Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company Visitor Center

The Island of Hawaii, including Hilo, blessed with its heavy rainfall, tropical sun and lava-covered land, is one of the centers specializing in the growth of macadamia nuts. These originated in Australia and were introduced here as recently as 120 years ago.

The Mauna Loa Company began by planting trees, harvesting the first crop eight years later.

With its 800,000 trees, the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Mill rates today as one of the world's largest producers of these very tasty, yet very fatty, nuts. The production of macadamia confectionery, cakes, biscuits and other items is demonstrated in the visitor center and all these goods can be bought in the shops on the island.