Big Island Coffee Guide
The Big Island grows more coffee than the rest of Hawaii combined. The Kona belt on the west side and the higher, drier Ka'u district to the south produce most of the state's estate coffee, while Hilo and the east side add cafes and roasters more than farms.
The Big Island grows more coffee than the rest of Hawaii combined. The Kona belt on the west side and the higher, drier Ka'u district to the south produce most of the state's estate coffee, while Hilo and the east side add cafes and roasters more than farms.
This hub pulls the whole island together so you can plan coffee by which side you are staying on, rather than scrolling one long list of farms, tours, and town cafes.
Collections linked to this region
Best Coffee on the Big Island
From Kona coffee belt to Hilo's east side — the Big Island cafés, roasters, and farms worth your driving time, ranked by what's actually in the cup.
Best Coffee Farms on the Big Island
A farm-first guide to Big Island coffee estates, with Kona, Ka'u, and Hāmākua stops ranked by visitor access, tasting value, and bean quality.
Coffee Farm Tours on the Big Island
The Big Island coffee farms worth touring — from Kona-belt estates to Kaʻū farms. Booking tips, what to expect, and which tours are worth the drive.
Big Island Coffee Trail: The Kona Belt
A full-day driving route through the Kona coffee belt — farm tours, on-site roasters, the cafés that pour single-estate, in the right order.
Best Coffee in Kona
The Kona coffee belt has hundreds of farms. These are the ones worth stopping for — single-estate, on-farm roasters, and the cafés that pour them right.
Best Coffee in Hilo
Hilo's coffee scene punches well above its size — Hāmākua-grown beans, indie roasters, and the rainy-side cafés worth a slow Saturday.
Every coffee place in this region
Showing 96 of 96 places
Greenwell Farms
A cornerstone of the Kona coffee experience, perfect for those who want a high-energy, informative tour of a large-scale, historic farm. You'll get a great introduction to the botany of the region—including cacao and black pepper—and a generous tasting bar where you can sample a dozen different roasts. If you're looking for a quiet, intimate, and small-lot tasting experience, this isn't it; this is a high-volume operation designed for the crowds.
The Coffee Shack
This is the ultimate 'million-dollar view' breakfast spot on the Big Island, where the house-made onion dill bread and lilikoi cheesecake are just as impressive as the panoramic ocean vistas. It's a high-reward payoff for those willing to brave the tricky parking and a 30-minute wait for a table. If you're looking for a quiet, low-stress morning or a quick, seamless stop, this isn't the fit for you today—head to a neighborhood cafe instead.
HiCO - Hawaiian Coffee, Kona Coffee
A polished, design-forward spot in Kona town that excels at creative, local-flavored lattes—the Ube and Honey Bee Pollen drinks are the stars here. It's a great place to settle in with a laptop or grab a high-end toast, like the Smoked Ahi, for a slow morning. If you're looking for a quick, no-frills caffeine hit or a quiet, low-key neighborhood hole-in-the-wall, this isn't the fit for you today.
Kona Coffee & Tea
A high-energy spot in Kailua-Kona that's genuinely good for those who want a full-spectrum experience: a private farm tour, a rich Kona Bullet coffee, and a gift shop full of local soaps and pottery. The espresso is strong and the outdoor patio is a great place to soak in the ocean views. If you're looking for a quiet, slow-paced morning or a perfectly sifted matcha, this isn't the fit for you today.
Hawi Coffee Company @Kohala Coffee Mill
A Waimea staple known for high-quality espresso and massive breakfast burritos that are genuinely good enough to make the drive from Kona. The outdoor seating and live music create a great community vibe, though the energy can get quite loud on weekends. Go here for a proper craft coffee experience and a hearty meal. If you're looking for a quiet, contemplative space to read a book or have a low-volume conversation, this isn't the fit for you today.
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
A high-elevation escape into the cloud forest where the experience is as much about the scenery as the beans. It's genuinely good for a structured, educational tour of the processing equipment and a peaceful, self-guided nature walk through lava tubes. If you're looking for a quiet, neighborhood cafe for a morning brew, or a small-lot, owner-led farm visit, this is a different category of experience—head to a lower elevation for those.
Kona Joe Coffee LLC
Kona Joe is a high-visibility farm visit that pairs a stunning panoramic ocean view with a unique trellis-grown coffee experience. It's genuinely good for those who want a polished, accessible tour—including a free self-guided option—and a place to sit and watch whales from the terrace. If you're looking for an intimate, owner-led farm walk or a low-key neighborhood cafe, this is a bit too polished for that vibe; head to a smaller family-run plot instead.
Kaya's Kawanui Inc
A Kealakekua treasure that is genuinely good for anyone needing a gluten-free or vegan paradise, with quiches and pastries that taste like the real deal regardless of dietary restrictions. The espresso is rich and smooth, and the unique lavender cardamom mocha is a standout for those who want something creative. If you're looking for a quiet, empty cafe to hide away in, this isn't it—it's a lively, local-favorite spot that often fills up quickly.
Hala Tree Coffee
A personal, education-focused farm visit in Captain Cook where the guides are genuinely great at explaining the processing methods—washed, honey, and natural—and the French press flights on the lanai are a highlight. It's a fantastic choice for the curious visitor who wants to learn the 'tree to cup' process without feeling like they're on a conveyor belt. If you're looking for a quick, drop-in cafe experience with a little bit of coffee to go, this is more of a destination tour than a quick stop.
Koana Retail
A masterclass in 'slow coffee' in Mountain View, where Brian's precision-brewed pour-overs and the signature spicy Chocolate Lava shot are genuinely good for those who want an educational, owner-led experience. You can smell the beans before you choose, and the conversation is as much a part of the visit as the caffeine. If you're looking for a quick drive-thru, a caramel latte, or any drink with milk, this isn't it—this is a destination for the coffee purist.
Hawi Coffee Company @Kohala Coffee Mill
A high-caliber espresso bar in the heart of Hawi town, genuinely good for those who want a perfectly dialed-in cortado or a treat like Kona coffee ice cream after a hike from Pololu Valley. The community vibe is strong here, with locals holding court and a patio where you can soak in the small-town atmosphere. If you're looking for a quiet, spacious sanctuary for a long afternoon of reading or a place with ample indoor seating for a large family, this isn't it.
Kona Mountain Coffee
A high-energy roaster in Kailua-Kona that's genuinely good for those who love creative, dessert-style coffee drinks—like the Mauna Kea or the Honey Goat—and a wide variety of local chocolates and souvenirs. It's a great stop for those arriving from the airport or those who muốn want a polished, accessible shop with a variety of merchandise. If you're looking for a quiet, slow-paced sanctuary for a long study session or a minimalist same-origin tasting, this isn't it.
Miranda's Farms Coffee Shop
A heartfelt, family-run farm in Naalehu where you can sip a dark roast drip or a mocha with a homemade brownie, then walk through the coffee groves. It's genuinely good for those who want a personal, owner-led experience and a peaceful environment to slow down. If you're looking for a polished, high-traffic boutique cafe in the same vein as those in Kona town, this is a more rustic, rural stop that fits a slower pace of the same day.
Hawaii's Local Buzz at Paradise Meadows
A welcoming stop in Naalehu that's genuinely good for a multi-sensory farm experience—think dehydrated macadamia nuts, smooth Ka'u coffee, and a self-guided tour of the grounds with animals and a local art gallery. It's a perfect pit stop for those heading to South Point or Volcanoes National Park who want a little bit of everything in one place. If you're looking for a focused, high-end specialty coffee tasting or a quiet, minimalist cafe, this is a different kind of visit entirely.
UCC Hawaii
A polished, high-viewpoint stop in Holualoa that is genuinely good for the hands-on 'Roastmaster' experience and the coffee-infused affogato on the shaded patio. It's a great fit for those who want a structured, educational tour and a 'million dollar view' of the Kona coast. If you're looking for a low-key, neighborhood cafe vibe or a small-lot, owner-led farm walk, this is a more structured experience than that.
Menehune Coffee Company
A bright, airy farm cafe in South Kona that's perfect for an early bird's breakfast—they open at 6am and the pork breakfast burritos and biscuits and gravy are genuinely great. It's a peaceful alternative to the crowded spots further up the road, making it a great stop on the way to South Point or Pu'uhonua O Honaunau. If you're looking for a high-end specialty coffee experience with a wide range of pour-over options, you'll find the menu more traditional than technical; head to a boutique roaster instead.
Hula Daddy Kona Coffee
A high-end, small-batch operation in Holualoa that is genuinely good for the coffee snob who wants a deep dive into the science of roasting and a small-lot tasting flight. You'll find award-winning beans and a breathtaking view of the coast, often with an intimate tour led by passionate experts. If you're looking for a quick, budget-friendly caffeine fix or a casual drop-in without a tour, this is a more specialized, premium experience that may not be the right fit for your day.
Bay View Farm
A welcoming, family-run farm in Captain Cook with a stunning ocean view and a personal touch that makes it feel like visiting a home. It's genuinely good for those who want a low-pressure, informative tour of a working orchard, free samples of 100% Kona coffee, and a little bit of local charm—like meeting the farm dog, Honey. If you're looking for a high-end, polished boutique tasting room or a fast-paced city cafe, this is a more relaxed, rural experience that fits a better if you're already exploring the Kona same-side coast.
Holualoa Garden and Kitchen
A stunning, open-air garden oasis in the hills of Holualoa, perfect for a slow brunch or a romantic dinner with live music and 100% Kona coffee from their own farm. It's a destination for those who want a high-aesthetic, 'secret garden' vibe with a polished, eclectic decor. If you're looking for a quick, no-frills meal or a budget-friendly stop, this isn't it—the experience is designed for lingering over a mimosa flight or a long dinner date.
HiCO - Hawaiian Coffee, Kona Coffee
A polished, design-forward spot in Kealakekua that's genuinely good for those craving a visually stunning, flavor-forward specialty drink—the Ube latte and the Froshaka are the stars here. The food menu, featuring sourdough toasts and bagels, is a great accompaniment for a quick breakfast before heading to Captain Cook. If you're looking for a slow, quiet morning with a consistent, traditional drip coffee, you might find the vibe too fast-paced or the roast profile too light for your taste.
