kauai plantation tour

SIGNATURE TRAIN TOUR | KAUAI PLANTATION RAILWAY

Quick Details

• Tags Category: Land
• Map Marker Island: Kauai
• Hour Glass Duration: 40 - 50 Minutes
• Tag Adventure Type: Sightseeing
• Tag Tour Operator: Kauai Plantation Railway

Your train ride takes you back through history to the plantation days of Kauaʻi… but this is also a real working farm. Much of the fruit you’ll see growing at the plantation is used in Mahiko Lounge’s farm to glass cocktails at The Plantation House by Gaylord’s Restaurant.

• Explore the historic 105 acre Kilohana Plantation
• Feed the pigs, goats, sheep, and their friendly donkey Stiney.
• All aboard elegant mahogany passenger cars

Kauaʻi’s Signature Train Ride

The Kauai Plantation Railway recreates the days when diesel powered narrow gauge locomotives moved the harvested cane from the fields to the mill, and raw sugar from the mill to the wharf for shipment. Today, Kauaʻi Plantation Railway is running two 1948 25-ton, General Electric, Diesel Electric Locomotives; the same type used in the sugarcane fields.

Your tour begins in an authentic Hawaiʻian train depot. Check in with the stationmaster, then take a few minutes to explore the unique Train Depot Gift Shop. Here you will find many hand-crafted items made right here on Kauaʻi.

In a few short minutes you hear the approach of the train. You step out onto the boarding platform and watch as the engine appears out of the jungle as it winds its way past a garden in bloom with tropical flowers.

The train cars are close reproductions of King Kalakaua’s personal railway cars from the mid 1800’s. They are elegant with hand finished wood interiors and offer an enclosed ride with plenty of views. If you are feeling more adventurous you may pick the open sided excursion car as used on the Oahu coast railway before World War II. In either case you are sure to have a safe and comfortable ride.

Your local guide (conductor) will share with you some of the history of the Plantation, the beautiful island of Kauai, and the equipment they use.  The Conductor will also point out some of the interesting varieties of fruits and vegetables grown right there at the Kilohana Plantation. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view as the train passes through fields of bananas, papayas, pineapples, taro, as well as native & exotic hardwoods from around the world. Kilohana Plantation’s fruit orchard has over 25 different varieties of fruit trees that will have your mouth watering.

The Kilohana plantation is surely one of the most beautiful farms in the world. You will see an unusual mix of plants and trees, as well as their friendly farm animals along the way.

Well out into the heart of the plantation you get to disembark to spend some time feeding the pigs, goats, sheep, and their friendly donkey Stiney. The Kauaʻi Plantation Railway is fun for all ages and a must do when staying on Kauai.

Departure Times:

• Every day at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, & 2:00.
• Tuesday & Friday at 4:30 & 5:30.

• Chevron down Tour Policies, Restrictions and Recommendations

They recommend arriving at least 15 minutes prior to departure.

Perfect for the whole family.  All ages welcome!

• Chevron down Food & Beverages

No food service available on the train ride.  Located in Kilohana’s original courtyard, The Plantation House by Gaylord’s Restaurant offers Kauai’s most authentic Island dining experience with island-influenced dishes by Chef Johnny Saguid. An original working plantation homestead, Kilohana was home to Gaylord Wilcox who operated Grove Farm Plantation, a 23,000 acre Sugar Plantation.  Be sure to stop by the main house to explore shops and enjoy a meal at The Plantation House.

• Chevron down Cancellation Policy

PLEASE NOTIFY HAWAII ADVENTURE CENTER IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR RESCHEDULE AN ACTIVITY.

You can do so by calling (888) 207-0722 or  contact us online .

• No refunds for cancellations within 48 hours of activity
• For groups of 6+ there are no refunds for cancellations within 72 hours of activity
• We will gladly reschedule your activity at no extra cost if changes are made prior to the 48 or 72 hour cancellation period
• Cancellations from date of booking to 48 hours before activity or for larger groups 72 hours before activity are subject to a 10% service charge
• If for some reason we are unable to confirm your reservation with the activity operator due to oversold seats or other unforeseen reasons, a full refund will be provided and you will be notified immediately to discuss alternative dates and activities

If a tour operator cancels any trip due to weather, mechanical failure, unsafe conditions, or insufficient reservations, a full refund will be provided.

Visit Grove Farm

Grove farm and the waioli mission house museums are open for guided tours.

Advanced reservations are required for the tours at both museums.  Hope to see you soon!

Advance reservations are required for the unhurried two-hour guided walking tours of the buildings, gardens and grounds at Grove Farm museum in Lihue. Tours are given in small groups, (which fill up quickly!), and are led by Kauai residents who know the sugar plantation history and about life on the island.

( Please note : The sugar train is not a part of the Grove Farm tour and is not located at the museum site.  Due to repairs on the track and steam engines the train is currently not running.)

*** If you enjoy sharing wonderful stories and meeting people from both the local community and around the world, becoming a Volunteer Guide at Grove Farm museum may be right for you.  Guides are asked to tour about twice a month, but we are happy to work with your schedule!

Please call (808) 245-3202 or email tours@grovefarm.org for more information.***

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, starting at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

RESERVATIONS AND ADMISSION

To make reservations or for more information, please telephone (808) 245-3202 or email tours@grovefarm.org .  An email reply will be sent to let you know if the tour time you requested is available.  If you are interested in a last minute tour, it is highly recommended that you telephone (808) 245-3202.

There is a requested donation of $20 for adults and $10 for children 5 to 12 years.   Kamaaina rates (with Hawaii State identification) are $10 for adults and $5 for children 5 to 12 years.  Credit cards are accepted, but there is a 4% service fee.

Because of the popularity of these tours, if you need to cancel please call (808) 245-3202 as soon as possible.

Tours are not given on most holidays and may be cancelled on rainy days.

DIRECTIONS // LOCATION

4050 Nawiliwili Road, Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii 96766

Grove Farm is located on the western edge of Lihue, the central island community, on Nawiliwili Road between the Kukui Grove Shopping Center and Nawiliwili Harbor.  Look for the GROVE FARM sign on the left side of Nawiliwili Road as you travel toward the harbor.

As you turn off Nawiliwili Road into the Grove Farm entrance, make an immediate left turn over the old railroad tracks at the TO PARKING sign, which will lead you onto the gravel road to the parking lot.

ARRIVING FOR YOUR TOUR

After parking and locking your car, go through the path cut into the grass hedge under the Kukui tree and walk back to the Grove Farm front lawn.  Please check in at the old Grove Farm office, which is the first building on your right.

Visit Waioli Mission House

In Hanalei, the 1836 Waioli Mission House built by the Reverend W.P. Alexander, was home for missionary teachers Abner and Lucy Wilcox and their seven sons.  For 50 years after Abner and Lucy’s deaths in 1869, the old mission home sat empty until it was restored in 1921 by their granddaughters Etta, Elsie and Mabel Wilcox.  The mission house today continues as a quiet touchstone to the missionary efforts on Kauai.

Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, starting at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

There is a requested donation of $10 for adults and $5 for children 5 to 12 years.   Kamaaina rates (with Hawaii State identification) are $5 for adults and children 5 to 12 years are free.

05-5373 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii 96714

The Waioli Mission House is located behind the small green Waioli Hui’ia Church north of Hanalei town.

Please park at the edge of the Waioli Park between the green Waioli Hui’ia Church and the white church hall.

Walk back through the park to the gate at the white picket fence.  Go through the gate to the chimney and ring the bell if the guide isn’t already there to meet you.  There are no self guided tours.

Educators and School Tours

We invite you and your students to take part in the educational opportunities that abound at Grove Farm and Waioli Mission House museums. Available for school tours and other educational groups are the historic grounds, buildings, and the collections contained within, as well as an historic photo collection, oral histories of former plantation workers, ledgers of plantation workers and their pay scales, collection of Hawaiiana artifacts, and much more. Also, a ride on a restored sugar train along an authentic locomotive right-of-way can be arranged.

