Dole Plantation, Honolulu
Historic pineapple plantation offering a train tour, maze, gardens, and the iconic Dole Whip.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Dole Plantation, Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic pineapple plantation offering a train tour, maze, gardens, and the iconic Dole Whip.
"A sweet slice of Hawaii you'll be glad you didn't skip!"
🎯 Beat the Train Line
Arrive early or purchase tickets in advance to minimize wait times for the Pineapple Express Train.
🍦 Taste the Famous Dole Whip
Don't miss the iconic Dole Whip! It's a refreshing treat, and many say it's best here.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pineapple Express Train Tour
Departs from the main building
A narrated 20-minute ride through pineapple fields, sharing the history of James Drummond Dole.
World's Largest Maze
Garden area
Navigate a 3-acre pineapple-shaped hedge maze. It's a fun challenge, but can get hot!
Dole Whip
Food court/cafeteria
The iconic frozen treat! Creamy, refreshing, and a must-try, especially with fresh pineapple.
Gardens and Lake
Garden area
Beautifully maintained tropical plants, flowers, and a serene lake offering photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Is it Worth the Trip?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Train Line
Arrive early or purchase tickets in advance to minimize wait times for the Pineapple Express Train. +1
🍦 Taste the Famous Dole Whip
Don't miss the iconic Dole Whip! It's a refreshing treat, and many say it's best here. 
☀️ Maze Heat Warning
The maze can be very hot. Go early in the day or be prepared with water and sun protection.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tough
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. Allow extra time to find a spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Train Line
Arrive early or purchase tickets in advance to minimize wait times for the Pineapple Express Train. +1
🍦 Taste the Famous Dole Whip
Don't miss the iconic Dole Whip! It's a refreshing treat, and many say it's best here.
☀️ Maze Heat Warning
The maze can be very hot. Go early in the day or be prepared with water and sun protection.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tough
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. Allow extra time to find a spot.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
The gift shop is large with many items. Consider local swap meets for cheaper souvenirs.
💰 Cheaper Pineapples Elsewhere
You can find cheaper pineapples at places like Costco, which are also from the Dole Plantation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often describe the Dole Plantation as a fun, family-friendly stop with a rich history and delicious treats. While some acknowledge its commercial nature, many find the train ride, maze, and especially the Dole Whip to be enjoyable highlights. It's a popular spot for those seeking a taste of Hawaiian agricultural heritage and a refreshing dessert.
"Honestly, I hate pineapples but we had a blast here. The tours are super cheap and easy to get through everything in about 3 hours. The snacks weren’t super expensive but were super tasty. Everything was super fresh and delicious. The train ride was about 20 minutes and very informative. The maze was cute but really easy to get through. The garden and lake was beautiful. Honestly it’s a great little setup with rich history."
Nicholas K
"The parking was crazy. Took about 25 min to find an open spot. Once parked, I enjoyed the experience. Took our three granddaughters, and they enjoyed the day. Train ride was a highlight for them. It was hard to hear the intercom portion of the tour over the tracks noise. If you have never been, you should come by. The history of how the company was started, how pineapple was introduced into Hawaii, and the founder was interesting. The grounds are amazing, and there are plenty of photo opportunities if you like amazing Hawaiian plants and flowers. Bring extra money as the gift shop has lots of space, items, and choices for younger to older people. And a can't miss is the fresh Dole Whip. It is just better here, and you can choose to have fresh pineapple added to the top. This is a dont miss if you are in this part of Hawaii."
Richard Bryant
"My wife had wanted to visit the Dole Plantation since she was a little girl, and I was glad to share that moment with her when her dream finally came true. You can feel the excitement as soon as you drive onto the plantation; the vibrant color yellow is prominent everywhere, especially on the plantation's big house, which is painted yellow.
The first thing we did was purchase tickets for the Pineapple Express Train. During the tour, we learned about Mr. Doe and his passion for the pineapple business. We also saw pineapple fields and old farming equipment used for harvesting pineapples.
Don't forget to take a picture before you board the train; those photos make great souvenirs, though you will need to purchase them.
As we exited the train station and headed towards the big house, we were greeted by various types of live pineapples growing in flower beds on display, which was really impressive. Once inside the big house, one of the first things we did was buy some pineapple ice cream and a cup of the whip. The pineapple ice cream was delicious, but the whip was even better!
There was also a gift shop for souvenirs, and my wife picked up a shirt to take home. Overall, it was a wonderful experience to visit the Dole Plantation, a place I had grown up admiring. Now, I had the chance to see its origins in Hawaii. I highly recommend including this stop on your itinerary when you visit the island."
OMAR A. MUHAMMAD, TH.M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dole Plantation is about a 45-minute drive from Waikiki without traffic. You can rent a car, take a taxi/rideshare, or use public transportation (TheBus). Some tours also offer transportation from Waikiki.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can get very crowded, especially during peak hours. Allow extra time to find a spot.