Puna Chocolate Company & Cafe
A decadent Hilo town gem where the real magic happens when you combine the local cocoa and coffee. The mochas—especially the Paniolo mocha with its subtle Mexican kick—and the banana chocolate smoothie are the absolute standouts here. It's a polished, cozy space that doubles as a gift shop and a cocktail bar, making it it's a great spot for a treat or a late-night drink. If you're looking for a quiet place to work with wifi, or if you want a traditional, minimalist coffee house, this isn't it.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
This is a living museum dedicated to the immigrant Japanese families who built the Kona coffee industry. It's genuinely good for immersive, storytelling-led tours where you can walk through a historical farmhouse and learn about traditional processing equipment from passionate docents like Pauline and Jim. If you're looking for a high-end tasting room or a modern specialty coffee experience, this isn't it—this is a history lesson in a cup, a place to understand the roots of the region's coffee culture up close.
Buddha's Cup Kona Coffee and Tea Farm
This is a full-sensory immersion into the Kona coffee ecosystem, featuring an ATV tour that takes you through diverse plantings of cacao, macadamias, and fruit trees. The coffee tasting is an elevated experience, pairing each roast with a specific food like a wine tasting. Go here if you want an educational, multi-hour journey that feels personal and authentic. If you're just looking for a quick cup of coffee or a drop-in visit without a scheduled tour, this isn't the fit for you.
Mauka Meadows Coffee Farm
This is more of a botanical garden experience than a traditional coffee tour, perfect for those who love a scenic, self-guided downhill stroll through fruit orchards and meticulously maintained grounds. You can pick and sample seasonal fruits like star fruit and tangelos, then end your visit with a coffee tasting by a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ocean. If you're looking for a deep dive into the technical side of coffee production or a guided, expert-led tour, you'll find a better fit elsewhere.
Rooster Farms Coffee
A quintessential micro-producer experience where you'll find Ed, the owner-farmer, personally brewing pour-overs and sharing the grit of organic farming. It's genuinely good for those who want an intimate, owner-led tasting and a walk through a working farm without the polished corporate feel. If you're looking for a fancy cafe, a paved road, or a quick drop-in visit without a reservation, this isn't the fit for you.
White Nene Coffee Roasters
A high-end, third-wave espresso bar operating out of a charming coffee trailer in Holualoa. They are genuinely good at the technical side of the craft—think perfectly balanced roasts and inventive, house-made syrups like the black sesame miso latte. If you're looking for a quiet, lingering lounge experience with plenty of indoor seating, this isn't it; it's a food truck vibe with a limited patio and a line that's usually worth the wait. Go for the precision espresso and the fuzzy chickens, but head elsewhere if you want a traditional, full-service cafe interior.
Royal Kona Coffee Center
A comprehensive stop for those who want the full 'Kona Coffee' experience in one place—free samples of various roasts, a small museum, and a walk through a lava tube on the premises. It's genuinely good for a low-pressure, educational visit where you can stock up on Peaberry beans and grab a gift shop souvenir. If you're looking for an intimate, owner-led farm tour of the rows of coffee trees, this is a more polished, visitor-center style experience and you should head to a smaller estate instead.
Ka Lae Coffee
A family-run operation in Naalehu that excels at showcasing the nuance of Ka'u coffee, offering everything from AeroPress brews to custom roast levels for your espresso. It's a perfect stop for those who want a high-quality, farm-to-cup experience without the crowds of the bakery across the street. If you're looking for a full meal or a massive menu of food, head to the bakery instead; this is a place for the coffee purist and the slow-down-and-sip moment.
Big Island Coffee Roasters
A polished, design-forward spot in Hilo where you can watch the roasting process live and dive into a pour-over flight of locally sourced beans. It's genuinely good for those who want a high-end cafe experience with creative flavors like pandan and lilikoi, or for those who want to see the roasting machinery in action. If you're looking for a low-key, no-frills neighborhood joint or a budget-friendly quick stop, this is a more premium experience that fits a different pace.
Puna Chocolate Company Farm - Kona Cocoa & Coffee Orchard Tours (by reservation only)
A deep dive into the agricultural side of Kona, where the focus is on the bean-to-bar process of cacao and coffee. It's genuinely good for those who want an immersive, high-energy tour guide who blends agricultural science with a bit of stand-up comedy. If you're looking for a quiet, meditative farm walk or a strictly professional, academic tour, you might find the vibe here too loud for your taste.
Island Vintage Coffee
A polished, high-energy stop in the Kings' Shops area that's genuinely good for those craving a massive, fresh açaí bowl or a frozen coconut Kona mocha. The coffee is consistently high-quality, especially the drip, which is a welcome relief for those who've found other resort-area coffee lacking. If you're looking for a quiet, slow-paced morning or a budget-friendly local haunt, this isn't it—the prices reflect the resort location and the lines can be long.
Kohala Coffee Co.
A modern, spacious cafe in Waikoloa Village that's genuinely good for a quick, affordable breakfast sandwich and a creative flavored latte—the Banana Bread Macchiato is a standout. It's a great spot for those who want a drive-thru for convenience or a comfortable place to sit with board games. If you're looking for a quiet, intimate atmosphere for a deep conversation or a high-end specialty pour-over experience, this isn't it.
Kaʻū Coffee Mill
A great stop for those exploring the southern Big Island, especially if you want to explore the range of Ka'u coffee's unique flavor profiles through their generous free samples and informative farm tours. It's a perfect spot to stock up on flavored beans and local treats like coffee-infused chocolate. If you're looking for a high-touch, boutique tasting experience or a consistent, friendly greeting at the counter, you might find the fit a bit off today.
