Dole Plantation
The Dole Plantation is one of the most famous family-friendly attractions on Oahu and it is a great half-day trip when on the island (especially if you have kids).
Located about 40 minutes from downtown Honolulu, the Dole Plantation showcases the agricultural history of Hawaii as well as the pineapple which was a large industry back in the day.
At the Dole Plantation, visitors will find its large maze (it covers 3 acres), several fruit gardens, a train ride through the property, and the delicious Dole Whip, which has even made itself known at Disney World.
The Dole Plantation is wheelchair-accessible and hosts several events throughout the year.
đ Note: While the Dole Plantation is a popular family activity on Oahu, please research its history before deciding whether or not it fits your itinerary. The Dole family and the plantation led to long-lasting effects that are still felt today throughout the colonization of Hawaii (and the current occupation of it).
Dole Plantation Visitor Information
Island: Oahu
Address: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy. Wahiawa, Hawaii 96786
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Ticket Prices: Admission to the grounds is free but youâll need to pay for tours and activities (including the train, maze, and plantation garden)
Parking: On-site parking is limited as spaces fill up quickly
What to See and Do at the Dole Plantation
The Pineapple Express Train
On this fantastic tour, youâll explore 2 miles (3.2 km) of the plantation by train. This fully narrated tour lasts for 20 minutes and youâll learn all about how this place was founded, as well as the story of pineapple in Hawaii.
Plantation Garden Tour
Those taking the Plantation Garden tour will wander through 8 different gardens, where youâll get to see a variety of tropical plants and exotic fruit.
Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket booth and cost $8 for adults.
Pineapple Garden Maze
The Pineapple Garden Maze is the worldâs largest maze, stretching for over 3 acres. It boasts nearly 2.5 miles (4 km) of paths and offers a fun challenge.
Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket booth and cost $9.25 for adults.
The Gift Shop (+ the Dole Whip)
Before leaving, head to the on-site gift shop as itâs the perfect place to try a Dole Whip. There are plenty of great souvenirs that you can pick up too. Not to mention, there are some tasty sweet treats on offer.
How to Get to the Dole Plantation from Honolulu
Oahuâs famous Dole Plantation is around a 35-minute drive from Honolulu, with the fastest route taking you via I-H-1 W and I-H-2 N.
Those traveling from Hawaiiâs capital city can also take public transport to the plantation. Service 52 runs from Honolulu and takes approximately 75 minutes (1 hr 15). Youâll depart at âKamehameha Hwy + Dole & Helemano Plantationsâ and then itâs around a 6-minute walk.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi (generally Uber and Lyft tend to be more affordable than one ordered by a hotel but this is still a pretty expensive option).
Visiting with a Rental Car
The best way to reach the Dole Plantation (and visit other attractions on the island of Oahu) is to rent a car.
Luckily, there are some fantastic rental car companies in Honolulu including Enterprise, First Rent-A-Car, and Voyage Rental Cars. Alternatively, you can rent a car straight from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Popular rental companies such as Sixt, Alamo, and National Car are located here.
Your other option is to rent a car in advance using a platform such as Discover Cars. Youâll often get much better rental rates this way and will have a wider selection of vehicles to choose from!
Visiting on a Tour
Alternatively, you can visit the Dole Plantation on a tour. This way, you wonât have to worry about parking or transport, as all the logistics will be sorted for you!
Those who want to combine a visit to the plantation with other sights should check out this all-inclusive ultimate Circle Island day tour.
This tour lasts for approximately 10 hours and will take you to a variety of popular locations (as well as the plantation) including the Halona Blowhole, Byodo-In Temple, and Sandy Beach Park. Lunch and all entrance fees are included!
Places to Visit near the Dole Plantation
The Kukaniloko Birthstones
The Kukaniloko Birthstones are around a 5-minute drive from the Dole Plantation.
This place is one of Oahuâs most ancient sites as it was an important birthing place. When a new chief was to be born, their mother would be brought here to give birth.
Tropic Lightning Museum
The Tropic Lightning Museum is around a 6-minute drive from the plantation. This military museum exhibits memorabilia and artifacts related to the history of Schofield Barracks (along with the Wheeler Army Airfield and the 25th Infantry Division).
WahiawÄ Botanical Garden
WahiawÄ Botanical Garden is also about a 6-minute drive away. Covering 27 acres, this impressive garden dates back to the 1930s.
Itâs free to visit and you can spot a variety of birdlife here as well as plants. Just make sure you pack bug spray!
Dole Plantation: On a Map
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