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Grove Farm Museum is...

the historic homestead of the Wilcox family

Visit Grove Farm Museum

Our immersive walking tours take you through layers of local history all the way back to the mid-1800s. Step into the daily life of different generations and cultures that made this homestead a thriving sugarcane operation and home to all. 

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how the sugar industry brought wealth, technology, and multiculturalism to the most remote corner of the Pacific.

to inspiring stories of George Norton Wilcox’s innovations in the sugar industry, Miss Mabel Wilcox’s advancements of public health, and Miss Elsie Wilcox’s advocacy of education for all.

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the extensive property from the Wilcox family home, to the first public health office, to the Japanese laundress’ cottage—all authentically preserved with original furnishings.

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THE WILCOX FAMILY

A family tree deeply rooted in the landscape of kauai's history.

The impact of the Wilcox family branches out into the island’s economic growth, innovative technology, advancement of public health, and access to education for all.  Learn about the individuals who went out on a limb to pursue their passions, were deeply involved in their local community, and gave back generously.

Grove Farm Museum is a proud member of the Waioli Corporation's collection

of historic sites. Learn about Waioli Corporation and the connections between Grove Farm, Waioli Mission House, Mahamoku Beach House, and the Historic Train Collection.

WAIOLI CORPORATION

Support the waioli corporation.

We are grateful for your contributions that help us preserve and share the history of this beautiful island for future generations and visitors alike. 

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Lahaina Sugar Cane Train

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Sugar Cane Train Maui

Sugar Cane Train

This magical event is great for all kids, even the kids in all of us! Enjoy milk and cookies while on board and the keiki will be thrilled with their free gift!

Sugar Cane Train

Sugar Cane Train, Maui

Lahaina-Kaanapali Sugar Cane Train

  • Post author By Aloha Hawaii
  • Post date November 1, 2009

Sugar cane train ride

There are faster ways to travel from historic Lahaina town to Kaanapali on Maui ‘s west side. But when you’re visiting this special slice of paradise, why rush?

Hawaii’s railroads have almost entirely disappeared, but the Sugar Cane Train—it’s official name is The Lahaina, Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad—is still chugging along, treating visitors to a nostalgic journey to the Maui of yesteryear. The locomotive moves along a six-mile stretch of track at a leisurely pace, surrendering speed in favor of panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains and neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai .

Video of the sugar cane train adventure

The ride includes Hawaiian-style entertainment by a singing conductor, who also provides narration and points out significant sites of interest along the way. During whale-watching season (December through April), it’s common to spot humpback whales frolicking in the distant waters.

Hawaii’s railroad history dates back more than a hundred years, as trains hauled sugar cane to the mills and transported plantation workers between their homes and the cane fields. At one time, steam locomotives became a familiar fixture on Maui’s landscape, blasting their whistles as they rounded a mountain curve or chugging along a narrow-gauge track between cane fields and plantation villages.

The first locomotive used in West Maui for sugarcane production debuted in 1890 and continued until around 1950. The train retired when motorized trucks and mechanical claws became more efficient and cost-effective.

Old picture of the sugar train

In 1969, A.W. “Mac” McKelvy and the Makai Corporation joined forces to create the Lahaina, Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad, a.k.a. “The Sugar Cane Train.” Since 1970, this train has provided passenger service from Lahaina to Puukolii (just north of Kaanapali), hosting some five million visitors.

According to the company’s general manager, a sugar cane museum is in the works. Future plans for the Sugar Cane Train include hosting weddings and special theme parties and receptions.

  • Tags attractions , family , guidebook , maui , museum , things to do

Flumin' Kohala Ditch

THE FAMED KOHALA DITCH ON THE BIG ISLAND OF HAWAII

Flumin’ tour details.

sugar cane tour hawaii

Flumin’ Kohala offers a unique and exclusive adventure deep in the historically rich and verdant mountains of Kohala. There you will explore the much storied Kohala Ditch , a 114 year old system of hand-wrought tunnels, elevated flumes, and concrete channels that once supplied millions of gallons of fresh water to the vast sugar cane plantations of Kohala. On a leisurely kayak float through 3 miles of the system, you will have the rare opportunity to access lush private lands, streams, waterfalls and other natural and man-made wonders kapu (forbidden) to all except guests of Flumin’ Kohala .

Adult (12yrs & Up) $135 + tax Child (5-11yrs.) $75 + tax. All Prices +Tax

Reservations

To book a tour or if you have questions, call our friendly guest service representatives at 1-808-933-4294 or, toll free at 1-844-933-4294, daily 8:00am-5:00pm HST

I agree to Flumin' Kohala's cancellation/change policy. Cancellations within the cancellation period and "no- shows" will be charged the FULL AMOUNT of the tour.

The cancellation period is:

  • one to five guests 24 hours;
  • six to ten guests – 48 hours;
  • eleven or more and private charters – 72 hours.

I understand that every person in my party will need to sign a participation agreement prior to the Flumin' tour. I also confirm that everyone in my party is at least 5 years old and weighs less than 300 lbs.

What to Bring & Wear: You will get wet. Comfortable, water tolerant walking shoes or reef walkers (absolutely NO slippers or flip flops). Wear clothing that can get wet (you will get wet). Bring a towel and a change of dry clothing. A light jacket is recommended (did we mention that you will get wet?).

ALL GUESTS are responsible for their own COVID-19 personal protection equipment (masks, gloves, hand sanitizers, etc). Failure to be prepared with this critical COVID-19 personal protective gear will result in your being denied participation on the tour.

Adventure Family Travel - Wandering Wagars

Kauai Tubing Through Sugar Plantations And Tunnels: What You Need To Know

Tubing In Kauai Hawaii

Looking to experience a Kauai tubing adventure? We took on the challenge and have everything you need to know before you Kauai mountain tubing experience.

Mountain tubing in Kauai

Mountain tubing was one of the highlights of our Kauai family vacation. And it wasn’t just because it was a relaxing day on the water. Our Kauai tubing experience was educational, fun, and not at all what we had expected. When we signed up for our Kauai Backcountry Adventure experience, we knew that we would be riding tubes through an old Hawaiian plantation. We knew there would be tunnels. But we weren’t prepared for how much more was on offer during our unforgettable Kauai mountain tubing adventure.

When we were first introduced to the idea of mountain tubing in Kauai, it seemed like the perfect fit for our lifestyle of family adventure travel . We are always looking for a new kind of adventurous activity. Gliding through old irrigation canals in a Hawaiian sugar plantation sounded magical. Christina and I have already tried one of the big three underground tubing experiences during our trip to Belize . Our Kauai tubing experience would mark our second.

Mountain tubing in Kauai Lazy River

What Do You Need To Know Before Your Kauai Tubing Adventure Begins?

Table of Contents

Our family trip to Kauai was just getting started when we were rolled into the Kauai Backcountry Adventures office on the outskirts of Lihue. There are Kauai mountain tubing tours held throughout the day. These usually start at 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM. The water on the mountain can be quite chilly. Unless you are comfortable with the cold water or have brought a wetsuit, I recommend considering the later times when the air is warmer.