Hilo Coffee Mill
A charming, home-like roastery in Mountain View where you can taste your way through local Ka'u and Puna beans before buying bags to take home. It's a wonderful spot for a slow-paced visit, chatting with the staff and relaxing on the lanai with a cup of joe. If you're looking for a high-end espresso bar with a professional machine, this isn't it—they rely heavily on drip coffee for their drinks, which is a different vibe entirely.
Menehune Coffee Company
Perfect for those staying at the King Kamehameha hotel or strolling Ali'i Drive, as it's one of the same few spots that opens its doors at 5:30 am. The 100% Kona pour-over and specialty lattes like the Honu are genuinely good, and the staff's 'Aloha spirit' is a kind welcome to the start of the day. If you're looking for a high-consistency food menu or a slow, quiet morning, this isn't it—the pace is fast and the kitchen can be a bit hit-or-miss. Go for the early bird coffee and the proximity to the seawall.
Country Grounds Coffee Company
A charming, mama-owned drive-thru stand in Waimea that excels at creative, flavor-forward drinks like the Ube latte and the Aloha Mocha, topped with a signature chocolate-covered espresso bean. It's a high-energy stop for those who want a treat-style coffee and a friendly, local vibe. If you're looking for a quiet place to sit and linger over your drink, this isn't it—there's no seating area, and the lines can get long during the rush.
Pine Village small Farm
A cozy, family-run operation in Holualoa where you can get a deep dive into the process from the owners themselves. It's genuinely good for those who want a personal, owner-led tour of the coffee and cacao trees, a taste of homemade chocolate, and a panoramic ocean view from the terrace. If you're looking for a quick, drop-in cafe visit without a reservation, or a polished, commercial tasting room, this isn't the fit for you today.
Kona Farm Direct Coffee
A small, family-run operation in Holualoa that is genuinely good for those who want a deep dive into the craft—from grafting seedlings in the nursery to tasting rare varietals like SL34 and Gesha. The experience feels more like visiting with old friends than a commercial tour, often featuring owner-led walks and personalized tastings in an outdoor kitchen with ocean views. If you're looking for a quick, drop-in cafe stop or a polished, high-volume tasting room, this isn't it; it's a working farm that requires planning and limited hours.
So'K Coffee Station
A high-energy, drive-thru coffee trailer in Kealakekua that's genuinely good for early birds and commuters who need a fast, friendly boost. The salted caramel iced breve and banana bread are standout hits, and the staff's warmth makes it feel like a neighborhood favorite even for first-timers. If you're looking for a quiet place to sit and linger over a latte, this isn't it—this is a high-efficiency, grab-and-go operation designed to fuel your day before the sun is fully up.
Sunshower Farms
A high-elevation, intimate farm experience in Holualoa where the focus is on the 'cupping' tasting session and the animals. It's genuinely good for those who want a small-group, owner-led tour that feels like a guest in someone's home, complete with goats and sheep. If you're looking for a polished, commercial tasting room or a quick drop-in visit, this isn't it—this is a working farm on a windy road, and you'll need an appointment.
Hōlualoa Kona Coffee Co
A small, unassuming roaster tucked away at the end of a rocky dirt road in Holualoa. It's genuinely good for those who want a personalized, low-pressure tour of the roasting process—specifically the contrast between traditional drum roasting and air roasting—and a tasting of their organic, boutique beans. If you're looking for a polished, commercial tasting room or a full orchard walk through the coffee trees, this isn't the fit for the fit for the same reason it's a great choice for those who avoid the same.
Kings Coffee Company
Tucked away behind a store in the Courtyard Marriott area, this is a fantastic spot for those who want a high-quality barista-made latte or a treat like their Ube cold brew and butterscotch latte. The food menu is a standout, especially the crispy croffles and avocado toast, which make it a great alternative to hotel buffets. If you're looking for a quiet, lounge-style atmosphere to linger over a coffee, you might find the seating limited and the vibe more geared toward a quick, high-energy take-out order.
Kohola Coffee
A high-energy, owner-operated coffee truck in Kailua-Kona that excels at creative, local-inspired drinks—specifically the Ube latte with homemade ube whipped cream and fresh fruit smoothies. It's a perfect stop for those who want a friendly, drive-through experience with high-quality espresso and locally sourced ingredients. If you're looking for a place to sit, linger, and work on a laptop, this isn't it; it's a drive-up window for a quick, high-quality caffeine boost on the way to your next adventure.
Kohala Coffee Co.
A welcoming Pāhoa neighborhood spot that's genuinely good for those who want a cozy, spacious space to settle in with a board game or a laptop. The flavored lattes—especially the banana bread mocha—are the big draw here, alongside a convenient drive-thru for the locals. If you're looking for a high-precision, specialty espresso experience or a small-lot farm tasting, this is a more relaxed, community-focused visit rather than a technical one.
Uluwehi Coffee Farm
A gated, appointment-only five-acre farm at 1,900 feet in Holualoa where owner Franck runs every tour himself — often just you and one other party walking the rows, the fermentation shed, and the roaster over about 90 minutes. The payoff is an owner-led, seed-to-cup education with tastings across varietals like SL34 and Red Bourbon, and bags you can buy fresh off a recent roast. Go if you want a small-scale, intimate Kona experience with the farmer who grafted the trees. Skip if you want a drop-in cafe, a polished tasting room, or a quick free 20-minute bus-tour stop — this one is by appointment, down a gate code, and often misting at elevation.
