History abounds in Kona, whether its rich ranching heritage, multi-ethnic cultural lineage, agricultural significance or coffee farming legacy. The best place to learn about Kona’s fascinating past is to make a visit to the Kona Historical Society.
Located in Kealakekua just a 15-minute drive from Holualoa, Kona Historical Society offers two living history programs: H.N. Greenwell Store Museum and the Kona Coffee Living History Farm. Occupying the original building built in 1870, the restored Greenwell Store is like a step back into time, featuring an array of nostalgic goods on display like woolen long johns, calico fabric, paniolo saddle soap and more. A costumed docent tells the story of daily life during the bygone era of Kona’s ranching heyday. The store is open Mondays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The beautiful grounds of the Historical Society includes old pasture lands where an authentic Portuguese Stone Oven takes center stage. On Thursdays, the Society bakes its own Portuguese sweet bread in the oven, welcoming guests to partake in the dough-making process. The finished product is offered for a small donation. Also on site, Greenwell Kona Coffee Farms offers samples and tours.
Farther on down the road on Mamalahoa Highway, the Kona Coffee Living History Farm unveils an authentic historic home representative of Kona’s coffee pioneers during the years 1926-1945. Costumed historians cook meals over an open flame and talk story with visitors about Kona’s coffee heritage.
A 30-acre coffee estate, Holualoa Inn is located in the heart of Kona Coffee Country. Guest wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed 100-percent Kona coffee grown on site. History comes alive on our grounds, where ancient footpaths and coffee trails traverse the property.
Innkeeper Holualoa Inn