Sea Creatures

Located on the Kona Coast is a 10-acre aquafarm serving premium, live abalone for the entire world to enjoy. Big Island Abalone specializes in producing the Japanese Ezo strain of abalone, an abalone prized for its tenderness, versatility and briny delectability. For over 20 years, researchers have studied this strain in conjunction with the Kona environment to understand why it does so well in Kona waters. Researchers surmise that the vibrant volcanic activity combined with the pure, cold sea water makes for the ideal environment for abalone to thrive in. In addition to these factors, the area receives nearly 300 days of sunshine which allows the Dulse algae, the main food product for the abalone, to flourish. Tours of the abalone farm are held throughout the day, but reservations are required to ensure there is available space on the tour. The exploration of the aquafarm runs up to one hour in length and explores the history of the farm as well as the history of abalone in Hawai‘i and across the world. Guests learn about the lifecycle of abalone and are treated to hands-on abalone and sea creature interactions before the tour concludes with a sampling of freshly grilled abalone.

Big Island Abalone; 73-357 Makako Bay Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740; (808) 334-0034; bigislandabalone.com; Tours available Monday to Friday at 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m., and 11:45 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.