Hawaiian Vanilla Company

Not many people realize vanilla comes from an orchid. On the Hamakua Coast lies the Hawaiian Vanilla Company, where visitors can shop, enjoy tea time, and take in a vanilla presentation and tasting as well as ours of the vanilla factory and farm. Presentations and tastings take place at 10:30 a.m. and run for 45 minutes, while tours of the farm and processing facility take place at 1 to 2 p.m. Both of these cost $25. In addition the full experience includes a tour and tasting, as well as a vanilla inspired lunch. These last for two hours and run $39 for adults and $15 for children 4 to 12 years old. Taking just the tea time after hiking through Waimea Valley, is a nice way to relax. To get here form Highway 19 look for the entrance between mile markers 36 and 37 and turn inland on Pohakea Road for three miles. Reservations are required for lunch.