of tours, from the informative farm tour to the hands-on “create your own blend” experience.

Free Guided Farm Tours: complimentary guided tours of the coffee farm and processing facilities daily from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 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.

Deluxe Tour and Tasting: If you want an intimate, exclusive farm experience, please consider the 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, the wet mill, the nursery, and the 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 Art of Coffee: Manual Brewing Class: What’s the point of buying amazing coffee and not having the skills to get the best flavors from it? The Art of Coffee: Manual Brewing Class and 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. You will explore recipe variations and how each method changes the final cup profile. Now that you are on vacation, take a breath and learn how to make your coffee 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.

For more details about the farm and the tours, visit their website .

Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation

Situated in the beautiful Kona cloud forest, the Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation offers a unique and picturesque setting for a coffee tour. This family-owned and operated farm takes pride in producing organic, handcrafted coffee.

Farm Tour: The farm tour at Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation is an immersive experience. You’ll walk through the lush coffee fields, surrounded by native Hawaiian plants and trees. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about coffee, and they’ll provide you with a thorough understanding of the entire coffee-making process. The tour ends with a coffee-tasting session featuring some of their finest brews.

Holualoa Kona Coffee Company

Holualoa Kona Coffee Company is a charming, family-run operation that captures the essence of Kona coffee traditions. The farm is nestled in the quaint village of Holualoa, and their tours offer a personalized and intimate experience.

Farm Tour: The farm tour at Holualoa Kona Coffee Company is known for its warmth and hospitality. You’ll gain insights into the history of Kona coffee and the techniques passed down through generations. The farm offers roasting tours Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Hula Daddy Kona Coffee

Hula Daddy Kona Coffee is a small, award-winning coffee farm that produces some of the finest coffee in the Kona region. Their commitment to quality and sustainability sets them apart.

Farm Tour: The farm tour at Hula Daddy is not only informative but also highly educational. You’ll see the entire coffee production process, from tree to cup. The tour ends with a tasting session featuring a variety of their coffee, allowing you to appreciate the nuances in flavor.

You can book the tours online here .

UCC Hawaii Kona Coffee Estate

UCC Hawaii Kona Coffee Estate is a gem nestled in the heart of the Kona Coffee Belt. They combine traditional coffee farming methods with modern technologies to produce top-quality beans.

ROASTMASTER TOUR™: Try your hand at the century-old craft of coffee roasting and roast your “one of a kind” private reserve. Our Roaster Guide will assist and instruct you in different roasting methods and roasting techniques. Create your own private coffee label and custom roast for a truly distinct signature coffee of your own. Great for gifts from your Hawaii vacation, weddings, or commemoration of your time in Hawaii. INCLUDES ½ pound of 100% pure Kona coffee green beans and your own private label.

Estate Tour: Learn How the Finest Kona Coffee is Grown: Tour the beautiful 26-acre Kona Coffee Estate, just north of Holualoa Village, with breathtaking views of Kailua-Kona Village and Kailua Bay. The hands-on estate tour provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about how coffee is grown in Kona. Sample the Estate-grown coffee and shop for unique and interesting gifts made on the islands.

Coffee Harvest Experience Tour: Seasonal Only! Learn from picking Kona coffee to processing coffee in this harvest experience tour: After visiting the popular town of Kona and a photo shoot spot for a commemorative photo, you can visit the agricultural field where you can overlook the coast, walk 200m down the farm, and harvest the red Kona coffee cherries via hand picking. You can also learn the rest of the milling process. (weighing > washing > sorting > pulping > drying). Participate in this seasonal tour, which you can only experience during the harvest season.

Kona Joe Coffee

Kona Joe Coffee is famous for its patented Trellis® growing system, which allows coffee to be grown on trellises for easier harvesting and increased productivity. The farm’s unique approach to coffee farming sets it apart.

Farm Tour: The farm tour at Kona Joe Coffee is a fascinating experience. You’ll see the innovative Trellis® system in action, learn about the coffee-growing process, and enjoy a tasting session featuring their coffee. The farm’s picturesque location overlooking the Pacific Ocean adds to the charm.

Coffee Processing Tour: For a more in-depth understanding of coffee processing, consider their specialized tour. You’ll get to see the various stages of coffee production up close, from harvesting to roasting, and understand how each step impacts the final flavor.

52nd annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival (Kona, Nov. 3-12)

The ten days of events, including the Made In Hawai’i Artisan Market, Lantern Parade, Multicultural Showcase, Miss Kona Coffee and Little Miss Kona Coffee scholarship competitions, Kona’s Got Talent Showcase, and much more, honor the region’s cultural heritage and celebrate the accomplishments of generations of Kona coffee pioneers, farmers and artisans.

The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival experience is unique and enriching and ensures the story of the region’s cultural heritage continues to be shared with residents and visitors.

For more information or to purchase tickets to events, click here .

Taking part in the Festival or visiting the coffee farms on the Big Island of Hawaii is a delightful journey for coffee lovers and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re interested in the traditional Kona coffee farms or the innovative techniques used by modern coffee producers, you’ll find a wealth of knowledge and flavors waiting for you. Take the time to explore the rich history and diverse flavors of Hawaiian coffee while enjoying the island’s natural beauty and warm hospitality. Each farm offers a unique experience, so don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a coffee adventure in this tropical paradise. Your taste buds and caffeine cravings will thank you!

