Holualoa Kona Coffee Tasting

Drive up the slopes above Kailua-Kona on Mamalahoa Highway to the tiny artist village of Holualoa, where several small coffee farms offer tastings of 100% Kona coffee — the real stuff, not the 10% blends sold at ABC Stores. This isn't your typical tourist trap; you'll find intimate, personalized experiences at small farms tucked down rocky dirt roads.

At places like Hula Daddy and Holualoa Gardens, you'll learn about different roasting methods — traditional drum roasting that incorporates smoke into the beans versus faster air roasting. The tastings ($2 per cup at some farms) let you compare roast levels and processing methods. Don't miss the peaberry chocolate-covered beans. Bring bug spray — the mountain location means mosquitos.