Hawaii is renowned for its coffee farms that produce some of the world’s most exceptional coffee. The tropical climate and the high altitude of Hawaii’s volcanic soil provide the perfect environment for growing flavorful coffee beans.
Throughout Hawaii, there are many coffee farms that offer tours, tastings, and an opportunity to experience the process of coffee cultivation first-hand. We’ll provide an overview of the 16 best coffee farms in Hawaii.
Our purpose is to help coffee enthusiasts discover and appreciate the unique features and offerings of each farm, from the majestic scenery to the distinct flavors of the coffee beans.
We’ll delve into the details and facts, sharing additional insights and semantic richness, to help readers make informed decisions about their coffee farm visits in Hawaii.
1. Kona Joe Coffee Farm (Kealakekua)
Kona Joe Coffee Farm is a unique coffee plantation located in South Kona, Hawaii that focuses on producing high-quality, flavorful coffee using a revolutionary trellis-growing method.
Unlike traditional coffee production, Kona Joe Coffee uses this innovative technique that involves training their coffee plants to grow vertically along a trellis system, allowing for increased site density and offering more exposure to sun and air.
The coffee farm is nestled in the heart of the Kona Coffee Belt, a region known for producing some of the finest coffee in the world.
A. Trellis-Growing Method
The trellis-growing method used by Kona Joe Coffee involves a series of poles and wires that support the coffee plants, creating a vertical canopy. This technique allows for increased sunlight exposure, leading to a more flavorful coffee bean.
The trellis-growing method also results in a more sustainable coffee production process, as it reduces water usage and minimizes the need for chemicals and fertilizers.
This innovative method is a departure from traditional coffee production methods, such as the shade-grown technique, which yields a milder and less complex coffee flavor profile.
B. Ownership and History
Kona Joe Coffee is owned by California natives who fell in love with the Kona coffee region and its unique terroir.
They established the Kona Joe Coffee plantation in 2003, with a mission to produce the best coffee possible using sustainable and innovative practices.
Kona Joe Coffee has gained recognition and awards for its exceptional coffee, including the prestigious Specialty Coffee Association of America’s (SCAA) Coffee of the Year Award in 2005.
C. Kona Joe Coffee Tours
Kona Joe Coffee offers four tour options: a free self-guided tour, a guided walking tour with a tasting, a Coffee Roasting Experience, and the Ultimate Tour.
Visitors are advised to book their tours ahead of time to secure their spot and ensure a smooth experience.
Reviews from visitors praise the charming and knowledgeable staff, the breathtaking views of the coffee farm, and, of course, the exceptional coffee.
Kona Joe Coffee is a unique and innovative coffee farm that has gained recognition for its exceptional coffee production using the trellis-growing method.
The farm’s commitment to sustainability, combined with its focus on flavor, has led to a perennially popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
2. Greenwell Coffee Farms – A Rich History, Informative Tours, and Excellent Coffee
Greenwell Coffee Farms is not just a coffee farm but also a renowned tourist destination that provides visitors with a rich history of the coffee-growing industry in Hawaii. Hawaii is known worldwide for its unique coffee blends, and Greenwell Coffee Farms is one of the leading producers in Hawaii. Coffee has played an important role in Hawaii’s history, and Greenwell Coffee Farms has been a significant contributor to this legacy.
A. Location and Tradition
Greenwell Coffee Farms is located in the Kona Coffee Belt region of Hawaii, which has a long tradition of coffee farming. The region is known for its ideal climate conditions for coffee farming, and Greenwell Coffee Farms has been a part of this tradition for over a century.
Founded in 1850 by Henry Nicholas Greenwell, the farm has been passed down through several generations, and its rich tradition continues to this day. The mission and values of Greenwell Farms are rooted in sustainability, quality, and community engagement.
B. Tours and Educational Experience
Greenwell Coffee Farms offers a comprehensive educational experience with guided tours that take visitors through the entire process of coffee farming and processing.
The tours begin at the visitor’s center, where interactive displays educate guests on the history of coffee in Hawaii, the cherry growth process, and the roasting process.
