Hawaiian Vanilla Company

"Learn more about Vanilla!"

Who knew that Hawaiian Vanilla beans were the fruit of the vanilla planifolia orchid?  I didn't until I visited the Hawaiian Vanilla Company!

Perched up in the green hills of Paauilo on Hawaii's Big Island, the place was founded by the Reddekopp family in 1989.  More than two decades later family is still the centerpiece of the vanilla farm's operation.  In fact,  our tour was conducted by the Reddekopp's eldest son!

Apparently if you choose to come for a Vanilla Experience Luncheon, it would not be uncommon to be greeted and served by the other children in this family!   If you are bringing children though, I would recommend the tour.  Our guide did a marvelous job providing us with a brief overview of how vanilla is cultivated before walking us down to the Vanillery.  Afterwards we enjoyed some beverages --- the choice of vanilla lemonade or iced tea--- as well as some vanilla ice cream before we browsed through their offerings of vanilla items to purchase. We were absolutely amazed by the many uses for vanilla!  Vanilla corn bread?  It never occured to me!!

If you decide to visit, make a reservation first!!