Big Island Bees gift shop
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Big Island Bees Hawaii

4.8
·810 reviews·Captain Cook, United States

Discover the sweet world of Hawaiian beekeeping with educational tours and unique honey tastings at Big Island Bees.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tour

CrowdLow
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Big Island Bees gift shop

Big Island Bees Hawaii

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the sweet world of Hawaiian beekeeping with educational tours and unique honey tastings at Big Island Bees.

4.8
(810 reviews)

"The tour was absolutely phenomenal w Joe as our guide! One of the main highlights of my trip!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tours Ahead of Time

Popular tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment.

🍯 Taste the Unique Flavors

Don't miss the tasting! Ohia Lehua honey is a must-try, unique to Hawaii.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Beehive Tour

Interactive Beehive Tour

Active Hive

Witness the inner workings of a beehive with an expert guide. See bees at work and learn about their roles.

Reddit
Artisanal Honey Tasting

Artisanal Honey Tasting

Tasting Room

Sample a variety of unique, single-origin Hawaiian honeys, including the rare Ohia Lehua blossom.

Reddit
Learn About Bee Conservation

Learn About Bee Conservation

Educational Area

Understand the vital role of bees and conservation efforts in Hawaii's ecosystem.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Bee Tour in Advance

Tours at Big Island Bees are popular and often book up, especially during peak season. Booking ahead ensures your spot to learn about beekeeping and taste delicious local honey. Instagram

Prepare for a Sweet Tasting Experience

The highlight for many is the honey tasting! Come with an open mind and palate to sample unique Hawaiian flavors like Ohia Lehua. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon Tours
Why
Good for day-trippers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We knew this rescue was going to be a big one but we were SHOCKED by how many bees this colony had tucked behind all that comb! This was also precariously situated on a very busy trail, so that's always fun 😬 #beetok #savethebees #beekeeper #bees #nature #animals #dirtyjobs #insects
@mr.mrs.beerescue
3.6M likes • 49.3M views

🎯 Book Tours Ahead of Time

Popular tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment. Instagram

🍯 Taste the Unique Flavors

Don't miss the tasting! Ohia Lehua honey is a must-try, unique to Hawaii. Reddit

Where did the indigenous people of Hawaii come from? #hawaii #polynesian #polynesiantiktok #tahiti #sanskrit #sailing #navigation #kontiki #peru #storytime #story #storyteller #History
@vagabondartist
53.3K likes • 363.1K views
Wanna learn more about swarms, bees, beekeeping, and honey production? Visit us for a tour at Big Island Bees to learn all about it and more! Big Island Hawaii swarm beehive honey bee honey production #beekeeping #hawaiilife #savethebees #honey #bees beehave beegood beeyou #honeybees
bigislandbees
128 likes • 1.3K views

🚗 Consider Transportation

The location is a bit remote; plan your transport to Big Island Bees. Reddit

🚰 Bathroom Facilities

Be aware that bathroom facilities are basic (porta-potty), so plan accordingly. Reddit

🍯🥥 @superbeeskona We came right by the water to enjoy some of the freshest tropical fruits on the island. If you’re in Kona, hit up @superbeeskona for the best honey and tropical fruits! Home grown honey, bees never smoked. No sweetners added in any products, just nature’s sweetness baby. Superbees first started with only honey, then it developed into one of the best fruit stands in Hawaii.. Co...
seelasvegas
53 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tours Ahead of Time

Popular tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment. Instagram

🍯 Taste the Unique Flavors

Don't miss the tasting! Ohia Lehua honey is a must-try, unique to Hawaii. Reddit

🚗 Consider Transportation

The location is a bit remote; plan your transport to Big Island Bees. Reddit

🚰 Bathroom Facilities

Be aware that bathroom facilities are basic (porta-potty), so plan accordingly. Reddit

🎁 Perfect Wedding Favors

Mini honey jars make a sweet, local favor for events and weddings. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(810 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Big Island Bees for its educational and engaging tours, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the exceptional quality of their artisanal Hawaiian honeys. The tasting experience is a major draw, with many guests loving the unique flavors and purchasing honey to take home. While the experience is highly recommended, some note that the bathroom facilities are basic.

"4.5 stars. A nice establishment for educating the masses about bees. Didn’t realize so many types of bees and their work in life. Informed speaker. Above and Beyond. Even went out of his way to get us a sprig of herbs. Nice . We liked the vanilla bean and I liked the fragrance honey. So we got a few packs in the variety. ….As always, post where ever u end up. So other vacationers can choose to visit or not."

Eddie B

"We chose mini honey jars from Big Island Bees as our wedding favors, and they were an absolute hit with our guests! Not only were they adorable, but the honey itself was delicious—you could really taste the quality and care that goes into their products.

It felt so special to be able to share a little piece of Hawai‘i with everyone, and supporting a local business made it even more meaningful to us. Big Island Bees was easy to work with and the favors were beautifully packaged and ready to go.

Highly recommend for weddings or any event—you can’t go wrong with something this sweet!"

Tiana Pridgen

"Thoroughly enjoyed this experience! The guide was very knowledgeable and engaging and he made the tour interesting. We also really enjoyed tasting the different types of honey and buying some to take with us. I would say note that they don't have a good bathroom here, just a Porta Potty that was extremely dirty."

Olo Egbokhare

What People Like

Knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides
Unique honey tasting experience
Educational bee conservation insights

What People Dislike

Basic bathroom facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Big Island Bees is located on the Kona side of the island. It's recommended to have a car as public transport is limited. The drive offers scenic views of the Kona coast. Reddit

While it's a bit off the main tourist path, following GPS directions is usually straightforward. Some visitors mention it's near Captain Cook. Reddit

Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the Big Island, including reaching Big Island Bees and other attractions like the Coffee Shack. Reddit

Yes, Big Island Bees is relatively close to the Captain Cook monument and the famous Coffee Shack restaurant, making it a great addition to a day of exploring the Kona coast. Reddit

It's generally not recommended to walk to Big Island Bees unless you are staying very close by, as it's situated in a more rural area. Driving is the most practical option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tour in advance, as they are very popular and can sell out. This ensures you get a spot for their educational and tasting experiences. Instagram

Tour prices can vary, but they typically offer an immersive experience that includes a guided tour and honey tasting. Check their official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Operating hours and tour availability can change. It's best to check the Big Island Bees website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on tour times and visiting hours. Instagram

While tours are the primary way to experience Big Island Bees, they often have a tasting room where you can sample and purchase honey. However, the full educational experience is with a booked tour. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely available. It's advisable to check their website or inquire directly if you are looking for any special offers, especially for group bookings. Instagram

🎫 🐝 Onsite Experience

Expect an engaging, approximately 1.5-hour tour where you'll learn about beekeeping, see an active hive, and participate in a tasting of various Hawaiian honeys. Guides are known for being knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Reddit

The tour is generally engaging for all ages, offering educational insights into bees and nature. However, younger children might need closer supervision around the active hive demonstration. TikTok

You'll have the opportunity to taste a range of unique, single-origin Hawaiian honeys, with popular varieties including Ohia Lehua Blossom, Wilelaiki, and Vanilla Bean. Reddit

Absolutely! The tasting is followed by an opportunity to purchase your favorite honeys. They also offer mini jars that are perfect as souvenirs or wedding favors. Reddit

Visitors have noted that the bathroom facilities are basic, often consisting of a porta-potty that may not always be in the cleanest condition. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit if possible. Reddit

🍽️ 🍯 Food & Dining

Big Island Bees primarily focuses on honey production and tasting. While they don't serve full meals, the honey tasting itself is a culinary experience. Nearby, the Coffee Shack is highly recommended for food. Reddit

The Ohia Lehua Blossom honey is a standout, known for its unique flavor and rarity. Other popular choices include Wilelaiki and Vanilla Bean honey. Reddit

Yes, Big Island Bees offers a variety of honey products for purchase, including full-size jars and smaller mini jars, which make excellent souvenirs or gifts. Reddit

The Coffee Shack, located above Captain Cook, is a highly recommended spot by visitors for its great food and views, and it's relatively close to Big Island Bees. Reddit