Yes, many circle island tours and dedicated Dole Plantation tours depart from Waikiki and include transportation. These stops are usually brief, around 45 minutes to an hour.
While chances are lower than in Honolulu, it's still a tourist spot. Some suggest leaving it in the trunk, but it's generally advised to be cautious.
If you're driving to the North Shore, Dole Plantation is a common stop along the way. You can drive from Wahiawa towards Haleiwa and find scenic spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and gift shop is free. However, there are separate fees for the Pineapple Express Train tour, the Pineapple Garden Maze, and the Plantation Garden Tour.
Ticket prices can vary, but the Pineapple Express Train tour typically costs around $10-$15 per person. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing.
While you can purchase tickets on-site, buying them in advance, especially for the train tour, can save time and guarantee your spot, particularly during busy periods.
Dole Plantation is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, combo tickets are often available that bundle the train tour, maze, and garden tour for a discounted price. This is a good option if you plan to experience multiple attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include the Pineapple Express Train tour, the World's Largest Maze, the Plantation Garden Tour, exploring the gift shop, and enjoying Dole Whip.
A typical visit can range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how many attractions you choose to experience and how long you spend in the gift shop.
The maze is a fun challenge, but it can be quite hot and a bit difficult to navigate, especially on a sunny day.
Many visitors highlight the Pineapple Express Train tour for its historical insights and scenic views, and of course, the delicious Dole Whip.
Yes, it's very family-friendly. Kids often love the train ride and the maze. The grounds are also great for them to explore. +1
🍽️ 🍍 Food & Dining
The main attraction is the Dole Whip, but they also have a cafeteria serving various dishes, many with pineapple. You can also find pineapple-themed snacks and treats.
Dole Whip is available at the main food court and cafeteria area within the plantation.
Food prices are generally considered reasonable for a tourist attraction, with the Dole Whip being a popular and relatively affordable treat.
While you can see various types of pineapples growing in the gardens, fresh whole pineapples are not typically sold for consumption on-site. You can, however, get pineapple-flavored treats.
The Dole Whip itself is often vegan. It's best to inquire directly with the food service staff about specific dietary options available at the cafeteria.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include the iconic yellow plantation house, the Pineapple Express train, the maze entrance, and the beautiful gardens with tropical flowers.
Yes, you can take photos during the train ride, but be mindful of other passengers and the narration. Some professional photo packages might be offered.
Professional photos are available for purchase, but many visitors find they can capture great memories with their own cameras and phones in the scenic surroundings.
Morning light is generally best for photography, offering softer light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon can also be beautiful with golden hour light.
Don't miss the chance to pose with the giant pineapple statue, the colorful plantation house, and the lush floral displays in the gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the main attractions, the gardens offer a pleasant space for kids to wander, and the gift shop is filled with fun souvenirs. The Dole Whip is also a major draw for younger visitors. It's a place where kids can learn about agriculture in a playful environment, making it a memorable stop on any Oahu itinerary.
🚗 Day-Trippers & North Shore Visitors
While some travelers suggest it's a 'tourist trap' and might skip it if time is limited, it offers a taste of Hawaiian agricultural history and the famous Dole Whip. If you're short on time, prioritize the train ride and a Dole Whip, and perhaps a quick stroll through the gardens.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're looking to save money on souvenirs, consider skipping the extensive gift shop and exploring local swap meets or smaller shops for more affordable options. Also, remember that fresh pineapples can be purchased for less at local grocery stores like Costco.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pineapple Express Train Tour
While the train ride itself is enjoyable and scenic, some reviews mention that the narration can be difficult to hear over the train's noise, and that it functions largely as a commercial for the Dole brand. Despite this, it remains a popular attraction, especially for those interested in the history and for younger visitors who enjoy train rides. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid long wait times, as it's a major draw for many visitors.
Pro-tip: Consider the time of day you ride. Early morning rides often have shorter lines and cooler temperatures, making the experience more pleasant. The train offers a relaxed way to see a part of the plantation without extensive walking.
Navigating the World's Largest Maze
Many visitors find the maze to be a highlight, especially children who enjoy the adventure of finding their way through the hedges. However, it's crucial to be prepared for the heat. The maze can become very hot and humid, particularly during the midday sun. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and consider tackling the maze early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the most intense heat.
Insider tip: While it's called the 'World's Largest Maze,' some find it surprisingly easy to complete. The challenge often comes from the heat and the sheer scale rather than complex navigation. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the maze offers a fun, albeit warm, diversion.
The Iconic Dole Whip
+1The Dole Whip is available in its classic pineapple flavor, and sometimes other seasonal flavors. You can also opt for a float or have fresh pineapple pieces added to your whip for an extra burst of flavor. It's a relatively affordable treat and a perfect way to cool down after exploring the plantation grounds or navigating the maze.
Don't miss: While you can find Dole Whip at other locations, the experience at the Dole Plantation is often considered more authentic and enjoyable. It's a simple pleasure that adds significantly to the overall visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit