Big Island Hawaii: Craft Chocolate Tasting and Farm Tour

Travelers with a sweet tooth and an interest in sustainable farming will find this Big Island craft chocolate tour a delightful blend of education, scenery, and tasting. Set in a family-owned farm just outside Hilo, this 3.5-hour experience offers a rare glimpse into the journey of cacao from tree to chocolate bar, paired with expansive views and locally sourced treats.

What we love about this tour is its authenticity—you’re not just sampling chocolates; you’re learning about the complex world of cacao farming from passionate guides who genuinely care about their craft. The chance to explore the lush orchards, understand the fermentation process, and taste a diverse array of Hawaiian chocolates makes it a memorable experience.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so it might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues. Also, with the tasting being quite generous, bring your appetite—and maybe a little extra room in your souvenir bag to take some chocolates home.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, foodies, and anyone curious about how Hawaiian agriculture influences premium chocolate. It’s a highly immersive, educational, and delicious way to spend part of your Big Island adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic farm experience: Visit a family-owned cacao farm just minutes from Hilo, away from tourist crowds.
• Educational insights: Learn about cacao cultivation, fermentation, and the agricultural history of the region, including the old sugarcane industry.
• Diverse tastings: Sample 10 single-origin Hawaiian craft chocolates, along with fresh cacao juice, roasted beans, and cacao tea.
• Breathtaking views: Enjoy the elevated tasting room with sweeping vistas of ocean and valley landscapes.
• Expert guides: Guides like Colin Hart, a master agronomist, share their knowledge and passion for cacao farming.
• Relaxing atmosphere: After the tour, you can relax in the tasting room or walk through the lush orchards, soaking in the scenery.

A Closer Look at What to Expect

Scenic Drive and Arrival

Starting from 1533 Puia Rd, the journey to the farm is part of the adventure, as you wind along the Big Island’s lesser-trodden backroads. The drive offers glimpses of historic breadfruit, sugarcane fields, and cattle grazing, giving you a taste of traditional Hawaiian agriculture. The farm’s entrance features a large vinyl sign and a welcoming green gate, marking your arrival at a peaceful, verdant spot just 5 minutes from Hilo.

The Elevated Tasting Room and Views

Once you arrive, you’ll step into the tasting area perched above the orchard canopy. This elevation offers spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding valleys, making the tasting session more immersive. The space is elegant yet relaxed, perfect for casual conversations about cacao, farming, and even the region’s agricultural past.

Guided Orchard Tour

Colin Hart, the farm’s master agronomist, leads the tour through the cacao orchards. He passionately explains the journey from planting to harvesting, emphasizing the complexity of growing and fermenting cacao. You’ll see the cacao trees up close, learn how they’re cultivated in Hawaii’s climate, and get insights into the regional history, including the once-thriving sugarcane industry along the Hamakua Coast.

The Fermentation Process

Colin’s expertise shines during the fermentation demonstration, which is a highlight for many. Fermentation is a crucial step in developing flavor and quality in craft chocolates. You’ll observe the fermentation rooms and gain a clear understanding of how post-harvest processes influence the final product.

Chocolate and Cacao Tasting

Back in the tasting room, the fun begins. You’ll sample 10 different single-origin craft chocolates sourced from across the Hawaiian Archipelago. The flavors are diverse, reflecting the unique terroir of each farm—think of it as a wine tasting but with chocolate.

Additional treats include fresh cacao juice, roasted cacao beans, and cacao tea—providing a sensory experience that complements the chocolates and enhances your appreciation for cacao’s versatility.

Additional Farm Flavors

Not just about chocolate, the farm offers seasonal fruits and farm-fresh snacks, making the experience even richer. Reviewer Judy highlighted the generosity of the hosts, noting how welcoming and kind they were, even during off-hours. This personal touch elevates the experience from merely educational to genuinely heartfelt.

Post-Tour Opportunities

After the tasting, you’re free to purchase any of the chocolates you enjoyed or simply relax, walk through the orchards, or take in the scenery. The guides encourage curiosity, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or request more samples—fair warning, they love sharing their passion for chocolate and feeding visitors plenty of treats.

How the Tour Balances Value and Experience

Priced at $157 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that combines education, scenic beauty, and delicious tastings. Given the quality of guides, the uniqueness of the farm setting, and the in-depth look at Hawaiian cacao, many find the price to be justified.

It’s especially appealing for those interested in craft chocolate, organic farming, or Hawaiian agriculture. The small group size (implied by the personalized tour style) ensures an intimate experience, making it easier to ask questions and engage deeply with the guides.

Compared to other activities on the Big Island, this experience does not involve crowds or long bus rides. Instead, it offers a peaceful, immersive day that’s both educational and indulgent—a perfect way to deepen your understanding of the island’s agricultural roots while enjoying some of the best chocolates Hawaii has to offer.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re a chocolate lover, this tour is a must-do—especially if you want to understand what makes Hawaiian craft chocolates unique. It’s also great for nature enthusiasts, as the trek through lush orchards and scenic vistas complements the tasting. Foodies who appreciate farm-to-table experiences will find the farm’s focus on local ingredients and traditional farming methods particularly appealing.

Travelers interested in agriculture or sustainable practices will appreciate the focus on organic cultivation and fermentation. And if you’re looking for a quieter, more personal experience away from larger tourist crowds, this farm tour fits the bill.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Big Island craft chocolate tour combines authenticity, stunning scenery, and educational charm in a way that few other island activities do. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach turn a simple tasting into an engaging story of Hawaiian agriculture, flavor, and craftsmanship.

It’s perfect if you’re seeking a slow-paced, meaningful experience that enriches your understanding of local farming and yields a delicious reward in the form of Hawaiian chocolates. While it involves some walking and standing, the immersive nature and scenic setting make those moments worthwhile.

Overall, it’s an experience that offers value far beyond the price tag, especially for those who genuinely enjoy exploring the stories behind their food and drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 9 years old, likely due to the walking involved and the tasting nature of the experience.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling addition to your day.

Where does the tour start?
You’ll meet at 1533 Puia Rd, just 5 minutes from Hilo; Google Maps is recommended for precise directions.

Can I buy the chocolates I taste?
Yes, after the tour, you are encouraged to purchase any chocolates you enjoyed. They are available for sale onsite.

Is this tour physically demanding?
There’s some walking and standing during the orchard tour, so those with mobility issues should inform the organizers beforehand.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking outdoors—layers, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes are advisable.

Can I stay after the tour?
Absolutely. You can relax in the tasting room or walk through the orchards at your own pace, soaking in the scenery.

Is there a chance to learn about the history of agriculture in the region?
Yes. The guides touch on the region’s agricultural past, including the once-bustling sugarcane industry that helped shape the area.

To sum it up, if you’re after an authentic, educational, and engaging experience that combines scenic views with delicious local flavors, this craft chocolate farm tour on the Big Island is a fantastic choice. It’s a window into Hawaiian agriculture, a treat for the senses, and a meaningful way to connect with the island’s rich farming traditions.