The Dole Plantation, located in central Oahu, had humble origins. It began as a fruit stand located in pineapple fields and dates back from the 1950s. However, the plantation grew in popularity and has become one of Hawaii’s top attractions. This sprawling attraction gives visitors an look into the history of the pineapple and the role it played in the local economy.
Travelers to the plantation can sample the fresh fruit, ride on a pineapple train, and travel through the fields. 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 pineapples grow, this is a fun way to learn about their agriculture. Some people think that pineapples are grown underground or up in trees. However, this popular fruit is actually grown on plants. Travelers to the area will get to see pineapples in all stages of development.
Important Info Before Visiting
The goal of the 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 for families and 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
This spot 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.
Address: 64–1550 Kamehameha Highway, Wahiawa 96786, USA
When to Travel
The 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.
Hours: Open daily 9:30am – 5:30pm
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