goat cheese

Down to Earth: Kauai Kunana Dairy – Artisan Goat Cheese Delights

Local Tips and Insider Information

When visiting Kauai Kunana Dairy, don’t miss out on their unique fruit-flavored cheeses, especially the lilikoi (passion fruit) variety. It’s a standout offering that combines the sweetness of lilikoi with creamy goat cheese for a delightful treat! Additionally, make sure to try their mac nut pesto, which is perfect for pasta dishes and a favorite among visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of products does Kauai Kunana Dairy offer?

Kauai Kunana Dairy specializes in goat cheese, including flavored options, feta, and a variety of organic produce. They also offer goat milk soaps and lotions.

Are there any tours available at the farm?

Yes! Kauai Kunana Dairy offers farm tours where guests can interact with the goats, learn about cheese-making, and enjoy fruit tastings.

Can I purchase their products online?

Yes, you can buy a range of their goat milk products, organic produce, and more directly from their website.

Is the farm suitable for children?

Absolutely! The farm is family-friendly, and children often enjoy feeding the goats and participating in the fruit-tasting sessions during tours.

Customer Reviews

Visitors have raved about their experiences at Kauai Kunana Dairy, describing it as “a charming farm tour with lots of interesting info and delicious fruit tasting.” They highlight the adorable baby goats and the amazing goat cheese tasting, calling it “beyond amazing.” One delighted customer mentioned that this was the “highlight of our week,” emphasizing the engaging and knowledgeable staff who make the tour enjoyable for all ages.

Visitor Information and Practical Details

Kauai Kunana Dairy is open for farm tours every Thursday at 10:30 AM. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance due to high demand. The farm also participates in local farmers’ markets where they offer their fresh products and seasonal specials. For more information and to place orders, visit their website at kauaikunanadairy.com.

Sustainability Practices and Community Contributions

Kauai Kunana Dairy is committed to sustainable farming practices and animal welfare, being one of the few farms in Kauai certified for animal welfare. They educate visitors about their eco-friendly techniques during tours, promoting the importance of local agriculture and organic farming.

Local Historical or Cultural Context

Established in 1979, Kauai Kunana Dairy has been a family-owned and operated farm for over four decades. The farm not only exemplifies traditional farming methods but also integrates modern sustainable practices, showcasing the rich agricultural heritage of Kauai. Visitors can explore the connection between local farming and the island’s culture, making it a significant destination for those interested in Hawaii’s agricultural history.

More Information

Kauai Kunana Dairy is a family-owned farm located on the beautiful North Shore of Kauai, specializing in artisanal goat cheese and a variety of locally grown produce. Established in 1979, the farm prides itself on sustainable practices and a deep commitment to animal welfare. Visitors to the dairy can experience firsthand the harmonious relationship between the farm’s animals and its diverse agricultural offerings.

The primary focus of Kauai Kunana Dairy is its extensive range of goat cheese products. The farm produces a selection of fresh cheeses, including a signature mild chèvre, feta aged in saltwater brine, and an array of flavored options such as garlic and chives, marinated herbs, and seasonal fruit flavors like lilikoi (passion fruit). Each cheese is crafted with milk from the farm’s goats, known for their gentle temperament and high-quality milk, which is believed to be closer in composition to human milk compared to cow’s milk.

In addition to cheese, Kauai Kunana Dairy produces a range of value-added products, including goat milk soap, lotions, and shampoos, showcasing the versatility of their ingredients. The farm also offers an array of seasonal produce, such as fresh greens, tropical fruits, and organic vegetables, all available through their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and at local farmers’ markets.

Visitors can participate in engaging farm tours, which typically include feeding the goats, learning about goat care and cheese production, and sampling various cheeses at the end of the tour. These tours are designed to be educational and fun for all ages, allowing guests to connect with nature and understand the farm’s sustainable practices.

Kauai Kunana Dairy is not only a local favorite for its wide variety of delicious products but also a contributor to the community through education and sustainable agriculture. Its commitment to quality and care extends from the land to the animals, making it a unique destination for both locals and tourists.

Whether you are looking to enjoy a farm tour, purchase fresh, organic produce, or indulge in handcrafted goat cheese, Kauai Kunana Dairy offers a comprehensive experience that celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of Kauai.

Down to Earth: Kaua‘i Community Market – A Farmers Market Gem

Local Tips and Insider Information

When visiting the Kaua‘i Community Market at KCC, don’t miss trying the gourmet goat cheese, a signature item that has been a staple since the market’s inception. Additionally, be sure to explore the unique offerings from Hara Farms, which not only provides fresh produce but also serves delicious Thai food made from locally sourced ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What days and times is the Kaua‘i Community Market open?

The market operates every Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., rain or shine.

Is it possible to order gift baskets online?

Yes! The market vendors offer gift baskets that can be ordered and shipped online for those who can’t visit in person.

Who manages the Master Gardeners program at the market?

The Master Gardeners are volunteers associated with the University of Hawaii, providing resources and tips to home gardeners during the market.

Customer Reviews

Visitors rave about their experiences at the Kaua‘i Community Market, noting the incredible variety and quality of the products on offer. One delighted attendee shared, “This is the best farmers market on the island. The mix of local vendors and the fresh produce make it a must-visit!” Another said, “The goat cheese and fresh fruit selection is phenomenal, and the atmosphere is so friendly and welcoming!”

Visitor Information and Practical Details

The Kaua‘i Community Market is open every Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It’s a vibrant place where you can find a wide diversity of local produce, flowers, and prepared foods. Look out for fresh offerings from local vendors, ensuring that at least 51% of their products are sourced from local farmers.

Sustainability Practices and Community Contributions

The Kaua‘i Community Market emphasizes the importance of local sourcing, with vendors committed to using at least 51% locally grown products. This practice not only supports local farmers and ranchers but also promotes sustainability within the community, ensuring that fresh, healthy foods are accessible.

Local Historical or Cultural Context

The Kaua‘i Community Market represents a cherished tradition on the island, serving as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. As the market celebrates its 10th anniversary, it has become a symbol of community connection, showcasing Kauai’s agricultural diversity and bringing together various cultures through food and interaction.

More Information

Kauai Community Markets, located at the Kauai Community College (KCC), is celebrated as the most diverse farmers market on the island. This year marks its 10th anniversary, reflecting a decade of growth and community engagement. What started as a small market with just a couple of rows has expanded to feature six rows filled with a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and a unique food court.

The market emphasizes local sourcing, with a requirement that over 51% of the goods be sourced from local farmers and ranchers. This commitment fortifies Kauai’s agricultural community and ensures visitors experience authentic local flavors. A highlight of the offerings is the goat cheese, which has been a staple since the dairy’s opening. Additional products include freshly brewed coffee, including hot coffee, cold brew, and even specialty items like dirty chai.

Visitors can enjoy a selection of Hawaiian specialties, such as Pauly’s 100% pineapple juice, taro mochi cake, and a variety of dishes from local vendors, including barbecue kahlúa sandwiches and vegetable wraps. Notably, one vendor started by a former KCC student and her family from Thailand, showcases an array of produce and a Thai food booth that complements the rich diversity of the market.

In addition to food, the market fosters a sense of community, providing a space for social interaction among locals and visitors alike. Guests are invited to select flowers and customize gift baskets to take home. The Master Gardeners’ group is also present, offering guidance and resources for home gardeners, further enhancing the educational aspect of the market.

Kauai Community Markets operates every Saturday from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM, rain or shine, providing a reliable and welcoming environment for all involved. The market not only supports local agriculture but also reinforces cultural practices and traditions, making it a significant gathering place for the community.