Registering For your Kauai Backcountry Tubing Adventure

The Kauai Backcountry office is spacious. The upper level is set up for filling out waivers and picking up your safety gear. Gloves and helmets are provided. But you need to bring your own swimsuit and waterproof shoes . If you don’t have waterproof shoes of your own, I recommend these ones for kids and these ones for adults .

After we registered we headed down the waiting area. To kill time till our truck left, our boys played the cornhole games with the other kids on the tour. Christina and I spent our time chasing them down to slather them with sunscreen. Bringing sunscreen or long-sleeved shirts along is recommended. Much of the Kauai tubing adventure is under the sun. Please make sure to use a reef-safe sunscreen as much of this water ends up mixing with the ocean reefs off of the coast. Many sunscreen brands include chemicals that have adverse effects on the health of coral reef systems. You can also check out our complete guide on what to pack for Hawaii here .

You may want to bring your own waterproof GoPro or Olympus Tough camera in order to take some fun photos along the way. Also, make sure to pack a towel and bug spray. The experience is deep in the Kauai interior and there are mosquitos. Kauai Backcountry does take a few photos along the way.

These are available for purchase for $40 back at the Kauai Backcountry office. It’s a great deal as it includes individual photos of each member of your group, a group shot, and other scenic shots of the Kauai tubing tour that you won’t have the opportunity to get yourself since your bum is stuck in a tube. It was great to get photos of the members of our family since the flow of the water often made staying together challenging

Kauai Mountain Tubing For Couples

What Is It Like Mountain Tubing In Kauai?

From the Kauai Backcountry Adventures office in Lihue, we boarded an open-air truck. Once our entire tour group was on board, we began a short drive down the Kuhio Highway. Then we turned off and entered through a gate. This is where we learned that the property that we would be on was actually owned by America Online (AOL) founder Steve Case. The mountain tubing takes place on an old sugar cane plantation on his 18,000-acre estate.

The ride up to the Kauai tubing tour is truly magnificent. The ride to the tubing experience offers a view of a side of Kauai that is often hidden from view. We drove deep through farm fields, stopping often to wait for the cows to clear the roadway. But we eventually arrived at one of the greatest viewpoints on the island. We even passed shooting locations for some super famous movies like the epic Apocolypse Now  napalm opening. We also saw the place where the opening sequence to the hilarious Tropic Thunder .

Waialeale Crater Overlook

The Waialeale Crater is a breathtaking overlook about 3/4 of the way to the Kauai tubing experience. We stopped for about 10 minutes here. Just long enough to snap some photos and learn about this important Hawaiian mountain. Mount Waialeale is a 5,148 ft (1,569 m) mountain in the center of Kauai. The summit of Mount Waialeale is considered one of the rainiest locations on the planet . It sees an average rainfall of more than 373 inches (9,500 mm) every year.

Waialeale Crater View Kauai Backcountry Adventures with kids

Kauai Mountain Tubing

We piled back in the truck and made our way to the launch point for our mountain tubing in Kauai experience. When we deboarded we were able to leave any gear that we didn’t want to get wet in bins that would be brought to us at the finishing point. The guides gave a brief safety presentation. This explained some of the dangers along the way. These included a lot of spinning, bumping into each other, and the risk of bumping our heads in the tunnels.

Getting Wet

From there we went to the area where the stream that runs through the plantation sectioned off into the irrigation canals that once supplied the sugar cane farm with water. Our boys, C and D, hopped into their tubes first and Christina and I followed. D, our 5-year-old got swept up to the front of the pack and it took me half the tour to finally catch back up with him. Not that he complained, he spent his time making friends with every single tuber along the way.

Kauai Backcountry Tubing Tour

The mountain tubing Kauai experience started out calm. The landscape surrounding us was beautiful. It ranged from fields to forests, to towering lush green walls. And of course, there were the tunnels. There are three hand-dug tunnels along the Kauai tubing route. One of the tunnels clocks in at just over a mile in length.

The experience was a complete blast. Everyone was having fun, enjoying the warm sunshine contrasting with the chilly waters. D, who was wearing a wetsuit was super comfortable. C opted not to wear his wetsuit and was pretty chilly. If you get cold easily, it may be worth considering bringing one with you . There are wetsuits for rent at the Kauai backcountry adventure office.

Kauai Mountain Tubing Waterfalls

I will say that there is A LOT of spinning involved. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to consider taking a dose of Dramamine or Gravol before you go. The tubes bump against each other along the narrow route. You’ll also be bouncing off of the walls along the way, especially in the tunnels. Each bounce seemed to send me in a new direction.

The time in the water takes about an hour. This includes a stop in the longest of the tunnels. Here we learned about the incredible amount of work that went into carving these irrigation canals. At the end of the route, there’s a short time to warm up and dry off.

We loaded back up into the truck and headed further into the property for lunch at a picturesque spot. We were greeted by a slow-moving stream with small waterfalls cascading into it. It was the perfect spot for a swim. The cool, refreshing water cut out the afternoon heat nicely and helped work up our appetite for the delicious sandwich bar that was provided.

There are bathroom facilities at the lunch location. There are no bathrooms available during the Kauai tubing experience, so they were a very welcome site. We relaxed here for about 45 minutes before it was time to make our way back to the Kauai Backcountry Adventures office in Lihue.

Kauai mountain tubing swimming

Should You Go Mountain Tubing In Kauai With Kids?

If you’re traveling in Kauai with kids, we highly recommend the mountain tubing adventure. It’s fun, exciting, safe, and made for one of the highlights of our Kauai family vacation . The tubing experience only takes up a few hours of the day. This means that you can have this great adventure and still have time for plenty of other things to do in Kauai, whether you are looking at heading to the beach, or catching one of the legendary Kauai sunsets.

Kauai mountain tubing is adventurous without being strenuous. None of those on the tour had anything but smiles on their faces at the end. As I mentioned, Christina and I had done a much different cave tubing experience in Belize. Our next one to experience will be the Waitomo cave tubing experience in New Zealand. You can check out that one here .

Our Kauai Tubing Video

If you loved reading about our Kauai tubing adventure and feel inspired to check out more, you can see our Kauai tubing video below. Don’t forget to like and subscribe so that we can keep bringing you fun travel stories.

Have you ever done the Kauai mountain tubing experience? Drop a comment to tell us about your experience. Or, swing by our Facebook page and share a photo of your experience. We would love to share in your adventures.

Disclosure: This post was made possible with the support of Kauai Backcountry Adventures . All opinions are our own. Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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Tubing In Kauai Hawaii

Tuesday 18th of April 2023

I use a walker to get around I'm handy chapped but I'm able to float the rivers at home with the family. My son-in-law helps me in and out of my tube. Would I be able to do your float?

Kevin Wagar

Thursday 20th of April 2023

The Kauai tubing isn't my float, I just wrote an article about my experience there. But I can say that the tubing is pretty relaxing and doesn't require much from the rider. As long as you're comfortable with a lot of spinning, you shouldn't have any problems.

Mark Balliet

Monday 17th of October 2022

We want to first of all thank all the staff everyone of them were so kind funny and informative! We loved it and would reccomend it to everybody.Thanks again for a great time mahalo and aloha!!! Can’t wait to do this again!!!!

Cindy Lopez

Wednesday 25th of May 2022

I'm incredibly claustrophobic are the tunnels narrow.and how long is the ride Through the tunnel?

