Kauai Plantation Railway
Ride a vintage train through lush orchards and farmlands, feeding animals and tasting fresh fruit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Kauai Plantation Railway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a vintage train through lush orchards and farmlands, feeding animals and tasting fresh fruit.
"An amazing experience learning about the different fruit and hardwood trees, loved eating the different fruits picked right off the orchard trees."
🎯 Book in Advance!
Reservations are required for the train tour. Book online or by phone to secure your spot!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be walking around the plantation and potentially picking fruit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Train Ride
Kilohana Plantation
A 40-minute vintage train journey through lush orchards, forests, and farmland.
Animal Encounters
Kilohana Plantation
Feed and interact with rescue farm animals, including pigs, donkeys, and cows.
Orchard Fruit Tasting
Kilohana Plantation
Sample and pick a variety of fresh fruits grown on the plantation's 105 acres.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Tours
Pack for Comfort and Fruit Picking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book in Advance!
Reservations are required for the train tour. Book online or by phone to secure your spot!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be walking around the plantation and potentially picking fruit.
🍎 Bring a Bag for Fruit
Pick and take home delicious fresh fruit from the orchard.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Water is provided, but bringing extra is a good idea, especially on warm days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book in Advance!
Reservations are required for the train tour. Book online or by phone to secure your spot!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be walking around the plantation and potentially picking fruit.
🍎 Bring a Bag for Fruit
Pick and take home delicious fresh fruit from the orchard.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Water is provided, but bringing extra is a good idea, especially on warm days.
📸 Capture the Memories
Plenty of photo opportunities with animals, scenery, and fruit.
💰 Souvenirs Can Be Pricey
Budget extra if you plan to buy souvenirs from the on-site shops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Kauai Plantation Railway for its scenic train ride, engaging animal encounters, and the unique opportunity to taste fresh orchard fruits. Many highlight its affordability and suitability for families. Some wish for more tasting samples and play areas for children.
"Family and I (with small children) did the 'Train & Lunch' tour.
We had an amazing experience learning about the different fruit and hardwood trees. We loved eating the different fruits picked right off the orchard trees.
Bring water, comfortable clothes, comfortable walking footware, and a empty bag or backpack to pick the fruit to take home. Take lots of photos!
Our knowledgeable awesome tour guide, Bruce (A Hawaiian man native to Kauai), made the tour super fun!"
Chris Sanders
"We had an amazing time, the price point was way more affordable than other excursions which made things more comfortable for us on a budget! They provided food to feed the animals and the train conductor was super funny! I’d highly recommend this place for your family for some more affordable fun! Bring extra money if you want souvenirs, they are pricy but there is plenty of places to buy nik-naks here :)"
Sunshine for Jesus
"This whole property is simply amazing.
We took a train ride before our Luau to feed and pet the farm animals After our ride we're able to do some shopping at multiple vendors. After that was the best, most intricate, and beautiful story telling of any Luau I have ever been to! It was absolutely magical and I would recommend that if you have a few hours to spare while in Kauai to definitely head over and be ready to be blown out of the water by all of the drinks, food, souvenirs, and brilliant story telling shows."
Maren Higgins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kauai Plantation Railway is located at the Kilohana Plantation in Lihue, Kauai. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for many visitors exploring the island. +1
Yes, ample parking is available at the Kilohana Plantation for visitors of the railway and other attractions.
While public transportation options exist on Kauai, they may not be the most direct or convenient way to reach the Kilohana Plantation. Renting a car is generally recommended for exploring the island.
Yes, the Kauai Plantation Railway is located in Lihue, making it a convenient stop shortly after arriving at or before departing from the Lihue Airport. +1
Many visitors find renting a car to be the most flexible way to explore Kauai and visit attractions like the plantation railway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are required for the Kauai Plantation Railway tours. It's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Ticket prices can vary, but many reviewers mention it's more affordable than other Kauai excursions, making it a good option for budget-conscious travelers.
While specific coupon information isn't widely shared, checking the official website or local tour operators might reveal potential discounts or package deals. [^SEO keyword: kauai plantation railway coupon]
Typically, the ticket includes the 40-minute train ride, opportunities to feed farm animals, and a chance to pick and taste fresh orchard fruits. Some packages may include lunch or luau access.
The railway operates on a schedule, and it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date operating hours and tour times.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
The train ride itself is approximately 40 minutes long, offering a scenic journey through the plantation. 
You can expect to see and feed various farm animals, including pigs, donkeys, and cows. Many are rescue animals.
Yes, a highlight of the tour is the opportunity to pick and taste fresh fruits directly from the orchard trees.
Absolutely! It's a family-friendly activity with animal feeding and a fun train ride. They even rent off-road wagons for families with very young children. +2
Kilohana Plantation offers more than just the train ride, including shopping at various vendors, a pineapple shack with Dole Whip, and a luau.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the vintage train, the lush plantation landscapes, the diverse farm animals, and the fresh fruit you pick.
Yes, you are encouraged to take photos throughout the train ride and during stops to capture the experience.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage. [^SEO keyword: kauai plantation railway photos]
Morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for photography. Midday can be bright, so be prepared for potential harsh shadows.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many tourist areas and plantations for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check the plantation's specific drone policy. [^SEO keyword: kauai plantation railway photos]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
+2 The plantation even offers off-road wagons for families with very young kids, making the experience more comfortable. Beyond the train, the plantation offers a pineapple shack with Dole Whip and various shops, providing entertainment while waiting for the train. While there isn't a dedicated playground, the overall experience is designed to be enjoyable for all ages. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, though water and lunch are often included in tour packages.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider booking a package that includes lunch or combining the train ride with other activities at Kilohana Plantation to maximize your budget. While souvenirs can be pricey, the core experience of the train tour and animal encounters provides significant enjoyment for the cost.
couples
Consider pairing the train tour with a rum tasting at the plantation or enjoying a romantic dinner at the luau for a complete evening. It's a delightful way to spend an afternoon, offering a blend of nature, local culture, and a touch of nostalgia.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kilohana Plantation Estate
+1The plantation plays a role in the local community by donating the fruit grown to schools and food banks, adding a philanthropic aspect to the visitor experience. This commitment to giving back is a unique feature that resonates with many travelers. The estate's commitment to preserving its heritage while offering modern amenities makes it a well-rounded attraction.
Beyond the train, the Kilohana Plantation is a hub of activity. You can indulge in a rum tasting, browse local crafts and souvenirs, or enjoy a delicious Dole Whip from the pineapple shack. For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience, the plantation hosts a highly-rated luau, often combined with the train tour for a full day of entertainment.
A Journey on the Vintage Train
+2A significant part of the train tour involves stops where passengers can interact with and feed the plantation's farm animals. This hands-on experience is a major draw, especially for children, who get to feed pigs, donkeys, and cows. The animals are often rescue animals, adding a heartwarming element to the encounter.
+3The train tour also highlights the agricultural bounty of the plantation. Passengers have the opportunity to pick and taste a variety of fresh fruits grown on-site, such as oranges, tangerines, and starfruit. While you can take some fruit back to your hotel, there are restrictions on taking much of it off the island. This tasting experience is a delightful way to connect with Kauai's agricultural heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit