Coffee tours on the Big Island show a different side to this tropical haven, far from the beaches and the surf. You’ll learn about the coffee growing process and discover what makes Hawaii the ultimate place for cultivation of this revered bean. There’s tasting on the cards too!

Most coffee excursions in Hawaii last a whole day, throwing other activities and visits into the mix for a fully rounded island experience.

Up next, you can check out our helpful guide on coffee tours, one of the most interesting themes for day trips in Big Island.

What are the best coffee tours on the Big Island?

Small group Big Island coffee farm tours

Most Big Island coffee tours take place in a group setting, which keeps prices manageable. It’s a social occasion and you’ll no doubt come away having made lots of new friends. There are usually up to 14 participants on the trip, so it remains a personal experience.

The trips all include a visit to one of the island’s most popular coffee farms, as well as stops at other locations for some sightseeing. If you don’t have long on the island, these tours allow you to see a lot in just one day.

You’ll be collected from your hotel after breakfast, with transport by air-conditioned minivan. The drive through the Kona uplands is scenic and known locally as the “coffee belt”. Your first stop of the day is a coffee plantation for a tour and some tasting. There will the opportunity to buy souvenirs here too.

Next up, you’ll head down to the south of the island for a walk on the black sands of Punalu’u Beach. Famed for its Hawaiian green sea turtles, the shoreline here makes for a photogenic stop.

Continue to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and enjoy a short walk through an otherworldly lava tunnel. You’ll then hike up to the rim of the Halema’uma’u Crater where you can see the volcanic forces in action. Despite the steam vents, it can be chilly up here, so wrap up warm.

Some tours also stop at a bee farm where you can sample local honey and have a close-up look at the hives. Lunch and dinner are included and enjoyed along the way.

You’ll be returned to your hotel in the evening, after your fun-filled Big Island coffee tour.

Private Big Island coffee excursions

For those that prefer a bit more exclusivity, private Hawaii coffee tours tick all the boxes. Hotel pickups are included so you’ll depart your accommodation after breakfast, traveling in style in a luxury Mercedes van.

The itinerary is similar to the group tour above, but there will be more flexibility with the schedule. So, if you want to spend longer at a particular spot, just ask.

At Greenwell Farm, you’ll see 100-year-old coffee trees and learn about the entire coffee-making process. Then there’s a visit to the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park for a cultural input about ancient Hawaiian life. The highlight is a stop at the Painted Church – it’s like a cathedral in the jungle!

Then there’s another coffee farm visit, this time to the largest farmer-owned cooperative in the United States. Sampling the coffee-themed goods is the main event here, as well as feasting on tropical baked treats from the kitchen.

Finally, you’ll stop at Kealakekua Bay, which is where Captain Cook died in 1779. You’ll see his monument and have a chance to take photos of the cove.

The return drive takes you through the pretty Kona district, before arriving back at your hotel.

How much do Big Island coffee tours cost?

The small group coffee excursions in Big Island cost US$210 per person for a 12-hour tour. You’ll be traveling with other explorers, but the maximum group size is 14 so it’s still an intimate visit.

Shorter, 7-hour trips are also available. These include a visit to the Bee Farm and are priced at US$190 per passenger.

Private Big Island coffee tours are US$1000 for a half-day excursion. This is for up to 10 passengers, so if you’re traveling in a group, a private tour can be quite cost-effective. You’ll have your own vehicle and guide for a luxurious day out.

What does the price include?

Everything you’ll need for the day out is included in Big Island coffee trips, so you just need to bring yourself! Here’s what will be provided on your tour:

Transport by air-conditioned minivan.
Hotel pickups from the Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa, and Kohala coastal areas.
Lunch, snacks and drinks. On longer tours, dinner is also included.
National park admissions.
Coffee farm tours and tastings.
Bee farm tours and tastings where applicable.

Where do coffee tours start?

Coffee tours in Big Island generally include hotel transfers, so you’ll be picked up from your accommodation after breakfast. The tour finishes back at your hotel, with seamless door-to-door service.

Before booking your trip, check with the operator to confirm that your resort area is covered on their collection list.

What is the average duration of a Big Island coffee tour?

Most day trips to coffee farms on Big Island last around 11 or 12 hours. This gives you time to explore several different locations and make the most of your vacation. Some tours are 7 hours, for those who want a slightly shorter day out.

Private coffee tours on Big Island are usually 5 hours long. The itineraries are tailored so you can still see a lot in just half a day.

When is the best time for a coffee tour in Big Island?

You can visit coffee plantations in Big Island at any time, so tours are super easy to fit into your vacation schedule.

The trips run in all weathers so are rarely canceled. As the excursions often last a full day, morning departures are the norm.

Travel tips

There will be a small amount of walking on most coffee tours in Big Island so wear comfortable shoes.
The minimum age for some coffee farm visits in Hawaii is 6 years. Check this with the tour provider before booking if you’re traveling with young children.
Take some money with you for purchasing souvenirs and coffee at the different stops on the excursion.
Coffee trips on Big Island operate in all weather conditions so make sure you take a jacket in case it rains.

Coffee Tours from Big Island