Hilo Shark's Cacao, Coffee & Vanilla Plantation

Located just 10 minutes north of Hilo on the Big Island's beautiful Hamakua Coast, Hilo Shark's Cacao, Coffee & Vanilla Farm in the tiny plantation village of Papaikou is a step back in time.

Farmer Tom Sharkey, a born storyteller, has been growing and managing these crops for almost 25 years.  Often referred to as the 'Godfather of Cacao', Sharkey has made it his mission to share his knowledge and experience by mentoring new farmers and conducting fun and interactive 3-hour Agri-tours where you learn the "4-Ps" (Propagation, Pollination, Pests & Process) of seed-to-bar chocolate (including fermentation and roasting) and end with making your very own chocolate to take home. Seasonally, you can help hand-pollinate vanilla orchids or attend our monthly cacao harvest and crack.

Check out our 5-star reviews on Airbnb Experiences/Chocolate Farm Tour/Papaikou, HI 96781 or see our website for details.  This Experience is complimentary for guests staying at the Zen Treehouse Retreat, our private rainforest studio.  (Value $200; equivalent to a nights’ stay)...

  Retreat to a Zen-like setting in the Trees!
Slow down and relax in this unique octagon studio on a working coffee, vanilla and chocolate farm. Private lanai with lush tropical views and cool ocean breezes where you can stargaze through skylights over the bed. The Zen Treehouse Retreat (a 5-star Airbnb Farm Stay) is a beautiful redwood octagon studio situated in the treetops overlooking lush gardens and tropical rainforest. This is the perfect place to de-stress, meditate, read, write, dance, create and breathe! Luxury linens and BedJet heating and cooling airflow system ensures a comfortable sleep surrounded by nature.

…And there’s More!
Enjoy a bottomless supply of Hilo Shark’s 100% Hawaiian coffee, cacao tea and pure dark Hawaiian Chocolate, all grown and produced right here on the farm. There is fresh fruit (seasonal) and plenty of cooking options in our well-stocked chef’s kitchen. Cool off in our 5-ft. in-ground pool (perfect for night swimming) and check out yoga, zazen meditation and ceremonial cacao options. All this within driving distance to nearby beaches, volcanoes and all the amazing things the Big Island has to offer!