Adventure brief
Farm Tour and Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting
Step into the world of Hawaiian craft chocolate at Honoli'i Orchards, where farm meets flavor just minutes from Hilo. Learn cacao cultivation, history, and taste exquisite local bars in a relaxed, scenic setting.
Just 5 minutes from the vibrant town of Hilo, Honoli'i Orchards sits 1.7 miles up Puia Road, offering visitors a rare chance to step beyond the typical Hawaiian experience. This family-owned farm is perched above orchards that stretch across historic lands once dominated by sugarcane, macadamia, and breadfruit. Here, the spotlight turns to cacao, Hawaii’s emerging jewel in craft agriculture.
The Farm Tour and Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting at Honoli'i Orchards begins in an elevated tasting room, where sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and lush valleys set the tone. From this vantage, guests start with casual conversation before joining Colin Hart, the farm’s master agronomist, on a walking tour beneath the orchard canopy. Colin's expertise guides guests through cacao cultivation, covering everything from tree care to harvesting, alongside stories of the island’s agricultural legacy—particularly the sugarcane era that shaped the landscape.
A standout moment is discovering the science behind cacao fermentation, a vital part of transforming raw beans into complex craft chocolate. Colin’s deep knowledge elevates this experience beyond a standard farm visit. Returning indoors, visitors dive into chocolate’s rich history, tracing its origins from ancient Mesoamerica to modern craft chocolate innovations.
The tasting portion highlights ten single-origin craft chocolate bars sourced across Hawaiian farms, revealing the remarkable influence of soil, climate, and genetics on flavor profiles. Adding layers to this sensory journey, guests sample fresh cacao juice, roasted beans, cacao tea, and seasonal farm treats. Unlike rushed commercial tours, Honoli'i Orchards offers an unhurried pace, encouraging guests to linger, snap photos, and absorb the quiet beauty of the orchards.
This combination of education, science, and indulgence makes it a singular destination in Hawaii’s outdoor and agricultural adventure scene.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear Closed-Toed Shoesessential
The farm tour includes walking through orchards where sturdy footwear protects your feet.
- 02Bring Sun Protectionessential
A hat and sunscreen are recommended, as portions of the tour take place outdoors under Hawaii’s sun.
- 03Check Weather Updateswarning
Tours may be canceled for heavy rain or severe weather common in Hilo’s tropical climate.
- 04Prepare for Chocolate Samplinginfo
Expect to taste a generous variety of craft chocolates; come hungry for flavor and bring water to stay hydrated.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Closed-Toed Walking Shoes
Protects your feet during orchard walks on uneven ground.
EssentialHat
Keeps sun off your face during outdoor portions.
summerEssentialSunscreen
Prevents sunburn from tropical UV rays prevalent year-round.
EssentialReusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the tour and chocolate tasting.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Walk through the nearby historic sugarcane fields to glimpse Hawaii’s agricultural past., Visit local roadside stands in Hilo for fresh tropical fruits and artisan goods.
Local fauna
Hawaiian honeycreepers like the 'Apapane bird, Native tree snails can occasionally be spotted in shaded orchard areas.
Historic heritage
Honoli'i Orchards sits on land once dominated by sugarcane plantations that powered the Hamakua Coast economy before modern diversification into specialty crops like cacao.
Mindful exploration
The farm actively contributes to cacao genetic research and sustainable practices that support Hawaii’s unique agriculture and biodiversity.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Elevated tasting room overlooking the ocean, Under the cacao canopy, Farmhouse and orchard paths
- Subjects
- Chocolate bars and samplings, Ocean and valley vistas, Cacao pods on trees
- Best times
- Golden hour, Morning light, Overcast afternoons
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are children allowed on the tour?
The tour is recommended for guests aged 9 and older due to the length and educational content.
Is there parking available at Honoli'i Orchards?
Yes, ample parking is provided onsite at 1533 Puia Rd.
How much walking is involved?
The tour includes gentle walking on farm paths, typically lasting around 3.5 hours.
Can I purchase chocolate after the tasting?
Yes, guests may purchase any of the craft chocolates sampled as well as other local farm products.
Are tours cancelled for bad weather?
Tours may be canceled in cases of heavy rain or severe weather for safety and comfort.
Are there vegan or allergy-friendly chocolate options?
All craft chocolates are made from cacao, and some options may be vegan; please inquire ahead with Honoli'i Orchards for specific allergy concerns.