Thursday 2nd of June 2022

The tunnels here are about 6 ft in diameter and the longest one can reach about one mile. If you are claustrophobic, I would recommend skipping this activity as the phobia could be exacerbated by a "lights out" experience about mid-way through the tunnel.

Tuesday 13th of April 2021

What time of year did you go? I don't like being cold, so we will take your advice to go later, but we are going in June, so I'm wondering if it will still be an issue.

Hi Brian, we were in Kauai in April. June is the summer season in Hawaii so you should be very comfortable. The state is quite comfortable year-round, although it does have bouts of chilly weather when the currents change during the winter. The water is spring water, so it tends to be chilly year-round. But on sunny days you should get some nice heat from the sun. And invest in the wetsuit rental and you'll be just fine.

Aleisha Mollen

Sunday 21st of February 2021

How long was the adventure from start to finish?

Monday 22nd of February 2021

Hi Aleisha, the adventure itself lasts about 3 hours (including transit) although you should give yourself an extra half an hour on each end for time spent at the office getting ready and boarded.

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Hawaii’s sugar history makes for one sweet island tour

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A new tour on Oahu takes visitors back to Hawaii’s sweetest century. From 1850 to 1950, sugar was king, a crop that brought thousands of workers from several Asian countries, as well as Puerto Rico and Portugal, to the state’s cane fields and mills.

Roberts Hawaii , the state’s largest tour operator, takes visitors from Waikiki to Hawaii’s Plantation Village , near the town of Waipahu, which features restored buildings and replicas of the buildings that once housed laborers. Guides tell the story of the sugar years and show visitors a small stand of sugar cane that still remains.

Maui restaurants: 20 great places to eat for under $20 »

On Oahu, 20 places for great meals for less than $20 »

sugar cane tour hawaii

And then there are tasting stops, too: first at the Malasadamobile , operated by Leonard’s , an iconic Honolulu bakery, for a sweet treat. The bakery since 1953 has specialized in malasadas, which are known as Portuguese doughnuts. Recipes for the doughnuts — fried without a hole and then covered in sugar — were brought to the islands by immigrants who toiled in the sugar fields.

sugar cane tour hawaii

The final stop is at KoHana Rum near the village of Kunia, where visitors learn how sugar cane is used to make rum.

The tour includes the tasting room, where grownups can sample Rhum agricole, as it’s called, made from freshly squeezed sugar cane juice instead of molasses.

Oahu Sugar Tours , offered Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, pick up visitors from Waikiki hotels starting at 8 a.m. Tickets cost $118 for adults and children at least 12 years old, and $89 for children 4 to 11 years old.

Even after the sugar fields fell fallow in the 20th century, thanks to cheaper sugar sources elsewhere, many descendants of the original immigrants still live in the same communities as their ancestors.

One such town, Haleiwa , on the island’s North Shore, has reinvented itself as a popular tourist destination, with surfers and sun seekers drawn to its broad beaches. Others, such as Honokaa , an hour’s drive north from Hilo on the island of Hawaii, retain a sleepier vibe than in the era when sugar reigned.

Info : Roberts Hawaii

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Maui Sugar Cane Train

Newest Maui Article: Lahaina Gateway

Train Ride for Kids and Family

Kaanapali, west side of maui.

The Sugar Cane Train was a family train ride near the Kaanapali resort area on the west side of Maui.  You began your round trip at the north end of the tracks, at Puukolii Road and Honoapiilani Highway. It used to run to the south end in the town of Lahaina, but more recently only ran to Kaanapali.

Up until the last few years, the Sugar Cane Train only ran around the holiday season from late November to the end of December each year.  Before mid-2014 it used to run every day all year round.  But there were some plans to bring it back to full-time use in 2019, but advocates failed.  The land it ran through was not owned by the train.  Another case where landlords burn the community.

This train used to carry sugar cane from the fields to the harbor.  From 1969 to 2019, it carried tourists and locals for fun trips along the west side.  The ride was about a half-hour in each direction, but it was only a 7-mile trip, with the train traveling at the leisurely speed of 12 miles per hour.  Along the way, you had a view of the West Maui Mountains and the ocean, similar to the view you get when you drive the main highway that parallels the train tracks.

If your kids loved the idea of riding on a train, or you were looking for something to keep the kids busy, you would have loved it.  But there are plenty more kids and family activities on Maui .

Click for more  things to do on Maui .

Sugar Cane Train Photos

Maui Sugar Cane Train

See the page of  Things To Do In Maui for luaus, whale watching, snorkeling, tours, helicopters, horseback riding, ATV, dinner cruises, parasailing, fishing, zipline, biking, golf, hiking, sightseeing, aquarium, the road to Hana, volcano, Lahaina, lavender farm, beaches, kids and family fun, and more

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Top 3 Things to Do in Pahala

Pahala town things to do on hawaii's big island.

Top 3 Things to Do in Pahala

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Pahala Things To Do

Things to do near pahala town on big island.

A small town called Pahala, the northernmost town of the Ka’u area, was once a site of Hawaii’s large sugar cane plantation. Pahala is also the largest town in the region, offering the amenities that stir the interest of many locals. Today, Pahala is much smaller than it used to be but still offers a beautiful oasis for visitors looking to explore the lush landscape and powerful volcano scenery.

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sugar cane tour hawaii

Directions to Pahala

Hilo International Airport is the ideal airport to fly into when planning a visit to the Big Island’s southern and eastern side, including Pahala. To get to Pahala, drive south on Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11) from Hilo International Airport, and drive for just over 50 miles. At this point, turn right onto Kamani Street to officially start your exploration of Pahala!

Kona International Airport is another option, though it is further from Pahala than the airport in Hilo. Regardless of where you start, the Hawaii Belt Road is the perfect road to take you through all the charming, picturesque towns along the coastline of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Continuing with your trip, take the Kaalaiki Road to Na’alehu. This stunning drive is a must-see if you have time to spare. The road takes travelers through the mountains above both towns, allowing you to get aerial views of the towns and steep valleys in the Hawaiian mountain range. You won’t be able to resist pulling out your camera!

Brief History of Pahala

The quiet town of Pahala was once larger than it is now. Back when Hawaii’s largest industry was sugar cane production, Pahala was home to a sugar cane plantation. It had direct access to water and was among many sugar cane fields, making it an ideal spot. For over 150 years, Hawaii thrived on the industry of sugar cane production before falling prices led plantations all around the Big Island to close, migrating workers to the still-open camp in Pahala. Eventually, the steep prices that Hawaii continued to charge for sugar cane led the plantation to close in 1996 due to a lack of worldwide demand.

Back in the sugar cane days, Pahala consisted of a manager’s house and camps for workers. These camps were typically self-sufficient and were a center of several plantation dwellings, small stores, and even had small services like a blacksmith in the camp. As the town continued to grow in the 1940s, the Pahala Theater was built.

Pahala’s name is also derived from the town’s sugar cane plantation days. During the early days of the industry in what is now Pahala, workers would fill cracks found in the sugar cane fields with Hala leaves and burn them. This led to the name Pahala, which means “ashes from the Hala leaf.”

Pahala is also the site of the Big Island’s oldest public school, established in 1881. It serves the entire Ka'u region, even students who travel several hours each day to attend.

