10 Bar Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting Experience

Introduction: A Sweet Adventure on the Big Island

If you’re visiting the Big Island of Hawaii and have a soft spot for chocolate, this 10 Bar Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting Experience is a must. For $75 per person, you’ll spend about an hour and a half exploring Honolii Orchards, a family-owned farm known for producing some of the world’s best cacao, recognized even at the prestigious Salon du Chocolat. Led by knowledgeable guides (including locals like Colin, who grew up on the farm), this tour combines scenic views, authentic farm-to-table flavors, and a deep dive into Hawaii’s unique chocolate story.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to feel both educational and indulgent—imagine tasting fresh cacao fruit, sipping cacao nectar, and then sampling over 10 single-origin Hawaiian chocolate bars. Plus, the views from the open-air tasting room are breathtaking—overlooking lush rainforest and, on clear days, the Pacific Ocean.

A potential consideration: the tour involves a drive up Maunakea’s slopes, which might be a bit long if you’re short on time. But if you’re a chocolate lover eager for an authentic, hands-on experience, this is well worth the journey.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate local craftsmanship, want to learn about sustainable farming, and enjoy tasting exquisite chocolates in a beautiful setting. It’s especially perfect if you’re looking for a meaningful activity that supports Hawaiian farmers and the local economy.

Key Points

• Authentic farm setting offers a genuine look at Hawaiian cacao cultivation.
• Expert guides provide engaging stories behind each chocolate bar and farming practice.
• Inclusive tasting of over 10 single-origin chocolates plus cacao fruit and nectar.
• Stunning views from the open-air tasting room enhance the experience.
• Supports local farmers and promotes sustainable agriculture.
• Ideal for chocolate enthusiasts seeking a deep, educational tasting adventure.

A Detailed Look at the 10 Bar Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting Experience

The Location and Setting

Your journey begins with a scenic drive up the slopes of Maunakea, winding through quiet backroads that reveal the authentic heart of the Big Island. Passing cattle pastures and historic macadamia orchards, you’ll soon arrive at Honolii Orchards—an intimate, multigenerational family farm dedicated to crafting some of the world’s finest cacao.

Once there, you’ll settle into an open-air tasting room perched above the canopy, where panoramic views stretch across the Honolii River Valley and beyond to the Pacific Ocean. The setting feels peaceful, almost like a retreat from everyday life. Keep your eyes peeled—you might even see a whale breaching if you’re visiting during whale season, adding an unexpected touch of Hawaii’s wild beauty.

Farm Tour and Cacao Education

The highlight of the experience is understanding where chocolate comes from. The guides do a fantastic job explaining the journey from bean to bar with stories about the farm’s sustainable practices and the history of cacao cultivation in Hawaii.

We loved the way the guides shared stories of local farmers and explained how Hawaiian cacao is transforming the island into what some call the Napa Valley of Chocolate. The tour includes tasting fresh cacao fruit—which is as much a sensory experience as it is educational—plus cacao nectar, a sweet, floral liquid harvested directly from the fruit that predates the chocolate we know.

Tasting the Fruits of the Farm

What makes this experience special is the variety of tastings. You’ll sample fresh cacao juice, fermented beans, and seasonal fruits like lychee, rambutan, and mangosteen, straight from the farm. For many visitors, tasting the sweet nectar of cacao—long treasured by those who first discovered it—is a delightful secret.

Then, get ready for the star of the show: the curated tasting of over 10 Hawaiian craft chocolate bars. These are single-origin chocolates crafted from beans grown on farms around Hawaii, each with a unique flavor profile rooted in its terroir. The guides do a superb job sharing the stories of individual farmers and explaining how sustainable practices and meticulous craftsmanship turn humble seeds into luxurious chocolate.

Why This Tasting Feels Special

Several reviewers highlighted the depth of knowledge and passion shared by the guides. One noted how the guide, Colin, “grew up on the farm,” bringing personal stories and authentic enthusiasm that make the experience more meaningful. The tasting isn’t just about flavor—though the chocolates are undoubtedly delicious—but about understanding Hawaii’s emerging reputation as a craft chocolate hub.

Additional Refreshments

The experience also includes coffee and/or tea, along with fresh seasonal fruits and sugar cane, providing a well-rounded farm-to-table experience. It’s a thoughtful touch that complements the chocolate tasting and enriches the sense of place.

Duration and Group Size

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate and relaxed vibe. The roughly 1.5-hour length makes it accessible for most schedules, and the small group size allows for personal interaction and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Practical Considerations

The only potential drawback is the drive up Maunakea’s slopes, which might be a bit lengthy for those with tight schedules or limited mobility. The tour is also weather-dependent—if it’s rainy or foggy, the outdoor elements of the experience might be less enjoyable, but the tour provider offers options for rescheduling or refunds.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is perfect for chocolate lovers who want more than just tasting—they want stories, sustainability, and a connection to the land. It’s also great for foodies interested in craftsmanship or anyone curious about Hawaii’s agricultural scene. Families with older children and groups seeking a unique cultural activity will find this engaging.

If you’re looking for a leisurely, educational taste of Hawaii’s local produce and want to support small farmers, this experience hits all those marks beautifully.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Stands Out

In a world filled with cookie-cutter tours, this Hawaiian craft chocolate experience offers genuine insight into Hawaii’s growing craft chocolate industry and the sustainable farming practices behind it. The guides bring authentic passion, and the setting provides a perfect backdrop for appreciating the artistry behind each bar.

While it’s a bit of a drive from Kona or other parts of the island, many reviewers agree that the journey is worth it. The quality of the tastings, combined with the scenic views and educational value, makes it a standout activity for those seeking a meaningful connection with Hawaiian agriculture and a serious dose of deliciousness.

For anyone who values local craftsmanship and storytelling, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a rare opportunity to taste Hawaiian cacao in its purest form while learning about the island’s efforts to elevate its cacao on the world stage.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best for older children who can appreciate tasting and listening to stories about cacao. The small group size allows for questions and interaction.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 61 days ahead, as the experience is popular. The tour can be canceled with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for outdoor settings is recommended. The open-air tasting room can be warm, but there’s no formal dress code.

Is transportation provided?
No, you meet at the farm location, but the drive up Maunakea’s slopes is part of the experience. It’s advisable to plan your route in advance.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the tasting and farm overview.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers tastings of more than 10 Hawaiian craft chocolates, fresh cacao fruit, nectar, and seasonal farm fruits, as well as coffee or tea.

Can I purchase chocolates after the tour?
Yes, the farm offers the chocolates tasted during the session for purchase, supporting local farmers and the farm’s sustainability efforts.

To sum it up, the 10 Bar Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting Experience offers a rare, authentic glimpse into Hawaii’s burgeoning craft chocolate scene. It combines scenic beauty, expert storytelling, and delicious tastings for a memorable, meaningful outing. Whether you’re a serious chocoholic or a curious traveler, this tour promises a satisfying and educational adventure into how Hawaii is making a mark in the world of fine chocolate. If you’re seeking an activity that supports local farmers, offers stunning views, and feeds your sweet tooth with purpose, this experience is an excellent choice.