The 2 Best Coffee Tours in Island Of Hawaii
Hawaii’s Big Island offers a unique blend of volcanic landscapes, lush coffee plantations, and rich local history. What makes it stand out for coffee lovers is not just the world-famous Kona coffee, but also the chance to see active volcanoes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches in one day. These diverse experiences provide a perfect backdrop for tasting some of the freshest coffee and exploring the island’s volcanic and cultural landscape.
Unlike many other coffee regions, the Big Island combines culinary delights with adventure. Whether you want an in-depth farm visit, a scenic drive with history, or a full-day adventure that hits multiple highlights, there’s something on this list for you. To see what’s available, check out the detailed tours below.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include a comprehensive full-day tour that combines coffee tasting, volcano viewing, waterfalls, and black sand beaches (Big Island: Coffee, Black Sand, Volcano and Waterfall Tour), and an intimate private experience focusing on historic coffee farms and cultural sites (Private Shore Excursion Kona Coffee & National Historic Park). Both provide excellent insights into the island’s coffee heritage with varied itineraries and levels of activity.
1. Big Island: Coffee, Black Sand, Volcano and Waterfall Tour
Starting with this full-day adventure, you’ll explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, stand amidst active volcanoes, and stroll along black sand beaches. The tour includes a visit to Kona’s premier coffee farm, where you get a guided tasting and breakfast at a renowned Kona coffee farm—an experience that highlights the region’s famous coffee. The guide will explain the coffee’s journey from cherry to cup, giving you a deeper appreciation for its flavor profile.
Later, the trip takes you to Rainbow Falls in Hilo and a scenic stop at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, where you’ll likely see sea turtles in the wild—a highlight for nature lovers. The lunch at a local winery with tastings of delicious local wines adds a relaxing touch. This tour balances adventure, scenic beauty, and culinary delights in an 11-hour day that appeals to travelers seeking a comprehensive Big Island experience. Rated 4.8/5 with 49 reviews, visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, making it a great value for around $292 per person.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a full immersion into Hawaiian volcanoes, waterfalls, and coffee culture, with well-organized stops and engaging guides.
2. Private Shore Excursion Kona Coffee & National Historic Park
For travelers seeking a more personalized experience, this private tour focuses on Kona’s historic coffee farms and cultural sites. Starting from Kailua Pier, you’ll visit Greenwell Farms, the farm that launched the Kona coffee industry in 1850, for a guided coffee tasting and farm tour. You’ll learn about the history and process of Kona coffee production while enjoying free time for shopping.
Next, the tour visits Pu’uhonua o Honaunau, the “City of Refuge”, a sacred site with significant cultural importance, and St. Benedict’s Church, where captivating frescoes await. The small group size (up to 4 people) makes this tour especially suited for those who prefer a more intimate and flexible schedule. At around $995 per group, it’s a bit pricier but offers tailored attention and in-depth insights, rated 4.9/5 based on reviews.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and coffee enthusiasts who want a customized, relaxed exploration with a focus on culture and heritage in just 4-6 hours.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two tours, consider your priorities: the full-day adventure (Big Island: Coffee, Black Sand, Volcano and Waterfall Tour) offers a broad range of sights and experiences, making it ideal if you want to see multiple highlights and enjoy a balanced mix of nature and food. It’s also more budget-friendly for a full-day experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more personalized, in-depth exploration of Kona’s coffee history and cultural sites, the private tour (Private Shore Excursion Kona Coffee & National Historic Park) allows for a flexible schedule and tailored visits, suited for small groups or couples.
Consider your interest level in coffee, whether you want active volcano viewing or cultural heritage, and your time availability. Booking early is recommended, especially if you’re visiting during peak cruise season or busy months.
Final Thoughts
Both of these tours showcase Hawaii’s rich volcanic landscapes and coffee culture, but they serve different tastes. The full-day Big Island: Coffee, Black Sand, Volcano and Waterfall Tour provides a comprehensive look at the island’s diverse scenery and culinary offerings, perfect for first-time visitors who want to maximize their time. The private Kona coffee and cultural tour offers a quieter, more intimate experience focused on history and craftsmanship, excellent for travelers seeking depth and personalized attention.
If you’re visiting the Big Island and want a memorable, well-rounded day or a tailored cultural journey, these tours are a great starting point. Be sure to book early—these popular experiences fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. With a little planning, you’ll be tasting world-famous Kona coffee, marveling at volcano views, and learning about Hawaii’s natural and cultural treasures firsthand.