Koana

Okay, so, we were on our way to Volcanoes National Park and added a coffee shop along the route because it was morning and Hawai’i and coffee. “Perfect”, we thought. “It’s a quick detour.”

My god. Don’t think that way. Go to Koana, and go because it’s one of the top experiences we had on the island.

We wandered into this little shop in a 100-year old building. Brian (with an I, right?), the owner, was as excited about his craft and his shop as I’ve ever seen. This is a guy who knows design, understands presentation, appreciates attention to detail. He told us about the history of the town, the history of the building, the history of the island.

And... he LOVES coffee. He’s so passionate. His excitement is infectious. Have him serve you a pour-over as he explains the process to you. I derived so much joy and pleasure from observing someone who truly loves what he does.

I tried two different coffees. I have never been able to drink black coffee, but I am now a convert. I loved the Kona Bloom, such a clear and crisp experience. The Monarch Geisha was something... transcendent. I will never think of coffee again. I AM NOT A COFFEE PERSON. And yet here I am. It was that good.

We walked out of there with gifts for people we love back home. And we were so excited about trying the coffee we got that we actually went out and bought a French press for our Airbnb so we could drink amazing coffee every day.

Koana is worth a trip to Mountain View on its own, but if you are headed to Volcanoes from Hilo you would be depriving yourself of an experience if you didn’t stop here.

A bespoke coffee shop nestled in Mountain View. Exceptionally well curated selection of coffee, tea, and chocolate. If you respect coffee as a craft you'd be doing yourself a disservice by not stopping in.

Definitely i would say stop by if you are passing by .

Expertly brewed, perfect, cup of coffee. Smell, taste, sample and learn. Anything you need to know about Big Island coffee you will find here. The finest selection of Big island, grown and roasted coffees anywhere.
This is a warm and charming place with a rich history. It's very possible you could be served the best cup of coffee you've ever had.

One of the best coffee experiences I've had! Love that they have sipping cocoa as well. The lava shot with pour over coffee was a God-send after pulling an all nighter to see the volcano glow. The toasted marshmallow really put it over the top. So good!

Looking forward to our next trip to spend more time here. The staff was so friendly and easy to talk to. I'd love to hang out longer and try out more of their options, too!

Becca was an extremely knowledgeable and kind barista who made the special coffee that much more wonderful! Loved the entremet and both of our pour overs were perfect. Thanks for the great treat!

We got the full coffee experience at Koana. Brian gave us the history of coffee in Hawaii, the background of the bean, the smell of the grounds and how to enjoy SLOW coffee. Koana is one of the many highlights during our family vacation in Hilo.

I’ve had coffee all over the world, I’d have to say Koana was one of the best cups I’ve ever had. This is not Starbucks, this is the real deal, especially for good Hawaiian coffee. The owner did everything by hand and takes extreme pride in his work, and you have to support and love that.

Awesome coffee spot! Amazing selection of specialty coffees and their hot chocolate "lava shot" was superb. The owner Brian was also super nice and informative! A must visit place!!

A real quality coffee shop. So many drinks to try in a cozy atmosphere. The 100% Ka'u coffee was my favorite. Brian personally lit a marshmallow on fire for our hot chocolate, what service. The Hawaiian cacao tea was a winner for my wife who doesn't drink black coffee. Brian and Becca are class acts so prepare yourself and be ready to smell some beans.