A Sweet Welcome to Paradise

As soon as we arrived at Lydgate Farms, we were greeted by a lovely woman with dark hair and a big smile. Her warmth was infectious, and she quickly helped us fix our reservations. We parked and were welcomed again with a lei made from plants grown right there on the farm. It was a beautiful touch that set the tone for the rest of the day. While we waited for the tour to start, we sipped on tea and munched on macadamia nuts, soaking in the lush surroundings.

The farm is nestled in what feels like a jungle, and the natural beauty is breathtaking. However, a word to the wise: the mosquitoes are quite friendly too! They do provide a natural repellent, but if you’re like me and tend to attract every mosquito in a ten-mile radius, you might want to bring something a bit stronger.

A Journey Through Chocolate Heaven

Our guide, Samual, was nothing short of amazing. His energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and he was incredibly knowledgeable about everything from the cacao trees to the various fruits and plants we encountered. The tour itself was a delightful stroll through the farm, not too strenuous but packed with fascinating information and delicious samples.

We tasted a variety of tropical fruits and honey, each more delicious than the last. Samual’s entertaining stories and insights made the experience even more enjoyable. As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for activities that are both educational and fun, and this tour hit the mark perfectly.

The Grand Finale: Chocolate Tasting

The highlight of the tour was, of course, the chocolate tasting. I had no idea how much I didn’t know about chocolate until that moment. The difference between mass-produced chocolate and the exquisite single-origin chocolate we tasted was astounding. I felt like my taste buds had been awakened to a whole new world of flavor.

After the tasting, we had the opportunity to shop for our favorite chocolate bars, nuts, and treats. Since we opted for the deluxe package, we received a bag filled with goodies, and the lovely woman from the beginning of our tour was there to help us swap out items for our favorites. For a small fee, they even shipped our chocolate haul back home, saving us the hassle of carrying it on the plane.

This experience was worth every penny and every minute. If you’re planning a trip to Kaua’i, make sure to include the Hawaiian Cacao Tour in your itinerary. It’s a must-do for chocolate lovers and a fantastic way to create lasting family memories. Trust me, you’ll be planning your next visit before you even leave the farm!