Kona Tour: Bee Farm, Kona Coffee, and National Historical Parks

The Kona Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural and natural heritage of Hawaii’s Big Island. From exploring a thriving bee farm to savoring the exquisite flavors of Kona coffee, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience. But the real gems lie in the area’s significant national historical parks, where travelers can explore the island’s captivating past and uncover the stories that have shaped its present.

Good To Know

• Explore the cultural and natural wonders of the Big Island on an immersive tour, including visits to petroglyph sites, a honey farm, and a Kona coffee plantation.
• Discover the rich history and significance of sacred Hawaiian sites like Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park and Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park.
• Witness the stunning coastal landscapes and spot protected marine life, such as Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles, at Honokohau Beach.
• Gain insights into the cultivation, processing, and unique flavors of Kona coffee during a tour of a local coffee plantation.
• Enjoy a personalized and highly rated small-group adventure led by a knowledgeable guide, providing a well-rounded cultural and natural experience on the Big Island.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Kona Tour offers an informative and immersive experience on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Travelers can explore a diverse range of attractions, from sacred Hawaiian history to the vibrant local economy. The tour highlights include visiting petroglyph sites, witnessing green sea turtles, and touring a honey farm and coffee plantation.

Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars, this highly recommended tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the cultural and natural wonders of South Kona.

With a small group size and a knowledgeable guide, visitors can expect a personalized and enriching adventure.

Itinerary and Attractions

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, where participants explore ancient petroglyph sites and sacred Hawaiian temples.

Next, they head to Honokohau Beach to look for Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles.

In Kona, the group visits historic landmarks like Mokuaikaua Church and Kealakekua Bay.

At the Big Island Bees farm, they tour the organic honey operation, taste the sweet nectar, and learn about the importance of bees.

The day culminates at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park, the famed "city of refuge," and a Kona coffee plantation.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

As the tour kicks off, visitors explore the ancient petroglyphs and sacred Hawaiian temples within the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. This national park preserves the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Kona coast. Visitors can examine the well-preserved rock carvings, known as petroglyphs, left by the indigenous Hawaiians. Nearby, they’ll discover the remains of important ceremonial temples and platforms, offering a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the past. The park also features coastal trails and beaches, providing opportunities to spot native wildlife like the endangered Hawaiian monk seal.

Honokohau Beach

After exploring the sacred sites and petroglyphs at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, the tour takes visitors to the stunning Honokohau Beach.

This picturesque stretch of white sand is a prime spot to spot Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles. The guides provide insights into the protected marine life and their importance to the local ecosystem.

Travelers can stroll along the coastline, taking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the volcanic landscape.

It’s a chance to bask in the natural beauty of Hawaii and witness the island’s incredible wildlife up close.

Kona: Historic Landmarks

Next, the tour takes visitors to the historic city of Kona, where they can explore iconic landmarks that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors will:

• Discover the Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in Hawaii, dating back to 1820.

• Visit the Kealakekua Bay, the site where Captain James Cook first made contact with native Hawaiians in 1779.

• Stroll through the quaint Kailua Village, filled with charming shops, restaurants, and oceanfront views.

• Marvel at the Hulihe’e Palace, a former summer residence of Hawaiian royalty.

• Uncover the history of the Hulihee Dynasty at the Kona Historical Society Museum.

Big Island Bees: Organic Honey Farm

Leaving the historic landmarks of Kona behind, the tour now takes visitors to the Big Island Bees organic honey farm.

At the family-owned apiary, travelers learn about the vital role of honeybees in the ecosystem. They’ll tour the grounds, observing the busy hives and the extraction process.

The guide explains how Big Island Bees’ honey is 100% raw and unprocessed, retaining the natural enzymes and nutrients.

Visitors can sample the distinct flavors of the different honey varietals produced on-site. From macadamia nut to wildflower, each type showcases the incredible diversity of Hawaii’s flora.

It’s a deliciously educational stop on the Kona tour.

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park

From the honey farm, the tour continues to the iconic Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park, a sacred site that holds great cultural significance for the Hawaiian people.

This "city of refuge" was a sanctuary where Hawaiians could find absolution for their sins. Visitors can explore the grounds and gain insight into Hawaii’s rich history.

Key highlights include:

• The towering Ki’ilae Village, with its well-preserved structures and ancient pathways
• The Hale o Keawe temple, which houses the bones of past chiefs
• The sacred Keanae’e Cliff, where nobles once plunged into the sea
• The Hale o Keawe temple, which houses the bones of past chiefs
• The impressive Great Wall, a massive stone structure that protected the sanctuary

Kona Coffee Plantation

After exploring the sacred grounds of Pu’uhonua o Honaunau, the tour takes visitors on a journey to discover the rich history and cultivation of Kona’s renowned coffee.

At the Kona Coffee Plantation, guests wander through lush orchards, learning about the delicate process of growing, harvesting, and roasting the coveted Kona beans.

They observe the intricate sorting and processing techniques, gaining a deep appreciation for the craft.

The tour culminates in a tasting, allowing visitors to savor the subtle flavors and aromas that make Kona coffee so exceptional.

This hands-on experience provides a unique window into Hawaii’s cherished coffee culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour. There are no fees for last-minute cancellations, making it easy to adjust plans if needed.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes a provided lunch and bottled water. This allows participants to focus on the experiences and activities without having to worry about meals.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour offers discounts for seniors aged 65 and over, as well as children under 12 years old. Seniors receive 10% off the regular tour price, while children under 12 are eligible for a 15% discount.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour operator offers options to customize the itinerary based on guests’ interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the guide and adjust the stops accordingly for a more personalized experience.

How Can I Communicate Special Dietary Needs or Accessibility Requirements?

You can communicate any special dietary needs or accessibility requirements when booking the tour. The tour provider is flexible and willing to accommodate individual needs to ensure an enjoyable and accessible experience for all participants.

The Sum Up

The Kona Tour is an immersive experience that allows visitors to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island. From the fascinating world of honey production to the rich history of Kona coffee, this tour offers a well-rounded adventure that immerses travelers in the island’s diverse heritage. With visits to national parks and historic sites, the Kona Tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an enriching and unforgettable Hawaiian experience.