A visit to Kauai Coffee

Kalaheo, Kauai

Although not as famous as it Kona coffee cousins, Kauai Coffee is an up and coming operation located on the south side of the island.  An easy to find visitors center is a great rest stop when exploring the region.  There is a mini-coffee museum, instructional videos on coffee production, a small take out window for snacks, restrooms, and a gift shop. At a glance: Highlights: Set amidst a working coffee plantation, a visit to Kauai Coffee visitors center can provide a deeper understanding of Hawaii's up and coming gourmet agricultural crop, plus FREE COFFEE tasting! Location: Kalaheo, Kauai Seasonal Hours of Operation: June 1 August 31: 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.;   September 1 May 31: 9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m Amenities: Snacks, coffee, seating, gift shop, and restroomsReservations: None requiredCosts: Free The Kauai Coffee plantation is set amongst rolling hills that used to grow sugar cane. The 1987 transition of the Koloa Estate into coffee production is detailed in a small museum on the property, as well the modern day process of coffee production. There is also a small area with a walking tour of coffee rows with the "cherries" that contain the beans visible on the trees. There is an extensive selection of coffees for sampling, with small tasting cups making it easy to try many flavors in comparison. Additionally there is a snack bar with options for filling your stomach with more then just great coffee. Local's Tip: The best deals on the base Kauai Coffee can be found at the Costco's in Hawaii. However, the "Estate Coffees" are available only through Kauai Coffee direct. Contacts: Phone: 808-335-0813 Website: <a href="http://kauaicoffee.com">http://kauaicoffee.com</a> Address: 870 Halewili Rd, Kalaheo, HI 96741 Directions to Kauai Coffee: Driving HI-route 50 west out of Lihue/Poipu continue through the small town of Kalaheo with the traffic light intersection. Proceed a half mile past the traffic light,  then look for signs for "Kauai Coffee" and a turn left onto Halewili Road .  Proceed 2.5 miles looking for Kauai Coffee Visitor's Center on the left.