Visitors can also participate in coffee cupping and sensory analysis, enabling them to appreciate the unique flavor notes that make Greenwell coffee stand out.
Guests can tour the coffee fields and get hands-on experience with farming and processing methods.
C. Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Greenwell Coffee Farms is committed to sustainable farming practices to minimize the environmental impact and maintain the quality of the coffee produced.
The farm utilizes natural pest management techniques, recycles water used in the processing of coffee, and composts waste material, reducing the farm’s carbon footprint.
Greenwell Farms collaborates with conservation organizations to protect biodiversity and plantation forests. The farm also partners with local organizations to promote community development, providing employment opportunities and supporting local businesses.
Greenwell Coffee Farms is more than just a coffee farm, it offers a unique experience for visitors that combines education, history, and sustainability. The farm’s dedication to quality and sustainability continues to make it one of the leading coffee producers in Hawaii.
3. Mountain Thunder Kona Coffee Plantation (Kailua-Kona)
Kona coffee is considered one of the best in the world due to its unique flavor and growing conditions, as it is grown only in the Kona district of Hawaii. Mountain Thunder Kona Coffee Farm is a 3,200 feet high plantation that offers a variety of tours and experiences for visitors to learn more about Kona coffee production.
Mountain Thunder Kona Coffee Farm offers visitors an excellent opportunity to learn about the unique process of Kona coffee farming while enjoying the scenic beauty of the plantation.
The various tour options available provide an interactive, hands-on experience that allows visitors to understand the effort that goes into every cup of Kona coffee.
With a commitment to sustainable, organic practices and high-quality production, Mountain Thunder Kona Coffee Farm offers a genuine, authentic experience that is not to be missed.
A. Tour Options
Mountain Thunder offers both free and VIP tours for visitors. Guests are greeted by ducks, chickens, dogs, and the resident cat as they tour the plantation.
During the tour, guests can visit the retail store and browse through the selection of Kona coffee and teas offered for sale. All aspects of the business are also covered during the tour.
The Nature Walk takes visitors throughout the property, showcasing the fields, lava tubes, and an observation deck with scenic views.
- The lava tubes are remnants of the ancient volcanic activity that shaped the land and created a unique environment for Kona coffee growth.
- Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the fields and the Pacific Ocean from the observation deck.
The RoastMaster Tour is a two-hour tour that allows visitors to experience the coffee-making process with the master roaster and sample the finished product.
- The tour covers the entire coffee-making process from bean selection to roasting and packaging.
- Participants can taste the different types of coffee and learn about the art of coffee making directly from the RoastMaster.
B. Farming and Production in Mountain Thunder Kona Coffee Farm
The growing process of the Kona coffee beans involves specific environmental conditions, such as the volcanic soil, temperature, and rainfall levels, that contribute to the unique flavor profile.
Harvesting and processing of the coffee beans are done by hand, ensuring that only the best beans are chosen and that they are not damaged during the process.
Roasting and packaging are carried out on-site, with each batch roasted in small quantities to ensure high quality and unique flavor profiles.
Mountain Thunder Kona Coffee Farm holds multiple certifications, including USDA Organic, Fair Trade, and Rainforest Alliance, showing that the farm is committed to organic farming and sustainable practices while producing high-quality Kona coffee.
4. Hula Daddy Kona – A Boutique Coffee Farm (Holualoa)
Hula Daddy Kona Coffee is a renowned coffee farm in Holualoa, Hawaii, that offers orchard/roasting room tours and private coffee tastings for tourists and coffee enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will explore the unique features of Hula Daddy and why it’s worth a visit during your trip to Hawaii.
A. Location and Recommendations
Hula Daddy Coffee Farm is located in the Holualoa district of the big island, Hawaii. The farm is highly recommended by the area’s top-rated hotels and travel websites, including TripAdvisor, and it’s rated as one of the top attractions in Hawaii. The farm’s location makes it an ideal spot for visitors to enjoy the stunning views of the Kona coastline while sipping fresh coffee.
B. History and Philosophy
Hula Daddy Coffee Farm was founded in 2002 by Karen Paterson and Lee Paterson with a vision to produce top-quality coffee by carefully selecting the highest quality coffee beans and nurturing them in the perfect growing conditions.
