Kona coffee is one of the world's most prized and expensive coffees, grown exclusively on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa volcanoes. A tour of Kona's coffee country is a must-do Big Island experience—and we serve fresh Kona coffee right here at Island Goodes!
Why Kona Coffee is Special
Several factors combine to make Kona coffee unique:
- Volcanic soil: Rich, mineral-dense soil from volcanic eruptions
- Perfect climate: Sunny mornings, cloudy afternoons, and mild nights
- Hand-picked: Most Kona coffee is still harvested by hand
- Limited supply: Only 2,500 acres of Kona coffee exist worldwide
- Strict regulations: "100% Kona Coffee" is a protected designation
Top Coffee Farms to Visit
Greenwell Farms
One of Kona's oldest and most respected farms:
- Free tours daily (reservations recommended)
- Walking tour through coffee orchards
- Processing facility demonstration
- Extensive tasting room with multiple roasts
- Historic property dating to 1850
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
Hawaii's largest coffee estate offers:
- Free and premium tour options
- Roasting demonstrations
- Spectacular views at 3,200-foot elevation
- Organic and bird-friendly certified coffees
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
A unique historical and cultural experience:
- Working coffee farm preserved from the 1920s-40s
- Learn about Japanese immigrant farming families
- See traditional processing methods
- Small admission fee; tours by appointment
Holualoa Village
This charming artist village in coffee country features multiple small farms:
- Intimate, family-run operations
- Art galleries and boutique shopping
- Several cafes serving local coffee
- Less touristy than larger operations
What You'll Learn
Coffee farm tours typically cover:
- The coffee plant's lifecycle from flower to cherry to bean
- Hand-picking techniques and timing
- Wet and dry processing methods
- Roasting levels and flavor profiles
- How to identify quality Kona coffee
- The economics of small-farm coffee production
Planning Your Coffee Tour
Getting There
Kona coffee country is located on the west side of the Big Island, about 2-2.5 hours from Island Goodes. We recommend:
- Make it a full day trip combined with Kona coast beaches
- Drive the scenic Mamalahoa Highway through coffee country
- Stop at multiple farms for different perspectives
- Visit Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (City of Refuge) nearby
Tips for Your Visit
- Tours are typically free but tipping guides is appreciated
- Wear closed-toe shoes for farm walking tours
- Bring cash—some smaller farms don't take cards
- Buy directly from farms for freshest coffee
- Ask about "peaberry" beans—a rare, prized variety
Tasting Notes
Quality Kona coffee is known for:
- Smooth, mild body with low acidity
- Notes of brown sugar, milk chocolate, and subtle fruit
- Clean, sweet finish
- Best enjoyed medium roast to appreciate terroir
Start Your Day with Kona Coffee
Every room at Island Goodes includes a coffee maker with fresh Kona coffee—the perfect start to your Big Island adventures.
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