History of Kauai’s coffee.


A little know fact is that Kauai grows sixty percent of the state of Hawaii’s coffee. Since the 1800s Kauai was the first of the Hawaiian islands to produce coffee commercially. Kauai coffee is a 100% U.S. product, and estate coffee workers are some of the highest paid in the world. Most coffees found on Kauai are usually organically grown, and use hydroelectric generators to power all operations. Harvest time on Kauai is usually October through December. Coffee plantations in Kauai cultivate upwards of 3,400 acres.

Several varieties of coffee are grown on Kauai. Seed types include Catuai, Typica, Blue Mountain,and Mundo Novo. Tours are usually offered at most of Kauai’s coffee plantations along with free samples. Many of these are self guided walking tours. Nothing taste like a fresh cup of Kauai coffee, from coffee beans grown perfectly in rich volcanic soil.

The Koa Plantation offers private tours which can be arranged by contact the Koa Planation directly at 866-562-5282. The plantation is located in the town of Captain Cook on the south side of the island.

The Kauai Coffee company is another coffee plantation that offers tours. You can take a self guided walking tour through the different varieties of coffee trees. Signs display the five coffee types, and the process. Learn about the history of the coffee grown on the estate. The process of coffee from blossom, to harvesting, and then to processing and roasting.

At the Kauai Coffee company visitors center you can sample their entire line of coffees grown on the estate. Every bean is grown right at the plantation, no imported beans are used.

Located around 17 miles from the Lihue airport, on Kauai’s southwest side. Just off highway 50 which is the main highway on the way to Waimea.

Tropical Taco of Hanalei, Kauai


The Tropical Taco truck used to be an actual delivery truck, painted  green and white with red hubcaps. The truck drove all around the North Shore of Kauai to the different beaches selling delicious tacos  for over twenty years. Now  days Tropical Taco is a sit-down restaurant located in Halele’a Building in Hanalei Town.

Some of the favorites on the menu include the original Tropical Taco. This is a beef taco with a thick handmade tortilla, then it’s filled with beans, lettuce, salsa, cheese and sour cream. The Fish Taco uses the Freshest Island Fish grilled or dipped in beer batter, fried to golden brown and filled with the works. All fish is caught by local fisherman. The Fat Jack is a 10 inch flour tortilla wrapped around beans, cheese, and beef, deep fried, then topped with lettuce, salsa, cheese, and sour cream.

If your heading north to Hanalei, then Tropical Taco is a must stop for lunch or dinner.  Located just south of town about 1.2 miles from the old Hanalei bridge. Look for the sign.