Aloha and Ambition: The Start of Bayview Farms
The History of Bayview Farm Coffee: A Legacy Rooted in Passion
Bayview Farm Coffee has a rich history that reflects the passion and dedication of the Roy family, who transformed the Kona coffee industry.
From Humble Beginnings to a Coffee Pioneer
Bayview Farm started as one of the largest coffee processing mills from 1993 to 2010. Andrew Roy, the owner, was not only a farmer but also a processor and roaster, deeply passionate about every aspect of coffee production. He took his knowledge globally, helping countries replace drug crops like opium with coffee plants.
Andrew’s wife, Roslyn, brought her expertise in retail and PR to the farm. A pivotal moment came during a visit to Napa Valley, where the Roys toured vineyards and participated in wine tastings. Inspired by the educational aspect of these tours, they decided to create something similar for Kona coffee. At that time, counterfeit Kona coffee was a significant problem, so they aimed to educate consumers on the authenticity and quality of 100% Kona coffee.
The Birth of the Gazebo
In 1994, they opened the Gazebo adjacent to their mill, offering complimentary tours and tastings. This was a groundbreaking move in the Kona coffee industry, focusing on educating visitors about the differences between genuine and counterfeit Kona coffee. Although initially met with skepticism due to its remote location, the Gazebo's success quickly spread by word of mouth. This initiative was so impactful that other mills and farmers soon followed suit, benefiting the entire industry. Roslyn's slogan, "From Cherry to Cup," became synonymous with quality and authenticity, inspiring similar slogans across the industry.
A Family Legacy and Challenges
The farm itself spans 25 acres, with approximately 40,000 coffee trees planted in 1984. Of these, 20 acres are dedicated to coffee, while the rest are used for other tropical fruits and coffee processing areas. The main house and the Decagon home, where the Roys lived and worked, became the heart of their operations.
Sadly, after Roslyn passed away in 2012, the farm faced challenges, as their daughters were unable to continue the legacy. Despite these struggles, the Roy family's impact on the Kona coffee industry remains profound.
Continuing the Tradition
Today, the property and farm are owned by Restaurateur, Sandra DiCicco-Bonar, who carries over 30 years of experience in the Hospitality Industry. From the time Sandra acquired Bayview Farms, she has made it her purpose to hold true to the values and heart of Roslyn Roy. Bayview Farm Coffee stands as a testament to the Roy’s vision and hard work. Their innovative spirit and dedication to quality continue to inspire and educate coffee lovers around the world. All the coffee sold online and at the farm’s kiosk is still grown in and harvested from Kona soil.