Low key coffee tours

Question

I am looking for small, less touristy coffee encounters that include tasting, along with the ability to purchase beans. Low key tours and educational info are a plus. We are staying in Kailua-Kona, but have a car and are willing to travel.

Answer

If you're looking for low-key, non-touristy coffee tours on the Big Island with a focus on tasting and educational experiences, there are several excellent, smaller coffee farms and roasters around Kailua-Kona that provide a more intimate and personalized experience. Many of these farms are family-owned and offer tours that delve into the coffee-growing process, from the cultivation of the beans to the roasting techniques, all while allowing you to sample their brews and purchase beans directly from the source. Here are some recommendations:

Greenwell Farms - Located just a short drive from Kailua-Kona, Greenwell Farms offers intimate, informative tours that focus on the history of Kona coffee and the growing process. Their tours are less commercialized than larger coffee tours, and they offer a personal touch with tastings of their freshly brewed coffee. You can also purchase beans directly from the farm. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is laid-back and educational.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm - This historic farm provides a unique, hands-on look at Kona coffee farming. The tour is small and educational, with a focus on traditional farming methods and the history of coffee in the region. You'll have the chance to taste their coffee, and the farm offers a nice selection of beans for purchase. This is a great choice for those who want a deeper dive into the cultural and historical aspects of Kona coffee.
Hula Daddy Kona Coffee - Known for its high-quality beans and beautiful, serene setting, Hula Daddy offers a small-group tour of their farm, where you’ll learn about the coffee-growing process and the methods they use to cultivate and roast their beans. The tour is educational, and they provide tastings throughout, giving you the opportunity to savor different types of coffee. They also sell their coffee beans directly on-site, so you can take home a fresh batch.
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation - Situated on the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano, this plantation offers small, educational tours where you can learn about their sustainable farming practices. The tours include tastings of their estate-grown coffees, and you can buy their beans directly from the farm. The setting is beautiful and serene, and the tour guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of Kona coffee.
Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm - Although known for its lavender, this farm also offers a great Kona coffee experience. The tours are small and provide both coffee tastings and an opportunity to learn about the agricultural practices of the region. You can buy beans directly from the farm, and the peaceful setting provides a nice, relaxing atmosphere.

All of these locations offer small, personalized tours, so you won’t feel like you’re part of a large, touristy group. Most tours are flexible, so you can ask questions about the growing process, tasting methods, and the unique characteristics of Kona coffee. Be sure to check the availability and tour times ahead of your visit, as some places may require reservations or operate on limited hours.

Enjoy your coffee exploration on the Big Island, and happy sipping!