Written by Terrance Davis
Terrance writes for PMI Maui, highlighting some of the island’s best attractions, events, restaurants, and sites.
One of the best aspects of taking a trip to Maui is the endless sense of wonder and discovery that you’ll find on this gorgeous paradise of an island. One thing many visitors may not know before visiting is that the island is known for growing and harvesting a diverse assortment of produce and crops, like the Maui Gold pineapple, Kula sweet onions, macadamia nuts, taro, and the subject of today’s blog: chocolate! The island’s unique microclimates and nutrient-rich soil provide the perfect environment for growing high-quality cacao that will be turned into delicious coffee. That’s why, in this blog, we’ll be going through why a tour at the Maui Ku’ia Cacao Farm is a great addition to your Maui vacation itinerary.
In this Blog:
- Origins of the Farm
- Tours at Ku’ia Cacao Farm
- The Chocolate Factory Experience
- Chocolate Farm Tours
- Make Ku’ia Cacao Farm a part of your Maui Experience!
Be sure to get our Destination Guide for more information on the best things to do on Maui. It includes activities, outdoor adventures, attractions, restaurants, shopping, and the best places to stay.
Origins of the Farm
Maui Ku’ia Cacao Farm first began work in 2013, founded by Dr. Gunars Valkirs. The farm lies within the traditional district of Lahaina. Before Ku’ia, the area was used for commercial sugarcane production since the 1800’s, until around 1999, after which the farm was left unused for years. Maui Ku’ia has worked to revitalize the land through its sustainable farming. Today, the farm boasts around 6,500 cacao trees across 20 acres with plans to expand in the coming years.
Tours at Ku’ia Cacao Farm
Instead of learning about coffee from behind the screen, why not visit the farm to see the production in action? Luckily for you, Ku’ia Cacao Farm offers more than one tour to take you through the whole process!
The Chocolate Factory Experience
Spend 90 minutes with Maui Ku’ia Estate founder Dr. Gunars Valkirs for a tour taking you through how raw cacao is turned into award-winning chocolate! The tour will include a deep dive into the chocolate factory, with tastings along the way. After the factory, you’ll head upstairs to the open-air pavilion for a self-guided tasting session. Tours are around $125, and for an extra charge, you can enjoy an alcoholic beverage during the tour.
Chocolate Farm Tours
Explore the 20-acre cacao farm and learn how farmers grow, cultivate, and harvest cacao. Guides will take you through the whole process, leading you through the foothills of the West Maui Mountains, from farm to bar, while showing off the trees and harvesting techniques. This 90-minute tour will end with an exclusive 9-piece tasting session grown right on the land you just toured. The 90-minute tours cost $95 for adults and $75 for children. Guests should keep in mind that this particular tour is not ADA accessible.
Make Ku’ia Cacao Farm a part of your Maui Experience!
Featured Property: Kamaole Beach Club C-208
Explore this fun and unique experience on Maui and make it a part of your island paradise escape on your next visit. Any trip to Maui feels like an adventure, but the right rental makes all the difference. That’s where PMI Maui comes in! Book a comfortable rental with us to make the most of your trip. Most of our properties are located in South Maui, keeping you in proximity to iconic beaches, epic snorkeling, world-famous restaurants, and fantastic golfing. Browse our collection today and find a home away from home for all your Maui adventures. Whether you are planning a getaway with your best friends, a solo trip, or a vacation for the entire family, we have the perfect place for you.