We can assist you and your students in meeting the curriculum requirements that relate to benchmarks in the core content areas of English, language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The extended core content areas of career and technical education (incorporating career and lifestyle skills), education technology and fine arts are also possibilities.

BOOKING A SCHOOL TOUR

Contact the Tour Coordinator at (808) 245-3202 or email at tours@grovefarm.org  with any questions you may have, or to make reservations for you and your students to visit. Reservations are taken on a space available basis and should be scheduled at least four weeks in advance.

Museum Observed Holidays

Grove Farm museum will be closed in 2023 on the following days: Monday, January 2 (in observance of New Year’s Day) Tuesday, January 3 (Jack Hall Day) Friday, April 7 (Good Friday) Monday, May 29 (Memorial Day) Tuesday, July 4 (Independence Day) Monday, September 4 (Labor Day) Thursday, November 23 (Thanksgiving) Friday, November 24 (Day After Thanksgiving) Friday, December 22 (for Christmas Eve) Monday, December 25 (in observance of Christmas Day) Friday, December 29 (for New Year’s Eve)

Telephone: (808) 245-3202 Fax: (808) 245-7988 Email: secretary@grovefarm.org Mailing Address: Post Office Box 1631, Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii 96766

Visit and Enjoy Grove Farm

Grove Farm Museum is available to the public for tours and community events. We welcome your inquiries.

Sign Up for Grove Farm Museum Updates…

Sam and Emma Wilcox

Married in 1874, Sam and Emma Wilcox moved to Grove Farm where Sam assisted his brother with cattle operations and served as Sheriff of Kauai for twenty-five years. Emma managed the house and the early education of their children, and her housekeeping schedules continue to be followed today.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK WITH DEPARTURES AT 11:00AM, 1:30PM, & 4:00PM (MUST BE 21+ TO ATTEND)

KAUAI RUM SAFARI TOUR

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• Users Ages: Ages 21+
• Clock Times: 11am, 1:30pm and 4pm everyday!

JOIN US FOR A TWO-HOUR GUIDED RUM SAFARI OF THE  KILOHANA PLANTATION!

Join us at Kauai Safaris where you will sip on Koloa Rum, enjoy our signature Mai Tais, meet and interact with our farm animals, and have a fresh cocktail made with fruits and herbs grown right here on the plantation.

• Approximately two hours
• Tour Kilohana Plantation
• Boardwalk stroll through a tropical forest
• Farm animal feedings
• Rum tasting
• Signature Mai Tai
• Farm to glass cocktail

Step into our one-of-a-kind open air rum safari trucks and head out back into the beautiful fruit orchard where you will see exotic fruits like lychee, longan, cashew, and mangos growing on the trees. Later in the tour you might even taste some of these fruits in your farm-to-glass cocktail. As we pass through Elmer’s farm, you will get a first-hand look at the papayas and assortment of veggies growing in the fields before they are sold at the local farmer’s market. Hold on tight as we descend down into Kahuna Nui Valley. Here you will disembark the truck for a stroll on a boardwalk through a tropical rainforest to your private oasis to taste the award wining Kōloa rum. After tasting some rum, you will also enjoy our signature Mai Tais. Relax and enjoy your Mai Tai as you hear the river flowing past our Jungle Bungalow.

Now it’s time for a little safari after your rum safari. Your guide will take you to meet our heard of wild pigs, goats, and donkey. For those feeling adventurous, your guide will give you some feed to interact with the friendly animals. Take a minute to look around and enjoy the scenery. Your knowledgeable guide will fill you in on the past and present history of agriculture here on Kauai. We wouldn’t have rum if it weren’t for sugar cane.

One of the longest cultivated crops grown in Hawaii is taro. This was the main staple of the Hawaiian people. At our Loi Lanai (Taro Porch), your mixologist will whip up a farm-to-glass cocktail that will knock your socks off. We are talking about a drink made entirely from fruits and herbs that are grown right on the plantation. It doesn’t get any fresher than that. This stop on our rum safari is definitely a Kodak moment. Take pictures, meet new friends and leave your worries behind. We will leave you with our recipes so that you can go home and impress all your friends. This is a one-of-a-kind rum safari you won’t want to miss!

Kauai Pineapple Plantation Tour

• 11 March 2024
• Travel Tips

Journey through the lush landscapes of Kauai and uncover the secrets behind one of Hawaii’s most iconic fruits.

As you set foot onto the pineapple plantation, you’ll be greeted by a world of sweet aromas and vibrant colors that hint at the wonders awaiting you.

From the fascinating history of pineapple cultivation on the island to the hands-on experiences that await, this tour promises to be a mesmerizing exploration of nature’s bounty, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for this tropical treasure.

History of Pineapple in Kauai

In the early 1900s, pineapple cultivation in Kauai took root, spurred by the efforts of the Hawaiian Pineapple Company, later known as Dole, marking the beginning of a thriving industry on the island. As you begin a pineapple plantation tour in Kauai, you’ll enter the rich history of this sweet fruit’s legacy on the island. Picture yourself walking through lush fields of pineapple plants, the sun warming your skin as you breathe in the tropical scents that fill the air.

The Hawaiian Pineapple Company was pivotal in shaping Kauai’s agricultural landscape, transforming it into a pineapple paradise. Thousands of acres once dedicated to pineapple cultivation showcased the island’s commitment to this fruit. The tour offers you a glimpse into the past, where you can see how the unique microclimate of Kauai, with its rich volcanic soil and abundant rainfall, provided the perfect setting for growing top-quality pineapples. Explore the heritage of pineapple farming in Kauai, understanding its rise and the subsequent shift towards smaller-scale farms and tours that keep this legacy alive.

Pineapple Plantation Location

If you’re wondering about the Pineapple Plantation’s geographic setting, get ready to explore the lush lands of Kilauea, Hawaii.

Situated on 37 acres, this farm boasts over 250,000 pineapple plants waiting to be discovered.

For easy access, various transportation options are available to bring you to this tropical paradise.

Plantation’s Geographic Setting

Nestled within the picturesque town of Kilauea, Hawaii, lies the renowned Kauai Pineapple Plantation, a lush expanse spanning 37 acres. The plantation’s location offers the perfect conditions for cultivating the delicious Kauai Sugarloaf White Pineapple. Here’s why it’s an ideal location:

• The warm tropical climate and rich volcanic soil of Kauai create a fertile environment for growing premium pineapples.
• The plantation’s proximity to the coast allows gentle sea breezes to sweep through the fields, enhancing the pineapples’ flavor profile.
• Surrounded by the stunning beauty of Hawaii’s landscapes, visiting the plantation provides a unique experience of enjoying nature while savoring the sweetness of freshly picked pineapples.

Accessible Transportation Options

The journey to the Kauai Pineapple Plantation in Kilauea, Hawaii, is made convenient with various accessible transportation options, ensuring a seamless visit to this tropical paradise.

If you prefer the freedom of driving, you can easily reach the farm by car and use the on-site parking facilities.

For those looking to sit back and relax, shuttle services might be available to transport you to the plantation. These services offer a stress-free way to enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Additionally, guided tours, including transportation, are an excellent choice for a hassle-free visit to the plantation. They allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings without worrying about the logistics.

Get ready to explore the pineapple farm without any transportation worries!

Farm Tour Schedule

Prepare to plan your visit to the Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple Farm with ease.

Discover the ins and outs of the farm tour schedule, including the tour timing and guide information.

Let’s explore the upcoming farm tour opportunities to guarantee you make the most of your experience.

Tour Timing

When are the various tours offered at the Kauai pineapple plantation?

Wondering about the best time to explore the world of pineapples at the Kauai plantation? Here’s a breakdown of the tour timing to help you plan your visit:

• Morning tours : Perfect for early risers looking to kick-start their day with tropical sweetness.
• Afternoon tours : Ideal for those who prefer a leisurely exploration after a relaxing lunch.
• Sunset tours : Experience the beauty of the plantation as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the fields.