Big Island honey is special due to the unique floral sources found only in Hawaii, such as the Ohia Lehua tree, resulting in distinct and delicious flavors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged, especially to capture the beautiful scenery and the unique products. However, be mindful of the active hive demonstration and avoid flash photography that could disturb the bees. Instagram

Capture the vibrant colors of the honey jars, the lush Hawaiian landscape surrounding the apiary, and perhaps even close-ups of the bees (from a safe distance or during demonstrations). Instagram

During the tour, guides may demonstrate with an active hive, offering opportunities for photos. Always maintain a safe distance and follow your guide's instructions. Reddit

While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography that might disturb the bees or other visitors. Always ask for permission if you plan to photograph staff or other guests closely. Instagram

A versatile lens that can handle both landscapes and close-ups would be ideal. A macro lens can be great for capturing the intricate details of honeycombs and bees if you're comfortable getting close. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Big Island Bees offers a fantastic educational outing for families. Kids are often fascinated by the live bee demonstrations and learning about how honey is made. The interactive nature of the tour keeps them engaged, and the honey tasting is a sweet reward. TikTok

Pro-tip: While the experience is generally child-friendly, ensure younger children are supervised closely during the active hive viewing. The basic bathroom facilities might require a bit of preparation, so consider this when planning your visit with little ones. Reddit

💍 Couples & Special Events

For couples, Big Island Bees offers a unique and memorable experience, especially if you're looking for something beyond the typical tourist attractions. The beautiful setting and the sweet indulgence of honey tasting create a romantic atmosphere. Instagram

Furthermore, the mini honey jars from Big Island Bees are a highly recommended and incredibly popular choice for wedding favors. They offer a charming, local touch that guests adore, making your special day even more memorable. Reddit

🍯 Foodies & Honey Enthusiasts

If you appreciate fine food and unique flavors, Big Island Bees is a must-visit. The opportunity to taste a variety of single-origin Hawaiian honeys, like the rare Ohia Lehua, is a dream for any foodie. You'll gain a deeper understanding of terroir and how floral sources influence taste. Reddit

This is your chance to discover new favorite flavors and learn about the artisanal process behind them. The knowledgeable guides enhance the tasting experience, providing context and insights that elevate it beyond a simple sampling. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Big Island Beekeeping

Big Island Bees is more than just a honey producer; it's a hub for education on the vital role of bees in Hawaii's ecosystem. Their tours offer an intimate look into the world of beekeeping, explaining the intricate social structure of a hive and the dedication required to maintain healthy bee populations. Visitors can learn about the challenges bees face, including habitat loss and the importance of sustainable practices. TikTokInstagram

The apiary utilizes a unique approach, often avoiding the use of smoke when working with the bees, which is a testament to their gentle handling methods. This allows for a more natural observation of the bees' behavior. The guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge, making the experience both informative and engaging for all ages. Reddit

Beyond the educational aspect, Big Island Bees is committed to conservation. By supporting their work, visitors contribute to the preservation of these essential pollinators, ensuring the health of Hawaii's unique flora and agricultural output. It's a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level and appreciate the hard work of these tiny creatures. TikTok

A Symphony of Hawaiian Honey Flavors

The true magic of Big Island Bees lies in its diverse range of artisanal honeys, each a liquid embodiment of Hawaii's unique floral landscape. The tasting experience is a journey through distinct flavors, from the delicate, almost floral notes of the Ohia Lehua Blossom honey to the richer, more robust profiles of other single-origin varieties. These honeys are not just sweeteners; they are a taste of the islands' biodiversity. Reddit

Unlike mass-produced honey, Big Island Bees focuses on small-batch production, ensuring the purity and distinct character of each varietal. This meticulous process means you can truly taste the difference that local flora makes. Popular choices often include Wilelaiki and Vanilla Bean honey, each offering a unique sensory experience that reflects the specific blossoms the bees have visited. Reddit

These exquisite honeys are perfect for enjoying on their own, drizzled over local fruits, or incorporated into culinary creations. They also make for exceptional souvenirs, allowing you to bring a sweet piece of the Big Island home with you. The mini jars are particularly popular for gifting, sharing a taste of paradise with friends and family. Reddit

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