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Incredible Kona Coffee Farms You Can Visit

Deciding on a special big island trip but also wondering what kona coffee tours are worth going to. i know some of the greatest kona coffee farms for tours that are awesome, this list of the best kona coffee farms to visit was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) 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..

Want great Kona coffee tours?

There are a ton of Hawaiian coffee plantations. Coffee tours found at Big Island are super popular as well.

Here are some amazing coffee farms in Hawaii for great Kona coffee tours.

Coffee beans were harvested and also ground and brewed! Kona is great for fantastic coffee tours!

With Hawaii’s beautiful views, this pairs amazingly well when you have a nice Kona coffee in your hands.

For a great Hawaiian vacation, visit a Hawaii coffee farm for a tour that you’ll never forget! No matter who you are, especially if you love coffee, you won’t regret this trip.

Why turn to me for Hawaii advice? I’ve been there over 40 times and gathered lots of tips!

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

Kona Coffee History

In the past, Kona coffee was quite rare. Fortunately, this number started to increase rapidly when coffee trees were increasing in number around late 1820.

The Manoa Valley received a few of these Kona seeds until they were moved to Kona. The plants taste best when they feast on volcanic soil, something that was perfect for Kona.

While that’s a brief summary of coffee, the whole story would be pages on pages of text. Even though Kona coffee can be so popular now, it took many decades until it became popular. 

For around 200 years, Kona coffee has become a staple of Hawaiian coffee!

3 Facts About Kona Coffee 

They grow in special, volcanic soil.

It wouldn’t be too unexpected to grow from volcanoes that generate such soil for its extraordinary flavor. Volcanoes erupted over the years, leading to the soil you see now in Hawaii.

The ash from the volcanoes was now soil, making it great for this special drink’s perfect quality, richness, and taste.

Kona Coffee Was Originally a Brazillian Bean!

Even though it’s popular in Hawaii, it’s not truly native to Hawaii. In 1828, these beans were brought from Brazil and soon started to grow!

These Coffee Beans Can Only Taste Great if Made at Kona

It’s the place perfect for this coffee’s weathering conditions.

It’s sunny in the morning but tends to be much rainier around the afternoon times. Light winds around the area also make Kona coffee much tastier.

Where to Find the Hawaiian Coffee Plantations

These are grown in areas that have high elevations. They also need to be constantly covered by Volcanic clouds, creating ideal environments for the beans.

While tons of farms exist, some don’t allow Kona coffee tours. However, the Cultural Kona Coffee Festival is a special event for many people.

Why are Kona Coffee Plants so Special?

Its flavor and aroma as well as its freshness and quality, make this coffee some of the best out there. They’re also graded to ensure the best Kona experience.

Kona Coffee Grading System

The Kona bean starts as berries and is pulped, then dried, and then hulled.

Then, the beans get grades based on their shape. A machine sorts the beans based on their sizes and shapes.

Most of the unique Kona coffee uses different grades such as prime, No.1, fancy, and extra fancy.

However, some special grades are included when a peaberry form with another coffee bean to give super special flavors.

Roasting Process

The Kona coffee gets roasted based on the dryness of the item. Processors can make fantastic coffee if they do well!

French usually make dark roasts which are also called Italian and/or Espresso. Full-City and Vienna are the names for medium roasts.

How to Know it’s True Kona Coffee

If the label says 100% Pure Kona Coffee , it means it’s true Kona Coffee.

If it says Kona Blend, it’s not true Kona coffee. These usually refer to a blend that has 10% Kona coffee. 

If on a Kona farm, you’ll be in luck as finding 100% Kona will be no problem.

The Best Kona Coffee Farms Worth Visiting

These are all Kona coffee plantations you can stop by on your own. Most don’t require advanced reservations.

1. Royal Kona Coffee Center

You can examine the process of their coffee beans here! You can also see how it’s roasted and graded by checking their coffee beans by looking at their unique processing plant.

If you’re lucky, you may even be able to go inside the lava tubes.

Find it here in this spot: 83-5427 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704

2. Greenwell Farms

To learn about some of the best Kona coffee farms, go to Greenwell Farms ‘ finding 100% Kona Coffee right before a 45-minute tour with guides will treat you.

They will show you the process of making these beans and learn how they turn into coffee and are harvested.

They also don’t require the needy reservations. You’ll only need to wait around 10 minutes.

Greenwell Farms can be found at 81-6581 Mamalahoa Highway Kealakekua, Hawaii 96750

3. Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm

They have three tours. If you want, you can check out this tour review .

For $8, you’ll go through an hour-long trip through how Kona coffee is made here from start to finish. Check the latest rates and availability .

You can also take the Paniolo Roasting tour . Its length is about 45 minutes and costs around $45. You’ll learn Hawaiian cowboy history and how Kona coffee went through the years and how to make it traditional. Check the latest rates and availability .

Lastly, the Brew Your Best Cup tour is around 60 minutes to 90 minutes, while It costs $55. It teaches you how to brew amazing coffee. Check the latest rates and availability .

Find it here at 78-1136 Bishop Rd Holualoa, HI 96725

4. Hula Daddy

The Hula Daddy tour teaches you how coffee is created from start to finish.

This Kona coffee plantation is also known for being eco-friendly. They have planted seventeen thousand trees to reduce their carbon footprint. 