Coffee Girl
A visually stunning, design-forward spot in Hilo that excels at creative, aesthetic drinks like the Ube latte and Pink Macchiato, paired with fresh, moist muffins. It's a perfect match for those who want a curated, 'Instagrammable' experience with high-attention-to-detail drinks. If you're looking for a traditional, no-frills black coffee or a budget-friendly quick stop, this isn't the fit for you today.
Kaʻū Coffee Mill
A high-energy spot in the heart of Kona town where the real draw is the deep technical knowledge of the roasters and the house-made syrups. If you're looking for a high-quality espresso drink or a specialized tasting that explains the journey from bean to cup, this is your spot. If you're after a quiet, slow-morning sanctuary sanctuary or a quick, seamless experience during a holiday rush, you'll be better off elsewhere.
Kuaiwi Farm
An intimate, owner-led tour of a five-acre organic farm where Una and Leon welcome you into their home and lanai. It's genuinely good for those who want a deep dive into Hawaiian agriculture beyond just coffee, tasting everything from sugar cane and tree tomatoes to house-made chocolate. If you're looking for a quick, drop-in cafe visit or a polished, commercial tasting room, this isn't it—this is a working farm that requires a reservation and a slow drive up a gravel road.
Mauna Lani Coffee Company
A polished, design-forward spot in Waimea that's genuinely good for those who want a treat-yourself kind of morning—think frozen coffee spheres, indulgent blended drinks, and buttery croissant sandwiches. The staff is generally warm and the ambiance is high-end. If you're looking for a budget-friendly, no-frills coffee stop or a purist's tasting, this isn't it; the premium pricing reflects the boutique experience.
Paradise Coffee Roasters
This is a sanctuary for the true coffee nerd in Hilo, specializing in high-end, small-batch roasts and experimental processing like anaerobic fermentation. It's genuinely good for those who want to taste terroir and acidity through a patient, slow-pour over or a complex cold brew, often guided by a knowledgeable barista. If you're looking for a latte, a mocha, or a place to sit and work for an hour with WiFi, this isn't it—this is a roaster's storefront, not a lounge.
BerryBird Coffee
A husband-and-wife team running a high-precision espresso stand in the Ali’i Marketplace, perfect for those who want a truly balanced, specialty-grade cup of Kona coffee. Their signature 'Dirty Coffee' with caramel crisps is a standout, and the real vanilla bean lattes are genuinely impressive. If you're looking for a full-service cafe with indoor seating and a lounge atmosphere, this is a more intimate, open-air stand experience—pick a spot in the market area and enjoy your drink to-go.
Ahualoa Family Farms Store
A charming farm store in Honokaa where the real draw is the pairing of Hamakua coffee and house-roasted macadamia nuts. It's a perfect pit stop for a pour-over and a Lilikoi-flavored nut sample, or a treat like the Lilikoi float with homemade vanilla ice cream. If you're looking for a full-service cafe with lattes and cappuccinos, or a deep-dive farm tour of the orchards, this isn't the fit for you today.
Ulu Coffee Farm
A small, gated estate in Holualoa where you can walk the rows with Trixie and her dogs, crack macadamia nuts by hand and taste small-lot roasts. It is genuinely good for those seeking a personal, soul-filled farm visit that feels like visiting a friend's home rather than a tourist attraction. If you're looking for a polished, walk-in tasting room or a quick, drop-in cafe stop, this isn't it—this is a working farm that requires a booking and a bit of adventure to find.
Kona Earth - 100% Kona Coffee
A family-run farm in Holualoa where the focus is on the beans and the personal touch. It's genuinely good for those seeking a smooth, low-acidity coffee that's approachable for those who usually add cream and sugar, and for those who want a personal, owner-led tour of the land. If you're looking for a polished, high-volume tasting room or a quick drop-in cafe experience, this is a better fit for the larger estates. This is a working farm where the quality of the beans is the priority over the flashiness of the facility.
Hog Heaven (Pua'aLani) Coffee
A small-scale, owner-led farm on the Hamakua Coast where you can walk the rows and see the process from cherry to roast. It's genuinely good for those who want an intimate, unpolished experience with Mike and Sookyung, and the rescue dogs that join the tour. If you're looking for a polished, commercialized tasting room or a quick drop-in cafe stop, this isn't it—this is a working farm visit that requires a drive up the coast.
Hale Cocoa Cafe
This is a destination for the chocolate-obsessed, combining a high-end boutique shop with an interactive farm tour that takes you from bean to bar. The sipping chocolate and frozen hot chocolate are the real stars here, and the tour is a fantastic way to actually understand the process of growing cacao and coffee. If you're looking for a quick, no-frills coffee stop or a minimalist specialty coffee shop, this isn't it—this is a full sensory experience centered around the cacao bean.
James Bean Coffee Co
This is a one-man operation where you get a deeply personal, owner-led tour of the process from cherry to cup. It's genuinely good for those who want to an immersive, artisan experience where the passion of the farmer himself is the main draw. If you're looking for a polished tasting room, a quick drop-in cafe visit, or a high-volume commercial operation, this is a different kind of visit entirely.
Honolulu Coffee at Moana Surfrider
A convenient, high-energy stop for guests staying at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, perfect for a quick, high-quality mocha or a fresh açaí bowl before heading out. The staff are generally energetic and the views of the canals are a lovely bonus. If you're looking for a quiet, slow-sip kind of morning or a budget-friendly neighborhood spot, this isn't the fit for you today.
