About
Kona coffee is world-renowned, and Hawaii is the only U.S. state that grows commercial coffee. This makes visiting Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation a must-do when visiting the Big Island.
Located on the slopes of two active volcanoes, Hualalai and Mauna Loa, Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation reflects Hawaii's unique agricultural environment. This region, spanning approximately 2 miles wide and 30 miles long, offers a rare combination to grow outstanding coffee. Volcanic soil, a mild climate, light winds, summer rains, high elevations, and just the right amount of sunshine collaborate to produce exceptional Kona coffee.
The Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation opens its gates to coffee enthusiasts daily. The gift shop and grounds are accessible from 9 AM to 4 PM. Additionally, complimentary guided coffee tours are available every half-hour, starting at 9:30 AM and concluding with the last tour at 3:30 PM. These tours, lasting about 20 minutes, offer an enriching experience, including sampling their 100% Kona coffee.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
One of the most fascinating aspects of this plantation is its eco-friendly approach to agriculture. They employ sheep to control weed growth naturally, eliminating the need for chemical herbicides. This practice ] promotes a healthier environment and contributes to the unique flavor of their coffee.
The attention to detail extends to their harvesting methods. The plantation prides itself on hand-picking every coffee bean at its peak ripeness.
This traditional approach ensures their Kona coffee's highest quality and flavor profile. The beans are then processed in a wet mill that carefully separates the fruit from the beans without damaging them, a crucial step in preserving their distinctive taste.
Visitors to the plantation can enjoy an immersive tour aboard a Kawasaki ATV. This experience allows guests to witness every step of the coffee growing, processing, and roasting process up close.
From observing the coffee trees to watching the mills and roasting process, visitors can engage with the coffee-making journey hands-on.
The plantation also offers a unique shopping experience in the gift shop, which features a variety of top coffee varieties, including the exclusive 100% Kona Peaberry Coffee. This fantastic variety uses rare extra beans within the hull, offering a distinct flavor.
For those looking for a more personalized experience, Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation provides private tours. These tours offer a more intimate insight into the coffee production process, complete with tastings of various roast types.
Another highlight is the Roast Master Experience, where visitors can spend time with the plantation's roast master to create their own custom roast.
They also offer a vacation retreat ideal for weddings, family reunions, and corporate events. It is set amidst the serene cloud forest and surrounded by the aroma of fresh Kona coffee.
When you're ready for a family-friendly, immersive experience in coffee, visit Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation on your Kona getaway.
Getting There
Whether you're coming from downtown Kailua-Kona, here's driving directions to Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation:
- Drive up Palani Road from Junction 11 & 190 in Downtown Kailua-Kona
- Continue uphill until you reach junctions 180 & 190 (Palani Junction)
- Pass through the Hina Lani Intersection, about one mile from the junction.
- Look for yellow signs indicating Kaloko Drive. Turn right and go up Kaloko Drive for 3 miles.
- You will pass Hao Street twice before reaching the third Hao Street. Turn right and look for coffee signs hanging from a tree.
- Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation is located at the end of the road, on the Makai (downhill) side.
- Address: 73-1942 Ha'o St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740tes
Cost
- Complimentary Tours: Free, available every half hour from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM; no reservation needed for family groups.
- Nature Trail Walk: $10 per family group, includes a tour of the plantation and observation deck.
- Roastery Deluxe Tour: $199 for the group, consists of a comprehensive tour and 5 lbs of Kona coffee to take home.
Local Tips
- The plantation is situated 3,200 ft above sea level, where it can be 15-20 degrees cooler than at the pier, and it often sprinkles, so bring a light jacket.
- Join their Coffee Club for discounts and perks.
- No food or snacks are available for sale at the plantation, so packing a lunch is recommended.
- Limited picnic space is open near the gift shop or down the Nature Trail at the observation deck.
- Visitors spend about 1-2 hours at the plantation. This gives you ample time to enjoy the tours and the surroundings.