It’s about $30 per person and lasts about an hour long.

Visit here at 74-4944 Mamalahoa Hwy Holualoa, HI 96725

5. Kona Joe

This is quite an interesting Kona coffee plantation. For this place, you can find various tours.

They have self-guided tours for free and offer guided tours that offer videos, coffee, and tour you around the farm. They also give you gifts of coffee, chocolate, and coffee gifts.

They also allow you to roast your own coffee. Create very custom recipes while you’re given tips on how to make the best coffee you’ve ever tasted.

They also offer combined tours which are the same as standard tours but you can make your own coffee. It costs around $15.

The Ultimate tour is 2 hours long while you can Make 5 pounds of Kona coffee.

You can also pick coffee on your own, which is unlike any other place in the United States of America.

Find it here at 79-7346 Mamalohoa Highway, Kealakekua, HI 96750

6. Mountain Thunder

A place that’s next to a volcano and three thousand feet above the sea!

They have free Mountain Thunder tours . You can check the process of growing coffee.

You can also take Nature Trail Walks and check out plantations, plants, and lava. It costs $10 per group of people.

Found in the location: 73-1942 Ha’o Street Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Kona Coffee Tours to Book

1. coffee farm tour, brewery and kona cloud forest sanctuary.

To see all the magical places Kona coffee has to offer, check these out to go on a very special journey.

You’ll see how coffee beans are grown, but also get to have some lunch and even get to drink some beer.

You can also see a ton of the plants as well as all the different species of birds that live in the area as well. Check rates here .

2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Greenwell Farms Coffee Tour 

When you visit the National Park , you’ll be able to see tons of volcanoes that will be so interesting, you will never forget it!

Greenwell Farms also offer their coffee as well as their picnic lunches. You can also look into their tubes of lava! Check rates here .

3. Kona Chocolate, Coffee, and Soap Tour

These tours will educate you all about the history of coffee and chocolate came to be. You’ll learn about Kona coffee and chocolate and be able to sample some of them.

You’ll also be able to see some of the fabulous and unique soaps that they have to offer. They don’t have scents. Check rates here .

4. Circle Island & Kona Joe Coffee Tour

Awards have been offered to these tours and Kona coffee plantations. Go here to look at some of the best looks and taste Kona coffee you’ll ever taste.

They also have a ton of giant turtles around the area. They also give you photos and lunch. Check rates here .

5. Bee Farm Tour, Kealakekua Bay, and Greenwell Farms

To learn about the culture and history of the area, this one is for you.

They’ll show you sacred areas that once existed tons of time ago. There are also a ton of sea turtles as well.

You can also get a ton of fresh, tasty Kona coffee. Check rates here.

Kona Coffee Farms FAQs

It can, and one of the most popular kinds of Hawaiian coffee is Kona coffee. It’s one of the most popular coffees in America, and coffee farms in Hawaii are known to have such amazing beans for coffee.

In Hawaii, more than 650 different kinds of coffee farms. While many are different sizes and are around 20 miles apart from each other, that’s still a surprising number!

While prices change constantly, one of the most expensive kinds of coffee is actually Kona coffee. It’s rare and super high in demand. An average-sized cup of Kona coffee can cost as much as $8.00.

Big Island Coffee Farms Wrap Up

After reading this, you should know about all the great tours there and how to plan a perfect trip, especially if you’re a coffee lover. Hopefully, you can also figure out how to get some free coffee and chocolate on the road.

The coffee here is fantastic, and the tours make it even better. You can also communicate with farms in the area for a bonus.

I hope that you’ve found this article a way of enjoying the best Hawaiian trip, and you’ll be able to have the best experience ever!

Looking for more things to do on the Big Island? Check out my list of budget-friendly Big Island activities , the coolest chocolate farm tours , things to do with kids on the Big Island , and the prettiest Big Island waterfalls !

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Big Island Buzz: 5 Best Coffee Farms and Tours on Big Island, Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most beautiful islands in the world and has the most amazing people. When most people think of Hawaii, they think of pineapples and coconuts, not coffee. However, Hawaii produces some of the best coffee in the world and is the only US state that produces coffee. 

Even if you are visiting Hawaii on vacation, you should at least try and go on a Hawaiian coffee tour. It is a remarkable experience that allows you to see a different side of the island. 

The following is the ultimate Hawaiian coffee tour guide:

Kona View Coffee Farm

Kona coffee is renowned all over Hawaii and the United States, and Kona View Coffee Farm produces some of the best coffee to come out of the state. The farm is on three acres of land on the slopes of Hualalai. The elevation and soil on the farm are perfect for producing the famous Kona coffee. 

You might get a chance to pass by the farm during the Hawaii Ironman world championship , and barefoot shoes are an excellent idea for the race. It would be best to pass by Kona View coffee farm during harvest season between August and December. All the coffee is roasted on-site, and you can order roast on any day of the week.

Hula Daddy Coffee Farm

When you enter Hula Daddy Coffee Farm, you will be forgiven for thinking you are trespassing because of the small charming house and traditional rocking chairs. However, the farm produces some of the best coffee in Hawaii. The tour only costs fifteen dollars which is a steal considering the attention to detail and information you get on the tour. 

The guides are passionate about coffee and the surrounding land, which is very apparent and enriches the tour. The farm has excellent reviews, especially about the guides who make it so easy to understand anything about Hawaiian coffee.

