Kilohana Plantation
3-2087 Kaumualii Highway, Lihue, Kauai, HI, 96766
A historic sugar plantation set in the Garden Isle's lush tropics, Kilohana Plantation is a hub for Hawaiian culture and history. Visit the estate—centered around a historic Tudor-style mansion—to see tropical orchards, take narrated train rides, visit a rum distillery, eat at the on-site restaurant, and participate in a theatrical luau. In addition, the rooms of the historic manor house have been converted into shops selling artisan arts and crafts for unique Kauai souvenirs.
The Basics
Visit Kilohana Plantation, on the outskirts of downtown Lihue, to immerse yourself in the island’s culture and history. By day, explore the estate’s expansive farm on a train ride through tropical orchards. Plus, savor traditional Hawaiian food, shop for souvenirs, and sample rum at the plantation’s distillery. In the evenings, experience one of the plantation’s theatrical luaus. Many luau packages include a traditional buffet dinner, round-trip transportation, entertainment, and unlimited drinks.
Things to Know Before You Go
Kilohana Plantation is ideal for those who want to experience all the quintessential Hawaiian-vacation activities in one location.
The train tour (wheelchair accessible and kid-friendly) is a great way to learn more about the history of the plantation.
The rooms of the historic manor house have been converted into shops selling artisan arts, crafts, and souvenirs.
If visiting in high season (winter and summer holidays) book in advance to secure your spot on tours or at a luau.
How to Get There
The plantation is located on the outskirts of Lihue, making it a short 2-mile (3-kilometer) drive from downtown and about 3.5 miles (3.6 kilometers) from Lihue Airport (Kaui’s main airport). From Lihue, take the Kaumualii Highway (Highway 50) west to the entrance to the plantation. You can also visit the plantation for a tour or luau that includes round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
The plantation is open daily, with train ride tours offered multiple times each day. Luaus are held regularly, depending on the season.
Riding the Kauai Plantation Railway
The open-air mahogany passenger cars of the plantation’s train offer a relaxed way for you to view the plantation while also learning about the site’s heritage through a conductor’s narration. Choose from among multiple tour packages, which include the chance to stop and pick fruit, feed farm animals, and hike through the tropical surroundings.
Ways to explore
Visit Kilohana Plantation, on the outskirts of downtown Lihue, to immerse yourself in Kauai’s culture and history, and experience all the quintessential Hawaiian vacation activities in one location. By day, explore the estate’s expansive farm on a train ride through tropical orchards or join a rum safari for a scenic drive and rum tasting. Plus, savor traditional Hawaiian food, shop for souvenirs, and sample rum at the plantation’s distillery. In the evenings, experience the plantation’s theatrical luau with a package that includes a traditional buffet dinner, round-trip transportation, entertainment, and photos with the performers for purchase.
Accessibility
While the train ride and luau are accessible to wheelchair users, other sights and activities on the estate may not be. Confirm accessibility in advance.
Age limits
The plantation train and luau are ideal for families with kids, and there are discounted tickets for children under 12.
What to pack
Camera, sun hat, mosquito repellent
What to wear
Sunscreen, hat
Not allowed
Visitors must be 21 or over and present a valid ID to go on the rum safari experience.
Amenities
Restrooms, parking, restaurant and bar, shops
Address
The plantation is located on the outskirts of Lihue, making it a short 2-mile (3-kilometer) drive from downtown and about 3.5 miles (3.6 kilometers) from Lihue Airport (Kauai’s main airport). You can also visit the plantation as part of a tour that includes round-trip transportation.
Driving
From Lihue, take the Kaumualii Highway (Highway 50) west to the entrance to the plantation, about a 5- to 10-minute drive.
Public transportation
Local buses run from central Lihue to the Hokulei Village shopping center, about a 10-minute walk from the plantation entrance.
Best times to visit
Visit by day to explore the estate, ride the train, and take a rum safari. By night, the luau is the headliner, and most other attractions on the estate are closed.
Best days to visit
The restaurant, luau, and plantation museum are closed all day Sundays—and the shops close by mid-afternoon—so visit from Monday to Saturday.
Best months to visit
Kauai gets most of its rainfall in winter, so visit this outdoor attraction from spring through fall.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!