The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory is a cacao farm and chocolate maker in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. A tour explains how cacao becomes chocolate, from opening the pods to processing the beans and using the factory equipment. You can sample different chocolates and look out over the ocean from the farm. Tours are small and led by knowledgeable guides, with time for questions. Tour availability can vary, so check ahead if seeing the process is your main reason to visit.
From cacao pod to chocolate
The visit introduces the steps involved in making chocolate from cacao grown on the farm. You may see a pod opened and learn what is inside, then follow the beans through processing. Tours cover fermentation and drying, as well as the equipment used to turn the beans into chocolate.
The guides explain the process and leave room for questions. The format is more lecture-style than a walk through the farm, so expect explanations alongside demonstrations rather than a long stroll.
Tastings and the farm setting
Chocolate samples are part of the visit, with different varieties to try. Criollo is one of the chocolates visitors mention by name. The farm also has an ocean view, and the setting is described as peaceful.
A shop lets you buy chocolate products, including bars and cacao nibs, to take home. The factory is at 78-6772 Makenawai St in Kailua-Kona. It is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; tours may not run every day, so contact the factory ahead of your visit if you want to join one.
Häufige Fragen
Do I need to check tour availability in advance?
Yes. Tours may not be offered every day, so check ahead if you want a guided visit.
What do you see on the tour?
The tour explains how cacao becomes chocolate and may include opening a cacao pod, seeing processing equipment, and learning about the beans.
Can you taste chocolate at the factory?
Yes. Chocolate samples are part of the visit, and you can buy chocolate products and cacao nibs at the shop.
When is the factory open?
The listed hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is closed Monday and on weekends.
