Dole Pineapple Plantation is located in the center of Oahu Island. Its history begins back in 1950s as a fruit stand located in the pineapple fields. However, the plantation grew in popularity and has become one of Hawaii’s top attractions. This sprawling attraction gives visitors a look into the history of the sweet fruit and the role it played in the Hawaiian economy.
Visiting the Dole Pineapple Plantation
Visiting the Dole Pineapple Plantation, travelers can sample fresh fruits, ride on a train, and travel through the fields. If you are going there, be sure to make it through the garden maze and learn how to pick out the freshest pineapples at the grocery store. For those that have never seen how pineapple grows, this is a fun way to learn about its agriculture. Some people think that the fruit grows underground or up in trees. However, it actually grows on plants. Travelers to the area will get to see its all stages of development.
Important Info Before Visiting
The goal of the Dole Pineapple Plantation is to give visitors an insider’s look into how agriculture influenced the rise of the modern Oahu. This plantation has become a well-known stop on group and private tours that depart from Waikiki. It’s fairly common to pair this attraction with other activities such as snorkeling or visiting other sites such as Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, or Hanauma Bay.
This is a great site to visit with family or anyone who enjoys history. Plan to spend a few hours at the plantation, depending on what you do while here. Each activity has a separate fee which may determine what you end up doing. The plantation is now wheelchair accessible. Make time for a meal at the Pineapple Grille or take a trip through the gift shop before you leave
Getting to the Pineapple Plantation
The Pineapple Plantation is on the North Shore and located outside of Wahiawa. This is about 30 minutes away from the airport and 45 minutes from Waikiki. Buses travel from Waikiki and drive to the Ala Moana center to connect with Circle Island service. This takes about an hour and 45 minutes in total.
When to Travel
Dole Pineapple Plantation is busiest in the summer and winter holidays but the crowds are much smaller during September until December. The plantation is open 9:30-5:30 each day but a mid-morning visit is a good way to avoid some of the later afternoon crowds.
Travel Through the Maze
Although there are many attractions to enjoy at the plantation, the maze is a favorite for families especially. Pineapple magnate James Dole moved to the island of Hawaii in 1899. He probably didn’t envision his home as having the largest maze in the world. However, the garden maze is made up of over 14,000 plants. It covers three acres and is a site to experience. The good news for the directionally challenged among us is that there are navigational plaques. They’ll help any struggling travelers find out how to find the way to the end of the maze as needed.
Admission
- $7 – $22 per adult