Nestled in the heart of Kula’s rustic Chinatown in Upcountry Maui lies the Shim Coffee Farm at 3,500 feet above sea level. Known as “Uptopia”, the farm produces over 3,700 pounds of coffee beans per year and is sold all across in the islands in various retail locations.
Owned by Casey Shim, the 5 acre farm welcomed its Shim Pure Kula Coffee brand in 2001. With views unlike any other, the land that makes up the Shim farm is filled with native Hawaiian plants, coffee trees and botanical growth. From fruit trees to flowers, Shim Coffee Farm is a stunning piece of land for guests looking to experience a true glimpse of nature on the island.
Casey Shim’s ancestors began dabbling in agriculture and business on the island back in the 1860’s, traveling all the way from China. Casey’s grandparents’ house is still on the property, where the family of farmers were raised. At 90 years old Casey maintains the farm and produces the coffee entirely on his own, making this unique farm a one man working property.
From the planting of the tree to the sale of the coffee, Casey Shim does it all! When Casey took over the farm he had no knowledge or experience in the coffee world, and has now produced and perfected a product that has been featured in various articles such as National Geographic Traveler and The Maui News, as well as winning many awards like the 2011 First Place prize for Coffee Grown On Maui at the Hawaii Coffee Association And Coffee Fest.
With evidence of lava flow around the farm, the soil is extremely fertile as it is a product of years of volcanic eruption. The label of the coffee packaging was designed by Casey’s three granddaughters, Loryn, Marissa and Alexandra, making it just as unique as the coffee itself! Just look for the purple metallic packaging, with the wonderful drawing of a colorful rainbow and volcano!
Guests of the fabulous farm are offered tours guided by Casey Shim himself, through the 1,500 coffee trees. Casey requests reservations be made by phone, but keep in mind he runs this land 100% on his own, so be patient when calling! As an environmentalist and agriculturist, Casey guides guests through the farm teaching not only about the plants on the farm but also the process of growing the plants and harvesting the product.
While the horses on the farm add a special touch, perhaps the best part of the tour is hearing all of Casey’s stories! As he educates his visitors on the history of his ancestors and other immigrants from China on the island, he also has a vast knowledge of the culture of the island.
Casey has been growing on the farm for over 30 years, giving him a superb green thumb! Guests will be able to pick coffee beans, and view the entire process of coffee making, from the trees to the beans, to the machines, such as the pulper, huller, drying tray and roaster. And Casey is always happy to offer samples of his beverage! Visitors can also purchase fresh fruits and flowers at the end of the tour. Casey’s tour experience has earned him countless reviews of guests speaking highly of not only the farm, but the farmer as well!
When visiting the island of Maui it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of endless activities. But it is important to take the time to relax, to enjoy the simple things and connect with the local people and environment! Casey Shim welcomes guests to the Shim Coffee Farm, with an experience that allows guests a first hand look at not only the complete process of how a tree becomes a cup of coffee, but also an education on the history of Chinese on Maui. Go Rent A Car Maui has vans, trucks, suv’s and sedans ready for the trek to Kula to visit Shim Coffee Farm, and fall in love with the entire experience!