The Big Island of Hawaii isn’t just about pristine beaches and dramatic volcanoes—it’s also home to a thriving agricultural scene showcasing its rich soil, diverse climate, and cultural heritage. From world-renowned coffee farms to lush orchards filled with exotic fruits, the island offers visitors a chance to connect with its roots quite literally. A farm tour adventure is the perfect way to add a unique and delicious layer to your Hawaiian getaway when you’re staying at our Big Island bed and breakfast.
Farm tours on the Big Island provide an inside look at how local growers harness the island’s natural bounty to produce some of the world’s finest crops. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a chocolate lover, or someone curious about how tropical fruits make it to your plate, these tours offer unforgettable hands-on experiences.
It’s not just about tasting incredible produce—though that’s certainly a highlight. Farm tours also help you understand the island’s agricultural traditions, from ancient Hawaiian farming techniques to modern sustainable practices. Plus, many of these farms operate in stunning locations, with views of rolling hills, ocean vistas, or the towering Mauna Kea in the background. Here’s a guide to some of the most exciting farm tours to include in your itinerary.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Located on the slopes of the Big Island’s Kona District, the Kona Coffee Living History Farm is the only living history coffee farm in the United States. The tour takes you back in time to the early 20th century, where you can see how Japanese immigrant farmers cultivated coffee. Walk through the orchards, watch demonstrations, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Kona coffee. It’s a must for any coffee enthusiast.
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
If you’ve ever wondered what makes Kona coffee so special, Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation will show you. This farm offers tours that range from free guided walks to in-depth VIP experiences. Learn about the coffee production process, from bean to cup, and sample their award-winning brews. The plantation’s cool, misty location high on the slopes of Hualalai makes it a unique stop.
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm
A trip to the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm is a delightful way to experience one of Hawaii’s most famous exports. Located just outside Hilo, this picturesque farm is surrounded by acres of macadamia orchards and offers an inside look at how these buttery nuts go from tree to table. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours through the orchards, watch the nut processing facility in action, and sample a variety of flavored macadamia nuts, including local favorites like honey roasted and Maui onion. The farm’s gift shop is a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs, from chocolate-covered macadamias to macadamia nut oils, ensuring you’ll leave with a taste of Hawaii to take home.
Big Island Bees
For a sweet and fascinating adventure, Big Island Bees in Captain Cook offers an up-close look at Hawaii’s honey-making magic. This family-owned apiary provides guided tours where you’ll learn about the essential role bees play in agriculture and the intricate process of honey production. Watch bees in action through a safe, glass-enclosed observation hive, and sample an array of their award-winning, single-floral honey, including unique flavors like macadamia nut blossom, wilelaiki, and lehua. The farm’s charming on-site museum and gift shop are perfect for exploring more about beekeeping and picking up delicious honey-based souvenirs to take home.
Hawaii Vanilla Company
Did you know that Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. that grows vanilla? At the Hawaii Vanilla Company in Paauilo, you can tour the first commercial vanilla farm in the country. Their farm-to-table experiences include a delicious meal featuring vanilla in every course, from savory dishes to desserts. It’s a flavorful and fragrant journey you won’t forget.
OK Farms Hawaii
Located just outside of Hilo, OK Farms offers a wide variety of agricultural experiences. Their sprawling property includes macadamia nuts, cacao, coffee, tropical fruits, and spices. The tour is a feast for the senses, as you’ll see, smell, and taste your way through the farm. Don’t miss the breathtaking view of Rainbow Falls, which is visible from the farm.
If you’d like an immersive luxury experience, Kulaniapia Farms offers a four hour farm to table cooking class, during which you’ll harvest gorgeous produce from their garden and transform it into amazing plant-based recipes for your own lunch—you can’t get more local than that!
There’s also an intimate and educational gourmet dining experience available at dinnertime, where you’ll learn about Hawaiian food history and culture while you feast on a beautiful tasting menu.
Agriculture Tours: The New Travel Frontier
Farm tours on the Big Island are more than just a fun outing—they’re a way to connect with the land, the culture, and the people who make Hawaii’s agricultural scene so vibrant. Whether you’re sipping Kona coffee, sampling honey, or walking through vanilla orchards, these experiences are as enriching as they are delicious.
Ready to start planning your farm tour adventure? Book your stay at Volcano Village Estates today and let us help you create a Big Island itinerary filled with unforgettable moments.