After the sugar cane industry came to a close in Hawaii, Pahala and other plantation towns began to diversify their industries. Pahala has since converted old sugar cane fields into Macadamia nut fields, which grow very well in the warm, tropical climate around the town. Pahala is also home to a growing coffee farm industry, gaining a reputation among the coffee-producing towns along the Big Island. Some other workers began working in the hospitality industry.

The town while small is the largest town in Ka’u. Historic manager homes still exist and have been restored by dedicated locals who have found success working in other industries in the area. Pahala has a few casual restaurants, schools, a small shopping center, a hospital, and a few churches. These amenities bring many locals from surrounding towns to Pahala. 

Weather in Pahala

The climate in Pahala is warmer than towns in neighboring regions. In the late spring and summer months, the town can experience high temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, only dipping to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter months. The town is also less rainy than some other towns. For this reason, many visitors to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park stay in Pahala, rather than Volcano, since it is warmer in the Ka’u region town.

Punaluu Black Sand Beach

Black sand is one of Hawaii’s most unique natural sights to see. Punaluu Black Sand Beach is a result of the region's volcanic activity and is one of the Big Island's most popular black sand beaches. Many visitors and locals enjoy Punaluu Black Sand Beach , but you'll see large Hawaiian green sea turtles ("Honu") also enjoying what the beach has to offer.

Punaluu Black Sand Beach is just under 10 minutes from the heart of Pahala. Take the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11) south for just under 6 miles. Then, turn left on Punaluu Road, which leads you directly to the stunning and unusual black sand beach.

Image provided by Ka'u Coffee Mill

Ka'u Coffee Mill

Ka'u Coffee Mill is a must-see in the Ka’u region when visiting Pahala. The coffee plantation offers a tour of their “Seed to Cup” process, so you can learn all about their award-winning process. Make sure you try Ka'u Coffee Mill’s tasty coffee and Buzz Berries!

Stop for a cup of authentic Hawaiian coffee at the local Ka'u Coffee Mill, which is located just north of Pahala. To get there, take Pikake Street and continue along onto Wood Valley Road. After 1.6 miles, the Ka'u Coffee Mill will be there to greet you with plenty of coffee tours and samplings. 

Wood Valley Temple - Nechung Dorje Drayang Ling

The Wood Valley Temple is a Buddhist temple, which is also a retreat destination that offers a peaceful escape amidst the Big Island's relaxing tropical surroundings. While there is the option to stay at the Wood Valley Temple's guest house, you can stop by for a day trip. You can participate in events and teachings about Buddhism and the Nechung Monastery as well.

The Wood Valley Temple is located north of Pahala by only 8 minutes of driving. To get to Wood Valley Temple, head north on Wood Valley Road for 3.8 miles, at which point the intriguing, historic attraction will be on the right. 

Make Pahala a stop on your Hawaii getaway!

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The 14 best maui tours & excursions of 2024.

Maximize your island time with these top excursions.

The Best Maui Tours

Aerial view of the west coast of Maui with visible coral reef, sailing boats and green mountain on the background. Area of Olowalu, Hawaii

Getty Images

To make the most of Maui's natural splendor, consider taking a guided tour of the island. Analyzing both traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News determined the following excursions to be the best available. Whether you want to watch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, go snorkeling around Molokini, take to the water on a whale watching adventure , experience the island from above in a helicopter or sample some of the Hawaiian island's best pineapple, there's a tour on this list that fits your interests and budgets. Each one of these Maui tours features experienced guides eager to share their insights about the Valley Isle's scenery, cuisine, history and culture.

Hike Maui – Waterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure

Price: From $159 Duration: 5 hours

See waterfalls measuring up to 40 feet on this hike through a valley in East Maui that's located off the Hana Highway. You'll also have the option to swim and jump into the large pools beneath several of the falls. Along with the spectacular rainforest scenery, you'll enjoy commentary from your naturalist tour guide, as well as snacks and lunch. According to reviewers, the hike is suitable for all fitness levels and the guide is excellent. Travelers describe the experience as memorable and a must-do in Maui.

Tours, which are generally available daily starting at 9:30 a.m., are capped at 12 people. Transportation is available from major resorts, hotels and condominiums for an additional fee. Note: Hikers must be at least 6 years old. The company also conducts a hike along the Haleakala Crater.

Check prices & availability on:

Air Maui – West Maui & Molokai Tour

Price: From $346 Duration: 1 hour

West Maui and Molokai boast some of the island's most stunning waterfalls, along with tall sea cliffs and mountains. Helicopter tours provide an excellent vantage point from which to admire these natural wonders. From Air Maui's six-passenger helicopter, tourgoers might also glimpse humpback whales during wintertime. Two-way headsets are used onboard so flyers won't miss a word from their pilot/guide. In addition to marveling at the amazing views, passengers consistently note the pilots' skill and good humor, and many recommend booking the doors off option.

Air Maui operates several other helicopter tours of the region, including shorter 45-minute flights. Departure times may vary and weight restrictions apply.

Check prices & availability on: 

  • Bike Maui – Cruiser Phil's Sunrise Guided Tour

Price: From $230 Duration: 8 hours

The sunrise lures many visitors to the summit of Haleakala National Park's namesake peak, but this tour stands out for blending a dawn-of-day viewing with a 23-mile bike ride down Haleakala and through the park's volcanic landscape to Haiku (where Bike Maui is based). Early morning cyclists cheer the beauty of the sunrise and also praise the knowledgeable, helpful ride leaders.

The tour usually begins between 3 and 4 a.m., depending on the time of year. For an additional fee, Bike Maui has a sunrise tour package including round-trip transportation, access to rain gear and use of mountain bikes and helmets. Riders must be 15 or older and taller than 4 feet 10 inches. Self-guided bike tours are also an option. For those who'd rather skip the sunrise, Bike Maui offers the same ride with a slightly later departure of 8 a.m.

Temptation Tours – Hana Ultimate Tour

Price: From $279 Duration: 11 hours

If you don't want to navigate the hairpin turns of the Road to Hana yourself, consider this tour. You and up to seven other travelers will board a luxury van to begin your journey on the legendary highway. Along the way, you'll stop at Kaumahina State Park, Waianapanapa State Park (home to a stunning black sand beach), Waikani Falls and Hookipa – a world-class windsurfing beach. Reviewers say this is a great way to see the sights along the Road to Hana thanks to the experienced drivers, who also double as guides. Travelers are also complimentary of the food stops and the comfortable vans.

The ticket price covers transportation, including round-trip hotel transportation, as well as breakfast and lunch. Tours generally depart Tuesday through Saturday at 7 a.m. and return at 6 p.m. Temptation Tours also offers private charters, as well as a Road to Hana tour that includes a helicopter ride.

Skyline Hawaii – Kaanapali 8-Line Adventure

Price: From $190 Duration: 3 hours

Soar up to 150 feet above the Kaanapali Resort area on this zip line tour. As you glide down the zip lines, you'll be treated to views of the ocean and the Iao Valley's West Maui Mountains. Guides will also share information about Hawaiian culture and history. Reviewers praise the entertaining, safety-conscious guides and say the views are beautiful.

Participants must be at least 10 years old and weigh under 260 pounds. Tours are generally offered daily at multiple times a day starting at 8 a.m. Skyline Hawaii also offers tours that combine a visit to Haleakala National Park with zip lining.