Pohaku Coffee
A family-run Ka’u coffee farm in Naalehu where Brenda and her family provide an intimate, owner-led experience. It's genuinely good for those seeking a nuanced, light-roast profile that's rare on the Big Island, or for those who want to-go drinks like the Coffee Cloud or smoothies from their market stall. If you're looking for a polished, commercial tasting room or a high-traffic tourist hub, this is a more personal, working-farm visit—be sure to call ahead to see if they're at the farm or the market.
Kona Gold Trading Company
A cozy, homey storefront in Kealakekua that is genuinely good for pairing a fresh pour-over with one of their famous, house-baked rum cakes. It's a wonderful stop for those who want a sampling experience and a few unique souvenirs like the Lava Flow cup. If you're looking for a high-energy cafe atmosphere or a guaranteed 24/7 digital response time, this is a more relaxed, small-town pace that might not be the right fit for you today.
Kona Rainforest Organic Coffee Farm
A lush, certified organic farm in Captain Cook that's perfect for those who want an educational, owner-led tour of a working plantation. You'll get a deep dive into organic farming practices and a taste of their Peaberry roast. If you're looking for a quick, polished cafe experience or a guaranteed drop-in visit without checking hours, this isn't the fit for this kind of farm.
Lions Gate Farms
This is a cozy, home-based farm experience where you can crack macadamia nuts with the owners and walk through the coffee and fruit trees. It's genuinely good for those who want a personal, low-key visit with the owners and a small-lot feel that avoids the larger commercial operations. If you're looking for a polished tasting room, a formal tour, or a large-scale operation, this is not the fit for you.
Moaʻula Kaʻu Cloud Rest Coffee
A tiny, owner-operated farm in Pahala where you can stock up on rare peaberry beans and have a long, personal chat with Lisa. It's genuinely good for those who want a small-batch, grower-led experience and the kind of coffee that keeps people coming back for years. If you're looking for a polished tasting room with strict 9am-to-5pm business hours, this isn't it—this is a working farm that runs on island time, so call ahead to make sure they're open.
Langenstein Farms, Inc.
A small, family-run farm in Captain Cook where the owner, John, leads the tours himself. It's genuinely good for those seeking an intimate, owner-led Kona coffee experience and a deep dive into the process from a man who truly loves the craft. If you're looking for a polished, drop-in tasting room or a high-volume retail storefront, this is a different kind of visit—call ahead to ensure the owner is on-run.
Kona Premium Coffee Company
A small, family-run operation in Holualoa that handles everything from seed to cup, making it a great spot for those who want to support farmers directly and see the actual production process. Their Peaberry and chocolate-covered beans are standout treats that you won't find in a grocery store. If you're looking for a polished, walk-in tasting room or a high-traffic cafe, this is a more intimate, working farm experience that often requires a call ahead to ensure you're visiting during their hours.
Kona Lisa Coffee
A small-scale roaster in Captain Cook with a beautiful garden setting and a personal touch from owners Guy and Jane. It's genuinely good for those seeking an authentic, owner-led experience, including coffee tours and unique treats like coffee popsicles. If you're looking for a high-volume, polished tasting room with standardized roast dates on every bag, this is a more intimate, rustic experience that may not fit your preference.
Mahina Mele Market
A cozy, family-run farm market in Kealakekua that excels at the intersection of organic skincare and high-quality macadamia nuts. It's the perfect stop for those who want a slow-paced visit with the owners, Tiffany and Shay, and a chance to stock up on organic Soul Serum or macadamia chocolate pasta. If you're looking for a full-service cafe with a seating area or a dedicated coffee tasting room, this is a more intimate farm-stand style visit and you should head elsewhere.
Lehuula Farms
A small-scale, working coffee farm in Kealakekua where the focus is on the beans and the personal touch of the owners. It's genuinely good for those seeking an intimate, owner-led tour of the rows and a high-quality roast that doesn't need cream or sugar. If you're looking for a drop-in cafe with a full menu and seating, this isn't it—this is a farm, not a coffee shop.
Hawaiian Cloud Forest Coffee
A small, sustainable family farm in Honokaa where the focus is on the quality of the beans rather than the cafe experience. It's the perfect spot for those who who want to support a family-run operation practicing sustainable farming and take home a bag of high-quality, medium roast beans. If you're looking for a drop-in coffee shop with a menu of lattes and pastries, this isn't it—this is a working farm, not a cafe.
Old Hawaiian Coffee
A small-scale, working farm in Captain Cook where you can get a deep dive into the art of Kona coffee production. It's genuinely good for those who want to see the vintage machinery and the meticulous roasting process led by the owners, Erik and Misha. If you're looking for a polished, high-volume tasting room or a quick, drop-in cafe experience, this is a better fit for you elsewhere.
Lyman Kona Coffee Farms
A quiet, small-scale farm experience on the Big Island where you can pick up high-quality Kona coffee and a B&B stay. It's genuinely good for those who want a slow-paced, residential-feeling visit and a personal touch. If you're looking for a polished, commercial tour with clear signage and a professional tasting room, you'll be better off heading to a larger operation like Mountain Thunder.