Greenwell Farms

Greenwell Farms is one of the largest and oldest coffee-producing farms in Hawaii. Hawaii remains a favorite vacation destination because of its history; the family-run farm has produced coffee since 1850. The farm and its staff are happy to share their history and spread the cheerful Aloha spirit. 

You will find an excellent immersive and educational tour of Greenwell Farms daily, including the processing facilities and coffee fields. You can enjoy free samples of 100% Kona coffee at their store. The variety of the coffee on the farm is what makes the tour so good.

Buddha’s Cup

Buddha’s cup coffee farm is as unique as its name. Once you arrive at the sanctuary, you will get ATVs which you board to experience one of the best coffee tours in Hawaii. The tour only costs about $20, and you will experience magnificent sights on Buddha’s Cup. You can pick fresh fruit all over the sanctuary as you see the coffee trees and berries. 

You can then return to the shop, where you can sample edibles made from farm ingredients. The nut trees, in particular, are a crowd favorite in Buddha’s cup and bode very well when blended with the coffee.

Heavenly Hawaiian

It does not get more heavenly on the island than a tour of Heavenly Hawaiian coffee farms. The farm is located high on the slopes of Holualoa and deep inside Kona. Heavenly Hawaiian comprises three major farms, each producing its type of coffee. 

All three coffee varieties from Heavenly Hawaiian have won multiple awards, so the tasting on the tour is fantastic. It would be best if you tried to catch the Brewing Workshop, which is informative and delightful.

Hawaiian coffee does not get as much praise as it should. A tour of the above Hawaiian coffee farms will make you start buying Hawaiian coffee when you return home. Immerse yourself in the experience, and you will make lifetime memories of exploring the beautiful coffee farms.

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Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm Tour 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 read a full review of the heavenly hawaiian coffee farm tour on the big island., this review of the heavenly hawaiian coffee farm tour on the big island was co-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..

Guest post by Sinead at Map Made Memories

We visited Heavenly Hawaiian during a two-week stay on the Big Island as part of our family gap year.

Our family likes to support independent, family-owned businesses when we travel, particularly those with an environmentally friendly outlook. We like to shop local and learn about local produce and handicrafts in the destinations we visit.

During our travels, we have visited tea plantations, fruit, and cocoa farms so it was a natural choice to visit a Kona coffee farm whilst staying on the Big Island.

We prefer small groups or personalized tours to large-group or scheduled tours. I did a lot of research before choosing a Kona coffee plantation tour and, of all the coffee farms near Kona , Heavenly Hawaiian ticked all our boxes. 

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.

Kona Coffee Tours FAQs

You’ll find the best coffee plantations in Kona on the northwest and southwest parts of the Big Island of Hawaii in the greater Kailua-Kona area.

The magic that makes Kona coffee so popular has to do with the specific location where the plants grow. They grow along the slopes of volcanoes, which means the soil is rich in volcanic elements. Plus the high elevation, cloud coverage, and high temperatures make Kona the perfect place to grow coffee.

Absolutely! And there are no restrictions on how many bags of roasted or unroasted Kona coffee beans people can bring back home from Hawaii.

About Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm

Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm is a 40 acre, family-owned farm perched high on the western slopes of Hualalai Volcano. Many Kona coffee growers are based in this area due to the rich volcanic soil.

The award-winning coffee grown here includes Kona Silk, Kona Bold, and Big Bean Kona. The farm is also home to Konalani Coffee Bar which is Hawaii’s first, farm-side coffee bar.

Despite its size, Heavenly Hawaiian boasts green credentials. For example, the altitude and this specific location on the Big Island create an unusual microclimate.

As a result of this, the Kona coffee plants are able to grow without the need for additional watering. Only rainwater is used and harvested, to nurture the plants.

Furthermore, all the coffee grounds from the farm and cafe are composted and the farm maintains 30 beehives to encourage pollination of all the plant species on the farm.

Plus, Heavenly Hawaiian saves the coffee cherry skins (husks) after the beans have been removed. These skins are dehydrated to make a tea called cascara which you can buy on-site or sample in the Konalani Coffee Bar. 

Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Tour

What to expect on the tour.

Arrive early for your tour as, before the tour starts, guests are invited to enjoy complimentary, 100% Kona coffee tasting samples and sweet treats. The self-served coffee is centered around the farm’s swimming pool and on the lanai. It is a relaxing, convivial way to start a tour.

Coffee Crops

The Heavenly Hawaiian coffee farm tour starts in the crop fields a short walk from the main house. Families will learn how the Kona coffee tree is planted and nurtured (through pruning and fertilizing) as well as how and when the beans (called coffee cherries) are harvested.

You can walk amongst the plants which were in fragrant bloom when we visited. Our kids were surprised to learn that coffee cherries are not brown but bright red and are picked by hand when ripe.

Drying Beans

The tour progresses to large sheds where the beans are dried after their husks have been washed off. The painstaking and laborious task of raking (turning the coffee beans so that they can dry in the sun) is done by hand and takes many days. 

Heavenly Hawaiian does not roast their beans on-site so guests will not see this process but the guide will explain it to you. Our guide also covered the history of coffee growing in Hawaii and today’s rules and regulations for growing Kona coffee. 