No matter the time you choose, the freshly harvested pineapple tasting is bound to be a highlight of your visit.

Guide Information

Explore an immersive journey through the vibrant world of pineapples with our experienced guides at the Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple Farm. The Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple Farm farm tours start at $85 and last 2 hours. During the tour, participants receive a brief farm history and fascinating information on over 250,000 pineapple plants. You will have the opportunity to taste freshly harvested pineapple and engage in planting and harvesting activities as part of the interactive experience. The tour is suitable for all ages, ensuring everyone can enjoy and learn about the sweet goodness of Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapples.

Pineapple Cultivation Process

In the intricate process of pineapple cultivation, patience and meticulous care are essential to nurturing these tropical fruits to their full potential. To plant a pineapple successfully, you’ll need to start with the crown or slips and ensure they’re placed in well-drained soil.

Once planted, pineapples journey to full maturity over 18-24 months, progressing through stages like flowering, fruit formation, and ripening. Pineapples thrive in warm temperatures, bask in inadequate sunlight, and receive regular watering to support their development during this growth process.

Harvesting pineapples becomes a rewarding experience as you handpick ripe fruits by gently twisting them off the plant, guaranteeing peak sweetness and flavor. Post-harvest pineapples offer versatility as they can be enjoyed fresh, juiced, or incorporated into various culinary delights and desserts, showcasing their delicious nature.

Guided Field Walk

Begin an immersive journey through the vibrant world of pineapple cultivation with the enchanting Guided Field Walk at the Kauai pineapple plantation tour. This farm tour offers a hands-on experience where you can witness all stages of pineapple growth up close. Imagine planting and harvesting pineapples, feeling the soil on your hands as you learn about the intricate process. As you stroll through the fields, you’ll have the chance to harvest a small pineapple to take home as a sweet souvenir of your experience.

During the guided field walk, you’ll also indulge in a field tasting of freshly harvested pineapple, savoring the tropical flavors straight from the source. As you explore the plantation, knowledgeable guides will share insights into the history of Sugarloaf pineapple in Hawaii, adding depth to your farm tour experience. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and flavors of this tropical paradise on the Guided Field Walk.

Pineapple Tasting Experience

Indulge your senses in the exquisite flavors of freshly harvested Kauai Sugarloaf pineapple during the Pineapple Tasting Experience at the Sugarloaf Pineapple Farm. As you start on this flavorful journey, you’ll encounter the following delights:

• Experience the unique taste : Begin the exceptional taste of the Kauai Sugarloaf pineapple, known for its unparalleled sweetness and juiciness.
• Enjoy the creamy and sweet Paulies Pineapple Phrosty : Sip on this cool drink made from 100% Sugarloaf pineapple, a perfect blend of creamy texture and tropical sweetness.
• Participate in field tasting sessions : Engage your taste buds in field tasting sessions to truly appreciate the flavors of the Sugarloaf pineapple, learning to distinguish its nuances with each bite.

During this immersive experience, you will savor the delectable offerings and gain insight into the history and significance of Sugarloaf pineapple in Hawaii. Take a piece of this tropical paradise home with you as you harvest your small pineapple, creating lasting memories of your time on the plantation tour.

Souvenir Shop Highlights

Explore a treasure trove of pineapple-themed gifts and merchandise at the souvenir shop, where you can find unique mementos to commemorate your visit to the Kauai Pineapple Plantation Tour. The shop offers a variety of items, including freshly harvested pineapples for you to take home, ensuring you can savor the taste of the Kauai Sugarloaf White Pineapple long after your tour. If you’re looking for a wearable souvenir, consider purchasing one of the souvenir t-shirts featuring the farm’s logo, a stylish way to remember your experience.

For those wanting to bring a piece of the plantation’s essence home, the shop showcases products made from 100% Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple. This allows you to enjoy the unique flavors of this special variety wherever you are. Whether it’s a sweet treat or a keepsake to adorn your shelves, the souvenir shop provides an opportunity to take home a tangible reminder of your time at the pineapple farm.

Family-Friendly Activities

Prepare for some fun pineapple picking as you embark on an interactive farm tour at the Kauai pineapple plantation. Taste the sweetness of freshly picked pineapple treats while learning about the stages of pineapple growth.

Engage in hands-on activities like planting a pineapple to take home, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.

Fun Pineapple Picking

At the Kauai pineapple plantation tour, families can partake in the delightful experience of handpicking their pineapple to savor at home. Engage in the fun pineapple-picking activity by venturing into the fields and selecting the perfect fruit to take back. Here’s what makes this experience extraordinary:

• Hands-On Harvesting : Feel the thrill of plucking a ripe pineapple straight from the plant.
• Educational Experience : Learn about the growth and cultivation of pineapples while picking your own.
• Freshness Guaranteed : Enjoy knowing you’ll enjoy freshly picked pineapple at home.

Interactive Farm Tour

Begin on an engaging and educational interactive farm tour at the Kauai pineapple plantation, where families of all ages can participate in fun-filled activities. Immerse yourself in the world of pineapple farming by planting and harvesting pineapples firsthand.

This interactive farm tour allows you to learn about the science and economics of farming while indulging in delicious pineapple smoothies and treats. Explore various stages of pineapple cultivation, from planting to harvesting, and gain valuable insights into the process.

The tour is even more unique, with personal stories from knowledgeable farm staff, adding a unique touch to your interactive experience. Get ready to engage in a hands-on adventure and create lasting memories on this exciting interactive farm tour with your loved ones.

Tasty Pineapple Treats

Immerse yourself in a delightful array of field-fresh pineapple treats at the Kauai pineapple plantation, including the creamy and sweet Paulies Pineapple Phrosty made from 100% Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple.

As you explore the plantation, don’t miss out on these tasty pineapple treats:

• Indulge in freshly harvested pineapple
• Sip on refreshing pineapple smoothies
• Learn about the history of Sugarloaf pineapple in Hawaii

These treats offer a burst of tropical flavor and provide a unique insight into the pineapple cultivation process. Whether enjoying a Pineapple Phrosty or sampling other pineapple delicacies, each bite or sip tells a story of tradition and island sweetness.

Local Pineapple Recipes

Whipping up a delightful treat using freshly juiced Kauai Sugarloaf pineapples can elevate your culinary skills to a whole new level. One popular recipe to try is Paulies Pineapple Phrosty, a creamy frozen delight that captures the essence of Kauai in every spoonful. Made solely from 100% Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple, this treat is dairy and sugar-free, perfect for those hot summer days.

The process involves freezing and juicing the pineapples to achieve a velvety, smooth texture that will leave your taste buds craving more. You can recreate this tropical indulgence at home with a Champion juicer, bringing a piece of Kauai’s pineapple paradise into your kitchen.

During the plantation tour, indulge in a field tasting of freshly harvested pineapples, showcasing Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple’s delicious and healthy benefits. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir t-shirt from the farm, allowing you to take home a tangible memory of your pineapple farm experience.

Environmental Sustainability Efforts

Embrace the Kauai Pineapple Plantation’s dedication to environmental sustainability as you explore their eco-friendly practices during the informative tour. The farm takes pride in implementing sustainable farming methods to safeguard the land and resources for future generations.

Here are some critical eco-friendly practices you can learn about:

• Water Management: The plantation uses efficient water to minimize waste and protect this valuable resource.
• Soil Health: The farm safeguards long-term sustainability by prioritizing soil health through organic practices and responsible fertilization.
• Biodiversity Conservation: The plantation works to maintain a balanced environment for plants, animals, and insects through initiatives that support diverse ecosystems.

During your visit, you’ll gain insights into how these practices benefit the environment and contribute to the delicious pineapples grown on the island. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the harmony between agriculture and conservation at the Kauai Pineapple Plantation.

Photo Opportunities

Get ready to capture the essence of the Kauai Pineapple Plantation with your camera.

The picturesque pineapple fields offer the perfect backdrop for your vacation snapshots.

Discover countless selfie spots and opportunities to document the farm life experience in vibrant detail.

Picture-Perfect Pineapple Fields

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Kauai’s Pineapple Plantation are the breathtakingly vibrant fields that offer a mesmerizing backdrop for your picture-perfect moments. As you wander through the lush pineapple fields, your camera is ready to capture the beauty surrounding you. Here, nature’s artwork unfolds in vibrant colors and meticulously maintained rows of Kauai Sugarloaf White Pineapple plants, providing a truly unique setting for your photos. The plantation’s well-kept grounds ensure every angle is Instagram-worthy, allowing you to create lasting memories in this tropical paradise.

• Capture stunning photos in the picturesque pineapple fields.
• Immerse yourself in the beauty of the meticulously maintained plantation.
• Enjoy the vibrant colors and lush scenery for unique photo opportunities.

Capturing Farm Life

As you step further into the heart of the pineapple plantation, your lens is poised to capture the essence of farm life in every frame. The vibrant green leaves of the pineapple plants create a picturesque backdrop for your photos, showcasing the beauty of this exotic fruit.

Document the process of planting and harvesting these unique fruits, capturing the farmers’ hard work and dedication. Explore the textures and colors of the Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple, highlighting its distinct features through your lens.

Each corner of the plantation offers a new opportunity for a stunning photo, so wander through the landscape and capture the authentic farm life experience in all its glory.

Selfie Spots Galore

Amidst the lush pineapple fields of the Kauai Pineapple Plantation tour, you’ll discover many selfie spots waiting to capture your memorable moments. Pose with ripe pineapples at different growth stages, immerse yourself in planting or harvesting a pineapple, or treat yourself to delicious pineapple snacks.

The vibrant green backdrop of the pineapple fields sets the scene for picture-perfect selfies, ensuring your memories are as colorful as the surroundings. Don’t miss the chance to snap a selfie with freshly picked Sugarloaf pineapples, adding a unique touch to your tour experience.

• Pose with ripe pineapples at different growth stages
• Immerse yourself in planting or harvesting a pineapple
• Enjoy delicious pineapple snacks

Tour Reservations

To secure your spot on the Kauai Pineapple Plantation tour, you are recommended to make reservations in advance through their online booking system. The tour, priced at $85 per person, offers a delightful experience that lasts about two hours and is suitable for all ages. Picture yourself strolling through lush pineapple fields, learning about the plantation’s history, and enjoying a freshly harvested pineapple tasting—it’s an adventure worth planning.

Making reservations early guarantees you don’t miss out on this tropical escapade. By booking ahead, you secure your place on the tour and can look forward to an unforgettable pineapple-themed experience on the beautiful island of Kauai. Don’t wait until the last minute; seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the sweet world of pineapple cultivation.

Transportation Options

Securing your spot on the Kauai Pineapple Plantation tour is only the beginning – now let’s explore the various transportation options available for your journey to this tropical paradise. Whether you prefer the freedom of driving yourself or the convenience of guided transport, there are options to suit every traveler’s needs.

• Rental Cars: Renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace, following GPS coordinates or road signs to reach the plantation. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the island’s beauty and history as you drive.
• Shuttle Services: For those without a vehicle, shuttle services can provide pick-up and drop-off options, making it easy to join the tour without worrying about transportation logistics. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride to the plantation.
• Private Transportation: If you seek a more personalized experience, arranging private transportation allows flexibility in your schedule and route. Dive deeper into the island’s history with a knowledgeable driver who can cater to your preferences.

Visitor Reviews

Upon arriving at the Kauai Pineapple Plantation, you’ll be greeted with many glowing reviews from satisfied visitors. 97% of reviewers rated the pineapple plantation tour with high marks, emphasizing the delicious taste of the pineapples that delighted their senses. The tour’s interactive and informative aspects were also praised, providing a deeper understanding of the pineapple cultivation process. 96% of visitors highly recommended the tour to others, showcasing their positive experience while exploring the plantation.

One everyday highlight among the reviews was the commendation for the friendly and welcoming staff at the plantation, who visited a memorable and enjoyable. Visitors felt a genuine connection to the pineapple farm, appreciating the hands-on experience and learning opportunities provided during the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does kauai have a pineapple plantation.

Yes, Kauai has a pineapple plantation where you can explore various pineapple varieties. Immerse yourself in the rich history of pineapple farming and savor the flavors of freshly harvested pineapples. Uncover the wonders of this tropical fruit!

Is the Dole Plantation Worth Visiting?

It would be best if you visited the Dole Plantation. Explore the Pineapple Express Train Tour, try the world-famous Dole Soft Serve, and wander through the Plantation Garden Maze. It’s a fun, informative experience that showcases different pineapple varieties.

Do You Need a Reservation to Go to the Dole Plantation?

You don’t need a reservation to visit the Dole Plantation. Just show up and immerse yourself in the pineapple adventure! Walk-ins are welcome to relish the sweet experience. There is no need for a pineapple recipe here—just enjoy!

Is There an Entrance Fee for the Dole Plantation?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Dole Plantation. Pineapple prices are $12 for adults, $8 for children (4-12), and free for kids under 4. Your admission grants access to various attractions at the plantation.

So, why wait? Book your tour now and sail on a pineapple paradise adventure at the Kauai Pineapple Plantation. Taste the sweetness of history, witness the magic of pineapple cultivation, and create memories that will be as ripe and juicy as the fruit itself.

Don’t miss out on this slice of paradise!

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Should You do a Kauai Pineapple Plantation Tour?

Are you looking for unique things to do on kauai with kids (or without) keep scrolling to read my honest review of the kauai pineapple plantation tour in anahola., this kauai pineapple plantation tour review was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a trip to Kauai with the family?

Did you know that Kauai is famous for their sugarloaf pineapples? These pineapples have low acidity and are super sweet.

In fact, we recently took a Kauai pineapple plantation tour with our kids, and it was a blast!

Keep scrolling to read my honest review of the Kauai pineapple plantation tour. I’ll tell you everything you need to know before booking your own tour.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Kauai.

Popular Kauai Tours/Activities

• Na Pali Coast Snorkeling Tour (this one also goes to the forbidden island of Ni’ihau)
• Kauai Helicopter Tour (this is the BEST way to see waterfalls on Kauai)
• ATV Tour to a Private Waterfall (this is a romantic adventure that feels like a secret getaway)
• Mountain Tubing (this is a low-key adventure down an old sugar cane canal)
• Luau Kalamaku (you can do a little train ride and feed farm animals before the luau)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Kauai Resorts/Hotels

• Grand Hyatt Kauai (this Poipu resort has a luxurious pool area, romantic restaurants, and a stunning ocean view)
• Koloa Landing Resort (this is a luxury resort with an amazing pool area and truly spacious rooms)
• Royal Sonesta Kauai (we LOVE the pool here because it’s the largest one in Hawaii)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Kauai Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Where is the Kauai Pineapple Tour?

The Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple Tour is located on the Hole in the Mountain Farm about 5 minutes from the highway in the Anahola area of the east side of Kauai.

Before your tour, they will email you very detailed directions on how to get there. It’s not really a place you’ll see along the highway (and GPS won’t always get you there) so you’ll definitely want to have a navigator in the car reading the emailed directions.

Brief Kauai Pineapple History

Pineapple has been associated with Hawaii for decades. I mean, people plop pineapple on any food and call it “Hawaiian.”

Oahu, Maui, and Lana’i are most well-known for their pineapple plantations. But, Kauai also had them.

The Hawaiian Canneries Co. launched in 1913 in Kapaa on the east side of Kauai. The land was perfect for growing pineapple and everything went well until the 1950s.