Konaloha Coffee Company
A private, appointment-only farm experience in Captain Cook where you can get a deep dive into both coffee and vanilla cultivation. It's genuinely good for those who want an intimate, owner-led tour of the production process and a chance to sample rare vanilla products alongside their Kona coffee. If you're looking for a drop-in cafe with a seating area or a retail storefront, this isn't it—this is a working farm that requires a phone call to visit.
Koa Coffee Plantation
Koa Coffee, a family-run business since 1997, shares authentic Hawaiian coffee. They source premium, hand-picked 100% Kona from Mauna Loa, alongside unique Ka'u and Maui beans. Small-batch roasting and meticulous cupping showcase the islands' rich terroir, particularly their Forbes-acclaimed Private Reserve Kona. Koa Coffee's sustainable practices deliver a genuine taste of Hawaii, rooted in respect for the land.
Keopu Coffee Farm
A quiet, small-scale farm in Holualoa that is genuinely good for picking up high-quality beans for gifts. The quality of the beans is the standout here, making it a perfect stop for those who want to avoid the crowds of the larger estates. If you're looking for a full-service cafe experience or a detailed farm tour, you may find the signal here a bit too quiet for you—head to a more established tasting room instead.
Rising Kona Coffee Farm Tours
An intimate, gated farm experience where you can get a master class in the 'seed to cup' process from the owner or a passionate guide. It's genuinely good for those who want a personal, no-fluff education on roasting and botany, complete with a friendly farm cat and breathtaking coastal views. If you're looking for a quick, drop-in cafe stop without a reservation, this isn't it—the gate code is a necessary hurdle that makes the visit feel like a private invitation.
Ferrari Coffee Company
A quiet, high-quality stop in Holualoa where the soil and microclimate produce a more balanced, refined cup than your average Kona roast. It's a genuinely great spot for those who want to purchase high-quality beans for gifts or to take home, especially if you appreciate the owner's personal touch. If you're looking for a high-energy cafe scene or a full-service tasting room with a wide menu, this is a more intimate, farm-focused experience that might feel too quiet for you.
Mr. Bean Kona Coffee
A low-key spot in the heart of Kona that's genuinely good for a quick, convenient breakfast and coffee before heading out to explore the town. It's a great choice if you're looking for a convenient location within walking distance to the shops on Alii Drive. If you're looking for a more immersive farm tour or a high-end boutique tasting room, this isn't it.
Aloha Star 100% Kona Coffee Farms
A multi-generational family estate in the heart of the Kona Coffee Belt that excels at the personal touch—think handwritten postcards with orders and specialty-grade honey-processed beans. It's the perfect spot for those seeking a genuine, small-scale farm experience where the owners are genuinely welcoming, even when they're in the middle of harvest. If you're looking for a polished, high-volume tasting room with a full cafe menu, this is a more intimate, working farm visit that may not fit your day.
Konalicious Organic Coffee Estate
A peaceful, certified organic farm in Captain Cook that's genuinely good for those seeking a transparent, small-batch roasting process and a beautifully landscaped view. It's a quiet escape where you can experience the coffee journey from seed to cup without the crowds. If you're looking for a high-volume cafe with a quick drop-in menu or a bustling tasting room, this is a more intimate farm visit that fits a slower pace.
Kona Raintree Farms
A multi-generational estate farm that excels at precise, clean roasts—perfect for those who appreciate a medium roast without the oily sheen of a second crack. It's a great spot to pick up high-quality gifts like coffee and macadamia nuts from a family-run operation. If you're looking for a polished, high-traffic tasting room or a guided tour experience with a huge crowd, this is a more low-key, product-focused visit.
Carta Coffee
A small-scale, owner-led farm in Kealakekua where Scott and Terri provide a personal touch that you won't find at the larger operations. It's genuinely good for those who want a deep dive into the same-acreage farming process and a free, owner-led tour of the rows. If you're looking for a polished, high-volume tasting room with a full cafe menu, this is a different kind of visit—this is a working farm experience.
Makapueo Farms
A low-key, family-run farm in Captain Cook that's perfect for those who want a nonchalant, authentic experience without the polished tour scripts. It's genuinely good for a relaxed visit where you can chat with the family and enjoy the atmosphere of a working farm. If you're looking for a high-production, professional tour or a high-end boutique tasting room, this isn't the fit for you today.
Hawaiian Queen Coffee
A quiet, small-scale farm operation in Kailua-Kona that is genuinely good for those who want high-quality, award-winning beans—especially the peaberry—without the crowds of the larger estates. It's a great spot for those who prefer to order their beans directly from the source and have them shipped. If you're looking for a polished tasting room or a full-service cafe experience, you'll want to find a spot with more infrastructure up the road.
Paradise Found Estate Coffee
A small-scale estate coffee producer in Captain Cook with a focus on high-quality, smooth roasts that are easy on the stomach. It's a great choice for those seeking a rich, flavorful boutique experience and a bag of premium beans to take home. If you're looking for a high-volume cafe with a full menu of lattes and pastries, this is a more intimate, farm-focused visit.
Kiele O Kona Coffee Company
A quiet, small-scale farm visit where the personal touch of the host is the main draw. It's genuinely good for those who want a low-pressure, intimate experience with the coffee and the host. If you're looking for a polished tasting room, a bustling cafe atmosphere, or a high-volume commercial operation, this is a different kind of visit entirely.
