What it is
Paradise Meadows Orchard and Bee Farm, also known as "Home of Hawaii's Local Buzz," is a 75-acre working farm located in the Kaʻū region of the Big Island, near South Point. It specializes in growing and producing 100% Hawaiian Ka'u Coffee, macadamia nuts, and honey. The farm also produces tropical shortbread cookies and a variety of chocolate-covered treats, and has been recognized as the "Best Chocolate Shop in the entire state of Hawaii" by Yelp. In addition to agricultural products, the farm features an aquaponics greenhouse, rescued parrots, free-range Muscovy ducks, and an art gallery showcasing the work of resident artist Megan Collins.
Visitor experience
Visitors to Paradise Meadows can enjoy complimentary tastings of their award-winning Ka'u coffee, various honey blends, macadamia nuts, and chocolate products. The farm offers a self-guided tour of its grounds, allowing guests to explore the orchards where coffee, avocado, bananas, and citrus trees grow, as well as view the aquaponics greenhouse. Guests often encounter the farm's resident parrots and other animals. An art gallery is also on-site, displaying original artwork. Some visitors report the presence of a food truck, Ama's, offering lunch options like tacos and authentic Italian pizza on select days.
Logistics
Paradise Meadows is situated at 93-2199 South Point Road in Naalehu, approximately 12 miles north of the southernmost tip of the United States, Ka Lae (South Point). It is easily accessible, located less than a mile off Highway 11 on South Point Road; visitors should look for a red tractor at the entrance. The farm operates seven days a week from 9 AM to 5:30 PM. No reservations are explicitly required for the self-guided farm visit and tastings, making it a convenient drop-in stop. While the core experience is self-guided, the website does offer an option to "Book a Tour," suggesting that guided experiences may also be available. Shady parking is provided on-site. A typical visit duration is at least an hour, making it suitable for a quick stop or a relaxed half-day activity, especially if combined with other attractions in the South Point area.
Safety and cautions
There are no specific safety warnings or cautions related to Paradise Meadows Orchard and Bee Farm. Visitors should expect a farm environment, which may include uneven ground. No particular seasonal, ocean, weather, closure, cultural, or land-management caveats are noted for this specific location.
Editorial take
Paradise Meadows Orchard and Bee Farm is an excellent stop for travelers interested in local Hawaiian agricultural products, particularly coffee, macadamia nuts, honey, and chocolate. It appeals to those who enjoy tasting local delicacies and a casual, educational farm experience with opportunities to see farm animals and an aquaponics system. Families with children may especially enjoy the animal interactions and the relaxed atmosphere. It's a highly recommended visit for anyone driving through the Kaʻū region or en route to Green Sand Beach, offering a pleasant break and a chance to sample and purchase authentic Hawaiian products directly from the source. Travelers primarily seeking beach activities, strenuous hikes, or a purely historical/cultural site without an agricultural focus might consider it a lower priority.
This establishment should not be confused with "Big Island Bees" located in Captain Cook, which focuses solely on honey and beekeeping tours, or "Paradise Farms" (which appears to be in other locations and focuses on regenerative farming, often with reservation-based guided tours).
Source notes
- Paradise Meadows Orchard & Bee Farm Official Website: https://www.paradisemeadows.com/
- Wanderlog: Paradise Meadows Orchard and Bee Farm, Home of Hawaii's Local Buzz: https://www.wanderlog.com/en/things-to-do/516212/paradise-meadows-orchard-and-bee-farm-home-of-hawaiis-local-buzz
- ZuzuForKids: Paradise Meadows, Farm in Naalehu: https://www.zuzu.for.kids/attractions/paradise-meadows
- Hawaii Farm Trails: Paradise Meadows Orchard and Bee Farm: https://www.hawaiifarmtrails.com/details/paradise-meadows-orchard-and-bee-farm
