Kona Coast Small Group Tour History and Coffee Tasting

Step into a sacred coastal sanctuary where ancient Hawaiian culture thrives against a stark volcanic landscape. Established in 1978 to preserve and protect traditional Native Hawaiian cultural and historical sites, Kaloko-Honokōhau is a remarkable outdoor museum of Hawaiian archaeology unlike anywhere else on the island. As you walk the rugged trails, discover incredible engineering marvels of the past — including the massive Kaloko Fishpond, a favorite of King Kamehameha I himself, with a seawall stretching 30 to 40 feet wide and 6 feet high, built entirely from water-worn lava rock. Stroll along the shoreline of Honokōhau Beach to look for native Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun, and keep an eye out for ancient petroglyphs depicting the rhythms of daily life — birth, death, travel, fishing, and sailing — carved directly into the lava rock. It is a deeply spiritual and scenic introduction to the rich heritage of the Kona Coast.

Step onto the beautiful grounds of Kona Joe Coffee, a premier estate nestled high in the famed Kona Coffee Belt. This world-renowned farm uses the same principles as the finest wine producers to cultivate their award-winning Trellised Coffee — a unique patented technique inspired by owner Joseph Alban's family vineyard in California, making it the only coffee farm in the world to grow coffee this way. Stroll through the beautifully manicured orchard rows where coffee trees are trained along wires and trellises for more uniform sun exposure, resulting in exceptionally even ripening and enhanced natural sweetness in every bean. Watch the artisan roasting process firsthand and conclude your stop by savoring a freshly brewed cup of 100% pure Kona coffee while soaking in spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from the large covered lanai overlooking the entire property.

Gaze down at one of the most historic and breathtaking coastal vistas in all of Hawaii from the Kealakekua Bay Overlook. Perched high above the rugged cliffs, this stunning vantage point offers sweeping panoramic views of the brilliant turquoise waters below — a bay whose very name translates to "the pathway of the God" in Hawaiian, long considered a sacred site by the ancient Hawaiian people. Far below, spot the iconic 27-foot white obelisk — the Captain Cook Monument — erected in 1874 by the British government at the spot where the famous explorer met his end on February 14, 1779. Cook had arrived at Kealakekua Bay during the sacred Hawaiian Makahiki Festival, where he was initially welcomed as a god — making this one of the most dramatic and consequential moments in all of Hawaiian history. It is the perfect location to capture incredible photographs and take in the majestic beauty of the Kona coastline.

Step back in time and experience one of Hawaii's most sacred cultural landscapes at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. For centuries this remarkable site served as a vital sanctuary — a place of refuge where defeated warriors, noncombatants, and those who violated the sacred kapu laws could seek asylum and receive spiritual absolution from the priests. As you walk these revered royal grounds, marvel at the Great Wall — a massive hand-built volcanic rock structure constructed over 500 years ago using dry stack lava masonry, stretching 12 feet high, 18 feet wide, and nearly 950 feet long — all without a single drop of mortar. Admire the fierce carved wooden kiʻi guarding the sacred Hale o Keawe Heiau — a royal temple that once housed the bones of 23 Hawaiian chiefs. Look for native green sea turtles resting along the volcanic shoreline, and feel the profound spiritual energy that still defines this timeless coastal sanctuary.

Stroll through the vibrant heart of the Kona Coast by exploring Historic Kailua Village. Once a sleepy fishing village and a favored retreat for Hawaiian royalty, this sun-drenched waterfront destination blends rich history with vibrant island life. Walk along the scenic shoreline to admire historic landmarks such as Huliheʻe Palace and Mokuaikaua Church, take in beautiful ocean views where outrigger canoes launch beside the pier, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of local shops and open-air cafés. It is the perfect place to soak up the coastal charm and cultural heritage of Kona.

End your journey by returning to your original departure point, reflecting on a beautiful day spent exploring the very best of the Kona Coast. Relax on the smooth drive back as you transition from the historic coastal villages and sacred sanctuaries to your final drop-off location, completely enriched by the history, stunning panoramic vistas, and world-class coffee flavors of the Big Island.