10 Specialty Coffee Plantations for Coffee Aficionados

Coffee, from plant to cup, is a tale teeming with flavor and tradition.

Have you ever wondered where that aromatic burst in your morning cup comes from?

From quaint Hawaiian estates to innovative Californian farms, specialty coffee plantations are gems worth exploring for any coffee lover.

When you sip on that delightful brew, it’s not just caffeine hitting your taste buds; it’s the culmination of diverse climates, skilled farmers, and rich histories, each contributing to the unique profile of every bean.

Trust us, as we guide you through some of the most extraordinary coffee plantations that aficionados like you should visit at least once.

Kona Coffee Living History Farm, Captain Cook, HI

Have you ever wondered what it'd be like to step back in time and see how your favorite coffee was made decades ago?

At the Kona Coffee Living History Farm in Captain Cook, Hawaii, you can do just that!

What’s the buzz?

This outdoor museum is a special treat for coffee lovers and history buffs alike.

It proudly stands as the only living history coffee farm in the nation!

Imagine wandering among the lush coffee trees and learning how Kona coffee took root in Hawaii's culture.

Why is it unique?

• Living History: Get an up-close look at traditional coffee farming methods used in the early 20th century.
• Award-Winning: It's not just any farm—it received the 2020 Travelers' Choice Award from TripAdvisor!
• Smithsonian Affiliation: Adding a feather to its cap, this farm is affiliated with the prestigious Smithsonian Institution.

Here's a taste of what you'll experience:

• Find yourself mesmerized by the rows of coffee trees and learn about the journey from bean to cup.
• Roll up your sleeves and crack open some macadamia nuts for a fresh snack.
• Meet the "Kona Nightingale"—and no, we're not talking about a bird, but a historical piece of farm equipment.
• Revel in the stories of Kona's Japanese immigrants who pioneered the coffee farming industry here.

Quick Tip: Don't miss out on the chance to sample some of the finest Kona coffee right where it's grown!

Picture this: sun on your face, a gentle breeze, and the faint crackling sound as you stroll past coffee trees.

Sounds perfect, doesn't it?

Well, you can experience all of this at the Kona Coffee Living History Farm.

It's a "must see" on the list for all you coffee aficionados out there!

Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, Kailua-Kona, HI

Ever imagined walking through lush organic coffee fields with the Hawaiian sun warming your back?

Well, Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation makes this dream a reality for coffee lovers visiting Kailua-Kona.

Why not take a break from your regular brew and see where your favorite cup of joe comes from?

When you step into Mountain Thunder, you'll get the inside scoop—literally.

Their free tours showcase each step of the coffee-making journey.

From the vibrant green plants in the fields to the rich aroma of roasting beans, it's a sensory delight.

• Location: Just picture yourself 3,200 feet above sea level on the slopes of Hawaii's majestic volcanoes—sounds like coffee paradise, right?
• Coffee Varieties: Dip into their selection, including the much-raved-about Premium 100% Kona Coffee. Touted for its classic Kona profile, it promises a smooth experience with low acidity at $49.90.

Did you know that not all beans are created equal?

Mountain Thunder also offers an Organic 100% Kona Coffee, certified by the USDA.

It's all about pure, unadulterated flavor, grown on select farms, and you can bring this home for $69.90.

Intrigued?

Join the community of aficionados who've experienced the award-winning brews from this special spot in Hawaii.

Beyond tasting, engage with passionate guides who'll unveil the world of this prestigious bean.

So, grab a notepad (you'll want to jot down your favorite blends) and put on comfy shoes for the plantation walk.

Ready to immerse in the coffee culture at Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation?

Let your senses lead the way!

Greenwell Farms, Kealakekua, HI

Thirsty for a taste of Hawaiian history with your cup of joe?

Greenwell Farms in Kealakekua, HI, might just be your next stop.

This plantation isn't just about sipping coffee; it's about experiencing a piece of coffee heritage that dates back to 1850.

Can you imagine?

That's over a century of coffee-crafting expertise!