The farm is located at a high elevation of almost 2,000 feet, which provides optimal growing conditions for coffee plants. Hula Daddy takes great pride in its sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, and it’s been known for its delicious and ethically produced coffee for over two decades.
C. Tour Experience
The tours offered by Hula Daddy are a must-try activity for coffee enthusiasts.
- The hour-long tour starts with a stroll through the orchard, where you can see the cherry-like coffee fruit and Kona flowers in bloom, depending on the time of year.
- After the orchard walk, the tour moves on to the roasting room, where you will learn the roasting process and the art of coffee cupping.
- You can then enjoy a private coffee-tasting session in a serene setting, overlooking the stunning Kona coastline.
Hula Daddy is known for producing some of the best coffee in the world, and rightfully so. The farm is committed to using sustainable practices and high-quality coffee beans, resulting in smooth and flavorful coffee.
Hula Daddy’s coffee is so good that it has been recognized by many prestigious coffee associations and won numerous awards, including the 2021 Kona Coffee Excellence Award.
5. Mauka Meadows Coffee Farm (Holualoa)
Mauka Meadows Coffee Farm is a beautiful destination that allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of flora and fauna while indulging in some of the world’s finest coffee.
Mauka Meadows Coffee Farm is situated among the lush green landscapes of the Big Island. The farm is home to a variety of fruits and trees, which adds to the farm’s charm. The winding path through fruit trees makes for a scenic journey to the main building where coffee tasting is the main attraction.
Visitors can taste different varieties of coffee produced by the farm and learn about the coffee-making process from the farm’s experts. The visitors can also take advantage of the free shuttle ride that takes them back to the beginning of the route.
The coffee is grown in the nutrient-rich soils of the volcanic slopes of the island, which imparts a unique flavor to the coffee. The farm’s commitment to sustainable farming practices makes it an eco-friendly destination for coffee lovers.
The farm is currently on hold for tours, but when the tours resume, one can expect an amazing experience.
6. Bay View Coffee Farm Estate (Honaunau)
Bay View Coffee Farm has gained a reputation for producing some of the finest coffee in the world. Located on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa, in the north and south Kona Districts of the Big Island.
The farm’s blend of climate and soil conditions results in the production of a high-quality coffee product. The farm’s location provides stunning views of the Kona coastline, making it an enjoyable destination for coffee enthusiasts.
The farm is committed to the traditional methods of coffee production, which ensures that the coffee retains its characteristic flavor and aroma. The coffee beans are handpicked and then roasted to perfection, making for a delicious cup of coffee.
The farm also offers tours that allow visitors to see the coffee-making process firsthand, from the picking of the beans to the roasting process. The farm’s commitment to quality and sustainability has earned it multiple awards for excellence in the coffee industry.
7. The Kaʻu Coffee Mill – An Amazing Visitor Experience (Pahala)
The Kaʻu Coffee Mill is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers. Located in the southernmost part of the Big Island, this family-owned and operated farm prides itself on producing some of the highest-quality coffee in the world.
The Kaʻu Coffee Mill offers free tours twice a day, where visitors can see the coffee orchards and processing facilities up close. During the tour, visitors will learn about the different stages of coffee production, from planting and harvesting to drying and roasting. Guests can also sample some of the delicious coffee on offer before leaving the farm.
8. Kuaiwi Coffee Farm (Captain Cook) A Certified Organic Estate
Kuaiwi Coffee Farm is a small, family-run farm that is dedicated to sustainable coffee and cacao production. This picturesque farm offers 2-hour tours that need to be scheduled in advance.
During the tour, visitors can explore the orchards, learn about sustainable farming practices, see the coffee and cacao processing facilities, and sample some of the delicious products.
The farm also offers workshops and educational programs for those who are interested in learning more about the coffee industry and sustainable agriculture.
9. Holualoa Kona Coffee Company – Discover Kona Le’a Plantation
Holualoa Kona Coffee Company is a historic plantation that has been producing some of the finest coffee in Hawaii since 1850.
The company offers self-guided tours from 8 am to 3 pm on weekdays, where visitors can explore the plantation and learn about the history of Kona coffee production.