White Dog Coffee
A small-scale Kona farm in Captain Cook that produces a smooth, chocolatey medium roast and a high-end peaberry. It's the perfect spot for those seeking a high-quality, farm-direct experience with friendly owners who also pop up at the Keauhou and Outrigger markets. If you're looking for a polished, full-service cafe with a large menu, this is a more intimate, farm-focused visit.
Honalo Farm
A quiet, small-scale Kona operation that is genuinely good for those who want to high-quality coffee without the crowds of the larger estates. It's a great choice for those who prefer to order online and have their beans shipped directly to their home. If you're looking for a polished, high-traffic tasting room with a full cafe menu, this is a likely mismatch for your day.
Kona Coffee Company
With very little public feedback, this spot is a bit of a mystery, but it's a great choice for those who want a quiet, farm-based experience in Kealakekua. It's genuinely good for a low-key visit to a working farm. If you're looking for a polished tasting room or a high-volume cafe with a full menu, this isn't it.
Waipuna Coffee
Waipuna Coffee in Puna, Big Island, is Matias Lopez Vega's passion project, cultivating authentic coffee on Kapakauaokeola Farm. As 'Haku ʻĀina' (master of the land), Matias honors Hawaiian traditions and the unique volcanic terroir. Its hyper-local Puna coffee delivers mineral-rich, complex flavors—a true taste of this special place, reflecting an organic ethos and connection to the land's 'Mana,' embodying Puna's coffee renaissance.
MTZ Kaʻū Coffee Farms
A quiet, small-scale farm operation in Pahala that provides a mellow, low-acid profile typical of the Ka'u region. It's a great choice for those who appreciate a subtle, nutty flavor and a gentle finish. If you're looking for a high-impact, complex specialty roast with a significant bloom, this isn't the fit for you today.
Llanes Coffee Estates
A quiet, small-scale farm in Holualoa that is genuinely good for those looking to buy roasted-to-order Kona coffee at a fair price. It's a low-profile spot where you can avoid the crowds of the larger estates. If you're looking for a polished, full-service tasting room or a high-traffic tourist destination, this is a different kind of visit.
Kona King Coffee
Kona King Coffee shows up Sunday mornings at Pure Green market in Captain Cook — a farmers-market find rather than a brick-and-mortar stop, with coffee priced accessibly under $10 a cup. Signal here is thin (one review, one visit), but the one person who found them loved it. Go if you're already in the South Kona area on a Sunday and want to support a small local grower over a cafe counter. If you're planning a special outing or need a guaranteed destination open any day of the week, this isn't the right anchor for your trip.
Huahua Farm
A tiny, working farm in Holualoa where you can get your coffee roasted to order, meaning you'll walk away with beans that are still warm from the roaster. It's a true hidden gem for those who want the freshest possible Kona coffee without the crowds. If you're looking for a polished tasting room, a paved driveway, or a guaranteed open gate, this isn't it—this is a working farm on a goat trail, and the access is a bit of' adventure' for the same reason.
Ka'u Coffee & Tea Company, LLC
Kau Coffee and Tea Company is an online purveyor of authentic Hawaiian coffees and teas, deeply rooted in supporting Ka'u's local farmers. They directly source distinctive products from this unique region and other Hawaiian locales, ensuring freshness and highlighting unique terroir. Brewing accessories are also offered, celebrating the island's rich agricultural heritage and connecting enthusiasts to its source.
Wolfpack Farms Coffee
A farm in Holualoa sitting squarely in the Kona coffee belt, with review signal so thin — two ratings across eight years — that a full picture is genuinely hard to draw. What's there: a recent five-star mention of a medium roast, and a farm address at the altitude where serious Kona is grown. Go if you're the type to reach out ahead, show up to a working farm with low online footprint, and trust the terroir over the TripAdvisor count. If you need a track record, a tasting room, or any certainty about hours and access, a farm with more documented visits will be a safer bet.
Royal Islander 100% Kona Coffee - KTL 100% Kona Coffee Farm
At KTL Kona Coffee Farm, a cherished family estate in Captain Cook re-established in 2009 with ancestral ties to 1856, Royal Islander Coffee offers 100% Pure Kona Coffee. They meticulously oversee sustainable, organic cultivation of ancient varieties and small-batch roasting, ensuring an authentic single-origin experience deeply connected to Hawaiian heritage and unblended estate-grown flavor.
- Kona and Ka'u are the two estate-growing districts, and most farm tours cluster on the Kona side around Kailua-Kona, Holualoa, and Captain Cook.
- The Hilo side leans toward cafes and roasters rather than farm visits, which is useful if you are based near Hilo or Volcano.
- Distances are real: Kona to Hilo is roughly a two-hour drive, so it pays to group coffee stops by district.
Region FAQs
Where is most Big Island coffee grown?
Almost all of it grows on the west and south sides: the Kona coffee belt above Kailua-Kona and the higher-elevation Ka'u district. The Hilo side has cafes and roasters but few estate farms.
Should I use this page or the Kona hub?
Use this Big Island page for the whole island. If your trip centers on Kona-side farm tours and 100% Kona beans, the Kona hub narrows the focus to just that region.
Can I visit farms across the whole island in one day?
Not comfortably. Kona to Hilo is about a two-hour drive each way, so most visitors pick one side of the island and plan farm stops within that district.
This hub lists 96 places, including 70 with bean-buying signals and 49 with tour access in current KopeMaps data.
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