Hawaii’s Big Island is a land of contrasts, from charming oceanside towns to otherworldly volcanic terrain. Much of the island’s interior is undeveloped land, making it an ideal location for small family farms, ranches, and plantations. For any traveler interested in sustainable living, organic farming, and fresh products straight from the source, the Big Island offers a variety of eco-tours that will be of interest. Situated on the west side of the Big Island, The Vanillerie offers an enticing botanical experience.
A Unique Experience at The Vanillerie
Much of the Big Island’s charm lies in the small, family-run businesses than can be found across the island. Rather than the expected products you’ll find in chains across the country, the Big Island is home to unique eateries, farms, and independent crafters that offer products that won’t be found anywhere else. Embrace the leisurely pace of island life, planning to enjoy the journey by soaking in the views, stopping to explore hidden gems found along the way, and supporting local family businesses that are the heart of the island.
Located north of downtown Kona near the Kona International Airport, The Vanillerie is a convenient destination for anyone staying in or passing through the Kona area. This small vanilla farm is family-run by a couple with years of forestry and agricultural experience. The knowledgeable team at The Vanillerie operates a collection of shade houses, creating an ideal environment for vanilla orchids, a flowering plant from which vanilla is harvested. This spice harvested from vining orchids is one of the most precious, due to the labor-intensive process of growing the vanilla seed pods. The staff at The Vanillerie is happy to share more about the vanilla cultivation process with visitors who choose to visit their farm!
Embark on a tour of The Vanillerie, where you’ll have a full sensory experience. See, smell, taste, and feel vanilla as it grows in these picturesque shade houses in West Hawai’i. Along the way, you’ll also learn more about the original discovery of vanilla and how it has evolved as a much sought-after product today. Soak in the beauty of West Hawai’i as you learn more about the fascinating growing and curing processes. Top off your tour with the best-handcrafted vanilla ice cream you’ve ever tasted.
The Vanillerie in Hawaii offers a selection of handcrafted products made from their vanilla, offering a true piece of Hawai’i to bring back home. Pick out something for yourself or as gifts for giving. Products made from vanilla grown and curated at The Vanillerie include body wash, body cream, sugar scrub, lip balm, and candles. For the kitchen, you’ll also find pepper, salt, and sugar grinders infused with vanilla, as well as vanilla macadamia nut honey. Just a five-minute drive from the airport, The Vanillerie shop is also a great place to stop before flying out to pick up last-minute local gifts.
Nearby Attractions
Several other eco farms are located in the same area as the Vanillerie in Hawaii, allowing visitors to plan a farm circuit if desired. Located on the other side of the airport, those interested in learning more about Hawaii’s marine life should check out Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm and Kanaloa Octopus Farm. These self-sustaining farms employ biologists who study the life cycle of sea horses and octopi, contributing to important research for some of the endangered species. Interact with these interesting and engaging creatures in touch tanks as you tour through the facilities, learning interesting facts along the way!
Base Your Hawaii Vacation in Kona
Kona offers an ideal vacation location on Hawaii’s Big Island. Located on the sunny side of the island, you’ll see more blue-sky days here than its eastern counterpart, perfect for getting some beach or golf time. Kona is also convenient to visit popular Big Island attractions, such as Mauna Kea, the green hills of Waimea, Saddle Road, and the many coffee plantations and organic farms located near here. And of course, some of the island’s most beautiful beaches are also located in and near Kona.
At Venture Hawaii, we offer vacation rentals on the Big Island of Hawai’i that are inviting places to make your home away from home. From cozy vacation flats to lavish island estates, you’ll find a variety of options and amenities among our listings. And with an office located right on the island, our friendly staff is here to offer support from pre-booking questions to on-the-ground recommendations. Book your Kona oceanfront vacation rental online today or contact us at Venture Hawaii to learn more about the best places to stay in Hawaii! Explore our studio vacation rentals in Kona!
