Mauka and Makai Farms Tour from Kona Coast South Side

This seven-and-a-half-hour tour on the Big Island of Hawaii offers an immersive experience into the island’s unique agricultural and culinary traditions. It combines visits to a renowned Kona coffee farm, the largest U.S. abalone farm, and a delicious Japanese-style lunch, all wrapped up in a well-organized day with knowledgeable guides.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to see Hawaiian coffee production up close, taste some of the best Kona coffee varieties, and learn about sustainable abalone aquaculture. The inclusion of a traditional Yakiniku Hibachi lunch adds a flavorful, interactive twist to the day.

However, potential travelers should keep in mind that the price of $239 might seem steep for some, especially considering the tour’s one-hour abalone visit. Also, the tour’s length and active stops mean it’s best suited for those comfortable with the day’s pace and physical activity. This experience is perfect for food lovers, curious explorers, and anyone who appreciates authentic, behind-the-scenes insights into Hawaii’s food scene.

Key Points

• Authentic educational visits: Learn about Kona coffee and abalone farming from passionate, expert guides.
• Tasty experiences: Enjoy tasting Kona coffee and steamed abalone, plus a hearty Yakiniku lunch.
• Accessible for many: The tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible, with some gravel areas.
• Balanced timing: The itinerary offers a good mix of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing.
• Great for foodies: Ideal for those interested in Hawaiian agriculture and culinary traditions.
• Value for money: The tour packs a full day of experiences, but consider if it fits your budget and pace.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

First Stop: Big Island Abalone

The day kicks off at the Big Island Abalone farm, which is the largest and most prestigious abalone aquaculture site in the United States. Here, a knowledgeable guide will walk you through every stage of abalone production — from spawning to harvest. You’ll learn about the ecology and characteristics of abalone, and why this shellfish is such a delicacy.

According to a reviewer, “the tour was pretty accessible, with just a few gravel areas,” which is a big plus if you’re concerned about mobility. The highlight is the steamed abalone tasting, providing a chance to savor this prized seafood directly from the farm. Expect to spend around an hour here, gaining insights into a fascinating aquaculture process that most visitors wouldn’t see otherwise.

Second Stop: Doutor Coffee Farm

Next, you’ll head to Doutor Coffee in Holualoa, a true gem in the heart of the Kona coffee belt. The farm covers expansive grounds where coffee plants thrive alongside a tropical fruit garden and a botanical garden showcasing Hawaii’s native trees and flowers.

A big highlight for many visitors is the chance to sample different Kona coffee varieties while soaking up spectacular views from the infinity pool. One reviewer appreciated the insight from their guide, describing it as a “stunning coffee farm with a comprehensive tropical garden.” The 1.5-hour visit allows for a relaxed exploration, plenty of tasting opportunities, and stunning photo chances.

Third Stop: A Traditional Japanese BBQ Lunch

The tour wraps up with a Yakiniku Hibachi lunch at the abalone farm, which is a unique twist. “Yakiniku,” which means “grilled meat” in Japanese, involves grilling bite-sized pieces of locally sourced beef and seafood, including abalone, on a grill.

The menu features local grass-fed beef like sirloin and side skirt, along with seafood options. This DIY grilling experience, paired with Kona Barbeque, offers a satisfying and engaging meal. Reviewers mention the delicious variety of ingredients and the chance to enjoy a relaxed, communal dining experience. Expect about an hour at this final stop, which is perfect for digesting all the day’s deliciousness.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation: The tour includes pickup, which simplifies logistics and means you won’t need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads. The group size is limited to 14 travelers, promoting a more personalized experience.

Duration and Pacing: At 7.5 hours, this is a full-day tour, balancing educational stops with tasting and leisure. The schedule allows you plenty of time at each site without feeling rushed. Most of the time is spent exploring and sampling, so be prepared for some walking and standing, especially at the farms.

Price and Value: At $239, the cost covers entrance fees, guided tours, tastings, and the lunch. Considering the quality of experiences and local foods included, many will find the tour offers good value—especially if you’re eager to learn about Hawaiian agriculture and food culture. The guide’s knowledge seems to be a highlight for travelers, with reviews noting how engaging and informative guide Steve was.

Accessibility: The tour is described as wheelchair accessible, with some gravel areas to watch out for. Reviewers with mobility challenges appreciated the thoughtful planning, making this a feasible option for most guests.

Dietary Needs: The tour provider can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. Just mention this when booking, and they’ll tailor the experience accordingly.

How the Tour Compares

While this tour is not the cheapest, it offers a comprehensive glimpse into Hawaii’s edible treasures — from Kona coffee to abalone to Japanese BBQ. It stands out for providing hands-on experiences rather than just sightseeing, making it suitable for travelers who want to get their hands dirty, taste, and learn.

Compared to other Big Island tours focused solely on volcanoes or waterfalls, this experience appeals to foodies and curious visitors eager to understand local food production.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for food lovers, those interested in sustainable farming, and travelers who enjoy interactive experiences. It’s also ideal for small groups or families who appreciate guided insights and the chance to taste authentic Hawaiian and Japanese cuisines.

Because of its educational focus and accessible features, it’s a good choice for travelers with mobility considerations. Plus, if you’re someone who loves learning about local ingredients and seeing how they’re grown and processed, this tour offers genuine insights.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In essence, this tour combines beautiful scenery, fascinating farm visits, and delicious food into a well-rounded day. While it may seem pricey, the value lies in the unique access to production facilities and the comprehensive nature of the experience.

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian agriculture, a full belly, and plenty of memorable photos. If you’re a curious traveler eager to connect with local food sources and learn from expert guides, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to spend a day on the Big Island.

For those wanting a blend of education, authentic tasting, and scenic views, it’s a solid pick, especially if you value small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guides. Just remember to pace yourself and come hungry!

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your designated location, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with dedicated stops at each site for exploration and tasting.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some gravel areas may require extra caution. Reviewers with mobility challenges found it manageable.

What is the main focus of this tour?
It’s focused on Hawaiian agricultural products — particularly Kona coffee and abalone — along with a Japanese-style grilling lunch.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the provider can cater to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets if notified at booking.

Is it worth the price?
Many find the experience to be valuable, given the guided insights, tastings, and authentic food options included in the price.

This Mauka and Makai Farms Tour from Kona Coast offers a genuine, tasty, and educational peek into Hawaii’s food scene. Whether you’re a foodie, a curious traveler, or someone eager to learn about local production, this tour promises a memorable day on the Big Island.