Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
'Ohi'a Lehua with honey bee
Big Island Bees
Captain Cook, Big Island of Hawaii
Nestled in the heart of Captain Cook, Hawaii, Big Island Bees offers a unique window into the world of beekeeping. This family-run farm has been cultivating and harvesting organic honey since 1972. Visitors are invited to explore the intricate lives of bees and the art of honey production through their engaging tours and exhibits.
I can personally vouch for Big Island Bees and their organic honey. It's the best honey I've ever had (don't tell my sister-in-law, who is into beekeeping), and I'll gladly help spread the word about their products and tours.
Bees on Comb
Beekeeping Tours
Big Island Bees provides an educational and immersive beekeeping tour that lasts approximately one hour. During the tour, guests can safely observe a live hive from behind a screened area, gaining insights into the hive’s inner workings, the role of the queen, and the meticulous process of honey creation.
The tour also includes a short video detailing the journey of honey from flower to jar. Tours are offered Monday through Friday at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. The farm is open until 3:00 PM. Reservations are required due to limited space.
Product Jar - Big Island Bees
Honey Tasting and Farm Store
Following the tour, guests are treated to a complimentary tasting of Big Island Bees’ diverse honey varietals. Each honey reflects the unique flavors of Hawaii’s flora, offering a taste experience that is both rich and distinctive.
The on-site farm store features an array of products, including raw organic honeys, beeswax body care items, and other locally crafted goods, providing perfect souvenirs or gifts to take home.
You can also purchase honey directly from their online store here.
Museum and Educational Exhibits
The farm’s museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of bees and beekeeping history. Exhibits showcase antique and modern tools, informative displays, and a live interior demonstration hive where guests can observe bees in action.
Admission to the museum is free and does not require a reservation, making it an accessible educational resource for all ages.
Planning Your Visit
Big Island Bees is located at 82-1140 Meli Rd, Captain Cook, HI 96704. The farm is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. While the museum and store welcome walk-in visitors, beekeeping tours require prior booking to ensure availability.
For those interested in comprehensively exploring the area, the farm has partnered with Shaka Guide to offer a self-guided audio tour, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
A visit to Big Island Bees not only provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of bees but also highlights the importance of sustainable practices in preserving these vital pollinators. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a honey aficionado, or simply curious about beekeeping, Big Island Bees offers an enriching experience that celebrates the synergy between humans and bees.
To book a tour, purchase honey, or learn more...
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