Nestled in the verdant Puna district of the Big Island, Waipuna Coffee is more than just a farm; it's the passion project of Matias Lopez Vega, a former engineer captivated by nature's allure. Operating from Kapakauaokeola Farm in Kurtistown, Matias, who refers to himself as 'Haku ʻĀina' or master of the land, cultivates coffee with a profound respect for Hawaiian traditions and the unique volcanic terroir. His journey from city life to stewarding this special piece of land in upper Puna infuses every aspect of Waipuna Coffee. The coffee itself is a true expression of its hyper-local Puna origin, a district on the Big Island experiencing a vibrant coffee renaissance. Grown on Kapakauaokeola Farm—land with a layered history from sugar cane to pasture before its current coffee chapter—the beans are said to capture this unique heritage in their flavor. While specific product names aren't detailed, expect to discover authentic Puna coffee, celebrated for its mineral-rich character, balanced acidity, and complex notes of nuts, cacao, citrus, and melon. Matias’s approach, rooted in an 'organic and balanced lifestyle' and a deep connection to Hawaiian 'Mana,' aims to offer a taste of this special place, a 'concoction made and meant for paradise.'
A Coffee Journey, rising through the volcanic soil of the Island, manifested by each individual coffee tree, handled and roasted to perfection
- Phone
- (808) 333-2187
- Website
- waipunacoffee.com
- Address
- 17-4514 Huina Rd, Kurtistown, HI 96760, USA
Visiting Waipuna Coffee
Where is Waipuna Coffee located?
Waipuna Coffee is at 17-4514 Huina Rd in Kurtistown, in the Puna district on the eastern side of the Big Island. It operates from Kapakauaokeola Farm in upper Puna.
Can I buy beans online and ship to the mainland?
Waipuna Coffee sells beans through waipunacoffee.com. Visit the site to confirm current product availability and mainland shipping options.
Is the farm open for visitors?
No public hours are listed — contact Waipuna Coffee through their website before planning a visit to confirm whether farm tours or on-site pickup are available.
What makes Puna coffee different from Kona?
Puna coffee grows on the Big Island's eastern slope in young volcanic soil with a distinct terroir. Waipuna's beans are described as mineral-rich with balanced acidity and complex notes of nuts, cacao, citrus, and melon — a different flavor profile from the classic Kona style.
Who is behind Waipuna Coffee?
The farm is run by Matias Lopez Vega, a former engineer who left city life to cultivate coffee on Kapakauaokeola Farm. He describes himself as 'Haku ʻĀina' — master of the land — and takes an organic, land-focused approach to growing.
Is Waipuna Coffee organically grown?
The farm operates with an organic and balanced lifestyle philosophy, but certification details are not publicly listed. Check their website for current certification status if that is important to your purchase decision.