Zoos, Farms & Aquaria

Come visit the friendly Bay View Farm, overlooking the pretty Kealakekua Bay. Established in 1984, this farm produces quality Kona coffee, known for its rich flavor around the world. You can come and check out the visitors' center or take a free tour around the estate, learning about the entire coffee-making process. You will also get a complimentary cup of the delicious coffee manufactured here. Orders are accepted online; check the website for details.

When on the Big Island, check out Greenwell Farms to experience an authentic Hawaiian coffee farm environment. Upholding traditions since the late 1800s, this 150 acre farm is now run by the descendants of the original owners. Visit here with your clan; go for a comprehensive family tour and learn all about the coffee-making process. Walk through the fields and learn about the famed Kona coffee. Make sure you go to the farm store and taste their products, and pick up knick-knacks to carry back home.

4000 coffee trees spread over four acres, overlooking the gorgeous Kona coast...sounds interesting, doesn't it? Lehuula Farms, located on the incline of the Hualalai Mountain, peer over the coastline at 1400 feet! Known for producing high quality coffee beans and 100 percent pure Kona coffee, it is open to visitors. Come and visit this scenic establishment, and marvel not only at the great view but also learn more about coffee and the interesting pruning method used here. Check the website for details.

This Discovery Center was built in 2003 by the Natural Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve, to understand the culture, history, natural science and marine environment of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Ever wanted to go down into the mysterious depths of the ocean? Now you can at least stimulate that experience with the Research Laboratory's Pisces V submersible. A theatre, state of the art models and interactive displays, make the whole experience much more fun for kids and adults alike. Colorful panels and a large coral reef mural leave you enthralled as sharks circle over your head! Video kiosks with virtual field guides are scattered all over the center and are great fun and very informative. This is an interesting place for all age groups and you can call in advance to arrange for a group tour.

This is the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the U.S. It is a home to more than 80 species of animals! All you animal lovers can come see animals like the endangered white Bengal Tiger and the Nene. You can shudder at the slithery reptiles or take a regal walk amidst peacocks in the zoo grounds. If you visit on a Saturday, definitely head to the Petting Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with different creatures. Let out your animal side at this wild wonderland - from lush and exotic plants to squawking birds and excitable primates, you'll find them all here. Admission is free.

This award-winning coffee estate is run by Gus and Cynthia Brocksen, a cheery husband and wife duo. Coffee freaks can contact them for a comprehensive tour of the premises and learn more about picking and roasting, and even try their hand at the picking process. If you have decided to buy some beans for back home, they will roast them right in front of you! Enjoy the picturesque surroundings as you walk around and learn more about the delicious Kona coffee produced in the region. Don't forget to pick up some for back home, along with flavored coffees, chocolate-covered beans, macadamia nuts and more. Yum! Check the website for details.