Best Maui Tours

Courtesy of Maui Pineapple Tours

Maui Pineapple Tours – Pineapple Farm Tour

Price: Adults from $75; kids from $65 Duration: 1.5 hours

Pineapple is one of the must-sample fruits in Hawaii, so why not see where they're grown? During the walk through Maui Gold's fields and facilities, guides impart facts about the crop's cultivation and production, which participants find both informative and entertaining.

Prices include a pineapple for each participant to take home. Tours are offered daily at 9:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. You can also opt to take a distillery tour located on the property that uses Maui Gold's pineapples in its spirits.

Maui Easy Riders – Haleakala Maui Bike Tour Small Group with Late Morning Start Time

Price: From $350 Duration: 4 hours

This small-group tour is designed to be virtually effortless. The cycling portion of the tour starts at about 6,500 feet above sea level just outside Haleakala National Park. From there, a maximum of six cyclists coast downhill on single-speed cruisers with wide seats. A van follows behind to ensure protection from motor vehicles – a feature many riders greatly appreciate. Tours start and end at the beach in Paia and cyclists are driven to the ride's starting point. The 25-mile route passes cattle ranches and pineapple farms, with stops in a few small towns like Makawao and Paia.

Tours generally depart Thursday through Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. Riders must be at least 15 years old. Maui Easy Riders also offers a private version of this tour.

Boat and snorkelers swimming near sea cliffs in Maui, Hawaii.

Courtesy of Redline Rafting

Redline Rafting Co. – Molokini Crater and South Maui Coast Snorkel Tour

Price: From $189 Duration: 5 hours

On this snorkel tour, you'll visit La Perouse Bay for a chance to see the bay's resident spinner dolphins and Molokini. Crescent-shaped Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic caldera, is regarded as one of the best Maui snorkeling spots because it's sheltered from powerful currents and waves. Snorkelers may also spot sea turtles and (in winter) humpback whales. The crew consistently wins high marks for being helpful, personable and entertaining. Reviewers also appreciate the chance to see the crater before the afternoon crowds, and the manageable group size (up to 24 participants are welcome in each tour).

Tours take place daily from 7 a.m. to noon. The ticket includes the boat ride, use of snorkeling equipment, a light breakfast and lunch. Be aware that this tour is not suited for pregnant women or kids younger than 8 years old. Kihei-based Redline Rafting also provides a two-hour snorkeling tour, seasonal whale watching tours and private boat tours.

Pride of Maui – Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise and Luau

Price: Adults from $159; kids from $99 Duration: 2 hours

This single cruise checks several items off a traveler's Maui to-do list. During the cruise, you'll see traditional Polynesian dancing, enjoy a luau dinner and watch a beautiful sunset over the ocean. As an added bonus, the outing may also double as a whale watching tour from December through March (when whales are present in Maui's waters). Trip-takers typically describe this tour as a great value with tasty fare, excellent views and an adept crew.

Boats depart from Maalaea Harbor at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, though exact availability varies by month. Tickets, which cover dinner and access to an open bar. Travelers should note, that ticket prices differ during peak season, which is from June through August. Children 5 and younger always sail for free. Pride of Maui also offers a snorkeling excursion to Turtle Town and private charters.

Best Maui Tours

Courtesy of Four Winds II

Four Winds II – Morning Molokini Snorkel Tour

Price: Adults from $160; kids from $125 Duration: 5 hours

Aboard the Four Winds II catamaran, you'll sail 3 miles to Molokini Crater where you'll have time to snorkel and see ample marine life, including turtles. As an added bonus, from December through March, humpback whales may be glimpsed too. Reviewers often call this trip one of the best snorkeling tours they've taken and praise the crew for their insight and professionalism. However, others warn of rough waters and a lackluster breakfast selection.

Tickets for these daily excursions, which last from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., cover the use of snorkeling equipment as well as breakfast, lunch and drinks (including wine and beer). Four Winds II also offers an afternoon snorkeling outing, as well as trips to Coral Gardens – one of the island's best snorkeling locations.

  • Maui Bombers – Cycle to the Sea

Price: From $225 Duration: 4.5 hours

Biking enthusiasts appreciate the ride leaders' energy and passion for this 30-mile downhill ride. The Cycle to the Sea ride starts on the Haleakala volcano at 6,700 feet above sea level, then rides down the mountain along hairpin turns and winding roads. You'll pass by pineapple and sugar cane fields and through towns, such as Kula, Makawao (where the group stops for lunch) and Paia. The trip concludes at the beach at Lower Paia Park.

The ticket price includes transportation to the Haleakala Ranch and the use of bikes, as well as lunch. Rides are generally offered Thursday through Tuesday beginning at 8 a.m. and ending around 12:30 p.m. (availability may vary by month). The tour does have weight and height restrictions. Know that Maui Bombers caters its tours to experienced bikers. Maui Bombers also offers an unguided version of this tour, as well as a 40-mile ride called Cycle Supreme.

Best Maui Tours

Courtesy of Alii Nui Sailing Charters

Alii Nui Maui – Royal Sunset Sail

Price: From about $239 Duration: 2.5 hours

Alii Nui Maui's Royal Sunset Sail is an adults-only affair. The sailboat ride features a buffet dinner and an open bar. The highlight, however, is watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The crew, the meal, the boat and the sunset views all receive plaudits from passengers.

Sailings depart Friday through Monday and Wednesday at 5:15 p.m. Ticket prices include food and drinks and optional round-trip transportation to area hotels. Alii Nui Maui also offers several other sailing excursions and private charters.

Kapalua Ziplines – Six Line Zip Line Tour

Price: From $220 Duration: 3.5 hours

Despite its name, the Six Line Zip Line Tour entails more than zip lines. While the roughly 3.5-hour activity does involve nearly 8,500 feet of travel via zip lines, it also incorporates a walk across a 360-foot suspension bridge and all-terrain vehicle rides through the West Maui mountains. Along the way, guides share information about local plants and animals. Tour-takers invariably describe the excursion as great fun and the staff as highly professional.

Participants must be at least 10 years old. There is a 250-pound maximum weight restriction. Tours are offered Monday through Friday multiple times a day starting at 7:30 a.m. Kapalua Ziplines also offers shorter tours that traverse four zip lines.

PacWhale Eco-Adventures – Molokini & Turtle Arches Snorkel Ma'Alaea

Price: Adults from about $225; kids from about $150 Duration: 5 hours

This tour combines a visit to the clear waters of the Molokini conservation area with an additional stop at Turtle Arches for more snorkeling and a chance to spot sea turtles. You'll also get plenty of fuel throughout the day as a continental breakfast and barbecue lunch are included. Naturalists serve as guides and are generally deemed friendly and helpful. Travelers also say this outing is great for novice snorkelers.

Boats depart daily at 7 and 8 a.m.; there's an additional 8:30 a.m. tour during the summer. PacWhale also offers a dolphin-watching snorkel excursion along Lanai's coastline and a seasonal whale watching trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, visitors can tour Haleakala National Park on Maui . Some of the best volcano tours on Maui are:

  • Haleakala Eco Tours – Haleakala Sunrise or Sunset Tour
  • Maui Easy Riders – Haleakala Maui Bike Tour Small Group with Late Morning Start Time

See all of the top tours in Maui .

