Kona Coffee Living History Farm

The basics

The Kona Coffee Living History Farm is a 5.5-acre outdoor museum affiliated with the Smithsonian. Like all living history farms, costumed interpreters act as real-life coffee farmers. Ask them the ins and outs of their work and they’ll go into rich detail, blurring the lines between history and the present day. Traveling from the coffee trees to inside the farmhouse and beyond, you’ll soon discover what goes into a cup of Kona coffee—and what makes it some of the best in the world.

Things to know before you go

• Hours are extremely limited. Though small groups don’t need an appointment, be sure the farm is open before you make your way there.

• Many of the staff grew up on the island and have a connection to coffee. They may engage with you, offering hands-on demonstrations, to deepen your experience.

• There are delicious free samples and coffee for purchase at the small gift shop.

How to get there

The farm is easy to find and on-site parking is free. There’s a sign on the makai (seaward) side of the highway that will direct you towards the driveway. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be greeted and asked to pay an entrance fee; afterwards, you’ll be able to explore on your own.

When to get there

The farm is often only open two days a week for a few hours a day—usually Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am–2pm. Note that the museum’s final admission is 45 minutes before final closing; check the website to make sure you’ll arrive right when you need to.

A learning experience

During your visit, you’ll taste-test beans off the tree and get in on the process yourself. You’ll hear about the politics of family-operated coffee farms and learn what it was like being a Japanese immigrant prior to WWII. Maybe you’ll even make friends with the pack-carrying donkeys. This isn’t just a look-see into Kona coffee—it’s immersing yourself in the past.

Ways to explore

Admission is available on a first come, first served basis during limited open hours (typically Tuesdays and Fridays). Pay at the gate for self-guided entry, which includes roaming the orchard, farmhouse, drying racks, and coffee mill at your own pace. Learn about Kona’s coffee history and family life on a docent-led tour, offered at select times.

You can also explore the farm as part of a broader Big Island day trip. Trip activities may include waterfall hikes, volcano routes, or Captain Cook sightseeing tours that feature Kona coffee country. These excursions typically include transportation and coffee sampling.

Accessibility

The farm has uneven terrain, gravel paths, and grassy areas that may be difficult for wheelchairs or strollers. Most structures are ground-level but not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, water bottle, sun hat, insect repellent—most of the visit is outside under limited shade

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothes

Not allowed

Pets (other than service animals), smoking, drones

Amenities

Restrooms, shaded picnic tables, gift shop

Address

The Kona Coffee Living History Farm sits on the slopes of Mauna Loa in South Kona, just outside the town of Captain Cook. Most travelers arrive by car or as part of a guided Big Island heritage tour.

Driving

From Kailua-Kona, head south on Hawaii Route 11 for about 20 miles (32 kilometers). The farm is located just past mile marker 110. Look for signs near the entrance to Mamalahoa Highway. Free parking is available on-site.

Public transportation

Public transportation is limited. The nearest stop via the Hele-On Bus is in Captain Cook, but service is infrequent and doesn’t drop riders directly at the farm. Traveling by car or joining a tour is the most convenient option.

Best times to visit

Visit in mid-morning to beat the heat and learn from the costumed interpreters. Final admission to the farm is usually around 1:15pm.

Best days to visit

The farm is open most Tuesdays and Fridays, so choose the day that works best with your schedule.

Best months to visit

Harvest runs August through December, offering experiences such as harvesting and drying demonstrations. Visit in Spring for comfortable weather and lush scenery.

Special events

The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival attracts coffee fans in early November, when local farms host tastings, tours, and harvest celebrations.