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.