Maui's best helicopter tours are:

  • Air Maui Helicopter Tours – Hana Rainforest & Haleakala Crater
  • Maverick Helicopters – Molokai Voyage
  • Sunshine Helicopters – Molokai Deluxe Helicopter Tour

See the full list of the best Maui helicopter tours .

You may also be interested in:

  • The Best Things to Do in Maui
  • The Best Hotels in Maui
  • Top Hawaii Beaches to Visit
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Hawaii: Hotels With Awesome Amenities
  • The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Hawaii

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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Vote for your favorite family attraction in Hawaii!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Hawaiian culture holds a special place for ohana (family), and kids of all ages will find plenty to do on the islands. From snorkeling and canoe surfing to volcanoes and sacred cultural sites, Hawaii’s wealth of family-centric activities and attractions make it a favorite for travelers with children in tow. An expert panel has nominated their top 20 picks for family attractions in Hawaii. Which one do you think is the best? Vote once per day until polls close on Monday, July 15 at noon ET. The winning attractions and activities, as determined by your vote, will be announced on Wednesday, July 24.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules . 

Hawaiian culture holds a special place for ohana (family), and kids of all ages will find plenty to do on the islands. From snorkeling and canoe surfing to volcanoes and sacred cultural sites, Hawaii’s wealth of...   Read More

Best Family Attraction in Hawaii Nominees

Ahi Lele Fire Show

Photo courtesy of Weekend Digital Marketing

Ahi Lele Fire Show

Kilauea, Hawaii

The rich history and folklore of the Hawaiian Islands are on full display during this dazzling performance, with grand tales and epic journeys spelled out to the tune of pounding Polynesian drumbeats and glowing flames. This performance is sure to captivate audience members both young and old, while global cuisine like kalua pork, teriyaki chicken with pineapple, and macaroni salad are all up for grabs throughout the show.

Bishop Museum

Photo courtesy of Hakase_ / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Bishop Museum

Honolulu, Hawaii

Kids won't care that the largest museum in the state is globally renowned for its research projects, but they'll love the Bishop Museum's immersive exhibits and interactive displays that bring to life the islands' fascinating history, from ancient Polynesian voyagers to Hawaiian legends, kings, and queens. The hands-on Science Adventure Center offers exhibits on volcanoes, earthquakes, and ecosystems of the Hawaiian Islands, and you'll be dazzled by cosmic shows in the Planetarium. 

Botanical World Adventures

Photo courtesy of Botanical World Adventures

Botanical World Adventures

Hakalau, Hawaii

Be ready to expend some energy at Botanical World Adventures, where you can walk through a hedge maze larger than a football field, witness beautiful Kamae’e Falls, and meander the Rainbow Walk or Rainforest Trail. There's zip lining with patient guides navigating families amid breathtaking views of the verdant Hawaiian landscape and biking adventures in the lush jungle landscape of Hakalau. 

Gunstock Ranch

Photo courtesy of Gunstock Ranch

Gunstock Ranch

Kahuku, Hawaii

A Western-style working ranch on Oahu, Gunstock Ranch turns families into cowpokes with scenic horseback rides attuned to all skill levels. Ride through open pastures with ocean views or a take a guided ride to a mountain outlook. Traverse mountain trails and see "Hawaii Five-0" filming locations on a UTV tour or plant a tree in Oahu’s first Hawaiian Legacy Forest.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Photo courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman / @hbgoodie

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Big Island, Hawaii

Encompassing over 300,000 acres, this national park is one of the most photographed locales in the Hawaiian Islands. For more than 70 million years, volcanic heat and pressure have molded the dramatic landscape, which includes the still-active Halemaumau Crater, Thurston Lava Tube, and Pu'u O'o vent, which spewed lava for 35 years. 

Hawai'i Wildlife Discovery Center

Photo courtesy of Radist / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Hawai'i Wildlife Discovery Center

Lahaina, Hawaii

For kids who can't get enough of "The Little Mermaid," "Finding Nemo," or "SpongeBob SquarePants," the Hawai'i Wildlife Discovery Center entertains with more than 30 exhibits about Hawaii's fascinating animals, from the nene to green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals. Dive deeply into interactive displays to learn all about Hawaii's marine wonders. 

Hawaii Zipline Tours

Photo courtesy of Hawaii Zipline Tours

Hawaii Zipline Tours

Honomu, Hawaii

Hawaii Zipline Tours allows families to soar above rainforests, dramatic cliffs, banana farms, and sugar cane fields while enjoying panoramic views that can only be experienced from the air. You'll fly above and over the 250-foot-tall Kolekole waterfall with expert guides providing insights into the islands' unique ecosystems. On terra firma, families may opt for a guided hiking tour for lovely landscape, ocean, and private waterfall views.

Kahua Ranch

Photo courtesy of zoranm / E+

Kahua Ranch

Kamuela, Hawaii

Families enjoy panoramic views of Hawaii Upcountry alongside seasoned paniolos (cowboys) and well-trained horses at Kahua Ranch, a working ranch since 1928. Stay for live country music, line dancing, a game of horseshoes, a BBQ dinner, and a spectacular sunset overlooking rolling green pastures.

Kilohana Plantation

Photo courtesy of PictureLake / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Kilohana Plantation

Lihue, Hawaii

Learn about the history of Hawaii's sugarcane industry on a narrated train tour at Kilohana Plantation, passing sugarcane and taro fields as well as mango, papaya, banana, and pineapple groves. Hop off to feed farm animals and encounter alpacas, and for a full experience, book a luau featuring fire dancers and a delicious Hawaiian dinner.

Koloa Zipline

Photo courtesy of Yobro10 / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Koloa Zipline

Koloa, Hawaii

The longest zip line on Kauai means more time to appreciate the island's natural wonders of rushing streams, verdant valleys, Hoary Head Mountain Range, and fresh air. The thrilling yet safe adventure with Koloa Zipline lasts for 3.5 hours, and guides will teach you how zip upside-down, fly face-first, or spin backwards. 

Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii

Photo courtesy of Maui Ocean Center

Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii

Wailuku, Hawaii

Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii is home to one of the largest displays of live Pacific corals in the world. Visitors can come face-to-face with a variety of marine life native to Hawaii, including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish.

Maui Tropical Plantation

Photo courtesy of Dawn M. Toll / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Maui Tropical Plantation

Maui Tropical Plantation beckons families to explore the island's rich agricultural heritage through interactive tours, tram rides, and hands-on activities. There's family-friendly zip lining over the plantation as well as Maui's longest, highest, and fastest zip line adventure for families with kids age 10 and up. Take a trip on the Tropical Express tram around the lagoon that includes a coconut husking demonstration, then dine at the family-owned Cafe O'Lei. 

Mountain Tubing with Kauai Backcountry Adventures

Photo courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson

Mountain Tubing with Kauai Backcountry Adventures

Kauai Backcountry Adventures facilitates their mountain tubing adventures through the lush grounds of the former Lihue Plantation. Take in the island’s pristine green interior as you float down open canals and through tunnels hand-dug around 1870.

