Alaka'i Aloha Big Island logo
← Back to O.K. Farms Hawai'i profile

O.K. Farms Hawai'i - Deep Research Report

Deep Research Report

Last updated: April 23, 2026

What it is

O.K. Farms Hawai'i is a large, family-operated tree crop farm located just outside Hilo on the Big Island, encompassing nearly 1,000 acres along the Wailuku River. Established in 2002 by Ed Olson and Troy Keolanui, the farm focuses on sustainable agriculture and grows a diverse range of tropical crops, including coffee, cacao (chocolate), macadamia nuts, lychee, longan, rambutan, citrus, heart of palm, and various spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The property, once a sugarcane plantation, has been transformed to cultivate native Hawaiian plants and is developing an agroforest using traditional Hawaiian crops. O.K. Farms offers guided tours that provide visitors with an immersive experience into the farm's operations and commitment to the land.

Visitor experience

Visitors to O.K. Farms Hawai'i can embark on a guided farm tour that typically lasts about 1 to 2 hours. The "Rainbow Falls Farm Tour" is a popular option, taking guests through orchards where they can see, smell, and taste various tropical fruits, coffee, cacao, and spices. A highlight of the tour is a visit to private waterfall lookouts, including unique vantage points of Rainbow Falls and Ka Imu Kanaka Falls (also known as Kaimukanaka Falls) along the Wailuku River that are not accessible to the general public. Guests learn about the farming process, the history of the land, and the farm's sustainable agricultural practices. Tours may also include a macadamia nut cracking and sampling experience. O.K. Farms also runs a weekly community-supported agriculture (CSA) produce box program for local residents and partners with local companies for "farm to glass" tours that include tastings.

Logistics

  • Area: O.K. Farms Hawai'i is located in Hilo, on the Big Island, just a 5-minute drive from downtown Hilo.
  • Access: The farm's address is 1570 Maikalani St, Hilo, HI 96720.
  • Reservations: Tours should be scheduled in advance. Contact information for tours is typically provided on their website or via email (e.g., tours@okfarmshawaii.com).
  • Timing: A typical farm tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours.
  • Parking: Parking is available at the farm.
  • Permits: No special visitor permits are required for the farm tour itself.
  • Likely Duration: The farm tour is a good option for a quick stop or a part of a half-day itinerary, especially when combined with other Hilo attractions.
  • Best as: Quick stop / Half-day activity.

Safety and cautions

  • Terrain: Visitors should expect to walk through farm terrain, which may be uneven or muddy, especially given Hilo's frequently wet weather. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.
  • Weather: Hilo is known for its abundant rainfall; visitors should be prepared for rain, and umbrellas or rain ponchos may be provided or should be brought.
  • Minimum Age: Some tours, particularly those offered through third-party operators, may have a minimum age requirement (e.g., 10 years for some tours). It's advisable to check with O.K. Farms directly for their specific tour requirements.
  • Farm Environment: As it is a working farm, visitors should follow guide instructions and be aware of their surroundings.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: O.K. Farms emphasizes stewardship of the land ("aloha ʻāina") and sustainable practices. Visitors are encouraged to approach the experience with respect for these values.

Editorial take

O.K. Farms Hawai'i is an excellent choice for travelers interested in sustainable agriculture, tropical produce, and connecting with the Big Island's natural environment and local community. It's ideal for those seeking an educational and sensory experience, particularly foodies, families (depending on age restrictions), and eco-conscious visitors. The unique opportunity to view Rainbow Falls from a private lookout adds significant value. Travelers with limited time in Hilo or those looking for an immersive, hands-on activity will find it rewarding.

Those who should skip it might include visitors solely interested in beach activities or highly structured, fast-paced attractions. It may not appeal to those with mobility issues who cannot comfortably navigate farm paths, though transportation around the farm is often via truck during tours.

Do not confuse O.K. Farms Hawai'i with other coffee or macadamia nut farms on the Big Island, such as Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation or Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm, which specialize in those specific crops and may offer different tour experiences. O.K. Farms is distinct for its diverse range of tropical crops, commitment to sustainability, and exclusive waterfall access.

Source notes

Alaka'i Aloha Logo

Ready to see the highlights?

View the main activity profile for O.K. Farms Hawai'i