When Hawaii became a state in 1959, businesses now had to pay taxes and follow fair labor laws. This made it simply too expensive for pineapple plantations to turn a profit.

So, in 1962, the pineapple canneries in Kapaa closed.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find pineapple on Kauai. While they aren’t grown commercially on a large scale, you’ll definitely find smaller farms that grow pineapple as well as the popular Kilohana Plantation.

And of course, you can get pineapple at the Hole in the Mountain Farm, home to sugarloaf pineapple.

Sugarloaf Pineapple vs Yellow Pineapple

Before I really get into this Kauai pineapple farm review, I want to highlight the difference between sugarloaf pineapple and standard yellow pineapple.

Sugarloaf pineapple is a white pineapple with a soft core that can be easily eaten. It’s also less acidic than other pineapple and can taste a lot sweeter.

Supposedly, sugarloaf pineapple was first discovered on the island of Lana’i by plantation workers. Since they bruised easily and couldn’t be canned, the plantation owners didn’t want to use them.

But they were too delicious to just throw away. So, plantation workers took them home and started growing them in their own gardens.

What to Know about the Kauai Pineapple Plantation Tour Before You Go:

How to visit the kauai pineapple plantation.

You’ll definitely want to book your Kauai Sugarloaf Tour tickets before you go. Limited tickets are available for each tour, and they fill up quickly.

You do need tickets; you can’t just show up. We did see some people show up thinking they could buy pineapple at the farm. You cannot.

Where to Park

There are plenty of parking spots to the left of the meeting area. And the owners will help show you exactly where to park.

When you arrive, you’ll check in under the green canopy. This is where you’ll pay for your tour and you can grab a bottle of water and/or a big sun umbrella.

There are also restrooms there in case someone in your party needs to go. And they have a table of products you can buy like t-shirts, dehydrated pineapple, etc.

Kauai Sugarloaf Pineapple Tours

This is a 2-hour tour that takes place on a fully-operational pineapple plantation on Kauai. It’s led by the owners of Hole in the Mountain Farm: Jude and Paul Huber.

You’ll learn all about how pineapples grow in Hawaii , what makes Kauai sugarloaf pineapple so special, and even get some hands-on opportunities on this Kauai farm.

Keep scrolling to see the Hawaii pineapple tour highlights!

Food Options

While the only food available at the farm is pineapple, I suggest heading over to Anahola Cafe to grab lunch either before or after your tour. They have a bunch of easy food options like hamburgers, hot dogs, and the best taro burger I’ve ever had.

The Highlights of This Kauai Tour and What You Should Look Out For

The main highlight for our family was getting to pick our own pineapples in the field! Jude showed us exactly how to do it and everyone on the tour got to pick one to bring home.

My kids also really enjoyed planting pineapples in the field. It’s a great way for kids to learn about the pineapple life cycle !

We got to walk around to different sections of the farm to learn about the different stages of pineapple growth. Part of it was seeing the new little plants growing inside the crowns and how to split the crowns to create new pineapple plants.

It was also really cool to see the pineapples growing in the field. This is something most Kauai tourists don’t get to see!

Near the end of the tour, each person was able to go into the field and pick their own pineapple.

Jude showed us exactly which one to pick and the correct way of picking it. We were lucky because we were at the tail end of the pineapple season.

Some of the pineapples were fairly small, so Jude grabbed extras to compensate. But they were the perfect individual size to enjoy!

After we picked our pineapples, Jude sliced up fresh sugarloaf pineapple (not the ones we picked to take home) so we could all taste it.

She even let us try fresh sugarloaf pineapple juice which was AMAZING!

Kauai sugarloaf pineapple is the sweetest pineapple I’ve ever had. And it has a smoother texture than yellow pineapple.

The tour ended with a cup of Pineapple Phrostie, which is just frozen sugarloaf pineapple that is pureed. There’s no added sugar or anything but it’s sweet and delicious! It’s the ultimate dairy free pineapple ice cream!

Hawaii Pineapple Tour Tips for Families

It’s open to all ages.

We saw a family pushing a stroller on the tour with a toddler. There were actually quite a few families on our tour with young kids.

What to Wear

You’ll definitely want to wear closed toe shoes , clothes you can get dirty, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen.

The red dirt does stain clothing, so choose wisely. I had my kids wear clothes that they were starting to grow out of because I knew they would get dirty.

What to Bring

You can bring extra water/drinks . You might also bring snacks for kids as the tour is a full 2 hours (our tour ended up being 2.5 hours).

I’d also suggest bringing fidget toys or something small to keep kids occupied while standing around.

How Much Does it Cost and Where is it Located?

Tours last about​ two hours and cost​ $85 per person ($45 for pre-teen children, free for children 4 and under). Reservations are required in advance . You must email them to secure your spot.

It’s located at the Hole in the Mountain Farm in Anahola. It’s a bit complicated to find on your own so thankfully they send out turn-by-turn directions.

Hawaii Pineapple FAQs

For a yellow pineapple, you can look at the color and if the outside is yellow, it’s probably ripe. Do NOT let your pineapple sit on the counter for a week to “ripen” as it won’t riped after it’s been picked.

No, it’s a complete myth that you can pull a leaf from a pineapple crown to see if it’s ripe. This won’t determine ripeness.

You bet! You can plant the crown of a pineapple in a pot and keep it in your home. But, keep in mind that it can take 18 months to 2 years to produce one pineapple.

So, is the Kauai Pineapple Farm Tour Worth It?

It depends. We thought it was really interesting and loved the hands-on experiences! I mean, where else can you pick your own pineapple to take home?

I’d done the Maui Pineapple Tour , which is also very cool but there isn’t an opportunity to plant or pick pineapples.

However, my kids thought the tour was really long and they didn’t like standing around in the sun for 2 hours. We’ve done a lot of Kauai farm tours and this was probably the least geared for kids.

If your family is interested in agriculture, or you want to learn more about the sweetest pineapple in Hawaii, this is a great opportunity!

Looking for more Kauai tours? Check out our reviews of the Kauai chocolate farm tour , Kalalea View Farm , Kauai coffee farm tour , and Kauai ATV tour .

Ready to plan your trip to kauai.

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MOUNTAIN TUBING ADVENTURE

Quick Details

Hour Glass Duration:  3 hours

Users Age Minimum:  5 years or older

User Weight Limit: 300 pounds maximum

User Height Minimum: Must be at least 43 inches tall

Checkmark Included: Delicious lunch and cold water

Sun Weather: Unless extreme weather prohibits, tours go out rain or shine

KAUAI’S ONLY WATER TUBING ADVENTURE ACTIVITY!

Witness Kauai’s spectacular, historic engineering feats as you float down the open canals and through five amazing tunnels and flumes engineered and hand-dug circa 1870!

This tubing adventure is perfect for people ages 5 and over and in generally good physical condition. The gently flowing waters, beautiful scenery, flumes, and tunnels create a relaxing, fun, and fascinating experience. And when we say we are unique, we mean it! This is the only tubing activity of this type on Kaua’i, and we are the only eco-tour company with access to these 17,000 acres of former plantation lands.

THE KAUA’I MOUNTAIN TUBING ADVENTURE IS A UNIQUE AND MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

Hop in one of our four-wheel-drive vehicles and traverse the former Lihue Plantation lands as we ride deep into Kauai’s pristine emerald green interior, where your exclusive tubing adventure begins! Start off by enjoying breathtaking vistas of Mt. Wai’ale’ale, deemed one of the wettest spots in the world and the second highest point on the island of Kaua’i.  Witness her spectacular waterfalls before arriving at our launch site, where you will grab a tube, don a headlamp, and jump in the gently flowing waters. Float 2.5 miles of open canals and enjoy the wonder and magic of 5 tunnels illuminated by your headlamp. At the end of your adventure, you are guided to an enchanted picnic area for a delicious lunch and a cool dip in a natural swimming hole. There’s no better way to experience the Kaua’i mountains!

THE FASCINATING HISTORY

The historic Lihue Plantation ditch and tunnel system that once irrigated vast sugar crops had been unused since sugar was taken out of production in 2000. In January 2003, Kaua’i Backcountry opened a section for exclusive tubing tours. This water system runs through some of the most beautiful and remote lands on the island. It includes spectacular views of the ocean, coastline, mountains, and valleys. The waters that originate near the top of Mount Wai’ale’ale, one of the wettest spots in the world, are channeled through ditches and tunnels hand-dug by plantation workers over a century ago!

If you want to get off the beaten track, don’t miss this exclusive Kaua’i backcountry tubing tour. From start to finish, we take you on an amazing, fun-filled journey that you’re not likely to forget. Our customers tell us time and time again that our tours were the highlight of their vacation and often return for more of our tropical adventures.

• Chevron down WAITLIST
• Get on the Waitlist
• Chevron down WHAT TO BRING
• Secured water friendly shoes required,    NO FLIP FLOPS  (rental shoes available)
• Swimsuit or clothing that can get wet
• Towel and a dry change of clothing
• REEF SAFE Sunscreen (Help us protect our precious Ocean!)
• Hat (recommended but not required)
• Bug repellent
• Chevron down WE PROVIDE
• Headlamps & gloves
• Delicious lunch and water (two hours into the tour)
• Hand sanitizer
• Chevron down RESTRICTIONS
• All guests are weighed at check-in. Those outside the 300 pound range are not able to participate.
• Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
• This activity is not recommended for those with back, hip, or knee problems.
• Women up to the second trimester of pregnancy may participate with written physical approval.
• Chevron down CANCELLATION POLICY
• Groups of 1-5 guests: 24-hour cancellation or change policy 
• Groups of 6-9 guests: 72-hour cancellation or change policy
• Groups of 10-14 guests: one-week cancellation or change policy with a one-week prepayment paid in full
• Groups of 15 or more guests: two-week cancellation or change policy with a two-week prepayment paid in full

Related Adventures

• Users ages 5+
• Hour Glass 3 hours

MOUNTAIN TUBING ADVENTURE WAITLIST

Preferred tubing dates full? Sign up for our waitlist!

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• Users Ages 12+

BACKCOUNTRY KAUA’I ZIPLINE TOUR

Try Kauai’s most scenic zipline! Traverse a beautiful valley with Mt Wai’ale’ale as your backdrop. We have 7 lines that add up to approximately one mile of zipping. Round out the tour with a fresh water swim and delicious lunch!

Save 10% on Farm Tour ~ Book Now Using Promo Code SPRING10

Lydgate Farms

Kauai chocolate farm tours and tastings.

We Love Chocolate

Our family has been farming in the islands since the days of the Hawaiian kingdom. Recognized three times as producing the best cacao beans in the world by Cocoa of Excellence in Paris, France — we are pioneers of cacao farming on Kauai.

In Hawaiian, the phrase Malama ‘Aina means to care for the land so it can sustain life for future generations. As a fifth-generation family in Hawaii, we are honored to be stewards of both the land and local culture since 1865. We are proud to continue our family’s legacy through the experience of small-scale sustainable cacao farming, exquisitely crafted chocolate, and educational farm tours on our historically-rich property.

Learn More »

Our Chocolate

Kauai chocolate tours and tastings.

Our famous chocolate farm tour — the first of its kind on Kaua’i, widely copied, never surpassed, it is Kauai’s most enjoyable and educational activity. Your three-hour guided tour begins with a stroll through our botanical gardens, where you sample our award-winning palm-blossom honey, experience our vanilla beans, and do an extensive tropical fruit tasting. At Lydgate Farms, formerly Steelgrass Farm, learn all about Theobroma Cacao the chocolate tree and taste its ripe fruit, learn the secrets of turning raw cacao seeds into finished chocolate, and discover the amazing health benefits of chocolate.

Drive up gift shop open for drop ins Monday-Friday 9:30am-2:30pm.

Lydgate Farms cacao beans have been recognized three times to be among the best tasting in the world at the Cocoa of Excellence awards in Paris!

(2017, 2021, 2023).

Visit Our Chocolate Shop

Every product we sell is special to us because we sell all of them directly to you — our farm ohana (family). All of our products are naturally grown with lots of Kauai sunshine and rainwater, hand-harvested, and processed in small batches with skill and aloha to ensure the highest quality. Experience our award-winning Lydgate Farms single estate chocolate, vanilla beans, and palm blossom honey, and check out our multi-bar tasting packs and product groupings, perfect gifts for the special people in your lives. Order the taste of Kauai, straight to your door. 

On the Farm

We welcome you to come up to our farm gift shop from 9:30-2:30. Purchase Lydgate Farms chocolate, vanilla, honey, and other delicious products straight from the source, enjoy free samples, and chat with a friendly guide who will answer your questions. Call 808.821.1857 or email [email protected]  for directions.

#1 Rated Tour on Kauaʻi

This tour was so enjoyable! One of the best ever! Mason was our guide and not only was he incredibly witty and personable, but was so knowledgeable of the workings of the farm as well as all of the trees, fruits, and the making of cocoa into craft chocolate. The fruit and chocolate tastings were beyond generous and truly gave us an new appreciation of craft chocolate versus candy.

Henry was our tour guide and was energetic, informative, organized and professional. On the farm tour he taught about about the plants, trees, shrubs, and weeds- their importance and usefulness on the farm. Getting to taste farm grown fruits, their chocolate, and those from around the world built true appreciation for the process, quality, and challenges they face. The chocolate was divine and worth savoring.

Lydgate Farms tour was a fascinating experience! We learned so much from Henry our guide about regenerative farming. We tasted seven kinds of tropical fruits that were amazing and we had 10 kinds of chocolate!!! It’s worth every penny and we absolutely will be back again!

This has to be one of our favorite tours of all the islands and we have been to them all!! We had Jake as a tour guide. He was hell bent on making sure we knew how the Cacau beans were grown and processed versus the companies that do not grow Cacau on the islands. He was fantastic in his knowledge and desire to educate us on the history and production of the great Lydgate Farms products!! We will be back !! We had numerous samples of chocolate !!! Well worth the cost of the tour!!

This may seem like an odd tour to take on Kaua'i; however, you will not be disappointed. We learned not only a great deal about growing cacao in Kaua'i but also about the chocolate industry in general. We were also treated to many tastings from tropical fruits to cacao itself. We highly recommend this tour.

Our third wonderful time spent enjoying the farm, the fruit, and of course the chocolate at Lydgate. Our guide this time was Mel, a knowledgeable and thoroughly delightful young lady who instantly turned the entire group of “guests” into her good friends, sharing history, technical insights into chocolate and organic farming as well as fun and insight stories about herself, the farm, and their products. Informative, great fun, and a really great way to spend a few hours immersed in the joy of Kauai!

Sorry but this should be 10 STARS! Place was fabulous. We learned a lot about chocolate that we never knew before. One of the highlights was our guide Jackson. He was funny (Very funny actually) and informative. (Very informative actually.). I highly recommend this tour. It’s one of the best we’ve been on on the island of Kauai.

This tour exceeded my expectations. Our guide was very informative and made the experience a lot of fun. I learned a lot about how chocolate is produced commercially, as well as the different types, grades and tastes of chocolate. As a result, have become much more selective when it comes to purchasing chocolate. Their dark chocolate macadamia nuts and the rum chocolate bar are divine! Highly recommend this tour.

This was probably the best tour we did while on Kauai! We thought it would be fun but had no idea how much fun and how much we would learn! Mason was a fantastic guide and the fact he is also one of the farmers and lives on the farm made it even better! We got to try all sorts of tropical fruits and then when we got to the chocolate tasting portion, it was truly an experience. And educational. Highly recommend this tour!

Hands down a can’t miss experience. The tour is incredibly informative about not only chocolate but other plants and fruits that grow on the farm as well. You get to try chocolate in every step of their process from start to finish and enjoy many other in-season fruits from the land. All in all such a cool (and incredibly tasty) experience, highly recommend.