National Tropical Botanical Garden

Photo courtesy of National Tropical Botanical Garden

National Tropical Botanical Garden

Hana, Hanalei, and Koloa, Hawaii

An unparalleled living collection of native Hawaiian plants spanning thousands of acres on two different Hawaiian Islands, the National Tropical Botanical Garden offers families an immersion into towering rainforests, waterfalls, coconut trees, and unique flora. After learning about rare tropical species, kids perk up on a guided tour to see where parts of "Jurassic Park" and "Pirates of the Caribbean" were filmed. 

Old Lahaina Luau

Photo courtesy of None needed

Old Lahaina Luau

No family trip to the Hawaiian Islands would be complete without attending a luau, and this one on Maui features traditional Hawaiian food, an open bar, hula dancing, and flower leis — all in a recreated Hawaiian village right on the oceanfront.

Outrigger Canoe Surfing with Waikiki Beach Services

Photo courtesy of Tommy Pierucki

Outrigger Canoe Surfing with Waikiki Beach Services

Waikiki Beach Services has been outfitting water sports on Honolulu’s iconic stretch of sand since 1955. Here, families are welcome to try out one of Hawaii’s signature sports, once reserved for Hawaiian royalty, the outrigger canoe.

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

Photo courtesy of MNStudio / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

Hilo, Hawaii

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens packs a lot of educational and visually stunning sites in its 12 acres. The beautifully landscaped botanical gardens showcase a dreamy array of tropical flowers, plants, and trees from around the world. Families stroll winding trails to encounter Bengal tigers, toucans, and chattering spider monkeys in their natural habitats. Admission is free, and playgrounds and picnic areas help visitors make a day of it. 

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Visitors to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial can immerse themselves in a poignant piece of American history. The site offers a variety of experiences, including the USS Arizona Memorial program, which includes a boat ride to the memorial and time to reflect at the site of the historic attack. Additionally, guests can explore the "Road to War" and "Attack" exhibit galleries, view a documentary film in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater, and pay respects at the Remembrance Circle. 

Polynesian Cultural Center

Photo courtesy of Polynesian Cultural Center

Polynesian Cultural Center

Laie, Hawaii

One of Oahu's top attractions provides glimpses into the cultures of Polynesia (Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti, Fiji, Aotearoa, and Tonga). Each one maintains a separate village, where visitors are regaled with information about celebration and survival in ancient days. Demonstrations, performances, narratives, and even a luau are presented, allowing guests to immerse themselves in tradition.

Submarine Scooters at Island Water Sports Hawaii

Photo courtesy of @islandwatersportshi

Submarine Scooters at Island Water Sports Hawaii

You don’t need any diving experience to explore Hawaii’s underwater world in a submarine scooter. This family-friendly adventure from Island Water Sports Hawaii takes visitors under the surface of Oahu’s Maunalua Bay aboard self-propelled, eco-friendly scooters.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Jeanne cooper.

Jeanne Cooper

Jeanne Cooper  is a former editor of the San...   Read More

Jeanne Cooper  is a former editor of the San Francisco Chronicle Travel section and a longtime author and coauthor of Frommer's guidebooks to Hawaii. Her freelance writing has appeared in numerous magazines, newspapers, and digital platforms, including Hemispheres, AAA Explorer, Sunset,  CNTraveler.com , Toronto Star, and Marriott Bonvoy Traveler. She lives on Hawaii Island with three rescued pets and one triathlete husband.

Jeanne Cooper

Joanne and Tony DiBona

Joanne and Tony DiBona

Joanne and Tony DiBona know a thing or two about...   Read More

Joanne and Tony DiBona know a thing or two about creating photo galleries to share their personal travel experiences around the world with their readers.  Their articles have been featured on 10Best  for the past decade, as well as in national and international print and online media. Their awards for photography and journalism fill up an entire wall in their office, the most recent being a top national award for their US and international galleries published on 10Best. Follow their travel adventures on their scenic photography   website and travel blog . Have a question about travel? Contact them on their  Instagram and Facebook pages.

Joanne and Tony DiBona

JQ Louise is a travel writer and influencer based...   Read More

JQ Louise is a travel writer and influencer based in Boston. Her website,  JQLouise.com , offers personal travel stories, curated itineraries, and tips for the globetrotting foodie. Follow JQ on Instagram  @jqlouise  not only her beautiful images, but also her insightful travel tips and tricks. 

JQ Louise

Juliet Izon

Juliet Izon

Juliet Izon is a New York City and Hudson...   Read More

Juliet Izon is a New York City and Hudson Valley-based food, travel, and design writer. She studied English Literature at Trinity College before holding staff positions at Bauer Publishing, Niche Media, and Modern Luxury. You can catch her bylines in places like Condé Nast Traveler, Food & Wine, and Architectural Digest. You can also find her on Instagram .

Juliet Izon

Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku

Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku

Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku is a Hawai‘i Island-based...   Read More

Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku is a Hawai‘i Island-based freelance journalist and travel writer. She has had the privilege to visit all six of the major islands in Hawai‘i and has written about them for such publications as Fodor's Travel, Matador Network, Hawai‘i Magazine, SF Gate, Trip Advisor, Local Getaways, and others. Her writing carries with it the  kuleana  (responsibility) of helping to produce more educated, conscientious visitors to this culturally and ecologically sensitive place, advocating for tourism that is sustainable and ethical. Laurie’s areas of expertise include Hawai‘i hotels, family travel, luxury travel, food & beverage, Indigenous excellence, animals, sustainability, voluntourism, and nonprofits. You can read her work on her website , or follow along with her on social @hawaiitravelwriter.   

Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku

Marla Cimini

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Marla Cimini

Natasha Bourlin

Natasha Bourlin

Natasha Bourlin is an award-winning freelance...   Read More

Natasha Bourlin is an award-winning freelance food, travel, and environmental writer based on the island of Hawaii. As a first generation American, her fervor for travel and culture has sent her around the globe exploring myriad countries and continents, while her favorite times are spent at home in Waimea with her dog Lucy. Her work has been published in the San Francisco Chronicle,  SFGate.com , AFAR Media, and USAToday.com, among others. Follow her on Instagram @Natashawandersoff or visit  Passportandplume.com .

Natasha Bourlin

10Best Editors

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

10Best Editors

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  1. Fresh And Delicious Sugar Cane Juice

  2. Hawaii sugar cane farm

  3. Can You Get Fresher Sugar Cane Juice? Maui Coconut Farm #shorts

  4. Sugar Cane Train, Maui, Hawaii

  5. Sugar Cane Train

  6. C&H Sugar Commercial "Waipahu Sunday" 1987

COMMENTS

  1. Sugar Cane Train

    A singing conductor takes you on a 6-mile tour of Maui's sugar cane history. Read more. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Improve this listing. Full view. All photos (158) ... Experience Hawaii Tours. 503. Cultural Tours • 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours. Open now. 2023. The Magic Merman Snorkel Charters. 821. Scuba & Snorkelling • Boat ...

  2. 4 splendid tours through Maui's sugar history

    4 splendid tours through Maui's sugar history. Sweet sights await on these excursions through Maui's sugar past, present and future. Oct 12, 2016. Lourdes Venard. One of the first things a visitor to Maui sees are fields of swaying sugar cane. But Hawaii's last sugar plantation, Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company on Maui, closed this year ...

