Located on the north side of Oahu is the Dole Pineapple Plantation. Originally opened in 1950 by James Dole, aka, "The Pineapple King," the Dole Pineapple Plantation now welcomes over one million visitors a year. Admission to the plantation is free. However, there are additional activities for a fee that are worthwhile seeing.
Pineapple Express Train Ride at Dole Plantation
The Pineapple Express is a narrated, two mile, 20 minute train ride which takes you through the plantation. Guests learn about the history of the pineapple in Hawaii along with the story of James Dole. Mixed in with the narration is music from local Hawaiian artists. This is a great family experience. Keep the camera ready for many photo opportunities.
Dole Plantation Pineapple Maze
Listed in The Guinness Book of World's Records as the world's largest maze, the Pineapple Maze is spread over 2 acres of land with almost 2 1/2 miles of paths. The challenge is to find the eight secret stations scattered throughout the maze. This attraction is a particular favorite for children, although adults enjoy it, too.
Dole Plantation Garden Tour
For something more serene, the Plantation Garden Tour is a self-guided tour through eight gardens exhibiting the various plants and crops grown on the north shore of Oahu. Some of the crops on display include pineapples, bananas, coffee, and mango.
Food At Dole Plantation
The Plantation Grill offers both Hawaiian and traditional American food. Favorites like ham and cheese and hot dogs are offered along with Hawaiian favorites such as Kalua BBQ pork and grilled Shutome. Not to be missed is the Dole Pineapple Whip, a frozen dessert like a pineapple flavored softy ice cream.
Additional Things to Do at Dole Pineapple Plantation
There is a beautiful Koi fish pond on the property where guests can feed the fish. The gift shop offers a variety of unique pineapple keepsakes including T-shirts and food.
Transportation to Dole Pineapple Plantation
The plantation is approximately a 45 minute drive from Honolulu. Bus transportation is available for $2 each way. A one-way trip takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes.
Different tour companies include the Dole Pineapple Plantation on their island tours. All Oahu Hawaii Tours offers a 120 mile Grand Circle Island Tour which allows guests to see Diamond Head and Chinaman's Hat along with some of the best beaches in Oahu. Discover Hawaii Tours offers an all day tour with stops at the Arizona Memorial and the Polynesian Cultural Center.
No matter how someone arrives at the Dole Pineapple Plantation, guests are sure to have a fun time. Individual tickets are available for the attractions, along with combo tickets. This is a great attraction for the entire family.
Readers might also enjoy Orbs of Oahu Ghost Tour and Starlet Waikiki Ocean Fun & BBQ Cruise In Oahu.
 |