Coffee Tasting

At the end of the tour, guests are invited to stay for as long as they like to enjoy the stunning views, colorful gardens and to visit the Konalani Coffee Bar. As well as sampling a range of coffee, I recommend trying the cascara tea which is delicious. There are cold brews and non-coffee drinks available for children. 

Before you leave the farm, visit the on-site store that sells the Heavenly Hawaiian coffee range in different weights.  Try some of the delicious treats on sale including the amazing Peaberry Bites which are Peaberry beans covered in chocolate. 

The Heavenly Hawaiian coffee farm tour is relaxed, fun, and informative. And, as children are free on the general tours, it is a fantastic value for money family activity.

We received a warm welcome at Heavenly Hawaiian and our children immediately felt at ease and comfortable enough to ask questions. After our guide learned that it was my birthday the following day, I was touched to be given a bag of coffee and candies as a birthday gift. 

Additional Coffee Tours at Heavenly Hawaiian

In addition to their general tours, Heavenly Hawaiian also offers a Paniolo Roast Tour . This 45-minute tour can be taken separately, or in addition to, the farm tour but must be booked in advance of your visit. 

During the tour, guests will learn the traditional Paniolo (cowboy) method of roasting coffee on a cast-iron skillet. At the end of the tour, you get to take home a bag of the coffee that you roasted. 

The Paniolo Roasting Tours run from Monday to Saturday with three tours daily at 10:15 am, 12:15 pm, and 2:15 pm. 

The tour costs $45 per person or $40 for two or more people. Groups are limited to 6 people and participants must be over 13 years old. 

Similarly, the Brew Your Best Cup Tour is offered to anyone over 13 years old. The tour runs from Tuesday to Saturday and starts at 9 am. It lasts for one hour and costs $55 per person.

As the name suggests, you will learn from the resident coffee experts how to make the perfect cup of Kona coffee.

What to Know about this Kona Coffee Tour Before You Go

Arrival and general tour information.

Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm is a short 20-minute drive from Kona, near the town of Holualoa. There is free parking available on the plantation adjacent to the main house. It cannot be reached by public transport.

Coffee tours run on the hour from 9 am to 4 pm and last approximately one hour. Tours are available every day except Sunday. 

How to Get Tickets

Tickets can be bought online in advance here and cost $8 per adult. Children are free.

The Highlights of this Kona Coffee Plantation Tour and What You Should Look Out For

For our family, the highlights of our tour were the incredible location and how our friendly guide interacted with our children.

The guide asked our children questions and allowed them to touch, smell and taste throughout the tour. This helped to engage and maintain their attention. 

Heavenly Hawaiian’s location is breathtaking with extensive views over the surrounding lush countryside and ocean. The gardens were tranquil and full of variety and color.

Sitting on the lanai looking out over the ocean, surrounded by Monstera and Rainbow Heliconia, whilst sipping the smoothest coffee I’ve ever tasted, is a memory I will cherish. 

Honest Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm Tour Review

Our family enjoyed our tour much more than we expected to and, given the option, we would return. We stayed a lot longer than our allotted one hour and learned a lot about coffee, coffee growing in Hawaii, and Hawaiian hospitality. 

This Kona coffee tour does not feel like a money-making exercise and proved to be excellent value for money.

You will leave Heavenly Hawaiian feeling that the family has shared with you their love and passion for coffee and for Hawaii.  

Kona Coffee Farm Tour Tips for Families

What to wear.

Wear closed-toe sandals or shoes for walking around the farm as the dirt tracks are unpaved. Pack a hat but also bring a light jumper for the cooler altitude temperatures. 

What to Bring

Bring a water bottle, sunscreen , and some cash to spend in the farm shop. You won’t be able to resist buying Heavenly Hawaiian coffee and treats to take home. 

Additional Tips

This is a small, family-run tour guided by people who work on the farm. Do not expect state-of-the-art presentations, multilingual tours, and professional tour guides. Instead, expect a warm Hawaiian welcome and a friendly, personalized tour. 

The tour involves walking and includes some slopes but it is easily managed by young children.

So, is the Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm Tour on the Big Island Worth It?

We loved our visit to Heavenly Hawaiian and found the coffee-making process fascinating. Once you have learned how much hard work and effort goes into producing each coffee bean, you will look at your daily cup of coffee with renewed appreciation. 

The setting alone is worth the trip. The welcome we received, plus the kindness we were shown, makes our Heavenly Hawaiian coffee tour one of our favorite memories of this very special island. It’s one of the best Kona coffee farms .

About Sinead

Sinead blogs about their family travel to over 36 countries at Map Made Memories , where you can read about our love of adventurous, sustainable, overland travel and traveling light. She aims to inspire other families to travel and explore with their kids, either in their own backyard or abroad, and not to wait until their children are older.

Looking for more things to do on the Big Island ? Check out this Lavaloha Chocolate Farm review , how to visit the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Factory , where to find the best coffee in Kona , review of the cultural ATV tour in Kona , and Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden review !

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The Best Coffee Farms On Hawaii’s Big Island

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There’s a reason why Kona coffee tastes so good — and it’s not just because it’s grown in the United States. The region of Kona, on the southern shore of Hawaii’s Big Island , has the perfect climate, elevation, and geology for producing coffee. The area’s volcanic soil neutralizes the natural bitterness of the coffee bean, resulting in smoother, more mellow coffee. While larger commercial farms use machines that strip the fruit off the trees or shake it to the ground, Kona is one of the last places in the world where the majority of farms still harvest by hand. One tree might be returned to up to five times to ensure that all the fruit is equally ripe. The result is magic, thanks to soil, sun, and soul.

Pay no attention to hotels or grocery stores offering a “Kona blend” coffee. There’s only one place to try authentic Hawaiian coffee, and that’s in Kona itself. The majority of coffee farms in Kona and farther afield happily offer guests free tours — and samples! I’ve been known to drink many a coffee sample (and buy even more to bring home), and these are the farms I recommend over the others.

Posted by Greenwell Farms on Friday, July 20, 2018

Best Tour: Greenwell Farms

If you have time for just one coffee farm, make it Greenwell Farms . This historic property offers a very comprehensive tour, and I loved the staff’s passion and enthusiasm. They do a fantastic job of explaining how coffee is farmed, produced, and roasted, as well as how coffee came to be associated with Hawaii. The farm has been owned by the same family for over a century, and it’s fair to say that the employees really know their stuff. The farm also offers the most generous selection of coffee samples; I tried eight different varieties!

Their next-door neighbor, the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum , is part of the Kona Historical Society and is well worth a visit. The employees bake fresh bread most Thursdays as part of their historical demonstrations — and, yes, I most certainly timed my coffee tour to coincide with the bread samples.

Best Views: Hula Daddy Kona Coffee

Part of what makes Kona such a great growing area is its elevation; it ensures that the crops get consistent moisture and daily light rain with a nice balance of sun. And that elevation comes with spectacular views. No vista in the area is so beautiful as the one that can be seen from Hula Daddy Kona Coffee ’s back deck. I loved it there. It was so relaxing, and I felt like I could sit back and soak up the views for hours. Hula Daddy stands out from the crowd by offering cream and sugar with its samples, which are served in tiny ceramic mugs. It also has a fascinating cupping room/kitchen/laboratory you can see — if you can tear yourself away from the deck.

Best Overall Coffee: Buddha’s Cup

I feel like I’m going to get into a lot of trouble by declaring that one particular farm has the best coffee in all of Kona. But it would be impossible to talk about who makes the finest cup without mentioning Buddha’s Cup . The company won the 2010 Kona Coffee Cupping Competition and took home third place in 2014. Its Imagine roast was rated 95 out of 100 by Sherri Johns, president of Whole Cup Coffee Consulting, giving Buddha’s Cup the highest score in Kona. If you’re going to splurge on some coffee beans to bring home to friends and family, the roasts from Buddha’s Cup will blow them away.

Kona Blue Sky Coffee

Best For Those Who Aren’t Big Coffee Fans: Kona Blue Sky Coffee

If you’re not a big coffee fan (say it ain’t so!), but you still really want to see what a farm is like, you need to visit Kona Blue Sky Coffee . The tour there focuses on the diverse and beautiful flowers, plants, and produce — not just coffee! I loved seeing all the fruit trees hidden amidst the lush, tropical plant life. The farm’s gift shop is a great source for local products like Hawaiian pancake mixes and macadamia nuts, plus mugs, shirts, and other gifts. Consider it a place with a little bit of everything for everyone.

Orange Grove / Shutterstock

Most Creative Products: Mountain Thunder

I’ll be honest: Of all the farms I toured, Mountain Thunder was my least favorite. It wasn’t that I didn’t enjoy my time there. I just felt that other properties offered a more personalized experience. Mountain Thunder has gotten a lot of publicity from television shows, and it’s more commercially focused than the other properties that harvest and roast by hand. However, the fluffy farm cats won me over, as did the unique selection of products made from by-products of the coffee bean. For instance, the red, pulpy berry that protects the coffee bean is rich in antioxidants and is used in many of the cosmetic products sold at Mountain Thunder. This would be a good stop for a coffee fanatic who wants to see as many farms and try as many products as possible.

Best Reason To Leave Kona: Ka’u Coffee Mill

It’s hard to drag yourself away from the amazing coffee farms of Kona, but if there’s one location worth traveling to visit, it’s the Ka’u Coffee Mill in the Ka’u district, east of Kona. The area was once known for sugar production, but coffee has since taken the lead. While the growing conditions in Ka’u are very, very similar to those in Kona, Ka’u coffee doesn’t yet have the name recognition — which means that its farms are less crowded and its coffee less expensive. The Ka’u Coffee Mill is a great place to start for tours and samples.

vamospuesandres / Shutterstock

Tips For Visiting A Coffee Farm

When you visit a Hawaiian coffee farm, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the product. This is no time to be shy! Start by taking small samples, in case you don’t enjoy a particular roast or blend, and try as many as possible. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with going back for seconds (or thirds… or fourths…). This is all about discovering new flavors.

However, if there’s no cream or sugar on display, don’t ask for it. In fact, you should expect most places to serve their samples as black coffee. The staff members want you to taste their coffee in its basic, unadulterated state. For people who are used to flavored lattes or iced coffees laden with cream and caramel, the taste of strong black coffee can take some getting used to! Start with the lightest roast and work from there.

Speaking of flavored coffee, it’s not as popular in Hawaii as it is in other states, and it’s not commonly found at coffee farms. However, some farms make their own blends using local vanilla and macadamia nut oils, and these are certainly worth trying.

The tours are free of charge, and there’s no obligation to tip the person who shows you around. However, it’s good form to make a small purchase at the gift shop. These are working farms, and it’s important to show your appreciation. Most offer goods beyond coffee, including local jam, honey, crafts, and — my personal favorite — used burlap sacks with the company’s logo. These sacks are used for storing and transporting coffee, and they are usually sold for just a few dollars.

Remember, these are farm shops, not farmers market stands. It’s not appropriate to bargain like you might at a farmers market. However, many farms will offer a better price if you’re buying 5 or 10 pounds of one variety. Don’t be afraid to politely ask.

PixieMe / Shutterstock

When To Go On A Coffee Tour

Many Kona farms experience light rain in the early afternoon. While this shouldn’t prevent you from touring, the mornings are usually the best time to go, weather-wise. After all, who doesn’t appreciate some caffeine to help them wake up?

February is the best time to see “Kona snow” — the small, white flowers blooming on the coffee trees. From a botanical point of view, coffee has a lot in common with gardenias, and you’ll smell the resemblance if you visit during a “snowstorm.”

By April and May, the blossoms evolve into the red “cherries” of the coffee tree, and these are really neat to see as well. However, no matter when you visit, there will be a lot to see and do — and taste!

Vanessa Chiasson is an award-winning freelance writer, editor, and blogger from Canada bringing warmth and depth to travel and human interest narratives. In the industry since 2012, Vanessa coaches writers from all backgrounds, areas of focus, and experience levels on developing business strategies that support their artistic endeavors. She chronicles her cozy travel adventures at TurnipseedTravel .

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Coffee-Lovers Guide to the Best Coffee Shops on the Big Island

Whether we’re on our way to work, or on vacation in paradise, one thing remains true for many of us: we need our coffee fix. Luckily, Hawaii’s Big Island is a bit of a mecca for high-quality coffee. Home of the world-renowned Kona coffee bean, there is an abundance of unique coffee shops serving up delicious drinks sprinkled across the island.

This round-up features 14 of our favorites, in no particular order. While they differ in style, location, and menu, each of these cafes has one thing in common… tasty coffee treats that will have you running back for more.

HiCO Hawaiian Coffee

Located in Kailua-Kona on Hawaii’s West Coast, HiCO Hawaiian Coffee serves specialty coffees, cocktails, breakfast, and a variety of vegan options. In addition to coffeeshop standards like lattes and nitro cold brews, they offer decidedly Hawaiian options, like an ube sweet cream cold brew, and a Maui lavender latte.

Plus, all their coffee drinks are made from 100% Hawaiian-grown beans. In addition, the owners are committed to giving back to ocean cleaning and conservation efforts through donations, hosting events, and fundraising.

Kona Coffee and Tea

This place brings “local” to the next level. Their coffee is grown on their single-estate farm, and then small-batch roasted right in Kona, meaning the coffee beans never leave a 10-mile radius of the shop.

Kona Coffee and Tea on Palani Road in Kailua-Kona offers up chill, tropical vibes alongside traditional coffee drinks like lattes, flat whites, cold brews, cortados, and cappuccinos. They also serve an assortment of exotic teas like mamaki mint, coffee cherry, and matcha and chai tea lattes. A rotating deli menu and selection of beer, wine, hard ciders, and seltzers round out the menu.

Kaya’s Kawanui

In a veritable sea of coffee shop choices on the Big Island, Kaya’s 100% organic menu sets them apart. This kid- and dog-friendly café in the West Coast village of Kealakekua serves up espresso, a variety of coffee drinks, 30 varieties of tea, and a selection of kombucha on tap. Our personal favorites were the decadent lavender cardamom mocha and black flower chai.

Their food menu includes lots of options for vegetarians, vegans, and those following a gluten-free diet. In addition, they offer an assortment of locally sourced art, jewelry, clothing, and other gifts and trinkets.

Kona Joe Coffee

Want to see your coffee creations come to life before your very eyes? Just jet on down the Mamalahoa Highway to Kona Joe Coffee for far more than a simple cup of coffee.

By taking their tour, you’ll get to see just why their beans are the best of the best by exploring their trellis-style coffee plantation. Then, sign up for a trip through the roasting room to see how they turn their fresh beans into brewable delights.

After that, you can kick back and sample all their latest creations – or order up your favorite drink made with their house-grown and roasted beans. Either way, you’ll want to take your time to fully savor all the flavors before you.

Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm

Not only is our next choice a coffee shop, but it’s also a fully functioning coffee farm offering daily tours and tastings. If you want to learn where your coffee comes from and see how it’s made, this is a must-see destination, Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm is conveniently located in the West Coast town of Holualoa.

Konalani is their on-site specialty coffee bar, situated right on the farm. In addition, to pour-overs and cold brews featuring a variety of native coffee bean varieties, they also offer a diverse selection of iced and hot tea drinks including raspberry or spiced matcha, and a London fog. A rotating seasonal menu of Italian sodas will keep the keiki happy, too!

Waimea Coffee Company

With locations in Waimea and Hawi, this crew has been serving up award-winning coffee and food for 25 years. The rustic, relaxing Waimea Coffee Company environment and friendly staff serve up a full menu of breakfasts, lunches, smoothies, and acai bowls daily. Trust us when we tell you that the food, ranging from a lox bagel to a breakfast salad, to mango and super greens acai bowl is worth a visit even if you aren’t a coffee fan.

That said, coffee aficionados and casual drinkers alike will find something that meets their caffeine needs here. While their coffee offerings are relatively straightforward, including familiar favorites like macchiatos, cappuccinos, pour overs, and cold brews, the quality of the coffee elevates them all to the next level.

Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation

This functioning coffee farm is located 3,200 feet above sea level, near Kailua-Kona, on the slopes of the Hualalai Volcano. The unique climate and rich soil contribute to the uniqueness and quality of the world-famous Kona coffee beans grown here.

While not a traditional coffee shop, the Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation does offer guided tours and free tastings of their different bean varieties, as well as an assortment of baked goods and snacks. This is a great place to take in breathtaking views and learn about the Hawaiian coffee trade while getting a firsthand taste of their delicious products.

Hilo Coffee Mill

At the Hilo Coffee Mill , they love to treat everyone to an educational journey through the world of coffee. Their seasoned employees proudly take their visitors on guided tours across their coffee and tea fields, drying house, and roasting room. Once you make it to their retail area, you’ll get an inside look at how they brew up your favorite drinks as well.

After that, it’s time to sample all their most popular roasts, and then get whatever else you’d like from the Latte da Bar. Their fresh brewed coffee is the name of the game, of course, but they also have all the breakfast and lunch items you could want.

Green Flash Coffee

This small, family-owned, and operated outpost is centrally located on Alii Drive adjacent to Kailua Kona Village. In addition to classic coffee drinks, Green Flash Coffee offers some uniquely decadent concoctions.

For those with a sweet tooth, we recommend the gianduja mocha, which blends chocolate, hazelnut, espresso, and milk to create an unforgettable drink that’s good at any time of day.  The Mauna Kea mocha puts a new spin on a mocha drink, combining white chocolate, macadamia nut, espresso, and frothed milk. And for those looking for a caffeine boost of seismic proportions, there’s the Earthquake. This high-octane offering consists of 4 shots of espresso, chocolate, and a splash of milk. That’s enough to ward off even the most intense jet lag!

Tea:licious Café

Tea lovers, this one is for you! Located in Kona, this hidden gem serves up freshly baked pastries, quick bites, and a variety of local and international loose-leaf teas. Additionally, Tea:licious Cafe offers a takeout picnic box for two, which includes freshly baked bread and an assortment of charcuterie offerings. It’s a perfect grab-and-go for a day at the beach!

Their teas range from English breakfast to Moroccan mint to mamakai lemon. An offering of tea lattes offers lush drinks that will warm you from the inside out. For those looking for something special, look to their specialty tea drinks like coconut chai, matcha limeade, and a tea-based (alcohol-free) mojito. And don’t worry, coffee lovers, there’s a full coffee menu available for your enjoyment, as well.

Kona Coffee Café

Located in the center of Kailua-Kona, Kona Coffee Cafe offers sweeping ocean views which complement its robust slate of offerings. The café specializes in an assortment of drinks, all made with pure Kona coffee. The large menu includes brewed coffee, espresso drinks, smoothies, sodas, and more.

The café is also known for its Macadamia Nut Pies, which are available in three sizes and six flavors. While you’re there, try the “donkey balls,” which are coffee beans covered in dark and white chocolate.

Hilo Sharks Coffee

At Hilo Sharks Coffee, freshly-grown Hawaiian coffee, vanilla, and cacao come together beautifully. For over 24 years, Farmer Tom has focused on cultivating these three iconic island delights, allowing his team to create the best cups of coffee around.

It’s always wise to start your journey with a tour of the plantation to explore the growing and harvesting process in full. If that’s not quite enough time on the plantation, however, you’re welcome to stay through the weekend at their Zen Treehouse Retreat.

Their actual coffee shops are all now permanently closed, although that could change in the future. For now, you can buy their fresh-roasted beans and brew your own creations in your hotel room.

Papaaloa Joe Coffee

Whenever your travels land you in Honokaa, plan to make a stop at Papa’aloa Joe Coffee . At this quaint coffee shop, they only use 100% Hamakua coffee beans in all their creations. On top of that, they use proven brewing practices to take their roasts to the next level always.

As if that’s not enough, their amazing farm flavors elevate the freshly-brewed shots of espresso even more. Whether you order a latte, cappuccino, or something altogether different, you can get it hit with a dose of cloves, honey, ginger, turmeric, hibiscus, calamansi, lavender, or vanilla.

Kona Mountain Coffee

While this small-but-mighty shop may not have quite as extensive a menu as some of our other selections, they make up for what they lack in variety with their quality. Ordering is easy here: guests can choose from a coffee, cold brew, latte, cappuccino, mocha, or frappe. They can then customize their order with their choice of milk, and a variety of flavors ranging from vanilla to hazelnut to toffee.

Additionally, Kona Mountain Coffee offers tea selections including chai, matcha, and brewed teas. Pair your selection with any of a number of baked goods sourced from local bakeries to complete your tasty treat. And vegans, rejoice! The café also offers a selection of vegan sweets on a rotating basis.

Whether you’re looking for exotic treats or traditional coffee beverages, these 14 coffee shops on the Big Island will leave you feeling satisfied, caffeinated, and ready to take on all Hawaii has to offer. Enjoy your coffee adventures and let us know what items were your favorites!

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