Mauna Loa Visitor Center Tour — Keaʻau, Hawaii

Discover the Mauna Loa Visitor Center Tour in Hawaii

Located in Keaʻau, Hawaii, on the Big Island near Hilo, the Mauna Loa Visitor Center Tour offers a self-guided look inside one of Hawaii’s most iconic macadamia nut brands. Visitors explore exhibits detailing how macadamia nuts are grown, harvested, processed, and packaged, with opportunities to sample a variety of flavored products.

Set near vast macadamia orchards, the visitor center provides insight into large-scale agricultural production in Hawaii.

Why it’s special: Mauna Loa is one of the world’s most recognized macadamia nut brands, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Hawaii’s signature nut industry.

History & Story of Mauna Loa

Mauna Loa was founded in the mid-20th century and quickly became a leader in macadamia nut production. The Big Island’s volcanic soil and warm climate proved ideal for cultivating macadamia trees at scale.

Over the decades, Mauna Loa expanded its global presence while maintaining deep agricultural roots in Hawaii. The Keaʻau facility remains central to processing and packaging operations.

What You’ll See & Do on the Mauna Loa Visitor Center Tour

• Learn how macadamia nuts are cultivated in Hawaiian orchards
• Discover harvesting, drying, and cracking processes
• View informational displays about sorting and flavoring techniques
• Sample a variety of Mauna Loa macadamia nut flavors
• Browse exclusive products and gift items
• Explore the surrounding orchard landscape

Hands-On Elements: Complimentary tastings of multiple macadamia nut varieties.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted in public visitor areas.

Souvenirs & Extras: Macadamia nut gift boxes, specialty flavors, and branded merchandise available for purchase.

Pricing of the Mauna Loa Visitor Center Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

No reservations required for general visitor center access.

Visiting information for Mauna Loa Visitor Center Tour

Duration: Approximately 30–45 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome

Accessibility: Visitor center facilities are accessible

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Hours may vary on holidays.

Nearby attractions to Mauna Loa Visitor Center Tour

• Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
• Lava Tree State Monument
• Hilo Farmers Market

FAQs About Visiting the Mauna Loa Visitor Center Tour

Is the tour guided?
The visitor center experience is primarily self-guided with informational displays and sampling stations.

Can I see active production lines?
Production visibility varies; the main focus is on educational exhibits and tastings.

Is admission really free?
Yes. Entry to the Mauna Loa Visitor Center is free.

Are samples included?
Yes. Complimentary macadamia nut samples are typically available.

How far is Keaʻau from Hilo?
Keaʻau is approximately a 15–20 minute drive south of Hilo.