Gosh our guide, the farm and the chocolate made the experience.!!!! I didn't catch our guides name, but we went on Monday May 29th from 11am-2pm. He was so passionate and knowledgeable about the farm, chocolate, honey, vanilla, trees, Mr. Lydgate. He made the experience so special. It was a lot of Chocolate, very generous and well done. The stations were fun and educational. I live here on the South Shore and will tell everyone at my restaurant, Cabana Bar & Grill @thecabanakauai! Thank you! A Hui Ho!

I had seen the Lydgate Chocolate Tour on Facebook. The reviews were all positive and the tour sounded good, so I signed up myself and 2 teen daughters. We all had a great time! It was fun and informative and the samples of fruit and chocolate were excellent! Jacob was an excellent tour guide. He possesses a passion for what he does and it shows! I highly recommend. Definitely a unique tour! Lydgate chocolate is to die for! Sooooooo good!

What a wonderful experience. We learned so much about chocolate and the farm. It was great! Our guide was very informative and entertaining. We snacked on very different fruits and learned about how they’re grown. We ate chocolate and chocolate and then chocolate. It was fantastic! When we got home we ordered through they’re website. It shipped fast, still tastes great! Highly recommend.

What a delightful deep dive into mindful experiences of both the experience of tasting chocolate but also the the fully engaged regenerative farming process. Lydgate Farm tour opened my eyes to the experience of chocolate from plant to bean to liquor to the 'food of the Gods' and opened my heart to the island wide regenerative farming to growing food for the island and the world. Good people solid family business.

Kauai Tubing Through Sugar Plantations And Tunnels: What You Need To Know

Looking to experience a Kauai tubing adventure? We took on the challenge and have everything you need to know before you Kauai mountain tubing experience.

Mountain tubing was one of the highlights of our Kauai family vacation. And it wasn’t just because it was a relaxing day on the water. Our Kauai tubing experience was educational, fun, and not at all what we had expected. When we signed up for our Kauai Backcountry Adventure experience, we knew that we would be riding tubes through an old Hawaiian plantation. We knew there would be tunnels. But we weren’t prepared for how much more was on offer during our unforgettable Kauai mountain tubing adventure.

When we were first introduced to the idea of mountain tubing in Kauai, it seemed like the perfect fit for our lifestyle of family adventure travel . We are always looking for a new kind of adventurous activity. Gliding through old irrigation canals in a Hawaiian sugar plantation sounded magical. Christina and I have already tried one of the big three underground tubing experiences during our trip to Belize . Our Kauai tubing experience would mark our second.

What Do You Need To Know Before Your Kauai Tubing Adventure Begins?

Table of Contents

Our family trip to Kauai was just getting started when we were rolled into the Kauai Backcountry Adventures office on the outskirts of Lihue. There are Kauai mountain tubing tours held throughout the day. These usually start at 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM. The water on the mountain can be quite chilly. Unless you are comfortable with the cold water or have brought a wetsuit, I recommend considering the later times when the air is warmer.

Registering For your Kauai Backcountry Tubing Adventure

The Kauai Backcountry office is spacious. The upper level is set up for filling out waivers and picking up your safety gear. Gloves and helmets are provided. But you need to bring your own swimsuit and waterproof shoes . If you don’t have waterproof shoes of your own, I recommend these ones for kids and these ones for adults .

After we registered we headed down the waiting area. To kill time till our truck left, our boys played the cornhole games with the other kids on the tour. Christina and I spent our time chasing them down to slather them with sunscreen. Bringing sunscreen or long-sleeved shirts along is recommended. Much of the Kauai tubing adventure is under the sun. Please make sure to use a reef-safe sunscreen as much of this water ends up mixing with the ocean reefs off of the coast. Many sunscreen brands include chemicals that have adverse effects on the health of coral reef systems. You can also check out our complete guide on what to pack for Hawaii here .

You may want to bring your own waterproof GoPro or Olympus Tough camera in order to take some fun photos along the way. Also, make sure to pack a towel and bug spray. The experience is deep in the Kauai interior and there are mosquitos. Kauai Backcountry does take a few photos along the way.

These are available for purchase for $40 back at the Kauai Backcountry office. It’s a great deal as it includes individual photos of each member of your group, a group shot, and other scenic shots of the Kauai tubing tour that you won’t have the opportunity to get yourself since your bum is stuck in a tube. It was great to get photos of the members of our family since the flow of the water often made staying together challenging

What Is It Like Mountain Tubing In Kauai?

From the Kauai Backcountry Adventures office in Lihue, we boarded an open-air truck. Once our entire tour group was on board, we began a short drive down the Kuhio Highway. Then we turned off and entered through a gate. This is where we learned that the property that we would be on was actually owned by America Online (AOL) founder Steve Case. The mountain tubing takes place on an old sugar cane plantation on his 18,000-acre estate.

The ride up to the Kauai tubing tour is truly magnificent. The ride to the tubing experience offers a view of a side of Kauai that is often hidden from view. We drove deep through farm fields, stopping often to wait for the cows to clear the roadway. But we eventually arrived at one of the greatest viewpoints on the island. We even passed shooting locations for some super famous movies like the epic Apocolypse Now  napalm opening. We also saw the place where the opening sequence to the hilarious Tropic Thunder .

Waialeale Crater Overlook

The Waialeale Crater is a breathtaking overlook about 3/4 of the way to the Kauai tubing experience. We stopped for about 10 minutes here. Just long enough to snap some photos and learn about this important Hawaiian mountain. Mount Waialeale is a 5,148 ft (1,569 m) mountain in the center of Kauai. The summit of Mount Waialeale is considered one of the rainiest locations on the planet . It sees an average rainfall of more than 373 inches (9,500 mm) every year.

Kauai Mountain Tubing

We piled back in the truck and made our way to the launch point for our mountain tubing in Kauai experience. When we deboarded we were able to leave any gear that we didn’t want to get wet in bins that would be brought to us at the finishing point. The guides gave a brief safety presentation. This explained some of the dangers along the way. These included a lot of spinning, bumping into each other, and the risk of bumping our heads in the tunnels.

Getting Wet

From there we went to the area where the stream that runs through the plantation sectioned off into the irrigation canals that once supplied the sugar cane farm with water. Our boys, C and D, hopped into their tubes first and Christina and I followed. D, our 5-year-old got swept up to the front of the pack and it took me half the tour to finally catch back up with him. Not that he complained, he spent his time making friends with every single tuber along the way.

The mountain tubing Kauai experience started out calm. The landscape surrounding us was beautiful. It ranged from fields to forests, to towering lush green walls. And of course, there were the tunnels. There are three hand-dug tunnels along the Kauai tubing route. One of the tunnels clocks in at just over a mile in length.

The experience was a complete blast. Everyone was having fun, enjoying the warm sunshine contrasting with the chilly waters. D, who was wearing a wetsuit was super comfortable. C opted not to wear his wetsuit and was pretty chilly. If you get cold easily, it may be worth considering bringing one with you . There are wetsuits for rent at the Kauai backcountry adventure office.

I will say that there is A LOT of spinning involved. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to consider taking a dose of Dramamine or Gravol before you go. The tubes bump against each other along the narrow route. You’ll also be bouncing off of the walls along the way, especially in the tunnels. Each bounce seemed to send me in a new direction.

The time in the water takes about an hour. This includes a stop in the longest of the tunnels. Here we learned about the incredible amount of work that went into carving these irrigation canals. At the end of the route, there’s a short time to warm up and dry off.

We loaded back up into the truck and headed further into the property for lunch at a picturesque spot. We were greeted by a slow-moving stream with small waterfalls cascading into it. It was the perfect spot for a swim. The cool, refreshing water cut out the afternoon heat nicely and helped work up our appetite for the delicious sandwich bar that was provided.

