The Coconut Tree Company: A local treat makes a comeback

Reported By: Mikaylla Nicole M. Alcairo

Walking into his shop and taking in the smell of coconut candy is very nostalgic for store owner, Gary Tanaka, 48, as it reminds him of the reason, he started his small local business.

Located in Hagatña, The Coconut Tree Company was established in 2018 and officially opened its doors at its new location in 2020. They specialize in a modern, gourmet twist of local coconut candy.

Driven by his grandfather, Tomas S. Tanaka’s love for cooking, he knew he wanted to continue to honor his memory, so he established the business alongside co-owner Joseph Connelly. He also wanted to give “truly traditional gifts” with aesthetic packaging.

“I know it’s not truly unique to Guam, and that there are other islands that have that (coconut candy), but [I am able] to take somebody from the states who hasn’t had that, or a visitor, and share that experience with them. [It inspires me to continue] sharing our culture, our memories, our heritage through candy,” states Tanaka.

Due to the scarcity of coconuts on the island, the business chooses to get their source elsewhere.

Danielle Luces, operations manager at The Coconut Tree Company, states, “Because we source our coconut from local farmers in the Philippines, the consistency of the candy may not always be the same. We try our best to maintain the quality of our candy, but at the end of the day, [in] some batches you’ll get a nice chew while some batches may get a nice silky chew.”

They currently offer this gourmet treat in two flavors: traditional and chocolate. Occasionally, they do introduce limited time creations such as mango-coconut candy during mango season.

*A display of coconut candy wrapped in the variety of colored foils offered for custom orders. Photo courtesy of Harmony Yatar.*

They also offer pre-orders for any custom orders. Custom orders include different packaging as well as a variety of colored foils to choose from.

They sell their products in-store and at other remote locations such as 76 gas stations, Tenda Ina, and Navy Exchange.

Store hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, you can reach them on Instagram, @thecoconuttreecompany, or call 671-472-3775.