  3. HOME (CURRENT)

    Visit Grove Farm Museum. Our immersive walking tours take you through layers of local history all the way back to the mid-1800s. Step into the daily life of different generations and cultures that made this homestead a thriving sugarcane operation and home to all. PLAN YOUR VISIT.

  4. Sugar Cane Train Maui

    The Sugar Cane Train presents the Holiday Expressfrom November 29th to December 31st. The holiday cheer begins at Pu'ukoli'i Station in Ka'anapali when you board our festively decorated train. Savor the magic of the season while our elves get you settled in for the 4 mile round-trip journey with a brief stop to pick up a very special guest.

  5. Sugar Cane Train

    A singing conductor takes you on a 6-mile tour of Maui's sugar cane history. Read more. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Improve this listing. Full view. All photos (158) ... Experience Hawaii Tours. 480. Cultural Tours • 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours. Open now. 2023. Maui Bombers. 754. Bike Tours. 2023. Hike Maui. 3,105. Hiking & Camping ...

  6. Sugar Cane Train

    Apr 20, 2024 - A singing conductor takes you on a 6-mile tour of Maui's sugar cane history.

  7. Sugar Cane Train

    Jun 19, 2024 - A singing conductor takes you on a 6-mile tour of Maui's sugar cane history.

  8. Sugar Cane Train

    The Sugar Cane Train is sort of the opposite--dull scenery and no narration at all. This is a pleasant enough ride, but it simply is not very interesting even for true train buffs. ... Experience Hawaii Tours. 458. Cultural Tours • 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours. 2023. Maui Bombers. 750. Bike Tours. 2023. Hike Maui. 3,090. Hiking & Camping Tours ...

  9. Hawaii's Plantation Village

    For more information about the Village, click on the pdf link below for our brochure, explore the rest of our site for information, or call (808) 677-0110 or email: [email protected]. HPV Brochure. Hawaii's Plantation Village • 94-695 Waipahu Street • Waipahu, HI 96797. tel: (808) 677-0110/677-0041 • fax: (808) 676-6727 • email ...

  10. Sugar Cane Train, Maui

    Hawaii's railroads have almost entirely disappeared, but the Sugar Cane Train—it's official name is The Lahaina, Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad—is still chugging along, treating visitors to a nostalgic journey to the Maui of yesteryear. The locomotive moves along a six-mile stretch of track at a leisurely pace, surrendering speed in favor ...

  11. Big Island Kayak Tour

    The Flumin' Tour - Full Description. Flumin' Kohala has exclusive access to the Kohala Ditch Company's century-old irrigation system: the Kohala Ditch. Once used to irrigate vast fields of sugar cane, The Ditch provides a unique means of experiencing two great wonders of Hawai'i. First-amid the gentle sound of dripping and cascading ...

  12. Hawaii Plantation Village

    So Much History, Wonderfully Presented. Nov 2021 • Solo. The plantation era of Hawaii, when cane and pineapple ruled, helped to shape the unique culture that defines our 50th state. This tour provides an informative background of all the different people's who came over to work in the fields, and shows how they lived.

  13. Big Island Kayak Tour Info

    THE FAMED KOHALA DITCH ON THE BIG ISLAND OF HAWAII. ... tunnels, elevated flumes, and concrete channels that once supplied millions of gallons of fresh water to the vast sugar cane plantations of Kohala. On a leisurely kayak float through 3 miles of the ... Daily Tour Times: 8 am, 9 am, 12:15 pm, & 1:15 pm: Check In Time: 15 min. prior to tour ...

  14. Kauai Tubing Through Sugar Plantations And Tunnels: What You Need To

    There are Kauai mountain tubing tours held throughout the day. These usually start at 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM. ... (AOL) founder Steve Case. The mountain tubing takes place on an old sugar cane plantation on his 18,000-acre estate. ... June is the summer season in Hawaii so you should be very comfortable ...

  15. Hawaii's sugar history makes for one sweet island tour

    The tour includes the tasting room, where grownups can sample Rhum agricole, as it's called, made from freshly squeezed sugar cane juice instead of molasses. Oahu Sugar Tours, offered Tuesdays ...

  16. Kohala Flumes: Explore Hidden Waterways, Jungles & Waterfalls

    Once the fountain of life for Kohala's vast sugar cane plantations, today you can take a Hawaii flume ride through the century-old system of concrete channels, elevated flumes and tunnels that make up the famed Kohala Ditch. ... A flume tour is a great way to explore authentic Hawaii and escape the tropical heat for three hours, as you will ...

  17. Sugar Cane Train

    The Sugar Cane Train was a family train ride near the Kaanapali resort area on the west side of Maui. You began your round trip at the north end of the tracks, at Puukolii Road and Honoapiilani Highway. It used to run to the south end in the town of Lahaina, but more recently only ran to Kaanapali. Up until the last few years, the Sugar Cane ...

  18. BIG LIST of Farm Tours on the Big Island (Free + Paid)

    The Big Island agricultural scene was up to a few decades ago dominated by the sugar cane industry, but that has also disappeared by now. Visit the Hawaii Plantation Museum in Papaikou to learn more about the rich history of the sugar plantation era. Tea Farm tours + tastings

  19. 3 Best Things To Do in Pahala

    For over 150 years, Hawaii thrived on the industry of sugar cane production before falling prices led plantations all around the Big Island to close, migrating workers to the still-open camp in Pahala. Eventually, the steep prices that Hawaii continued to charge for sugar cane led the plantation to close in 1996 due to a lack of worldwide demand.

  20. Tour One of Hawaii's Oldest Sugar Plantations

    But on a tour of Grove Farm Homestead and Sugar Plantation Museum, however, they can gain new appreciation for the crop that defined 19th-century island lifestyle and the people who cultivated it. Located in Lihue, Grove Farm was one of Hawaii's earliest sugar plantations. With its immaculately maintained family home, gardens and outbuildings ...

  21. Sugar Cane Train

    A singing conductor takes you on a 6-mile tour of Maui's sugar cane history. Read more. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Improve this listing. Full view. All photos (158) ... Experience Hawaii Tours. 499. Cultural Tours • 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours. 2023. The Magic Merman Snorkel Charters. 821. Scuba & Snorkelling • Boat Tours. 2023 ...

  22. 14 Best Maui Tours & Excursions of 2024

    The tour usually begins between 3 and 4 a.m., depending on the time of year. For an additional fee, Bike Maui has a sunrise tour package including round-trip transportation, access to rain gear ...

  23. SUGAR CANE TRAIN: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go ...

    A singing conductor takes you on a 6-mile tour of Maui's sugar cane history. Read more. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Improve this listing. Full view. All photos (158) ... Experience Hawaii Tours. 405. Cultural Tours • 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours. Open now. 2023. Hike Maui. 3,060. Hiking & Camping Tours. Open now. 2023.

  24. What is the Best Family Attraction in Hawaii for 2024?

    Honomu, Hawaii. Hawaii Zipline Tours allows families to soar above rainforests, dramatic cliffs, banana farms, and sugar cane fields while enjoying panoramic views that can only be experienced from the air. You'll fly above and over the 250-foot-tall Kolekole waterfall with expert guides providing insights into the islands' unique ecosystems.