Now, let's talk about what you can do at Greenwell Farms:

• Guided Tours: Fancy walking the same ground where Kona coffee comes alive? Join one of their expert-led tours and get the inside scoop on every step of the magical coffee-making process.
• Coffee Tastings: Your taste buds will thank you after sampling some of the finest Kona coffee, celebrated for its full-bodied flavor.
• Retail Store: Find your favorite coffee blend? Take a piece of Greenwell Farms home with a purchase from their retail store. Don't forget, as a tour visitor, you'll be in the know about their top-tier coffee selections.

When are they open?

Daily from 8:30am to 5:00pm, welcoming both newbies and aficionados alike to explore their verdant estate at 81-6581 Mamalahoa Highway, Kealakekua, Hawaii 96750.

Did someone say discounts?

Get a kick out of member discounts on those freshly roasted beans when you join their regular shipment plan.

Customize it to fit your caffeine needs!

So, are you ready to turn a page in your coffee adventure book?

Greenwell Farms is more than just a plantation; it's a journey through the culture of Kona coffee that you surely wouldn't want to miss.

Grab your travel mug, and let's hit the road!

Hula Daddy Kona Coffee, Holualoa, HI

Have you heard about Hula Daddy Kona Coffee?

Nestled in the famous Kona region of Hawaii, this 30-acre coffee plantation is a must-visit for any serious coffee lover like yourself.

Let me tell you, this place is not just about sipping coffee; it's a full sensory experience.

• Location: 74-4944 Mamalahoa Highway, Holualoa, HI, 96725
• Contact: 808-987-8837

Now, you may be wondering, what makes Hula Daddy so special?

Well, consider this:

• Awards: Winner of the Kona Coffee Cupping Competitions in both 2014 and 2016, and the 2015 Hawaii Cupping Competition.
• Tours: Available by advance appointment, Monday through Friday from 10 am to 2 pm.
• Tasting Opportunity: Yes, taste their 100% Kona award-winning coffee.

Imagine this, you're wandering through lush coffee trees, learning all about the magical bean-to-cup journey.

Hula Daddy takes pride in its hand-picked beans and boutique farming approach.

You get to be part of coffee plantation tours, which are educational and, let's be real, pretty fun too.

And what's waiting at the end of the tour?

A chance to taste their finely crafted brews.

It's not every day you get to say you've sipped on a coffee that's been cupped and acclaimed by experts, right?

Make sure to book in advance to snag your spot.

This is one coffee date you won't want to miss, especially when it includes a cup of Coffee Review's 2018 Number 1 coffee out of over 5000 sampled.

Oh, and if you're an espresso fanatic, their special selection promises a rich flavor with a perfect balance of chocolate, sweetness, and a touch of nuttiness and fruit.

Happy sipping!

Kauai Coffee Company, Kalaheo, HI

Have you ever wondered where the largest coffee farm in the United States is?

Well, let me spill the beans—it's the Kauai Coffee Company!

Nestled in the heart of Kalaheo, HI, this coffee estate is a wonderland for coffee aficionados like you.

Why visit?

Imagine walking through an endless orchard of coffee trees, the aroma of fresh beans in the air.

At Kauai Coffee Company, they offer you the chance to do just that.

With self-guided walking tours, you can take your sweet time, strolling through the lush fields.

What's on your taste buds' horizon?

A variety of estate-grown coffees, that's what!

Grab a cup and let your senses dive into the unique flavors.

Kauai Coffee is triple certified—Fair Trade USA, Rainforest Alliance, and Non-GMO Project.

That means every sip supports sustainability.

1. Tour Info:

1. Adults: $45
2. Children (8-18): $40
3. Little ones under 8: Sit this one out for safety.

The best part?

Their guided tastings finish with a cup of the freshest coffee.

It's grown, harvested, and roasted right on the estate.

Talk about knowing your coffee's roots!

Visiting Hours:

• Regular Days: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• New Year’s Day: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Need a little souvenir to bring the taste of Hawaii home?

Their visitor center is a treasure trove of gifts that are sure to delight any coffee lover.

So, when are you planning your coffee adventure?

Oh, and did I mention peaberry?

It's a customer favorite.

Make sure to ask for a taste, and remember, Kauai adventure fills more than just your cup!

Moloka’i Coffee Plantation, Kualapu’u, HI

Ever wondered where your coffee's journey begins?

Picture yourself standing amidst rows of lush greenery, a gentle Hawaiian breeze caressing your face.

That's the tranquil scene at Moloka’i Coffee Plantation in Kualapu’u, HI.

Did You Know?

The quiet island of Moloka’i is home to a unique coffee gem.

With just one major plantation spanning 150-acres, this spot prides itself on producing 100% Moloka’i coffee.

Here's the Scoop!

• Location: Kualapu’u, Moloka’i, Hawaii
• Specialty: 100% Moloka’i-grown coffee
• Coffee Variety: Red Catuai
• Altitude: 850 feet above sea level
• Climate: Rich volcanic soil – perfect for coffee!

Are you a coffee connoisseur?

You'll be thrilled to know this plantation not only grows Red Catuai, selected for its superior quality in the mid-1980s, but also offers you a chance to delve into the coffee-making process.

Tour & Tasting

• Fields: Witness the coffee from blossom to bean
• Mill: See how beans are processed
• Tasting: Experience the unique flavor profiles

But wait!

There's more than just tours.

This place is a true coffee haven, with a coffee farm, mill, and plantation store all nestled at the heart of the island.

So, how about having your next cup of coffee come straight from the upper slopes of this Pacific paradise?

Remember, it's not just a cup of joe; it's a sip of Hawaiian culture.

Cheers to your next adventure!

Old Hawaiian Coffee, Hilo, HI

Have you ever dreamed of stepping into a lush Hawaiian paradise, complete with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air?

Old Hawaiian Coffee, nestled in Hilo, Hawaii, is just the place to make your coffee-loving heart sing.

This quaint family-run gem offers an experience that's not only about savoring your cup but also understanding where it comes from.

Curious about sustainable farming?

Here, you can witness sustainable practices in coffee farming firsthand.

It's an educational journey through the art and science that goes into growing those precious beans.

And guess what?

You'll discover their traditional methods for processing coffee, techniques that have been honed over generations.

• Location: Hilo, Hawaii
• Specialty: Single-origin Hawaiian coffee
• Experience Offered: Farm tours and tastings

What's a visit without a taste of the local brew?

Dive into the world of coffee with their intimate tastings.

You can indulge your taste buds with single-origin Hawaiian coffee that's as unique as the island itself.

The tour not only pleases your palate but also enriches your coffee knowledge — a total win-win!

Tours & Tastings:

• Learn about planting and nurturing coffee trees
• Understand traditional coffee processing
• Enjoy tastings of exquisite single-origin coffees

It's not enough just to drink coffee.

To truly appreciate it, you've got to connect with its roots, literally.

Wondering how a coffee seed turns into a sumptuous brew?

Your answers await at Old Hawaiian Coffee.

And don’t forget to soak in the scenic beauty — it's as captivating as the coffee is delectable!

So, are you ready for an authentic Hawaiian coffee adventure?

FRINJ Coffee, Santa Barbara, CA

Have you ever sipped a cup of coffee and wondered about the story in each brew?

Well, let's take a peek at FRINJ Coffee, nestled in the sunny, coastal hills of Santa Barbara, CA.

Ever heard of California-grown coffee?

It's not just a trend; it’s a blossoming reality, and FRINJ Coffee is at the forefront of this exciting movement!

Why is FRINJ Coffee special?

For starters, they are the pioneers of commercial coffee growing on U.S. mainland, right in California’s backyard.

It's like discovering a coffee goldmine in a place already known for its breathtaking vineyards.

Plus, they don’t just grow any coffee; they produce over 14 different varieties of coffee beans, each with a unique flavor profile.

Imagine that diversity!

• Location: Santa Barbara, California
• Specialty: Over 14 varieties of coffee
• Price Range: $15.00 - $25.00 for single-serve coffee bags
• Unique Offer: Tours available — check for dates and booking

Picture this: a moderate, refreshing hike through the plantation.

You've got your hiking shoes tied tight, ready to tread along the path where more than 3,500 coffee plants bask under the California sun.

Intrigued?

They offer tours (remember, dates and size are limited, so book ahead!) where you can relish Frinj's pour-over brews, nibble on local pastries, and even score a discount on their tantalizing produce.

Now, perhaps you’re thinking, "But can California really do coffee?" FRINJ Coffee not only says, "Yes!" but also delivers with sustainability at heart.

Their innovative techniques mean they're not just growing beans; they're growing a whole new coffee culture.

Fancy a taste of California in your morning cup?

Head over to FRINJ Coffee, where coffee dreams meet the Pacific breeze.

Lions Gate Farms, Kona, HI

Have you ever sipped on a coffee and wondered about its journey from soil to cup?

Let's whisk you away to Lions Gate Farms in Kona, HI, where the sun-kissed slopes are home to some exceptionally aged coffee trees.

Imagine strolling through a 10-acre estate, amidst trees that are 60 to 100 years old—their deep roots entangling with rich volcanic soil to give you a coffee that's all about body and depth.

Coffee aficionado, mark your calendars!

The Kona coffee harvest season spans from September to December, offering a unique chance to see how these heirloom trees are meticulously hand-picked.

And we're talking about a whopping 3,000 trees to be precise!

What's brewing at Lions Gate?

• History: Cultivating coffee since 1993, this farm is a family affair.
• Acres: Over 15 acres of historic, heirloom trees.
• Bean Talk: Deep roots in rich soil yield a bean that brings a new meaning to 'wonderful.'
• Beyond Coffee: Don't miss out on their home-grown macadamia nuts and other goodies!

While you're there, dive into a brief tutorial about organic farming and the processing of your favorite bean.

And the cherry on top?

They roast every batch by hand, ensuring that each cup you drink holds the essence of Kona.

Why Lions Gate?

• Their coffee is meticulously hand-harvested.
• Each bean is a testament to the farm's dedication to quality.
• Did we mention the chance to taste some of the finest Kona coffee during your visit?

So, are you ready to treat your taste buds and learn a thing or two about premium coffee making?

Head over to Lions Gate Farms—it's a small paradise for coffee lovers like you!

Sacred Grounds Coffee Farm, Captain Cook, HI

Hey there, coffee lover!

Have you ever dreamt of sipping on premium Kona coffee amidst the backdrops of lush Hawaiian landscapes?

Let's talk about Sacred Grounds Coffee Farm in Captain Cook, HI.

Imagine the warm Hawaiian air filled with the rich aroma of coffee; it's an experience you'll cherish!

At this farm, you're in for an authentic coffee journey.

Why is this place special?

Well:

• Location: Nestled near the picturesque Kealakekua Bay, the farm boasts an amazing view that can elevate your coffee-tasting experience.
• Hours: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it's perfect for a day outing.
• Coffee: They specialize in 100% Kona coffee. Grown right there on the lush Hawaiian hillsides.

But wait, there's more!

Love to know where your coffee comes from?

Sacred Grounds offers engaging tours.

You can stroll through the coffee orchard, and they'll fill you in on their sustainable farming practices.

Isn't it awesome to learn how your favorite beverage is made?

What else can you nibble on?

Their macadamia nuts and home-grown chocolate are a hit.

Also, they've got something for the artisans among you – crystalline glazed pottery.

A little piece of Hawaii to take home perhaps?

Fans of the farm rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the Branch to Bar chocolate made right on-site.

Don’t miss out on the chance to treat your taste buds while soaking up the good vibes.

Remember, this isn't just about coffee; it's about an experience that caters to all your senses.

So, have you added Sacred Grounds Coffee Farm to your must-visit list yet?

Trust me, it's a place where the coffee is as warm as the welcome.