There are bathroom facilities at the lunch location. There are no bathrooms available during the Kauai tubing experience, so they were a very welcome site. We relaxed here for about 45 minutes before it was time to make our way back to the Kauai Backcountry Adventures office in Lihue.

Should You Go Mountain Tubing In Kauai With Kids?

If you’re traveling in Kauai with kids, we highly recommend the mountain tubing adventure. It’s fun, exciting, safe, and made for one of the highlights of our Kauai family vacation . The tubing experience only takes up a few hours of the day. This means that you can have this great adventure and still have time for plenty of other things to do in Kauai, whether you are looking at heading to the beach, or catching one of the legendary Kauai sunsets.

Kauai mountain tubing is adventurous without being strenuous. None of those on the tour had anything but smiles on their faces at the end. As I mentioned, Christina and I had done a much different cave tubing experience in Belize. Our next one to experience will be the Waitomo cave tubing experience in New Zealand. You can check out that one here .

Our Kauai Tubing Video

If you loved reading about our Kauai tubing adventure and feel inspired to check out more, you can see our Kauai tubing video below. Don’t forget to like and subscribe so that we can keep bringing you fun travel stories.

Have you ever done the Kauai mountain tubing experience? Drop a comment to tell us about your experience. Or, swing by our Facebook page and share a photo of your experience. We would love to share in your adventures.

Disclosure: This post was made possible with the support of Kauai Backcountry Adventures . All opinions are our own. Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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Tuesday 18th of April 2023

I use a walker to get around I'm handy chapped but I'm able to float the rivers at home with the family. My son-in-law helps me in and out of my tube. Would I be able to do your float?

Kevin Wagar

Thursday 20th of April 2023

The Kauai tubing isn't my float, I just wrote an article about my experience there. But I can say that the tubing is pretty relaxing and doesn't require much from the rider. As long as you're comfortable with a lot of spinning, you shouldn't have any problems.

Mark Balliet

Monday 17th of October 2022

We want to first of all thank all the staff everyone of them were so kind funny and informative! We loved it and would reccomend it to everybody.Thanks again for a great time mahalo and aloha!!! Can’t wait to do this again!!!!

Cindy Lopez

Wednesday 25th of May 2022

I'm incredibly claustrophobic are the tunnels narrow.and how long is the ride Through the tunnel?

Thursday 2nd of June 2022

The tunnels here are about 6 ft in diameter and the longest one can reach about one mile. If you are claustrophobic, I would recommend skipping this activity as the phobia could be exacerbated by a "lights out" experience about mid-way through the tunnel.

Tuesday 13th of April 2021

What time of year did you go? I don't like being cold, so we will take your advice to go later, but we are going in June, so I'm wondering if it will still be an issue.

Hi Brian, we were in Kauai in April. June is the summer season in Hawaii so you should be very comfortable. The state is quite comfortable year-round, although it does have bouts of chilly weather when the currents change during the winter. The water is spring water, so it tends to be chilly year-round. But on sunny days you should get some nice heat from the sun. And invest in the wetsuit rental and you'll be just fine.

Aleisha Mollen

Sunday 21st of February 2021

How long was the adventure from start to finish?

Monday 22nd of February 2021

Hi Aleisha, the adventure itself lasts about 3 hours (including transit) although you should give yourself an extra half an hour on each end for time spent at the office getting ready and boarded.

Privacy Overview

Kilohana Culinary Experience and Kalamaku Luau

$ 226.00 🕒3 Hours

The Plantation Dinner Experience begins with a private dinner for two or a celebration for up to 20, enjoy a specialized dinner at Gaylord’s Restaurant at Kilohana. You will delight in a unique menu featuring meats, fish and produce, including fruits and vegetables from Kilohana Plantation’s 60-acre orchard and agricultural park. After dinner you will enjoy the Luau entertainment from your premier seats.

If activity is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a 100% refund .">up to 48 hours before the activity starts ⓘ

Secure your spot while staying flexible ⓘ

• Reviews (1)

Delight in a culinary experience with the Kilohana Culinary Experience and Luau Kalamaku evening show. Enjoy an irresistible introduction to Kauai’s culinary delights. Whether it’s a cozy gathering for two or a festive occasion for up to 20 guests, immerse yourself in a bespoke dining experience at Gaylord’s Restaurant, nestled within the enchanting Kilohana Plantation.

Guided by our esteemed Chef de Cuisine, prepare to be enchanted by a one-of-a-kind menu showcasing the finest meats, fish, and produce sourced directly from Kilohana Plantation’s sprawling 60-acre orchard and agricultural park. Immerse yourself in an evening of unparalleled culinary delights and captivating entertainment as Luau Kalamaku transports you to the heart of Hawaiian culture and tradition.

Choice of Appetizers Roasted Vegetable Tartine (df/nf)* Avocado puree, pickled red onions and cucumber, fire-roasted squash, zucchini, and grape tomato settled on charred Brioche alongside baby arugula in lemon and roasted garlic oil.

Jumbo Cocktail Shrimp Pouched Cortez shrimp, served with a guava cocktail sauce.

Choice of Salad

Island Caprese (nf)* Vine-ripened tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and mesclun greens, drizzled with a balsamic gastrique, served with charred crostini. Caesar Salad (nf/df/gf without croutons)* Hearts of romaine tossed in our lemon anchovy dressing drizzled with Poi Vinaigrette, topped with parmesan cheese and focaccia croutons.

Entre’e Of Choice

Fresh Catch and Kalua Pork (df/nf/gf)* Fresh catch, pan seared, finished with coconut lemongrass and unagi sauce alongside Kalua pork topped with lomi lomi tomato relish, settled on Cole slaw and Steamed Jasmine rice accented with lemongrass.

OR Short Ribs and Kalua Pork (nf/df/gf)* Braised boneless short ribs finished with truffle-yaki sauce and Kalua pork topped with lomi lomi tomato relish, settled on Cole slaw and Steamed Jasmine rice accented with lemongrass

Choice of Dessert

Taro and Hawaiian Sweet Bread Pudding (nf)* Taro and Hawaiian sweet bread topped with creme, anglaise, and seasonal fruits.

Profiteroles (nf)* Vanilla-flavored ice cream tucked in pate choux, drizzled with chocolate sauce

5:00 – 5:15 Greetings and champagne welcome

5:15 – 6:40 Enjoy Gaylord’s signature menu

6:40 – 6:55 Visit the galleries and boutiques in the home

6:55 Meet in the foyer for a torchlit walk to the Luau Pavilion & your reserved table

7:30-8:30 Enjoy Kalamaku, the theatrical luau production

Check-in Location:

• Gaylords Restaurant
• Get Directions

What To Bring:

• Kauai Activities E-Voucher#

INCLUDED IN YOUR EVENING

• Fresh flower lei for women (based on availability)
• Champagne toast
• Four-course meal at Gaylord’s Restaurant (drinks not included)
• Premier seating
• Shops at historic Kilohana Plantation
• Complimentary pre-show drinks from the Mango Bar at Luau Kalamaku
• Award-winning Hawaiian show
• State-of-the-art media system
• Fire poi balls, traditional fire knife dancing

Cancellation Policy: 100% refundable when cancellations of the tour are made within the 48-hr period (before the activity date)

Līhuʻe, HI 96766

1 review for Kilohana Culinary Experience and Kalamaku Luau

Jennifer Bryant – February 1, 2024

Starts off with shell leis and mai tais (maybe the best I have had to date). Includes open bar, luau buffet, show (based on Hawaiian story), and more. We had great seats. It was a very captivating show and the food was good. If you visit Kauai, I recommend you go to this (you won’t regret it)!

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• Kauai Fishing Charters
• Kauai Surf Lessons
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• Kauai Helicopter Tours
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• Kauai Beaches
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• Kauai Attractions
• 800-652-8248
• 808-822-2846
• [email protected]
• Open Daily 7:00 am - 4:00pm