Original Hawaiian Chocolate Farm & Factory Tour — Hilo, Hawaii

Discover the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Farm & Factory Tour in Hawaii

Located in Hilo, Hawaii, on the lush east side of the Big Island, the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory Farm & Factory Tour offers a guided, tree-to-bar experience at one of Hawaii’s pioneering chocolate producers. Visitors walk through cacao orchards, see fermentation and drying areas, and step inside the factory where beans are roasted and crafted into finished chocolate bars.

Set against the backdrop of tropical rainforest and volcanic soil, this tour highlights how Hawaiian-grown cacao becomes premium small-batch chocolate.

Why it’s special: The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory was one of the first companies in the state to produce chocolate entirely from Hawaiian-grown cacao, making it a true farm-to-bar pioneer.

History & Story of Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory

Founded in the 1990s, the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory was established with a bold vision: to grow cacao in Hawaii and produce chocolate entirely on-site. At a time when most chocolate makers imported cacao, the company committed to cultivating and processing its own beans.

Over the years, the farm has refined its fermentation and roasting techniques, contributing to Hawaii’s growing reputation as a fine cacao region while maintaining a focus on quality and sustainability.

What You’ll See & Do on the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Farm & Factory Tour

• Walk through cacao orchards and see pods growing on trees
• Learn about hand-harvesting and pod-opening methods
• Observe fermentation and drying processes (seasonal)
• Visit the factory to see roasting, grinding, and molding equipment
• Participate in a guided tasting of estate-produced chocolate
• Compare different cacao percentages and flavor profiles

Hands-On Elements: Guided tasting session featuring chocolate made from Hawaiian-grown cacao.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted in designated areas; restrictions may apply inside active production zones.

Souvenirs & Extras: Farm-produced chocolate bars, gift boxes, cacao products, and branded merchandise available for purchase.

Pricing of the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Farm & Factory Tour

Adult price: $25 per adult

Children under 12 years old: Discounted pricing may apply

Advance reservations are recommended.

Visiting information for Original Hawaiian Chocolate Farm & Factory Tour

Duration: Approximately 1–1.5 hours

Age limits: All ages welcome

Accessibility: Outdoor farm terrain includes uneven pathways; retail areas are accessible

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (tours offered at scheduled times within these hours)

Advance booking is recommended due to limited group sizes.

Nearby attractions to Original Hawaiian Chocolate Farm & Factory Tour

• Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden
• Rainbow Falls
• Liliʻuokalani Gardens

FAQs About Visiting the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Farm & Factory Tour

Is the cacao grown on-site?
Yes. The farm grows cacao on the property and produces chocolate in its adjacent factory.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel seasons on the Big Island.

Can I see chocolate production during my visit?
Yes. Guests observe equipment used for roasting and refining, though activity levels vary depending on the production schedule.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes. The farm setting and chocolate tastings make it family-friendly.

How far is the factory from downtown Hilo?
The farm is approximately a 20–30 minute drive from central Hilo.