Kilohana Plantation Kauai
Explore Kauai's rich agricultural past and vibrant culture at Kilohana Plantation, featuring a scenic railway, luau, rum tasting, and local shops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Enjoy the train ride & rum tasting
Kilohana Plantation Kauai
Best Time
Enjoy the train ride & rum tasting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Kauai's rich agricultural past and vibrant culture at Kilohana Plantation, featuring a scenic railway, luau, rum tasting, and local shops.
"A must-visit for a taste of Kauai's history, culture, and natural beauty!"
🎟️ Book Train & Luau in Advance
Reservations are a must for the Kauai Plantation Railway and Luau Kalamaku to guarantee your spot.
🍍 Taste Local Delights
Don't miss the Pineapple Shack for Dole Whip or the sweet shop for local candies.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kauai Plantation Railway
Kilohana Plantation
A scenic train ride through lush tropical landscapes, showcasing diverse fruit trees and farm animals.
Luau Kalamaku
Kilohana Plantation
An immersive cultural experience with traditional Hawaiian music, hula, fire dancing, and a historical narrative.
Kauai Rum Safaris
Kilohana Plantation
Explore the Kōloa Rum Company's estate and enjoy a tasting of their award-winning rums.
Pineapple Shack Kauai
Kilohana Plantation
Indulge in delicious Dole Whip, cones, and specialty pineapple treats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Experiences
Embrace the Plantation Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Train & Luau in Advance
Reservations are a must for the Kauai Plantation Railway and Luau Kalamaku to guarantee your spot.
🍍 Taste Local Delights
Don't miss the Pineapple Shack for Dole Whip or the sweet shop for local candies.
🥃 Rum Tasting Fun
The Kauai Rum Safari offers a unique tasting experience of local rums.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Kids love feeding the animals and the engaging train ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Train & Luau in Advance
Reservations are a must for the Kauai Plantation Railway and Luau Kalamaku to guarantee your spot.
🍍 Taste Local Delights
Don't miss the Pineapple Shack for Dole Whip or the sweet shop for local candies.
🥃 Rum Tasting Fun
The Kauai Rum Safari offers a unique tasting experience of local rums.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Kids love feeding the animals and the engaging train ride.
💧 Tubing Adventure Nearby
Consider the tubing adventure for a refreshing, unique experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kilohana Plantation for its diverse attractions, from the charming Kauai Plantation Railway to the immersive Luau Kalamaku. The opportunity to interact with animals and enjoy local treats like Dole Whip are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects. While many find the experiences enriching, some note that booking in advance is essential for popular activities.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kilohana Plantation is located at 32087 Kaumualii Highway in Lihue, Kauai. It's easily accessible by car and offers ample parking. Many visitors find it a convenient stop while exploring the island.
Public transport options to Kilohana Plantation can be limited. Renting a car is generally the most convenient way to reach the plantation and explore Kauai at your own pace.
Within the plantation, the Kauai Plantation Railway is a primary mode of transport for tours. Walking is also an option to explore the shops and grounds.
Some tour operators and hotels may offer shuttle services or be part of package deals that include transportation to Kilohana Plantation. It's best to check with your accommodation or tour provider.
The address is 32087 Kaumualii Highway, Lihue, HI 96766. This is also the address for Luau Kalamaku and the Kauai Plantation Railway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While entry to the plantation grounds is generally free, popular activities like the Kauai Plantation Railway and Luau Kalamaku require advance reservations and ticket purchases.
Operating hours can vary for different attractions within Kilohana Plantation. The Kauai Plantation Railway typically runs during the day, while Luau Kalamaku is an evening event. Check individual attraction schedules for specifics.
Yes, Kama'aina (Hawaii resident) discounts are sometimes available for the Kauai Plantation Railway. It's advisable to inquire directly or check their booking site for any applicable discounts.
Luau Kalamaku tickets typically include a pre-show reception, a traditional imu ceremony, a Hawaiian feast, and the main performance featuring music, hula, and fire dancing.
It's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially for the train and luau, as they often sell out. On-site availability may be limited or unavailable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kilohana Plantation offers a variety of activities including the Kauai Plantation Railway, Kauai Rum Safaris, shopping at local boutiques, dining at Gaylord's, and attending Luau Kalamaku.
Absolutely! The train ride is very family-friendly, with opportunities to see and feed farm animals like pigs, horses, and donkeys, making it a hit with kids.
Visitors can see various farm animals, including pigs, horses, and donkeys, during the Kauai Plantation Railway tour.
Yes, Kilohana Plantation features several local shops offering unique crafts, souvenirs, and local products, including sweets from Kauai Sweet Shoppe.
Kilohana Plantation is a historic estate that showcases Kauai's agricultural past and offers insights into Hawaiian culture through its various attractions and performances.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Gaylord's at Kilohana offers a fine dining experience, while the Pineapple Shack serves up delicious Dole Whip and other treats. The Luau Kalamaku also includes a traditional Hawaiian feast.
The luau features a traditional Hawaiian feast, often including kalua pig cooked in an imu (underground oven), poi, lomi salmon, and other local delicacies.
Yes, the plantation tour highlights various fruit trees, and you might have opportunities to taste fresh fruits or enjoy fruit-based treats like those at the Pineapple Shack.
The Kōloa Rum Company offers rum tastings and drinks as part of the Kauai Rum Safaris. The Pineapple Shack also serves coffee and espresso drinks.
The Pineapple Shack is famous for its Dole Whip, cones, specialty floats, sundaes, cold brew, espresso, and tea, offering a sweet paradise for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lush plantation landscapes, the vintage train, farm animals, and the vibrant performances during Luau Kalamaku. The historic plantation house also makes for a beautiful backdrop.
Yes, photography is encouraged during the train tour to capture the scenic views and the animals. Just be mindful of other passengers and ensure your camera is secure.
Photography is generally allowed during the Luau Kalamaku, especially during the pre-show and cultural demonstrations. However, flash photography might be restricted during the main performance to avoid disturbing the performers.
The train depot, the scenic routes of the railway, and the areas around the plantation house offer excellent photo opportunities. The Pineapple Shack also provides a colorful, Instagrammable setting.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the golden hour glow over the plantation. Morning light is also good for clear, bright shots of the grounds and animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the train, the Pineapple Shack is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for its sweet treats. Consider attending Luau Kalamaku for a vibrant cultural experience that, while potentially long for very young children, offers captivating performances that can hold their attention. The open spaces of the plantation also allow for some freedom to explore.
🍹 Couples and Adults
Attending Luau Kalamaku offers a sophisticated cultural evening with delicious food and captivating performances, perfect for a memorable date night. The plantation also hosts various local shops, providing opportunities for unique souvenirs or gifts.
🌿 Nature and Agriculture Enthusiasts
Explore the grounds to appreciate the lush landscaping and the legacy of this historic plantation. The Kauai Rum Safaris also offer insight into agricultural production, focusing on sugarcane and the craft of rum making.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Kauai Plantation Railway
Beyond the flora, the railway tour is also an opportunity to interact with the plantation's animal residents. Children and adults alike will delight in feeding pigs, horses, and donkeys, adding an interactive and memorable element to the experience. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and agricultural heritage of Kauai in a relaxed and enjoyable manner.
Reservations are required for the Kauai Plantation Railway, so be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. The tour is a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and scenic beauty, making it a must-do for families and anyone looking to connect with Kauai's rural charm.
Experiencing Culture at Luau Kalamaku
The experience begins with a traditional imu ceremony, where a pig is unearthed from an underground oven, symbolizing a key part of Hawaiian culinary tradition. Guests then enjoy a lavish Hawaiian feast, featuring authentic local dishes prepared with care. The storytelling through dance and song provides deep insight into the history and spirit of the islands.
Booking in advance is crucial for Luau Kalamaku, as it is a highly sought-after event. It offers a profound cultural immersion and a spectacular evening of entertainment, making it a highlight of many Kauai vacations.
A Taste of Kauai: Rum and Pineapple Delights
For those who enjoy a more spirited taste of Kauai, the Kauai Rum Safaris provide an opportunity to explore the Kōloa Rum Company's estate. You can learn about the rum-making process and enjoy a tasting of their award-winning rums. This experience offers a unique blend of agriculture and local craft spirits.
These culinary experiences, alongside the fresh fruit showcased on the plantation tour, offer a delightful way to savor the tastes of Kauai during your visit.
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