Excursion Honolii orchards, chocolate tasting and farm tour tour at Hilo

Enjoy a scenic drive through historic Hilo to Honolii Orchards, where you'll explore cacao orchards and learn about Hawaii’s agricultural heritage. Taste fresh cacao, see fermentation processes, and sample up to 10 single-origin chocolates paired with tropical fruits, all while immersing yourself in the island’s rich farming tradition.

Scenic Drive to Honolii Orchards & Agricultural Heritage

Begin your journey with a scenic 15-minute drive through historic Hilo, passing lush macadamia groves and rolling cattle pastures as you ascend the slopes of Maunakea. Your guide will share insightful commentary on the cultural and agricultural history of the region, setting the stage for your arrival at the serene and picturesque Honolii Orchards. Nestled above the canopy with sweeping views of the Honolii River Valley and Pacific Ocean, this family-run estate invites you to connect with Hawaii’s farming legacy. At the tasting room, enjoy a warm welcome and learn about the transformation of Hawaii’s Hamakua Coast—from sugarcane stronghold to boutique chocolate pioneer.

Immersive Orchard & Fermentation Tour

Step into the heart of Honolii Orchards for an in-depth, hands-on exploration of cacao cultivation. Walk through scenic cacao orchards, where you’ll learn about the genetics of cacao trees and taste fresh cacao fruit straight from the pod. Continue to the farm’s fermentation and drying facilities to discover the complex post-harvest processes that influence the flavor of fine chocolate. Your expert host will guide you through discussions on orchard management, disease control, and the craft of small-batch chocolate making. With approximately ¾ mile of leisurely walking, this portion of the tour brings you up close to the roots—literally—of Hawaii’s budding chocolate industry.

Craft Chocolate Tasting & Tropical Flavors

Back in the tasting room, you’ll embark on a flavorful journey through the history and evolution of chocolate. Sample up to 10 single-origin chocolate bars sourced from across the Hawaiian Islands, showcasing the unique terroir of each location. Like wine, each variety reveals different notes based on genetics, climate, and soil. Enhance your palate with a curated selection of fresh seasonal fruits grown on-site—lychee, rambutan, mangosteen, and more—offered to cleanse your palate between tastings. Conclude with optional shopping for handcrafted chocolate and photo opportunities around the estate before returning to port with a newfound appreciation for cacao and its rich story.

Points of interests

Points of Interest: Hilo, Honolii Orchards farm, Guided Tour, Cacao Tasting.

Note

Please note: Guests will walk approximately 0.75 mile on unpaved surfaces with minor inclines, so closed-toe shoes are required. The tour is not suitable for guests who cannot stand or walk for extended periods. The minimum age is 9 years old, and it is not recommended for guests with mobility limitations. Guests may bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a raincoat, as weather conditions can vary. Additionally, clothes may get dirty during the orchard walk.