The plantation is also home to a museum that showcases antique coffee mills and other farming equipment. Visitors can sample some of the award-winning coffee and purchase products to take home.
10. Kona Coffee Living History Farm (Captain Cook)
Kona Coffee Living History Farm is a unique living history museum that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience life on a coffee farm in the early 20th century.
The farm features original buildings, including a farmhouse, barn, and coffee processing shed, that have been preserved to give visitors an authentic experience.
The tour guides, who are dressed in period clothing, offer insights into the daily life of the farmers and the history of Kona coffee production.
Visitors can also participate in hands-on activities, such as picking coffee beans and roasting them over an open fire.
The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era and is a highlight for history enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike.
11. Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farms (Honalo)
Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farms is a must-visit if you are in Hawaii and looking for a unique coffee experience. This farm is known to be one of the best coffee farms in the area, and it offers an excellent tour experience with hourly tours starting at just $15. During the tour.
Visitors can witness the entire coffee-making process, from picking the beans to brewing the final product. The tour concludes with a tasting session on the lanai, allowing visitors to savor the exquisite taste of Hawaiian coffee.
12. Rooster Coffee Farms (Captain Cook)
Rooster Farms is an organic Kona coffee farm that has won several awards throughout the years, including the 2016 Kona Coffee Cultural Festival Cupping Contest. A tour of this farm is an excellent opportunity to learn about the traditional methods of cultivating and processing coffee beans.
For only $20 per group, visitors can book a tour that includes a tasting session. Additionally, Rooster Farms provides coffee cupping classes and coffee roasting lessons, making it an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts who want to learn more.
13. Ueshima Hawaii Kona Coffee Estate (UCC)
For those who prefer a more luxurious experience, Ueshima Coffee (UCC) offers organized tours of their estate that require reservations online. UCC is a premium coffee brand that prides itself on using only the highest quality beans.
Their estate tour is an exceptional opportunity to witness the entire process, from bean selection to brewing the perfect cup of coffee. Visitors can book one of several tours that include tasting sessions with knowledgeable UCC staff.
14. Sunshower Coffee Farm (Holualoa)
Sunshower Coffee Farm offers private coffee tours with an in-depth cupping and roasting lesson for only $25 per tasting. Visitors can experience the complete coffee-making process while learning from experienced coffee experts.
What’s more, the private tours are available seven days a week, making it a convenient choice for any schedule. Sunshower Coffee Farm is an excellent option for those who seek to learn more about coffee and enjoy a personalized tour experience.
15. Buddha’s Cup Coffee Estate (Holualoa)
Buddha’s Cup Coffee Estate, located in Holualoa, has made a name for itself in the Kona coffee industry. In 2010, it won the Kona Coffee Cupping Competition, demonstrating its expertise in producing high-quality coffee. Even in 2014, when it placed third, it continued to impress coffee lovers with its exceptional brew.
Not only does Buddha’s Cup Coffee Estate create top-notch coffee, but it is also generous enough to offer complimentary Kona coffee to its visitors.
From Monday to Friday, from 10 am to 4 pm, guests can tour the farm and sample some of the best coffee the region has to offer for a small fee. The guided tours provide an educational experience that teaches visitors about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup.
16. Hala Tree Coffee Farms (Captain Cook)
At Hala Tree Coffee Farms, visitors get to discover the beauty of a certified organic Kona coffee and tea farm. The free one-hour tours, which are available from Mondays to Fridays, are an excellent way to learn about on-site coffee cultivation and processing while also experiencing the farm’s natural beauty.
Those who want to explore the coffee roasting process can take part in the paid tours offered by Hala Tree Coffee. This option provides a more in-depth experience for coffee connoisseurs, who will learn about the different roasting techniques used to make the perfect cup of coffee. More information is available on their website, allowing visitors to plan their tour ahead of time.
Both Buddha’s Cup Coffee Estate and Hala Tree Coffee Farms guarantee visitors an authentic Kona coffee experience. In addition to their delicious coffee, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the farms’ history and process while enjoying the pleasant views of the coffee plantations.
