Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory
16-701 Macadamia Road, Keaau, Big Island of Hawaii, HI, 96749
The Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center is a full-package experience that ushers visitors into the world of one of Hawaii’s signature foods: the humble macadamia nut. Through expansive orchards and a self-guided tour, guests will learn all about the production process, from harvest to package. Of course, no visit is complete without sampling the treasured Hawaiian nuts and visiting the gift shop to pick up a tasty souvenir.
The Basics
Whether you prefer to savor the simplicity of the freshly roasted nuts or indulge in chocolate-covered macadamia nut shortbread, visiting the facilities not only comes with an array of free samples but also recipes on how to recreate the delicacies at home. The factory is a popular stop on many tours of the Hilo area. You can join a tour that visits on the way to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or alongside attractions such as the Liliuokalani Gardens and Rainbow Falls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A great stop for food lovers and free sample enthusiasts.
- Take time to read the informative plaques on the 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) drive in through the orchard.
- The gift shop sells a variety of macadamia nut treats in addition to other souvenirs.
- Don’t miss the handmade macadamia nut ice cream.
How to Get There
The Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory is located off of Highway 11 on Macadamia Road. The turnoff is 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of Hilo and 20 miles (32 kilometers) north of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You can visit by car or on many Big Island tours.
When to Get There
The gift shop is open daily from 8:30am to 5pm but the factory is closed on Sundays and holidays. The main macadamia nut harvest takes place in summer and fall so plan your visit then if you want to watch the action. To see the orchards ladened with white blossoms, visit in late winter or early spring.
The History of Macadamia Nuts in Hawaii
While many people associate macadamia nuts with Hawaii, the tree originated in Australia and was brought to Hawaii in 1881. The first plantations began in Hawaii in 1921 and the original Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut plantation was established in 1946. It takes macadamia trees 15 years before they produce consistent commercial crops. The trees from the original plantation still produce the nuts that are sold in the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory gift shop today.
Ways to explore
Whether you prefer to savor the simplicity of freshly roasted nuts or indulge in chocolate-covered macadamia nut shortbread, visiting the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center comes with not only an array of free samples but also recipes, time in the orchards, factory viewing windows, and more.
In addition to independent visits (admission is free), the factory is a popular stop on many tours of the Hilo area—join one that visits on the way to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or makes a stop alongside local Hilo attractions like Liliuokalani Gardens and Rainbow Falls.
Accessibility
Accessible to wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices
Age limits
None
What to pack
Camera, bags for purchases, cash/credit cards
What to wear
Comfortable shoes for walking and standing
Not allowed
Disruptive behavior, shoplifting
Amenities
Restrooms, free samples, video, trails, ice cream
Address
The Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center is located on a plantation on Macadamia Road, about 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. Get there easily via driving or a guided tour.
Driving
From Hilo, take Highway 11 to Macadamia Road (follow the signage). The scenic drive through hundreds of rows of macadamia nut trees is part of the experience.
Public transportation
If you don’t have a vehicle, hop on a guided tour to visit the facility—or take a rideshare or taxi from Hilo.
Best times to visit
Weekday mornings are ideal to see the factory in operation, before any tour groups arrive.
Best days to visit
Go Monday through Friday for the best chance to see the factory at work, and crowds may be a bit smaller, too.
Best months to visit
Summer and fall are the main harvest seasons, which might make for more interesting factory operations, but there’s no bad time to visit.
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