Delicious. Decadent. Romantic. Who doesn’t love chocolate?
For centuries, chocolate has been a symbol of indulgence, passion, and even health. But did you know that Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. where cacao is grown? That makes Hawaiian chocolate a truly unique treat, one that you can experience firsthand when visiting the Big Island.
From local cacao farms to exquisite handmade confections, and culminating in the highly anticipated Big Island Chocolate Festival on April 10th, this blog explores all things chocolate in Hawaii.
The Health Benefits of Chocolate and Cacao
Chocolate isn’t just a guilty pleasure—it comes with real health benefits, especially in its purest forms. Cacao beans are packed with antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and support heart health. Dark chocolate, particularly varieties with 70% cacao or higher, has been linked to improved brain function, lower blood pressure, and even a mood boost, thanks to compounds that stimulate serotonin production. Whether enjoyed as a smooth bar, a rich drink, or a gourmet dessert, indulging in chocolate can be both delicious and beneficial.
Cacao Farming in Hawaii
Hawaii’s tropical climate provides the perfect conditions for cacao cultivation, making it the only state where cacao is grown commercially. Farmers carefully nurture cacao trees, which produce large, colorful pods containing the precious beans inside. You can often find these raw cacao pods at farmer’s markets across the Big Island. Adventurous food lovers can try cacao beans in their raw form, blending them into smoothies or using them in desserts for an authentic, earthy flavor.
If you’re curious about where your favorite Hawaiian chocolate comes from, consider visiting one of the many cacao farms on the Big Island. Several farms offer tours where you can see the trees up close, learn about the chocolate-making process, and sample fresh cacao straight from the source.
Best Cacao Farms to Visit on the Big Island
Hamakua Chocolate Farm – Nestled on the lush Hamakua Coast, this farm offers immersive tours that take you from the cacao orchard to the fermentation and drying process, ending with a tasting session.
Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory – Located in Kona, this is one of the premier chocolate farms in Hawaii. Visitors can see the entire bean-to-bar process and enjoy the rich, handcrafted chocolates made entirely from locally grown cacao.
Lavaloha Chocolate Farm – Situated in Hilo, this farm provides educational tours showcasing how cacao is cultivated and processed. The tour concludes with a delightful tasting of their artisanal chocolates.
Honoka’a Chocolate Co. – A boutique farm offering personalized tours and small-batch chocolate tastings featuring rare and unique flavors.
Puna Chocolate Company – With locations in Hilo and Kona, Puna Chocolate offers farm tours and tastings that highlight single-origin Hawaiian chocolates.
How Chocolate is Made: The Cacao Fermentation Process
Turning raw cacao into chocolate is a labor-intensive process that requires expertise and patience. It begins with harvesting the ripe cacao pods, which are then split open to reveal the beans encased in a sweet, white pulp. The beans are scooped out and left to ferment for several days in wooden boxes. This fermentation process is crucial—it develops the chocolate’s deep flavors and reduces bitterness.
After fermentation, the beans are dried under the Hawaiian sun before being roasted to enhance their rich, complex flavors. Once roasted, the beans are cracked open, and the nibs inside are ground into a paste known as chocolate liquor. This is then refined, sweetened, and conched to achieve a smooth texture before being tempered and molded into bars or confections.
Hawaiian Original Chocolate: A Must-Try
One of the best Hawaiian chocolates to try is Hawaiian Original Chocolate, known for its high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. You can find their chocolate in specialty stores across the islands, online, and in select fine restaurants. For an unforgettable dessert experience, visit Merriman’s and indulge in their signature Chocolate Purse Dessert—a phyllo dough pouch stuffed with decadent chocolate ganache made from local dark chocolate, baked until golden, and served with salted caramel and Tahitian vanilla ice cream. A must-try for any chocolate lover!
The Big Island Chocolate Festival 2025
Mark your calendar for April 10th, because the Big Island Chocolate Festival – Cirque de Chocolate is an event you won’t want to miss! Held at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, this annual celebration brings together the best chocolatiers, chefs, and cacao farmers for a few days of indulgence and education. The event occurs from April 10 – 12, 2025, and tickets are in high demand.
What to Expect at the Festival
• Chocolate Tastings – Sample a variety of exquisite chocolates from local artisans and international chocolatiers.
• Chef Demonstrations – Watch top chefs craft delectable chocolate dishes and desserts.
• Cacao Farm Education – Learn more about the bean-to-bar process from Hawaii’s leading cacao farmers.
• Wine and Chocolate Pairings – Discover the perfect wine to complement different chocolate flavors.
• Chocolate-Inspired Cuisine – Enjoy a gourmet dinner featuring innovative dishes that incorporate chocolate in unique ways.
• Live Music & Entertainment – Experience a festive atmosphere with live Hawaiian music and cultural performances.
Where to Get Tickets
Tickets for the Big Island Chocolate Festival are available online through the official event website. VIP tickets grant access to exclusive tastings and private events, while general admission ensures you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to savor the delicious offerings.
A Sweet Conclusion
Whether indulging in a handcrafted chocolate bar, sipping on a rich cacao smoothie, or learning about the chocolate-making process at a local farm, Hawaiian chocolate offers a unique experience. The Big Island Chocolate Festival is the ultimate celebration of this beloved treat, making it the perfect opportunity for chocolate enthusiasts to immerse themselves in all things cacao.
If you’re a chocolate lover visiting the Big Island in 2025, make sure to explore the local cacao farms, sample artisanal chocolates, and mark your calendar for the Chocolate Festival. Your taste buds will thank you!